If your RV fridge is not cooling when plugged into shore power but works fine when connected directly to a battery source, there are a few possible reasons for this issue. Here are some common troubleshooting steps to identify and potentially fix the problem:
Power Supply Issues: First, check the shore power connection and ensure it is providing the correct voltage and frequency to the RV. Low voltage or fluctuations in power can affect the refrigerator's performance. Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the RV's power inlet.
Tripped Breakers or Blown Fuses: Check the circuit breakers and fuses in the RV's electrical system. It's possible that a breaker has tripped or a fuse has blown, cutting off power to the refrigerator when connected to shore power. If you find any tripped breakers or blown fuses, reset/replace them as necessary.
Automatic Energy Source Selection: Some RV refrigerators have automatic energy source selection. When connected to both shore power and a battery, the refrigerator may prioritize the battery source instead of shore power. Refer to your refrigerator's manual to understand how it selects power sources and how to manually override it if needed.
Faulty Power Converter: The power converter in your RV is responsible for converting AC power from shore power into DC power to charge the RV's battery and supply power to the DC systems, including the refrigerator. If the power converter is faulty, it may not be providing adequate power to the refrigerator. Test the power converter or have it checked by a qualified technician.
Wiring Issues: There might be loose or damaged wiring in the connection between the refrigerator and the shore power source. Inspect the power cord and connectors for any visible damage or loose connections.
Refrigerator Control Board: The control board in the refrigerator could be malfunctioning and not responding correctly to shore power input. A faulty control board might work fine with a battery source but not with shore power. A technician can diagnose and replace the control board if needed.
Energy Saving Mode: Some RV refrigerators have an energy-saving mode that reduces power consumption. Check the settings on your refrigerator to ensure it's not in such a mode.
If you've checked these common issues and are still experiencing problems, it's best to contact a professional RV technician to diagnose and repair the refrigerator properly. They have the expertise and equipment to pinpoint the exact problem and ensure your RV fridge functions correctly when connected to shore power.