Page 1 of 1

Refridgerator power problem

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 6:57 pm
by jbcason
My issue is the only way I can get 12 volt power to the refer is to have the van key in the on position or accessory position. Any one have any ideas?

Re: Refridgerator power problem

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 7:02 pm
by Keystone
If you have the same 3-way fridge I have, 12V operation is intentionally limited to ignition-on. Otherwise, use 120-V power at home or campsites with electric, and propane when dry camping. Propane operation of the fridge works great; 12-V barely cools and is really only for getting from A to B.

Re: Refridgerator power problem

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 7:42 pm
by jbcason
The controls will not even light up unless the key is on. So I can't use anything. I will probably not use the 12 volt much, but I need controls. Haha.

Re: Refridgerator power problem

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 7:54 pm
by Keystone
Perhaps you could post the make and model of your fridge for others to consider, as mine does not have any lights and the bottom-mounted controls are mechanical.

Re: Refridgerator power problem

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 8:12 pm
by skater
Sounds like you have a newer fridge that wasn't wired correctly. The 12 volt power should be hooked to the coach 12 volt system in yours. Ours in the trailer is the same way - it always requires 12 volt power to work even in propane mode.

Re: Refridgerator power problem

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 8:19 pm
by jbcason
Sorry guys. I just replaced my old one with a 2354. With all your input I figured out I am going to have to come up with a different power source. Does any one know where the 12 volt supply comes from? If I could find that I could connect to a different power source. Otherwise I will have to run new wire.

Re: Refridgerator power problem

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 8:50 pm
by Planck
Look under the sofa for a relay that kicks in when you turn the ignition key on. Should be able to feel or here it click. The 12 volts for the fridge goes into that relay , but won't come out until the key is on. Take out the relay and connect the hot 12 volt(when key off) to the other wire that was on the relay that goes to the fridge. You should then have constant 12 volts at the fridge, whether you want it or not. There should be at least 3 wires on the relay, maybe 4th wire for ground.

Re: Refridgerator power problem

Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2014 9:20 pm
by jbcason
Thanks Planck. That is exactly what I wanted to know. That will be an easy fix. I appreciate all you guys help.