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Refrigerator question

September 30, 2012, 04:16:43 pm

We have heard a gurgling sound in the back of the refrigerator when we open the door recently. It doesn't do this all the time. Operation seems fine, good cooling.
What might this be and why?
Thanks, Dick

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Re: Refrigerator question

Reply #1 – September 30, 2012, 11:19:23 pm

Dick,

Suggest you consult with a RV fridge expert. In the meantime, check the condenser for lint, obstructions or yellowish deposits by the burner. The noise could be the liquid boiling in close proximity to the flame because of poor refrigerant circulation or a leak. There may also be a risk of fire. Strange new noises in any contrivance may mean trouble on the horizon.  Here is a site I have used before that specifically addresses the gurgling noise you describe: RV refrigerators Gurgling Sound

Pierce

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Re: Refrigerator question

Reply #2 – October 03, 2012, 05:12:56 pm

Pierce, thank you. I discussed this with Dometic Tech Support. The young lady had never heard this complaint and checked with a supervisor. They think the noise is from air in the drain tube. That seems plausible: we had recently had a huge ice build-up on the inside fins, which had mostly melted away after we lowered the temperature setting. Also, the noise always stopped shortly after we opened the door. We will continue to watch (listen).
Dick

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Re: Refrigerator question

Reply #3 – October 03, 2012, 05:47:16 pm

This may not be related to your problem, but recently I have heard  a whistling sound when opening and closing the reefer door. Not heard it on my most recent trip. Cooling is fine and the door seals seem to be ok. No ammonia smell or other indications of a leak. Will just watch it closely. Will check the drain tube.

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Re: Refrigerator question

Reply #4 – October 03, 2012, 06:19:44 pm

Felix,

Yes, I usually notice the 'air sound' too, especially form the freezer door of my normally operating side-by-side. I have 'heard' that this is due to warmer air that enters when you open the door, then contracting from cooling which causes a slight vacuum and the sucking sound immediately after you close the door.. That seems logical from my observation that a quick second opening makes the refrigerator door much harder to pull.  I too, would be open to others' thoughts.

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