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Topic: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5 (Read 2807 times) previous topic - next topic

Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Has anyone installed one of these instead of the smaller 17.5 counter depth models.  Shop Samsung 221 21.8-cu ft French Door Refrigerator with Ice Maker (Stainles...

This is the 17.5 Shop Samsung 17.5-cu ft Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator with Ice...

I am thinking of installing one since I do have room for the depth and it is "Energy Star Rated".  Will it go thru the removed window?  I will be posting the take out that works fine on the fore sale part of this forum on Friday, Sept 6th.
97 U295 40, Build #5040, 6C8.3 325 HP
Oregon Continuous Traveler
Samsung Residential #RF20HFENBSR,
Xantrex SW2012, (3)AGM8D Hse, (2)AGM Grp24 Eng, Victron BMV-712, 1800w Solar 4 LG & 2 Sunpower
Extreme Full Body Pt w/hdlmps, new furn/floor, 4 down Lexus 2004 GX470 AWD curb weight 4,740 lbs
Prev: 1990 Barth, 10L 300 2 yrs; 91&92 Monaco Signature, 10 yrs, 10L C 300 &  6C8.3 300; 1997 ForeT 6C8.3 325 since May 2017.  Employed by Guaranty RV 14+ yrs.  Former VW New Car Dlr/Service Dlr, Sales Mgr, Rv Sales, and Service Adviser from 1968-2017
"Don't criticize what you can't understand" Bob Dylan

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #1
Jack,
 
MOT installed the 17.5 version, which MOT recommended. We looked at the 21.5, but it looked too big in the showroom. They did bring it through the dining room window. After seeing how big the 17.5 is after installation, I do not think the larger one would have fit; it also might have interfered with the narrow pantry shelf.
 
MOT's work (Keith and his team) did a great job, especially the finishing work. It looked like it came with the unit.
 
MOT did provide a strap across the fridge doors, but the freezer door opened up on the first big turn. We used a bungee cord between the two upper doors and the freezer handle on our last trip. Will make a wooden slotted (upside down) "U" board before our next trip.

Let me know if you have any specific questions.

Trent
Trent and Jean Eyler
2000  U295  4003  WTFE  ISC  350
Build#5603 MC#17385

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #2
Jack,

The larger fridge depth (with doors removed) is 30", compared to 24" on the smaller model.  Even if you do have enough aisle space to utilize the deeper model, I think it would be a real hassle to get it into the coach.  Our RF197 Samsung (a earlier version of the smaller fridge) was "inserted" through the removed window opening over the couch.  They had to take the doors off to make it fit, and even then it was pretty tight.

I have read about removing a front windshield to install a fridge, but that seems kinda extreme to me.  The smaller size french door fridge stores a good quantity of food - more than enough for the two of us.  If you desire more freezer space, you could consider a separate freezer unit mounted in a storage bay.

Pics in post linked below of our Samsung going through the side window (David Flanagan's crew at FOT):

Our Days Spent in Remodel Shop
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"It goes without saying..."

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #3
The standard depth model at 34", without the handles, is about 6" deeper than the counter depth.  I don't recall if there was that much clearance through the window or not but it would be easy enough to measure.  I'd be more concerned about the fridge sticking out into the kitchen an extra 6".

Yet another Samsung conversion

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #4
This was in the coach when I bought it. 22.6 Seems to fit fine to us. The door lock I made out of one of the DW's cutting boards.
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #5
That Frigidaire is also counter depth.  It looks like it gets the extra space by being 3 1/2 wider, which wouldn't have fit in the existing hole on my coach.  Looks like a better option if you have the space for it without major cabinet modifications.

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #6
Have these little Samsungs been better than the full size?  I dont get a lot of positive hits for the House fridges.

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #7
That Frigidaire wouldn't have fit in the existing hole on my coach.
Ditto - not enough space in our coach either.  But it is a very interesting option.  In Craneman's coach they even managed to retain the pantry space next to fridge.  Very nice installation!  I wonder if that model is still offered?
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"It goes without saying..."

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #8
We used the RF197, about 19 cu ft.  Without the doors it will go through the side window, I doubt a non-counter depth one will. 

The RF197 is 32" wide and in a 36" space it gives you some options for additional storage.  Very handy space.  There was a 36" wide countertop depth as I recall. 

Another Samsung installed

Keep the latches simple.  This is all you need.
Residential Refrigerator

More than four years on ours and zero issues.  Plenty big enough for us.  The three door French Door model is a good choice.  We run ours on a small,inverter all,the time.  It takes less that 10% more power than the JC-Refrigeration electric conversion unit with twice the volume.

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #9
Have these little Samsungs been better than the full size?
Better is a relative term.  Ours has been on 24/7 for the 4+ years since it was installed.  Absolutely zero problems.  When we aren't traveling we use it for extra food storage.  Hasn't failed us (yet),  knock wood.
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"It goes without saying..."

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #10
The door latches don't get any easier than ours.
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #11
"The door latches don't get any easier than ours.".  No they don't but you have to put it somewhere when it is not in use and some of this type of door holders have scratched up the doors.  DWMYH.  Whatever works for you is OK.

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #12
"The door latches don't get any easier than ours.".  No they don't but you have to put it somewhere when it is not in use and some of this type of door holders have scratched up the doors.  DWMYH.  Whatever works for you is OK.
First picture, made of Teflon, no scratches just drop it in.
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean


Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #14
We use a velcro strap around the handles, and wrap that around the steering wheel while parked.  We've had the doors come open while driving too many times.  Whatever you choose to use, a reminder to use it is a good idea.

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #15
Agree, no matter how convenient it is if you don't use it you're in trouble.
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #16
I am finding the depth of the two refrigerators with the door removed to be 24.31 for the 17.5 cu ft. Samsung 3 door, and 30.47 inches for the 21.8.  I do not know the size of the cutout for the side window to put it thru.  Does anyone out there know that dimension?[/color]

My rough estimate of the height of this window cutout is 27 inches, thus removing the posibility of the 21.8 cu ft as I do not want to remove the windshield.  Any more information is appreciated.  I will follow up with pictures and information of what I did before the end of this month, Sept 2018.

I found out the dimension for the height of the side window cut out is 27 1/2.




97 U295 40, Build #5040, 6C8.3 325 HP
Oregon Continuous Traveler
Samsung Residential #RF20HFENBSR,
Xantrex SW2012, (3)AGM8D Hse, (2)AGM Grp24 Eng, Victron BMV-712, 1800w Solar 4 LG & 2 Sunpower
Extreme Full Body Pt w/hdlmps, new furn/floor, 4 down Lexus 2004 GX470 AWD curb weight 4,740 lbs
Prev: 1990 Barth, 10L 300 2 yrs; 91&92 Monaco Signature, 10 yrs, 10L C 300 &  6C8.3 300; 1997 ForeT 6C8.3 325 since May 2017.  Employed by Guaranty RV 14+ yrs.  Former VW New Car Dlr/Service Dlr, Sales Mgr, Rv Sales, and Service Adviser from 1968-2017
"Don't criticize what you can't understand" Bob Dylan

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #17
Jack, measure the inside of the window frametop to bottom. The actual hole will be about a 1/4" bigger.  The 19.7 cu ft Samsung went through the hole with some room to spare.  The LP refrigerator went out OK as well but it weighs almost twice what the Samsung did.

You may have to do some rearranging of wires and plumbing at the bottom back of the refrigerator space to get it in as far as it will go.  The front face of the Samsung (no doors) got to about 1/2" - 5/8" of the cabinet face frame on mine.  We did this ourselves (with some help with the in and out).  Not too hard to do.

If you have a sliding door nearby make sure the refrigerator doors clear it. 

Old refrig coming out.

Roger

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #18
Here's a pic of ours going in at FT from two summers ago. Looked tight.
Paul & Kathleen
1995 U320c SE 40'
Build 4681 --Cummins M11 /17511
"That Irish Girl"
Red MINI " 40"

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #19
Honestly ... even if it does fit, I cannot believe that the small increase in capacity will be of that much benefit. Think about it!  Interior dry storage is MUCH more useful to you than a bit of extra in the fridge. A bit of broom storage, another can rack, extra room in existing cupboards ... all a huge bonus whan you are doing this remodel.  I was totally and completely happy with the counter depth fridge when we did our remodel. I chose a French Door model, and counter depth was needed to extend the freezer door completely open.  I would never recommend the Side by Side.  They are very inconvenient.
Carol & Jeff Savournin
Usta have a '93 U225 36', Usta have a '95 U320 40', Usta have a '02 U320 40'
Usta have a 2006 Born Free, Usta have a 2011 Phoenix Cruiser
Usta have a 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4dr
"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life."  Steve Jobs

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #20
Orig                                          Dometic 7832                    17.5 Samsung french 3 door                    221 21.8 Samsung french 3 door
  Width                                          32 11/16                                32.875                                                          29.76
  Depth, less door                          2 4                                        24.3125                                                        30.47
  Height                                        59 1/16                                  66.81                                                            66.75

My problem is the 30.47 depth with door removed to go thru the window (approx height of window is 27.5), the other choice is to remove the front window which I am not wanting to do.  Monday I will make up my mind. 

From other's post I will only loose a little space under the refrigerator.  Thank you all.  Mainly I wanted the "Energy Star" rating on the larger 21.8 Samsung.  Pretty sure installer will vote for 17.5 Samsung.

Specs came from:    http://w2.distone.com/bradstrailer/downloads/RefrigeratorReplacement.pdf
    Shop Samsung 17.5-cu ft Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator with Ice...
 Shop Samsung 221 21.8-cu ft French Door Refrigerator with Ice Maker (Stainles...                       
97 U295 40, Build #5040, 6C8.3 325 HP
Oregon Continuous Traveler
Samsung Residential #RF20HFENBSR,
Xantrex SW2012, (3)AGM8D Hse, (2)AGM Grp24 Eng, Victron BMV-712, 1800w Solar 4 LG & 2 Sunpower
Extreme Full Body Pt w/hdlmps, new furn/floor, 4 down Lexus 2004 GX470 AWD curb weight 4,740 lbs
Prev: 1990 Barth, 10L 300 2 yrs; 91&92 Monaco Signature, 10 yrs, 10L C 300 &  6C8.3 300; 1997 ForeT 6C8.3 325 since May 2017.  Employed by Guaranty RV 14+ yrs.  Former VW New Car Dlr/Service Dlr, Sales Mgr, Rv Sales, and Service Adviser from 1968-2017
"Don't criticize what you can't understand" Bob Dylan

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #21
My RF197 uses just under 70 watt average to run.

The 17.5 cu ft RF18HFENBSR/US looks like it uses about the same energy.  You can use it without the ice maker, there is  setting on the control panel to shut it off.

We bought the extended warranty, it seemed like a good idea at the time. 

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #22
Speaking of ice maker:
 
That is the only problem that I have had with my Samsung 17.5. Normally, it works fine, and makes a lot of good quality ice. Every once in a while, it does not start making ice again after I empty the tray (I like the cubes, so use it as my ice maker for my home fridge). It only seems to happen after I remove and reinsert the tray/bucket. It is almost like I am not reacquiring a sensor or something. Called Samsung and they told me about the reset button under the ice unit. Hold it for about eight seconds and you can hear the ice cubes falling out of the maker; sometimes I can hear the water flowing into the ice maker.
 
After my last ice bucket emptying, it did not start making ice again. Pushed the reset button and I can hear the sound of a screw drive turning, but not ice falling. I am beginning to think that I have some frozen ice that is blocking the emptying procedure. It is not easy to access the ice maker as it is mounted to the top of the freezer section. If you have the 17.5 unit, you can pull the freezer door open far enough to remove the freezer drawer (impossible with the deeper unit). You still have to get over the front freezer door to get at the ice maker unit. The only way I can see to thaw the freezer is to remove my shore power AND turn the inverter off.
 
I will try to reach Samsung tomorrow to see if they have any further suggestions. Meanwhile, have any of the rest of you been confronted with this problem? If so, and the reset button does not solve the problem, how would you proceed to start making ice cubes again?
 
It's still hot in Oklahoma,
 
Trent
Trent and Jean Eyler
2000  U295  4003  WTFE  ISC  350
Build#5603 MC#17385

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #23
Trent, I've run across the same issue with not making ice after removing the tray also( at least 4 times). So far, all I've had to do is push the reset button and then it works. We shut it off after we get home from any trip and don't turn it on till we leave for our next trip.
Richard & Betty Bark & Keiko our Golden Doodle
2003 U320T 3820 PBDS
Build # 6215
MC # 16926
2016 Chevrolet Colorado 4X4 diesel

Re: Samsung residential refrigerator 21.8 instead of 17.5

Reply #24
rbark,
 
How do you turn it off?

Thanks,
 
Trent
Trent and Jean Eyler
2000  U295  4003  WTFE  ISC  350
Build#5603 MC#17385