The Dometic RM1350 is a refrigeration unit, likely an RV or marine refrigerator, designed for cooling food and beverages. This troubleshooting guide specifically addresses issues related to "Poor Cooling," defined as the internal temperature consistently exceeding 39 degrees Fahrenheit. The unit is assumed to be operating on 110V shore power with the temperature setting at '5'.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Dometic RM1350 is to provide refrigeration, maintaining a cold environment for perishable items. It features a freezer compartment, which, when functioning correctly, should cool to approximately 0 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring ice cream remains hard. The unit operates using an absorption refrigeration system, which can run on either electric (110V shore power) or LP (liquid propane) gas. The troubleshooting flowchart outlines a systematic approach to diagnose and resolve common cooling problems, guiding the user through a series of checks related to the unit's mechanical components, operational environment, and user interaction.
Important Technical Specifications (Inferred from the document):
- Operating Voltage: 110V shore power (electric mode).
- Temperature Setting: Assumed to be '5' for troubleshooting.
- Target Freezer Temperature: Approximately 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Poor Cooling Threshold: Consistently greater than 39 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cooling System Type: Absorption refrigeration (capable of both electric and LP operation).
- Ventilator Fan Kit: Part # 3108705.744 (or equivalent) for improved airflow.
- Flap Mounting Brackets: New part #s 3851102024 and 3851103022 for the left door flap.
- Electric Heating Unit Element Resistance: 40-70 ohms (when heater leads are removed).
Usage Features:
The Dometic RM1350 offers dual-mode operation (electric and LP), providing flexibility for different power sources. The troubleshooting guide highlights several user-centric aspects:
- Door Management: Frequent or prolonged opening of doors (more than 30 seconds) can impact cooling performance, requiring several hours to return to normal temperature.
- Loading Practices: Overpacking the refrigerator or blocking air circulation with large items can hinder cooling efficiency. The guide suggests leaving room for air circulation and potentially adding a small fan to a shelf to improve internal airflow.
- Leveling: The unit's performance is sensitive to being level. If the refrigerator is out of level more than slightly, especially front-to-rear, it can affect cooling.
- Auto-Defrost Cycle: The unit likely has an auto-defrost feature, which may need to be restarted in certain troubleshooting scenarios. This involves cutting all AC and DC power at 4 PM and then restarting the refrigerator.
- Temperature Setting: The guide assumes a temperature setting of '5' for troubleshooting, indicating user control over the cooling intensity.
Maintenance Features:
The troubleshooting guide outlines several maintenance-related checks and potential repairs:
- Cooling Unit Inspection: If an ammonia smell is detected, it suggests a potential leak in the cooling unit, indicating a need for a new cooling unit. If other issues persist, professional service to test the cooling unit per Dometic specs is recommended.
- Fan Check: The fan on the backside of the refrigerator is crucial for heat dissipation. If it's stopped, it needs repair or replacement.
- Airflow Management: In external temperatures above 95 degrees Fahrenheit, improving airflow on the back of the refrigerator is recommended. This can involve adding a ventilator fan kit (part # 3108705.744) and ensuring the baffle directs air across the condenser fins.
- Drain Hose Endcap: A missing endcap from the drain hose should be replaced.
- Door Flap and Seals: The left door flap not closing tightly can lead to cooling issues, requiring the installation of improved flap mounting brackets (part #s 3851102024 and 3851103022). Door seals should be checked for integrity using a "dollar bill test" (if a dollar bill pulls through easily, the seals need adjustment, fixing, or replacement).
- Electric Boiler Service: If the freezer cools properly in LP mode but not electric mode, the electric boiler may need service. The user manual provides instructions for replacing the electric heating unit, and the element's resistance should be checked (40-70 ohms) with heater leads removed.
- Thermistor Placement: If the thermistor is near the fins, and if it's adjustable, it should be moved away from the fins to ensure accurate temperature sensing.
The Dometic RM1350 is designed for reliable cooling, but like any appliance, it requires proper usage and occasional maintenance to ensure optimal performance. The provided flowchart serves as a valuable tool for owners to diagnose and address common cooling problems, potentially avoiding professional service for minor issues.
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