Are you tired of your RV’s fridge not being able to keep your food cold, especially during hot summer months? One way to improve the cooling efficiency of your RV fridge is to add a fan. You can easily do this yourself with a few simple tools and materials. As a bonus, adding a fan to your RV fridge can also help to extend the life of your fridge by reducing the strain on the compressor.
You need to choose the right fan for your RV fridge. There are a few things to consider when choosing a fan, such as the size of your fridge, the amount of airflow you need, and the noise level. Generally, a small fan with a diameter of 120mm will be enough for most RV fridges. However, if you have a large fridge or you need a lot of airflow, you may want to choose a larger fan.
Once you have chosen a fan, you need to install it in your RV fridge. Again, this is a relatively simple process. First, you need to remove the fridge’s grill. Then, you need to mount the fan to the inside of the fridge using screws or a mounting bracket. Finally, you need to connect the fan to a power source. In most RV fridges, you can do this by simply plugging the fan into the fridge’s 12-volt outlet.
Locating an Appropriate Fan
Choosing a Suitable Fan for Your RV Fridge
Selecting the right fan for your RV fridge is crucial to ensure efficient cooling and prevent premature spoilage. Consider the following factors when making your choice:
Fan Size and CFM
The size of the fan should correspond with the dimensions of your fridge’s vents. Measure the vents’ width, height, and depth to ensure the fan fits snugly. Additionally, opt for a fan with a high CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating, as this indicates its air-moving capacity. A higher CFM rating means the fan can circulate more air, resulting in better cooling performance.
Fan Type and Design
There are various types of fans available, including axial fans, centrifugal fans, and blower fans. Axial fans create a straight airflow perpendicular to the blade’s axis, while centrifugal fans and blower fans generate a more concentrated airflow that can overcome higher resistance. Consider the available space and airflow requirements of your fridge to determine the most suitable fan type.
The fan’s design should also be taken into account. Some fans come with built-in mounting brackets, making installation easier. Look for fans with durable materials and a quiet operation to minimize noise disturbance inside the RV.
Evaluating Voltage and Power Requirements
Before selecting a fan for your RV fridge, it is crucial to assess the voltage and power requirements of your system. Most RVs operate on 12-volt DC power, so a fan with a 12-volt rating is necessary. However, some larger RVs may utilize 24-volt systems, requiring a 24-volt fan. Determine the voltage of your RV’s electrical system by consulting the owner’s manual or by measuring the voltage at the battery terminals using a multimeter.
The power required by the fan will depend on its size and airflow capacity. Fans designed for RV fridges typically draw between 0.3 and 1.5 amps of current. To calculate the power consumption, multiply the voltage (12 or 24 volts) by the current (0.3 to 1.5 amps). For example, a fan drawing 0.5 amps at 12 volts will consume 6 watts of power (12V x 0.5A = 6W). Ensure that the fan you choose does not exceed the power capacity of your RV’s electrical system.
| Voltage | Power Consumption (Watts) |
|---|---|
| 12 Volts | 3.6W – 18W |
| 24 Volts | 7.2W – 36W |
How To Add A Fan To Fridge Of RV
An RV fridge is a great way to keep food cold while on the road but they can also be a source of heat, especially in hot weather. Adding a fan to the fridge can help to circulate the air and keep the fridge cool, even in the hottest conditions. Here are the steps on how to add a fan to the fridge of your RV:
- Gather your materials. You will need a computer fan, a 12-volt power supply, and some wire.
- Remove the fridge from the RV. This will make it easier to work on the fridge.
- Locate the cooling coils. The cooling coils are located at the back of the fridge. They are usually covered by a metal panel.
- Attach the fan to the cooling coils. Use the screws that came with the fan to attach it to the cooling coils.
- Connect the fan to the power supply. Use the wire to connect the fan to the power supply.
- Reinstall the fridge. Once the fan is connected, you can reinstall the fridge in the RV.
People Also Ask
How much does it cost to add a fan to an RV fridge?
The cost to add a fan to an RV fridge will vary depending on the type of fan and power supply you choose. However, the average cost is between $20 and $50.
Is it difficult to add a fan to an RV fridge?
No, adding a fan to an RV fridge is not difficult. However, it does require some basic electrical knowledge. If you are not comfortable working with electricity, it is best to hire a qualified electrician to do the job.
What are the benefits of adding a fan to an RV fridge?
Adding a fan to an RV fridge can provide several benefits, including:
- Keeps the fridge cooler. A fan can help to circulate the air in the fridge, which will keep the fridge cooler, even in hot weather.
- Reduces the risk of food spoilage. A cooler fridge will reduce the risk of food spoilage, which can save you money and ensure that you have safe food to eat.
- Extends the life of the fridge. A fan can help to extend the life of the fridge by keeping it cooler and reducing the risk of overheating.
