Norcold RV Refrigerator Not Cooling But Freezer Is (Solved)

The RV refrigerator going bad is like a nightmare in the middle of your weekend gateway on your favorite camping site. Food items you had with you will become uneaten for sure. However, you may notice that the freezer of the Norcold refrigerator is functional.

Issues like the coolant or air vent clogging, the air circulation fan going bad, faulty thermistor, frost buildup, etc, may lead to Norcold RV refrigerator not cooling but freezer issue. It hampers the usual mechanism of the coolant going to the freezer and then to other fridge components.

There’s more to this problem that needs exploring. So, let’s move on with our further discussion.

Troubleshooting Norcold RV Refrigerator Not Cooling But Freezer Is

The Norcold refrigerator in your RV is a vital element while traveling. But at times, being unaware, you can’t avoid problems like the refrigerator cooling malfunction.

According to our findings, various users have reported some common issues as the root of this problem. Let us have a look at those and their relevant fixes:

Problem 01: Faulty Circulation Fan

Proper air circulation is a prerequisite for ensuring optimum cooling function in the refrigerator.

The hydrogen and ammonia burning rate drops dramatically when air circulation fan operation issues occur.

That said, when the airflow isn’t adequate in the refrigerator chamber, the balance between the surrounding temperatures is hampered. Thus, your Norcold refrigerator chamber doesn’t cool properly.

The Fix: Install Thermal Activated Fans

The fans functioning in the cooling unit make the job of air circulation easier. However, it is better to replace them if they don’t work.

It is critical to replace it as the refrigeration process requires ammonia cooling.

You need to go up to the RV roof and locate the screens that cover the existing fans. Remove those and install the thermally activated fans.

Place the fans and ensure powering them with a power supply, with the fuse applied. It would have proper air circulation on the top of the air vents.

Problem 02: Clogged Air Vents Or Exhausts

The ice clogging the air vents in your Norcold fridge will eventually obstruct normal functioning. It can be the ice forming and blocking the fins/vent or debris accumulation.

Such a scenario will block any air passage in the fridge and hamper the flow. Despite the freezer being functional, your fridge compartments won’t cool.

The Fix: Clear The Refrigerator Exhaust

Hot air trapping inside the refrigerator is a problem to address. You can do it by clearing the clogged exhaust.

Dust accumulates quickly since the ventilator is on your RV refrigerator’s backside. You must remove the vent cover by going on your RV’s roof.

Then, locate the possible blockages exiting in the vents that hinder the hot air passage. Use regular soap, water, and a piece of foam to clean the blocked parts.

Problem 03: Malfunctioning Thermistor

Whenever the thermostat doesn’t get the proper signal about temperature, it can lead to the fridge not cooling.

It happens due to the thermistor in the thermostat, which doesn’t function as it is supposed to. The task of the thermistor is to send a signal to the thermostat.

When faulty signals are there, the thermostat catches inaccurate temperatures. As a result, even if the freezer cools, the fridge compartments will not have any changes.

The Fix: Replace Thermistor

As the thermistor can dictate the temperature in the thermostat, getting faulty means you need to replace it. Since the thermistor is built-in, you must do much tool work in this regard.

You must detach the panels to get access to the control board. Use tools like the screwdriver to open it up smoothly.

After opening the cover of the control board, you should disconnect the thermistor wire from the board.

Then, you must use a cutter to cut one end of the thermistor wire and trim the wire ends with the help of pliers.

After that, connect the new thermistor with those wire ends. Then, put it back in the position in which the old thermistor was.

Problem 04: Uneven Roads

When your RV goes through some bumpy and uneven roads, it makes the refrigerant twirl a lot. It can sometimes clog the coolant in the passage flowing from the freezer to other parts. As a result, there are often issues with the compartments inside with no cooling.

Problem 05: Defective Seals

If there are defective seals in your Norcold RV refrigerator, it will not let the fridge door close smoothly.

The smooth and air-tight closure is necessary for warm air from surroundings, not going inside.

Any such thing in your Norcold RV refrigerator will lead to a drop in the cooling efficiency.

The Fix: Repair Door Seals

If the fridge doors don’t have a proper closure, you should look forward to a door seal replacement.

You must ensure the removal of the old seal first, which the clips or screws may hold. Do it with the help of a screwdriver and clean that position with soap and water.

Problem 06: Improper Leveling

The best way to park an RV is on a leveled ground or outfield. When the parking location has an uneven leveling, the circulation of the coolant becomes problematic.

Then, the outcome is similar to riding on bumpy roads, which we discussed earlier.

Things To Consider While Fixing RV Refrigerator Not Cooling

You must realize that fixing the refrigerator, not the cooling issue is essential before you set out with your RV. But while doing so, there are certain aspects to consider that we’ll be discussing below.

In case of any ice formation, defrost them first.
Ensure that your RV is parked in a leveled space.
Test the door seals multiple times by placing a sheet of paper in between.
Clean the vent adequately so that it remains without any obstructions.
Always look if there is any yellowish ammonia formation.

FAQs.

Many queries may arise when the freezer in your Norcold RV fridge cools but not the refrigerator. We have answered some of the most asked questions to mitigate confusion.

What is the optimum temperature for the Norcold RV Refrigerator?

The ideal temperature for the Norcold RV refrigerator should be around 34-35 F. All RV refrigerators are recommended to have temperatures set under 40 F.

How long does it take for the Norcold RV Refrigerator to cool?

You must let the refrigerator cool for at least 8 hours before loading it with food. Usually, the fridge starts to cool after 2-3 hours from when you started its function.

How many times should you clean your RV refrigerator?

The proper way to maintain your Norcold RV refrigerator is to cool it at least once a month. It may increase depending on your RV usage frequency.

What is the lifetime of a Norcold RV Refrigerator?

If correctly maintained, the Norcold RV fridge can last for years. You can easily use it for 8-10 years at a stretch.

Final Thoughts

The freezer working but not the refrigerator is not a good sign for your RV fridge. In such cases, you must first check the temperature levels inside using a thermometer.

After reading this article, We hope you have an overall idea about the issues. Still, if any confusion arises, let us know so we can provide a better resolution.

Zayan

Zayan is an accomplished author and a go-to expert for all things RV and camper-related. With a passion for adventure and a knack for problem-solving, he has spent years exploring the open road and fine-tuning his knowledge of recreational vehicles.

Zayan’s writing is a testament to his expertise, offering readers practical solutions to common RV dilemmas. Whether it’s troubleshooting mechanical issues, optimizing space, or planning the perfect road trip, Zayan’s insightful advice and engaging storytelling make him an invaluable resource for both seasoned travelers and newcomers to the world of RVing.

Norcold RV Refrigerator Not Cooling But Freezer Is (Solved)