Many RVers researching Norcold travel trailer refrigerators quickly encounter a mix of opinions, often stemming from issues like inconsistent cooling, finicky control systems, and relatively high power consumption. It’s essential to understand these common pain points to make an informed decision. This article will delve into the pros and cons, offering a balanced perspective to help you decide if a Norcold refrigerator is the right choice for your travel trailer.
Norcold refrigerators, widely used in the RV industry, operate on absorption cooling, a process that uses heat to circulate refrigerants. While this system is praised for its quiet operation and ability to run on propane or electricity, its efficiency and reliability are often debated. Top-ranking pages, such as those found through general searches, highlight user complaints about temperature fluctuations, particularly in hot weather. For instance, many users report that their Norcold struggles to maintain a safe food temperature above 40°F (4.4°C) when the ambient temperature reaches 90°F (32°C). This is unacceptable. My opinion is that Norcold needs to seriously address these cooling deficiencies, especially given the cost of their units. I would prioritize reliability over the purported benefits of absorption cooling if I were designing an RV refrigerator. The Wikipedia article on absorption refrigerators provides a technical overview, but doesn’t address these real-world issues. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Absorption_refrigerator)
One common solution suggested is installing aftermarket fans to improve airflow across the cooling fins at the back of the unit. This can indeed help, but it feels like a band-aid fix for a fundamentally flawed design. I believe that Norcold should incorporate improved ventilation designs into their standard models. Imagine a scenario: you’re boondocking in the desert, relying on your propane-powered Norcold. The sun beats down, and the refrigerator struggles to keep your food cold. You have to constantly monitor the temperature and potentially throw away spoiled food. This is simply unacceptable.
Another aspect to consider is the control system. Older Norcold models often use simple analog controls, while newer models incorporate electronic panels. While the electronic panels offer more precise temperature settings and diagnostic capabilities, they are also prone to failure. I’ve read countless accounts of users experiencing error codes and complete control panel failures, leaving them without refrigeration. I think a simpler, more robust design is preferable. Think about a fail-safe mechanical thermostat as a backup. Consider that complex electronics can be susceptible to voltage fluctuations and power surges, common occurrences in RV parks and while boondocking.
Ultimately, my view is that Norcold needs to invest in improving the core design of its refrigerators. While aftermarket modifications can help mitigate some of the issues, they should not be necessary for a refrigerator to function reliably. They need to address the temperature control issues, improve the cooling efficiency, and ensure the reliability of their control systems. Until these core issues are resolved, I find it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend a Norcold travel trailer refrigerator. Consider the alternative options available on the market before making a final decision. I find that many users gravitate towards the brand name and reputation, but this has diminished, in my opinion.
Norcold travel trailer refrigerators offer a blend of advantages and disadvantages that RVers should carefully weigh.
Pros: One key advantage is the quiet operation of absorption refrigerators. Unlike compressor-based refrigerators, they operate silently, which is a significant benefit in the confined space of a travel trailer. They also offer the flexibility of running on propane, allowing for off-grid operation. The sleek designs of newer Norcold models can also be aesthetically pleasing, blending well with modern RV interiors. Reports highlighting these benefits are often found in RV magazines and from Norcold directly on their website (https://www.norcold.com/). In my opinion, while these are valid points, they are often overshadowed by the reliability issues discussed earlier.
Cons: The primary disadvantage is the inconsistency in cooling performance, particularly in hot weather. As previously mentioned, many users report difficulties maintaining safe food temperatures. The complexity of the absorption cooling system also makes it more susceptible to maintenance issues compared to compressor refrigerators. The relatively high power consumption when running on electricity can also be a drawback, especially when boondocking with limited battery capacity. Furthermore, replacement parts for Norcold refrigerators can be expensive and sometimes difficult to source. These drawbacks are frequently detailed in online RV forums and review sites. My opinion is that these reliability concerns are significant enough to warrant serious consideration of alternative options. The cost of repairs and the potential for food spoilage can quickly outweigh the initial cost savings.
Advantages: One unique advantage is the two-way or three-way power operation (AC, DC, and Propane). This flexibility allows RVers to adapt to different camping situations and power availability. Norcold also offers a wide range of sizes and configurations, ensuring that there is likely a model to fit most travel trailer layouts. This expansive product line gives a certain degree of custom fit. I feel there is not enough said about the design customization they give to their users. These advantages are often highlighted in reports from the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) and in product specifications provided by Norcold themselves. Ultimately, whether these advantages outweigh the disadvantages is a personal decision that depends on individual needs and priorities.
Norcold travel trailer refrigerators, while popular, are not without their limitations and challenges. One major concern is their sensitivity to leveling. Absorption refrigerators rely on gravity to circulate the refrigerant, and even slight deviations from level can significantly impact their cooling performance. This requires careful attention when setting up camp, which can be inconvenient. Another limitation is their relatively slow cooling time. Unlike compressor refrigerators that can quickly cool down, absorption refrigerators can take several hours to reach the desired temperature. This can be problematic when stocking the refrigerator with groceries on a hot day. The fragility of the cooling unit is also a concern. The ammonia-based refrigerant system is prone to leaks, which can render the refrigerator unusable and potentially pose a safety hazard.
I believe that Norcold should prioritize addressing these limitations in future models. Improving the leveling tolerance, increasing the cooling speed, and enhancing the durability of the cooling unit would significantly improve the overall user experience. These limitations are frequently explored in customer reviews on retailer websites and in independent product tests conducted by RV magazines. The complexities of the ammonia based cooling system also lead to the requirement of specifically trained technicians, which increase the cost of repair and maintenance. I view this as an oversight in design.
If you’re considering alternatives to Norcold travel trailer refrigerators, compressor refrigerators are a compelling option. Compressor refrigerators, similar to those found in residential homes, use a compressor to circulate the refrigerant, resulting in faster cooling times and more consistent temperatures, even in hot weather. While they typically only operate on electricity, they are significantly more energy-efficient than absorption refrigerators, making them a viable option for RVers with solar power systems or access to shore power. Another alternative is thermoelectric coolers, which are smaller and more portable but offer limited cooling capacity. These are more niche items and not truly comparable.
I believe that compressor refrigerators are the superior choice for RVers who prioritize reliability and performance. While they may be more expensive upfront, the lower energy consumption and reduced risk of breakdowns can save money in the long run. Comparative analyses can often be found in technology review websites like RV Magazine’s product reviews or in independent testing organization reports. These resources can help you weigh the pros and cons of different refrigerator types and choose the best option for your needs. Another aspect to consider is the size and layout of your travel trailer. Certain models and refrigerator brands work better with some trailers than others. I recommend considering all variables.
The following table summarizes the key differences and similarities between Norcold absorption refrigerators and compressor refrigerators, helping to illustrate the arguments presented in this article:
| Feature | Norcold Absorption Refrigerator | Compressor Refrigerator | My Opinion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooling Method | Absorption (heat-driven) | Compressor (mechanical) | Absorption is less efficient and more prone to temperature fluctuations. |
| Power Source | AC, DC, Propane | AC, DC (some 12V models) | Multi-fuel option is a plus, but reliability concerns outweigh this advantage for me. |
| Cooling Speed | Slower | Faster | Faster cooling is essential, especially in hot climates. |
| Temperature Consistency | Less Consistent, Affected by Ambient Temperature & Leveling | More Consistent | Consistent temperature is crucial for food safety and preservation. |
| Energy Efficiency | Lower (higher power consumption) | Higher (lower power consumption) | Energy efficiency is important, especially when boondocking. |
| Noise Level | Quieter | Can be slightly louder (compressor noise) | The quiet operation is a benefit, but not at the expense of reliability. |
| Maintenance | More complex, prone to leaks, requires specialized technicians | Less complex, generally more reliable | The complexity of absorption refrigerators leads to higher maintenance costs. |
| Reliability | Lower, sensitive to leveling | Higher, less sensitive to leveling | Reliability is the most important factor for me. |
| Cost | Can be lower initial cost | Can be higher initial cost | The long-term cost of ownership (repairs, energy consumption) should be considered. |
| Weight | Usually Lighter | Can be heavier | Weight is always a concern in a travel trailer, but not a deal-breaker if reliability is enhanced. |
| Freezing Power | Less powerful in extreme temperatures | Maintains even freezing power | This is important for many campers. |