Fitting fan to fridge
Project before a long trip to Spain
I hope that the weather is going to be very hot Ihave decided to fit aadditional cooling fans to the rear of the fridge to help to make the fridge more efficient. There are many threads around on the method of doing this using 2 computer fams and some means of regulating the temperature.
I have bought 2 fans and to control them I purchase na 12v thermostat from eBay http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/272500761532 i have tried it at home and it works very well. I had considered using a thermal cut out http://cpc.farnell.com/microtherm/03en35t044-20-30/thermal-switch-n-o-30c/dp/SN35838 but as this is a fixed temperature where to locate it. The benifit with the thermostat is that it can be adjusted if the probe is not in the optimum position. Further information on the fans can be found here http://www.dreampod.net/boroma/fridgefan.html.
If anyone has fitted the thermal switch perhaps they can share with us the exact location that its to be fitted.
Comments
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I didnt bother with a thermostat, just plugged the fans in when I was on site and it was hot. They helped a bit but I have to say that the Thetford fridge in our new motorhome is so good you don't need the fans even when it gets up to about 35 deg.
I had two computer fans on the caravan fitted behind the bottom vent as that was more accessible (you just need to make sure the fans are working the right way around!).
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We too fitted 2x120mm pc fans with no thermostat but a switch neatly integrated into a kitchen moulding for our trip to the south of France-All I can say is it worked very well!
You can just remove the outside grills-its amazing what a difference that makes.
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I am in the process of fitting two fans, having previously used a single one to good effect. I have arranged a rheostat to control the speed which seems to work fine 'in the lab'! We have had very hot temps in France the past two years and the fan was buzzing, hence the attempt to drop the speed.
When I have fitted the fan in the past the service dept has noted on the annual service that a non-standard electrical connection had been made. I was a bit concerned that this might be used against me if any electrical faults appeared. I have had a re-think today as a matter of fact and am now considering a box containing the fans which can be clipped onto the outside of the top vent and powered via a lead from the 12volt auxiliary socket in the van. The OH doesn't like the idea so it maybe re configured yet again.
Another option could be the ceiling fan supply from the fuse box. This is presently not used but would be the ideal if I could find out how to get into the Fuse Box.
Anyone done it?
Certainly the fan is worth it when temperatures are very high (upper 30's).
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I ran the cable from the two fans through the bed locker and up by the auxiliary 12v socket and use a "cigarette lighter" plug to connect the fans when needed. Although the fans were permanently installed the plug/socket probably makes them "portable equipment" and not covered by the fixed electrical installation and any warranty issues.
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Good point ! Thanks for that, will apply more thought process.
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Some (indeed many) extol the virtues of computer fans and the like as warm air extraction for 'fridge's. These fans and associated bits are not 'hardened' for what is in effect outdoor use and if the experience of a couple of friends is anything to go by don't hold up well to being subjected to moisture. Other than cost I don't see a problem with the 'fridge manufacturers 'kit' to do the job with the fans mounted according to the manufacturers specification. My view is that using the correct kit will ensure suitability for the function and avoid any possible arguing over causation of mishaps.
Over many years I have used manufacturers "kit" twin fan's on a variety of refrigerators with total satisfaction. I believe a "set and forget" installation works best - though I have the fan's switched (permanently on / permanently off / thermostat) - invariably they (fan's) operate on the thermostat. This works well overall and more so when on route in high ambient temperatures and the 'fridge is running on 12 volt.
Ome 'n' Dri
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Always nice to have the correct equipment and to have it installed professionally and wired correctly. On the other hand, I raided an old computer, got another fan from a friend and had all the other parts to hand; in-line fuse, plug and cable. Total cost zero.
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