RV refrigerators use a combination of electric and propane gas power to operate efficiently. When you are unable to use electric power for the refrigerator, you will need to switch your RV fridge to gas operation. This will mean lighting the pilot light, sometimes called a burner jet, which lights up the rest of the fridge burners. Sometimes air can build up in the gas line, making igniting the pilot light a process requiring multiple attempts.
Step 1
Open all of the gas valves to the refrigerator. Depending on the model of refrigerator in your RV, you may need to open the gas cylinder valve and a shut-off valve for gas supply to the fridge.
Step 2
Reset the main power button by switching it to off, waiting up to a minute, and turning it back on. The fridge will be in the "Auto" mode by default. In this mode, the refrigerator uses the most convenient form of power available, whether it is gas or electric, so the pilot may not automatically light.
Step 3
Press the mode button to switch the refrigerator to "Gas" mode. Your particular model may have an LED display or a light that comes on next to a flame or other gas symbol to indicate the unit is now in gas mode.
Step 4
Watch for the pilot light or burner jet to automatically ignite the refrigerator's burners. If the first attempt fails, most RV refrigerators have a control system that will make another attempt after about 30 to 45 seconds. If the refrigerator has not been used in some time or you've just refilled your propane tank for your RV, there may be air in the gas line and it will likely take several attempts before the pilot light will ignite.
Warnings
- If you suspect a leak in the gas line is causing the pilot not to light, get a qualified service professional to check for the leak. Do not attempt to use a flame to find leaks yourself.
Tips
- Clean the gas components as suggested in your RV fridge's owner's manual to keep the gas functions and pilot light operating correctly.
- The color of the pilot flame should be clear blue. Tinges of yellow or orange might indicate dirty or clogged components in the ignition system.
References
Tips
- Clean the gas components as suggested in your RV fridge's owner's manual to keep the gas functions and pilot light operating correctly.
- The color of the pilot flame should be clear blue. Tinges of yellow or orange might indicate dirty or clogged components in the ignition system.
Warnings
- If you suspect a leak in the gas line is causing the pilot not to light, get a qualified service professional to check for the leak. Do not attempt to use a flame to find leaks yourself.
Writer Bio
Laura W. Smith has worked as a freelance writer since 2007, producing content for various online publications. She has worked as a women's fitness trainer for three years and specializes in health and fitness topics. Smith holds a bachelor's degree in music education from Baptist Bible College and has studied journalism at Wayland Baptist University.
