How to install a residential fridge in an RV?

In this blog post, we will answer the question: “How to install a residential fridge in an RV?” We will discuss the steps to install a residential fridge in an RV. We will touch upon the necessary modifications, electric connections, ventilation, power supply, etc. We will also look into some of the important factors to consider in this project.

How to install a residential fridge in an RV?

To install a residential fridge in an RV, you must follow the steps described below.

• Determine the area

• Prepare the space

• Reinforce the floor

• Modify or remove the cabinets

• Install the residential fridge

• Install the electric connection

• Add ventilation

• Check the power supply

Determine the area

• The first step is to determine the area where you plan on installing the residential fridge in an RV. Installing a residential fridge in an RV will require planning and modifications. Remember that residential fridges are larger than RV fridges and they are also heavier. Hence, it is crucial to determine the right area.

• Measure the space that is available in the RV and ensure that it is convenient enough to install the residential fridge. It is also important to check if the refrigerator is close to the electrical outlet. 

• The residential refrigerator should also pass through the entrance of the RV. Measure the RV door to confirm if the measurements match.

Prepare the space

• Once you are certain about the measurements, you need to prepare the space where you plan on installing the residential refrigerator. Get rid of the existing RV fridge and make sure to disconnect the proper lines carefully.

• Disconnect the DC power and all the other connections. It is also important to check the floor and make sure that it is level. Look for any damages in the area and clean the area thoroughly. Get rid of dirt dust and other debris if there are any.

Reinforce the floor

• Next, you must reinforce the floor since you are using a residential fridge in an RV. Residential fridges are heavier than the usual RV fridges. It is important to reinforce the RV’s floor to provide additional support.

• Check if the RV has the potential to take the extra weight of the refrigerator. Refer to the RV’s manual to look into the GVWR.  Each RV has its guidelines when it comes to adding additional weight.

• To reinforce the RV floor, you will be required to add support beams and plywood sheets. This will provide extra support and will distribute the weight of the refrigerator properly.

Modify or remove the cabinets

• In some cases, you will be required to modify or remove the cabinets in the RV. Get rid of the extra cabinets to install the refrigerator. The refrigerator should sit perfectly in the desired location.

• Remove the surrounding cabinets in the RV to provide enough space. Ensure that there is enough space around the refrigerator for proper ventilation. Do not install the refrigerator if it sits just right in the location. There should be a minimum of one-inch space around the refrigerator.

Install the residential fridge

• The next step is to install the residential refrigerator in the desired location. Carry the refrigerator carefully inside the RV and place it in the right spot. Be sure to use leveling blocks to ensure that the fridge is level in all directions. Place a level on top of the fridge and double-check if the refrigerator is placed straight.

• Secure the refrigerator by using brackets or screws to prevent it from shifting during travel. Ensure that the refrigerator is properly secured. The refrigerator should not move and has to be stable, especially if the RV is moving.

Install the electric connection

• Once you have the refrigerator installed, you must install the electric connection. Residential refrigerators are different when it comes to RV refrigerators. Most residential refrigerators require the standard household AC power supply.

• The RV should be equipped to handle the capacity of the refrigerator. In cases you do not have the required power, you must install a 120-volt AC circuit for the refrigerator.

• Remember that this process requires running new wiring and installing a new circuit breaker. It is important to install a new circuit breaker in the RV’s electrical panel to change the voltage for the residential refrigerator.

• Hire an electrical engineer to complete this project if you are not comfortable working on electrical conduits.

Add ventilation

• Ventilation is the most important part of an RV refrigerator. Since you are installing a residential refrigerator, it is important to have better ventilation. Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent overheating.

• There must be enough space around the refrigerator for the air to circulate freely. In some cases, you will be required to install additional ventilation fans to provide more cooling. Ventilation fans will provide sufficient cooling and will also prevent the residential fridge from heating.

Check the power supply

• After you are done with the installation and the wiring, it is important to check the power supply. Checking the power supply is crucial to ensure that the RV can handle the surge or the extra power from the refrigerator.

• The RV must take the load of the newly installed refrigerator even if it is connected to shore power or a generator. A residential refrigerator increases the power demand. You might be required to add extra battery capacity or upgrade the power system if necessary.

Those were the simple steps to install a residential refrigerator in an RV. Installing a residential refrigerator in an RV can be a tricky process. However, it is not impossible. The most important part is to determine the capacity of the RV’s power system. Do not make exceptional modifications to the refrigerator or the RV’s power system.

Conclusion

In this blog post, we have answered the question: “How to install a residential fridge in an RV?” We have discussed the steps to install a residential fridge in an RV. We have touched upon the necessary modifications, electric connections, ventilation, power supply, etc. We have also looked into some of the important factors to consider in this project.