Reefer frost control?

[awellis3]

The reefer in my 1995 Sunline had a switch on the front to operate the frost control for humid conditions. The reefer in my 2014 Rockwood has no switch, BUT I've seen on forums where folks have discovered that their units have such a heating device, only it was always "on" instead of being switched. Now, having a 12V heating element on all the time isn't good for boondocking.
So, how do I determine if my Dometic model DM2652LBX (ser.#31389593) has such a situation?
My manual covers several models so it is no help.

[MNtraveler]

The manual should say which model numbers have the defrost. Ours does and I can check it later. If you have it,
There should be a switch in the panel between the fridge and the freezer. I don't think any have it "always on" because it's a large power drain since it has a resistive heating element.


Land of 10,000 Lakes
2016 Forester MBS 2401R

[awellis3]

Originally Posted by MNtraveler

I don't think any have it "always on" because it's a large power drain since it has a resistive heating element.

You'd be wrong about that. The element is still there, but they're saving money on the switch. Here's the link so folks over here can have a heads up.
RV.Net Open Roads Forum: Tech Issues: Frost control
Go to the second response by Soundguy.

[MNtraveler]

According to our manual, the NDM1062 is the model with the climate control system. However this is to control water beading on the cold metal frame and it's not a defrost system so you are probably referring to a different system. This does say, "Note that when turned on, the climate control will draw 12VDC power continuously. Turn it off when a charging source is not available.

This manual covers RM2351, 2354, 2451, 2454, 2551, 2554, DM 2652, 2662, 2663, 2852, 2862 and NDM1062.


Land of 10,000 Lakes
2016 Forester MBS 2401R

[MNtraveler]

Originally Posted by awellis3

You'd be wrong about that. The element is still there, but they're saving money on the switch.

OP is right, that would not be a good boondocking unit in that case. They should definitely tell you that when you buy it and it should be clearly spelled out in the oprerating instructions.

I would hope there is a fuse that could be pulled when not plugged in, or a wire to the defrost element that could "easily" have a switch spliced into the line.


Land of 10,000 Lakes
2016 Forester MBS 2401R

[youroo]

This works for us! No frost/ice buildup and everything keeps cold! Youroo!!

[awellis3]

Originally Posted by MNtraveler

According to our manual, the NDM1062 is the model with the climate control system. However this is to control water beading on the cold metal frame and it's not a defrost system so you are probably referring to a different system. This does say, "Note that when turned on, the climate control will draw 12VDC power continuously. Turn it off when a charging source is not available.

Nope, we're talking about the same system, to control condensation around the frame and door gaskets. The DM2652LBX has no such switch. It is always on.

[youroo]

For Post #6!

[awellis3]

Originally Posted by MNtraveler

I would hope there is...a wire to the defrost element that could "easily" have a switch spliced into the line.

There is. I found a solution on RVnet. The wire in question comes into the fridge at the door light switch and can be accessed there.
https://picasaweb.google.com/1012798...79183048391634

[dcluvtohunt]

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[Jim101]

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