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Frig on Inverter While Driving

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custerhank

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  • OwnPC: Yes
  • NewUsed: Used
  • PurchDate: March/2020
  • Model: 3100
  • ModelYear: 2019
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  • Location: Custer, SD
Frig on Inverter While Driving
« on: July 22, 2021, 05:43:59 pm »
  Just read some posts about using the inverter while driving. In all our previous RV's since 1970 (!) prior to the PC we always used propane for the frig because..well..because that is how it was always done. But with a much smaller propane tank than our other rigs good to know how to save and be safer too. Rig is parked, frig cooling down on AC right now, but heading out for 5 weeks soon.

  So I should be able to select "AC" once we disconnect from shore power at home and the engine is running? To paraphase another I just read..you learn something new every day. Especially since we are now back in a gas model which likes the engine off when fueling versus our previous Diesel Pusher which usually just kept idling at the truck stop diesel pumps.

Hank
Custer SD
2019 PC 3100
50 Amp/2 A/C Units thanks to previous owner - will be 106 dgs our first day out to Plankinton SD..yikes!
Hank & Joyce Whitney
Custer, SD
2019 PC Model 3100

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donc13

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Re: Frig on Inverter While Driving
« Reply #1 on: July 22, 2021, 07:12:16 pm »
No... The inverter won't run the refrigerator (presuming you have a Norcold AC/Propane refrigerator).  The inverter is only hooked to a limited number of outlets such as the TV outlets, the bathroom outlet, the outside outlets near the side entry door and an outlet near the hot water heater switch.

Your propane tank contains 10+ gallons when full (to 80% tank capacity which is max) and will have enough for literally weeks of use for the refrigerator.  Obviously, if you use the propane for heating, for the stove or to make hot  water... The time will be less. 

I have made it 4 or more weeks in the summer on a full propane load.

Lots of places sell propane so not a problem getting the tank refilled in MY experience.

Worst comes to worst, run the generator, it will run the refrigerator just fine.  There's about a 1mpg gasoline penalty.

OH, we always set the refrigerator to AUTO., if shore power is available (from generator or you are plugged in) it will switch to AC, otherwise, it will use propane.  No need to mess with the setting.
« Last Edit: July 22, 2021, 07:16:07 pm by donc13 »
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Don and Patti

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custerhank

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  • 135
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  • OwnPC: Yes
  • NewUsed: Used
  • PurchDate: March/2020
  • Model: 3100
  • ModelYear: 2019
  • Slide: Yes
  • IntColor: Brown
  • ExtColor: Brown Full Body Paint
  • Location: Custer, SD
Re: Frig on Inverter While Driving
« Reply #2 on: July 22, 2021, 07:24:44 pm »
  Thanks for the feedback. The info I saw was from the technical guru for Escapees who is usually on target; perhaps his advice works for some folks, but never before for us. That is why I was so surprised to read it and thought maybe there were some "new" inverter rules. Yes, we always put it on "auto" setting. Will see how the dash air works in mid-90's to low 100's where will be traveling for a few days next week. Or we just turn on the generator just like we used to do.
Hank & Joyce Whitney
Custer, SD
2019 PC Model 3100

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donc13

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  • Model: 2551
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  • Location: Colorado
Re: Frig on Inverter While Driving
« Reply #3 on: July 22, 2021, 07:29:33 pm »
I have a 2551 which is about 2' shorter than your 3100.  For just my wife and I, no problem at all staying cool via the dash air.   Obviously when stopped for more that 15 minutes or so, then the generator is started and the roof A/C turned on.

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Don and Patti