Anyone looking at second hand caravans for sale will quickly deduce that the fridge is one of the most likely places to discover an electrical or gas issue. A fridge that is fine when plugged in on a pitch might not be nearly so good when running on 12-volt battery or gas, and that's a consideration for anyone thinking about camping away from a pitch. Testing it on all power sources before purchase gives the buyer a good idea of what to expect.
Who Should Carry Out This Test?
Those who spend their time on campsites with good hookups might only want to carry out a basic test. People who go wild camping or want to use the caravan in winter should consider testing the power sources before purchase. Sellers might also appreciate the test as it gives both parties the opportunity to be clear on the capabilities of the fridge.
What the Test Involves?
A good test is to see how the fridge does when running on mains power, 12-volt battery and gas. Start by seeing if it can reach the desired temperature after several hours, then see how quickly the battery is drained when running on 12-volt electricity. The gas function can be checked by lighting the gas burner on the fridge, listening out for unusual noise and measuring the internal temperature at the same time. Taking all of these into account gives a good overview of the fridge's condition.
When the Test Is Most Useful?
This test is best carried out during the viewing of the caravan, before the buyer has to pay any kind of deposit. It's also a good idea to ask the seller to run through the tests on any of the power sources they claim to have. If the caravan has been sitting unused for some time, the test becomes even more pressing as old power sources might not be in good condition.
Where Limitations Apply?
A simple test like this can only do so much. A fridge that is fine after an hour might stop working altogether after 24 hours. Conditions also have an impact and the higher the room temperature, the less chance there is of the fridge reaching a good temperature. Testing gas requires the buyer to take extra care and never attempt to repair or modify the fridge in any way. If there is any doubt at all about the function of the fridge, a qualified gas engineer should be called in.
Why the Process Matters?
A fridge that stops working on the road can cause rotten food and drain the leisure battery, while a faulty gas system can prove downright dangerous. Identifying a potential problem means the buyer can request repairs or get a price reduction from the seller. It also ensures that the buyer is aware of what they are getting.
Practical Selection Criteria
When looking at a caravan, buyers should check out the fridge's age and model badge, check that the seals on the door are good and inspect the cooling fins at the back of the fridge to make sure that they are not damaged or blocked. They should ask to see the service history for the fridge and confirm that the gas regulator and ventilation grilles are in good working order. Buyers should also bear in mind whether the vendor is able to demonstrate the fridge's use with all three power sources during the viewing.
How the Test Is Carried Out?
Start by running the fridge on a mains supply and set it to its coldest setting. Check the internal temperature after several hours, then carry out the same test on 12-volt battery power and finally when the fridge is running on gas. Compare the results and use them to determine whether you want to go ahead with the purchase. Find your perfect travel companion – view used RVs for sale today!
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