DOMETIC RF Series Absorber Refrigerator User Manual

REFRIGERATIONRF

RF60, RF62Absorber refrigeratorOperating manual

© 2021 Dometic Group. The visual appearance of the contents of this manual is protected by copyright and design law. The underlying technical design and the products contained herein may be protected by design, patent, or be patent pending. The trademarks mentioned in this manual belong to Dometic Sweden AB. All rights are reserved.

RF60, RF62

Explanation of symbols

RF60, RF62Please read these instructions carefully and follow all instructions, guidelines, and warnings included in this product manual in order to ensure that you install, use, and maintain the product properly at all times. These instructions MUST stay with this product.By using the product, you hereby confirm that you have read all instructions, guidelines, and warnings carefully and that you understand and agree to abide by the terms and conditions as set forth herein. You agree to use this product only for the intended purpose and application and in accordance with the instructions, guidelines, and warnings as set forth in this product manual as well as in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations. A failure to read and follow the instructions and warnings set forth herein may result in an injury to yourself and others, damage to your product or damage to other property in the vicinity. This product manual, including the instructions, guidelines, and warnings, and related documentation, may be subject to changes and updates. For up-to-date product information, please visit dometic.com.

Explanation of symbols

WARNING!Safety instruction: Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury. CAUTION!Safety instruction: Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.NOTICE!Indicates a situation that, if not avoided, can result in property damage.

 NOTESupplementary information for operating the product.

Safety instructions

1. General safetyWARNING! Failure to obey these warnings could result in death or serious injury.Electrocution hazard• Do not operate the device if it is visibly damaged.• If this device’s AC power cable is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, customer service or a similarly qualified person in order to prevent safety hazards.• This device may only be repaired by qualified personnel. Improper repairs can lead to considerable hazards.Explosion hazard• Do not store any explosive substances such as spray cans with a flammable propellant in the device.Fire hazard• The refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit is highly flammable. In the event of any damage to the refrigerant circuit (smell of ammonia): ­– Switch off the device. ­– Avoid naked flames and sparks. ­– Air the room well.Health hazard• Never open the absorber unit. It is under high pressure and can cause injury if it is opened.• This device can be used by children aged from 8 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the device in a safe way and understand the hazards involved.• Children shall not play with the device.• Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be made by children without supervision.• Children aged from 3 to 8 years are allowed to load and unload devices.Children beware• Make sure that the shelves are mounted and secured so that children cannot lock themselves in the device.• Before disposing of your old refrigerator: ­– Dismantle the drawers. ­– Leave the shelves in the refrigerator so that children cannot climb inside. CAUTION! Failure to obey these cautions could result in minor or moderate injury.Injury hazard• Do not put your fingers into the hinge.• Do not lean on the open device door.NOTICE! Damage hazard• The lamp can only be replaced by the manufacturer, service agent or similarly qualified person to avoid hazard.• Do not use a high-pressure cleaner near the ventilation grill when cleaning the vehicle.• Attach the winter covers of the ventilation grille (accessories) when the vehicle is cleaned from the outside or not used for a prolonged period of time.• The device is not suitable for transporting caustic materials or materials containing solvents.• The insulation of the device contains flammable cyclopentane and requires special disposal procedures. Deliver the device at the end of its life-cycle to an appropriate recycling centre.• Keep the condensation opening clean at all times.• Never immerse the device in water.• Protect the device and cables against heat and moisture.• The device shall not to be exposed to rain.
2. Placing and connecting the device safely WARNING! Failure to obey these warnings could result in death or serious injury.Fire hazard• Ensure that the device circuit is not damaged during transportation.• When positioning the device, ensure the supply cord is not trapped or damaged.• Do not locate multiple portable socket-outlets or portable power supplies at the rear of the device.NOTICE! Damage hazard• Risk of overheating!Always ensure sufficient ventilation so that the heat generated during operation can dissipate. Make sure that the device is sufficiently far away from walls and other objects so that the air can circulate.• To enable the refrigerant to circulate properly, the device may not tilted by more than 3°. Use a spirit level to make sure the device is level.• Only hold the device at the body of the device during transport. Never hold the device at the absorber unit, the cooling fins, the gas pipes, the door or the control panel.• Do not place the device near naked flames or other heat sources (heaters, direct sunlight, gas ovens etc.).• Only use the AC connection cable supplied to connect the device to the AC mains.• Ask your vehicle manufacturer if the battery management of your vehicle shuts down the devices to protect the battery.• Put the device door and the freezer door into the winter position if you are not going to use the device for a longer period of time. This prevents mold from forming.
3. Operating the device safely WARNING! Failure to obey these warnings could result in death or serious injury.Electrocution hazard• Before starting the device, ensure that the power supply line and the plug are dry.• Disconnect the device from the power supply ­ before each cleaning and maintenance ­ after every useHealth hazard• Please check if the cooling capacity of the device is suitable for storing the food you wish to cool.• Only use the device where there is good ventilation.• Only operate the device from a single energy source.• Food may only be stored in its original packaging or in suitable containers.• Opening the device for long periods can cause significant increase of the temperature in the compartments of the device.• Clean regularly surfaces that can come in contact with food and accessible drainage systems.• Store raw meat and fish in suitable containers in the device, so that it is not in contact with or can drip onto other food.• If the device is exposed to a room temperature of below +10 °C for an extended period of time, an uniform temperature cannot be guaranteed in the freezer compartment. This can lead to an increase of the freezer compartment temperature and the goods stored in it may defrost.• If the device is left empty for long periods: ­– Switch off the device. ­– Defrost the device. ­– Clean and dry the device. ­– Leave the door open to prevent mold developing within the device. CAUTION! Failure to obey these cautions could result in minor or moderate injury.injury hazard• Close and lock the device door before beginning a journey.The cooling aggregate at the back of the device becomes very hot during operation. Protect yourself from coming into contact with hot parts when removing ventilation grills.NOTICE! Damage hazard• Check that the voltage specification on the type plate corresponds to that of the energy supply.• Only connect the device as follows: ­ DC outlet: Only use cables with an appropriate cross section. ­ AC outlet: Only use the AC cable supplied• Never pull the plug out of the socket by the cable.• If the device is connected to a DC outlet: Only select DC operation (battery mode) if you are using a battery monitor or if the alternator in your vehicle provides sufficient voltage.• If the device is connected to a DC outlet: Disconnect the device or switch it off when you turn off the engine. Otherwise you may discharge the battery.• Ensure that the ventilation openings are not covered.• Do not use electrical devices inside the device unless they are recommended by the manufacturer for the purpose.• Do not fill the inner container with ice or fluids.• Only store heavy objects such as bottles or cans in the device door, in the vegetable compartment or on the bottom shelf.
4. Operating with gas safelyWARNING! Failure to obey these warnings could result in death or serious injury.Explosion hazard• Only operate the device at the pressure shown on the type plate. Only use pressure controllers with a fixed setting which comply with the national regulations. Use a DIN-DVGW-approved pressure regulator with a fixed setting in accordance with DIN EN 16129.• When using gas, the device may only be used outdoors.• Beware of suffocation! Operating the device with gas in an unventilated area will reduce the amount of oxygen in this area.• Do not operate the device with gas in unventilated areas such as enclosed premises, tents, motor vehicles, motor homes, caravans, ships, yachts, boots and truck cabs.• Never place the device near flammable materials (paper, dry leaves, textiles).• Keep flammable objects away from the burner.• Never store liquid gas cylinders in unventilated areas or below ground level (funnel shaped holes in the ground).• Keep liquid gas cylinders away from direct sunlight. The temperature may not exceed 50 °C.• Never use a naked flame to check the device for leaks.• If you smell gas: ­ Close the gas supply cock and the valve on the cylinder. ­ Do not press an electric switch. ­ Put out any naked flames. ­ Have the gas system checked by a specialist.• Do not let the device operate unattended when in gas mode.NOTICE!Damage hazard• Only use propane or butane gas (not natural gas).

Scope of delivery

Quantity	Description
1	Absorber device
1	AC connection cable

Intended use

The mobile refrigeration appliance is intended to be used in household and similar applications such as:

• Staff kitchen areas in shops, offices, and other working environments
• Farm houses
• Clients in hotels, motels and other residential type environments
• Bed and breakfast type environments
• Catering and similar non-retail applications

The device is suitable for:

• Camping use
• Cooling, quick-freezing and storing food
• Operation with DC power, AC power or gas

Technical description

The device is not suitable for:

• Using as a built-in appliance
• Storing medications
• Storing caustic substances or substances that contain solventsThis product is only suitable for the intended purpose and application in accordance with these instructions.This manual provides information that is necessary for proper installation and/or operation of the device. Poor installation and/or improper operating or maintenance will result in unsatisfactory performance and a possible failure.The manufacturer accepts no liability for any injury or damage to the product resulting from:
• Incorrect assembly or connection, including excess voltage
• Incorrect maintenance or use of spare parts other than original spare parts provided by the manufacturer
• Alterations to the product without express permission from the manufacturer
• Use for purposes other than those described in this manualDometic reserves the right to change product appearance and product specifications.

Technical description

The device is a refrigerator with absorption cooling. Ammonia is used as the refrigerant. All materials used are compatible for use with foodstuffs. The refrigerant circuit is maintenance-free.

1. Components
   

   No.infig. 1, page 3	Explanation
   1	Operating panel
   2	Door lock
   3	Evaporator
   4	Shelf
   5	Door inserts
   6	Freezer (only RF62)

2. Operating panel

   No.infig. 1, page 3	Explanation
   1	Energy selector switch
   2	Flame indicator
   3	Thermostat
   4	Ignition button

Energy selector switch

Symbolfig. 2, page 3	Description
	Off
	AC operation
	DC operation
	Gas operation

Placing and connecting the device

1. Instructions for placing the deviceObserve the following when placing the device:• Maintain at least 10 mm clearance to the walls.• Keep the ventilation openings clear of all obstructions to ensure good ventilation.➤ Place the device on a level surface. Use a water level to check this.
2. Changing the door hingeWARNING! Electrocution hazardBefore performing any work on the device, unplug the power plug.You can change the hinge of the door so that it opens to the left rather than the right. Proceed as shown to change the door hinge (fig. 3, page 4 to fig. 4, page 4).
3. Replacing the door panelWARNING! Electrocution hazardBefore performing any work on the device, unplug the power plug.➤ Proceed as shown to replace the door panel (fig. 5, page 5).
4. Connecting to an AC supply1. Check that the voltage specification on the type plate is the same as that of the power supply.2. Plug the AC connection cable into the AC mains.
5. Connecting to a DC supplyNOTICE! Damage hazard• Make sure the polarity is correct when connecting to a terminal.• To avoid voltage drops and loss of performance, keep the cable as short as possible and avoid joins. For this reason avoid additional switches, plugs, or multi-way adapters.• Disconnect the device and other electric loads from the battery before connecting the battery to a quick charging device. Overvoltage can damage the electronics of the device.• Fit a fuse of at least 15 A to the positive connection.• If you connect the device to the vehicle power, remember that you may have to turn on the ignition to supply it with power.1. Check that the voltage specification on the type plate is the same as the battery voltage.2. Determine the required cross-section of the cable in relation to the cable length according to the following table:
   

   Cable length	Cable cross section
   ≤ 2.5 m	2.5 mm²
   2.5 m – 4.0 m	4.0 mm²
   4.0 m – 6.0 m	6.0 mm²

   3. Connect the wires to a terminal block that is connected to the battery via a 15 A fuse.4. Install an isolating switch between both poles.The minimum isolating distance between the two poles is 3 mm.

6. Connecting the device to a gas cylinderWARNING! This device may only be connected to the gas supply by a specialist in accordance with the applicable regulations and standards.NOTICE! Damage hazard• Only use cylinders of propane or butane gas (not natural gas or city gas) with an approved pressure reduction valve and suitable head.• Observe the pressures which are permitted in your country. Use an approved pressure regulator with a fixed setting: ­-The following applies for Germany: DIN EN 16129. ­-The following applies for Europe: EN 732, EN 521, and EN 437:2003+A1:2009.• The device may only be operated with hose lines in a perfect technical condition. Replace any porous or damaged hose lines.NOTE If the gas flame extinguishes the ignition control shuts off the gas supply.1. Check that pressure specification on the type plate is the same as the pressure information on the pressure regulator on the propane or butane gas cylinder.2. Connect the device to the gas hose as shown (fig. 6, page 6).3. Connect the gas hose to the gas cylinder as shown (fig. 7, page 7).

After connecting the device to the gas supply

1. Check the gas pipe for leakage at all the connection points (all threaded connections, hose connections with clamps, connection to the gas cylinder) using a foaming agent, e.g. soap.
2. Perform a visual inspection of the hose (for cracks, weathering, damage).

Operation

NOTICE! Damage hazard

• Ensure that food or liquids in glass containers are not excessively refrigerated. Liquids expand when they freeze and can therefore destroy glass containers.NOTE
• Before using the device for the first time, clean it inside and out with a damp cloth for hygienic reasons (see chapter “Cleaning and maintenance” on page 27).
• The cooling performance can be affected by: ­– the ambient temperature ­– the amount of food to be conserved ­– how often the lid is opened.
• A few water drops may form inside the device if it has been cooling for a lengthy period. This is normal because the moisture in the air condenses to water when the temperature in the device falls. The device is not defective. Wipe it out with a dry cloth if necessary.

To avoid food waste, note the following:

• Keep temperature fluctuation as low as possible. Only open the refrigerator as often and for as long as necessary. Store the foodstuff in such a way that the air can still circulate well.
• Adjust the temperature to the quantity and type of the foodstuff.
• Store the different foodstuff types as shown in the figures.
• Foodstuff can easily absorb or release odor or taste. Always store foodstuff covered or in closed containers/bottles.

1. Saving energy• Only open the refrigerator as often and for as long as necessary.• Allow warm food to cool down first before placing it in the device to keep cool.• Defrost your refrigerator as soon as a layer of ice forms.• Avoid unnecessarily low-temperature settings.• For optimal energy consumption, position the shelves and drawers according to their position on delivery.• On a regular basis, make sure the door seal still fits properly.• Clean dust and dirt from the condenser at regular intervals.
2. Using the device in DC modeNOTE• When the device is connected to the DC power socket the cooling level cannot be adjusted.• Cool the device for about 24 hours before starting your journey using gas or electricity from the mains. This way your device will attain the required cooling level faster when you reach your destination.Turning on the device (fig. 2, page 3)➤ Turn the energy selector switch (1) to the position.✔  The device starts cooling the interior.Turning off the device➤ Turn the energy selector switch (1) to the position.✔  The device is switched off.
3. Using the device in AC modeTurning on the device (fig. 2, page 3)1. Turn the energy selector switch (1) to the  position.2. Turn the thermostat (3) to the MAX position.✔ The device starts cooling the interior.It takes about 1 h until the interior becomes noticeable cool. After approx. 5 h you can set the thermostat to a lower temperature.➤To increase the cooling level, turn the thermostat (3) clockwise.➤To decrease the cooling level, turn the thermostat (3) anticlockwise.Turning off the device (fig. 2, page 3)1. Turn the energy selector switch (1) to the position.2. Turn the thermostat (3) to the position.✔ The device is switched off.
4. Using the device in gas modeTurning on the device (fig. 2, page 3)1. Turn the energy selector switch (1) to the position.2. Open the gas supply at the gas cylinder.3. Turn the thermostat (3) to the MAX position.4. Press down the thermostat (3) and keep it pressed.5. After 10 s press the ignition button (4) several times, until the flame is lit.6. For devices with electronic ignition the ignition button (4) has to be kept down for some seconds. Due to air in the pipes, this may take more than 10 s when the device was out of operation for a longer time or when the gas cylinder was replaced.7. After ignition keep the thermostat (3) pressed for another 30 s.8. Release the thermostat (3).✔ The flame can be controlled by the flame indicator (2). The device starts cooling the interior.✔ It takes about 1 h until the interior becomes noticeable cool. After approx. 5 h you can set the thermostat to a lower temperature.NOTE If the flame does not light up, repeat the ignition procedure after 1 min.➤ To increase the cooling level, turn the thermostat (3) clockwise.➤ To decrease the cooling level, turn the thermostat (3) anticlockwise.Turning off the device1. Close the gas supply at the gas cylinder.2. Turn the thermostat (3) to the position.
5. Positioning the shelves➤ Proceed as shown to position the shelves (fig. 8, page 8).
6. Locking the door➤ Proceed as shown to unlock the door (fig. 9, page 8).➤ Proceed as shown to lock the door for transport (fig. 0, page 9).
7. Defrosting the deviceNOTICE! Damage hazard• Never use mechanical tools to remove ice or to loosen objects stuck to the device.• Never use heated devices or heaters to speed up the defrosting process.NOTE Over time, frost builds up on the cooling fins inside the device. If this layer of frost is about 5 mm thick, you should defrost the device.1. Disconnect the voltage and gas supply.2. Empty the device.3. Put a cloth in the compartment to absorb any excess water.4. Leave the door open.5. Wipe the compartment dry with a cloth.
8. Switching off and storing the deviceIf you intend to not use the device for a longer period, proceed as follows:1. Disconnect the voltage and gas supply.2. Clean the device (see chapter “Cleaning and maintenance” on page 27).3. Set the door lock in the ventilation position (fig. a, page 9) to prevent odors from forming.

Cleaning and maintenance

 WARNING! Electrocution hazard/Fire hazard

• Always disconnect the device from the mains before you clean and service it.
• Repair work and maintenance work on the cooling aggregate and the gas burner system may only be carried out by an authorized repair center.

NOTICE! Damage hazard Never uses sharp cleaning agents or hard or pointed tools to remove ice or to loosen objects which have frozen in place.➤ Clean the device regularly and as soon as it becomes dirty with a damp cloth.➤ Make sure that no water drips into the seals. This can damage the electronics.➤ Wipe the device dry with a cloth after cleaning. Check the condensate drain regularly.➤  Clean the condensate drain when necessary. If it is blocked, the condensate collects on the bottom of the device.

Changing the gas filter➤ Proceed as shown to change the gas filter (fig. b, page 10).Replacing the ignition battery Proceed as shown to replace the ignition battery (fig. c, page 11).

Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible cause	Suggested remedy
The device does not work.	The device has not been set up properly.	Check if the device is horizontal.Check if the ventilation of the device is sufficient.
The refrigerant circuit is defective.	This can only be repaired by an authorized repair center.
In DC mode: The device is not working (plug is inserted).	No voltage is flowing from the DC power socket in your vehicle.	The ignition must be switched on in most vehicles to supply current to the DC power socket.
The vehicle fuse has blown.	Replace the vehicle fuse in the DC socket (usually 15 A) (Please refer to the operating manual of your vehicle).
In AC mode: The device is not working (plug is inserted).	No voltage present in the AC socket.	Try using another plug socket.
In gas mode: The device is not working (to the device is connected to the gas).	The device is not properly connected to the gas.	Check if the gas supply is in full working order. Check if the valve on the gas bottle is open. Check if there is still gas in the bottle. Check if several energy sources are connected at the same time. Hold down the temperature controller longer to ignite the flame.
The device does not start up after a long period of inactivity.	Disconnect the device from the power supply Turn it upside down and wait for 5min. Turn the device the right way up again and switch it on again.

Warranty

The statutory warranty period applies. If the product is defective, please contact the manufacturer’s branch in your country (see dometic.com/dealer) or your retailer.For repair and warranty processing, please include the following documents when you send in the device:

• A copy of the receipt with purchasing date
• A reason for the claim or description of the fault

Disposal

WARNING! Asphyxiation hazard Dismantle all device doors for the disposal of the old device and leave the shelves in the device to prevent accidental enclosure and suffocation of children.

➤ Place the packaging material in the appropriate recycling waste bins, wherever possible.

If you wish to finally dispose of the product, ask your local recycling center or specialist dealer for details about how to do this in accordance with the applicable disposal regulations.

Protect the environment!Do not dispose of any batteries with general household waste. Return defective or used batteries to your retailer or dispose of them at collection points.

Technical data

RF60	RF62
Total volume:	61 l
Capacity freezer compartment:	–	5 1
Voltage:	12 V 220 – 240 Vw, 50/60 Hz
Power consumption:	110 W (DC)110 W (AC)
Energy consumption:	1.9 kWh/24 h (DC)1.9kWh/24h (AC)
Rated thermal loading:	245 W (Butane)192 W (Propane)
Gas consumption:	17.5 g/h (Butane)13.5 g/h (Propane)
Cooling capacity:	Max. 30 °C below ambient temperature
Climate class:	N
Intended ambient temperature use:	16 °C to 32 °C
Noise emission:	0 dB
Refrigerant	357 g H2O+168g NH3	367 g H2O+173g NH3
Dimensions (W x H x D):	See fig. d, page 11
Weight:	Approx. 24 kg
Inspection/certification:

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References

• 
  Find a Dealer | Dometic.com
• 
  Contact Us | Dometic.com
• 
  Dometic Outdoor USA – Compact solutions for Outdoor living | Dometic.com