If you have an RV refrigerator with a Norcold or Dometic cooling unit and it isn’t cooling, the most common cause is that the cooling unit has rusted out and started leaking ammonia.
norcold refrigerator parts and Dometic cooling units operate by a distillation process driven by heat (electric heating elements or LP gas flame) that separates the working fluid into two liquids.
Thermo-Mastic
Thermal Mastic is a heat transfer compound applied to the evaporator coils of Norcold Cooling Units at points where they make metal to metal contact with the freezer plate and fins. It is an excellent heat transfer compound that helps to maintain a cooler temperature in the cooling unit.
Moreover, it is a good sealer that helps prevent air leaks from the evaporator pocket of the foam block. However, it is important to apply the mastic properly.
Thermo-Mastic is composed of low viscosity chlorinated paraffin, a filler and a wetting agent. It is compatible with polyurethane insulating foam and does not degrade it.
The mastic was formulated by applying a pumpable mastic or paste to the interior of a large metal container and then filling it with a polyurethane foam insulation. The mastic had excellent adhesive properties and a kinematic viscosity of about 2600 centistokes at room temperature.
Foam Sealant
Sealant is a type of foam that can be used to fill smaller gaps and cracks in your home. It is available in aerosol cans (typically 12-24 oz.) and is used by DIYers for small weatherization projects.
It is also used to insulate wiring, plumbing, HVAC ducting, basements, and crawl spaces, among other applications. Insulating foam sealant can help prevent air infiltration and save energy by insuring that no heat or cool air leaks into unwanted areas.
Foam sealant is a type of spray polyurethane foam, which is made by mixing two chemicals (isocyanate and polyol resin) into a liquid, then sprayed onto the surface to create a barrier. It is typically used to fill gaps and cracks around pipes, doors, windows, and other objects.
When using insulating foam sealant, it is important to wear the appropriate protective gear, as recommended by the product manufacturer on the label. It is also helpful to read the instructions on the label carefully and to provide plenty of ventilation.
Foil Tape
If you don’t like the thought of using duct mastic to seal your Norcold Cooling Unit, aluminum foil tape is a great alternative. It’s flame resistant, holds up in extreme temperatures, and sticks strong in high humidity.
It also seals ducts’ seams, making them less likely to break. Sealing ducts prevents leaks from entering your HVAC system and helps to improve air quality by preventing dust and debris from being released into the air.
In addition to sealing ducts, foil tape is used in construction applications as well. It’s used to reinforce fiberglass and thermal mineral wood insulation and to repair roofs and gutters.
Foil tape is also used in metal finishing, as it provides excellent adhesion and conformability to irregular surfaces. It is also known for its sound dampening qualities, which can help to reduce resonating vibration and equipment fatigue.
Low-Expansion Spray Foam
Spray foam is an insulating and sealing product that is used throughout the building industry. It helps to create a tight building envelope that reduces air leakage and improves energy efficiency.
If you’re looking to improve the performance of your Norcold Cooling Units, consider using low-expansion spray foam. It is specifically designed to help prevent air infiltration from the back of the refrigerator to the evaporator coils.
It also helps to keep moisture from entering the evaporator coils and rotting them. This will also lower your energy bills.
Spray foam is a two-component polyurethane foam that can be applied to ducts, ceilings, walls and vented attics. It can also be used to seal airflow through cracks, joints and seams. It also provides heat insulation. It is a good option for any type of home or building. It is durable and can withstand years of seasonal expansion and contraction. It is also easy to install and clean.