11
Simple Tests
•
Fridge does not operate in your vehicle:
Run the fridge from a 240 volt power source via an AC adaptor. If the fridge starts and
runs then the problem is with your vehicle, either the battery or the wiring.
See section on voltage drop (AC adaptor, minimum of 10 amps at 12 volts or 5 amps at
24 volts).
• Fridge does not operate from a 240 volt power source when using an AC adaptor:
Run the fridge from your vehicle or other fully charged 12 volt battery source. If the fridge
starts and runs, then the problem is with either the AC adaptor or fridge lead. Check
the fridge lead by connecting the fridge to a 12V battery, if it operates the AC adaptor is
faulty.
•
NOTE:
It is important to ensure in all cases that the voltage at the end of lead connecting
to the fridge is adequate. ie: above 11.0 volts.
Voltage Drop & Wiring Requirements
Voltage Drop
The majority of our customer inquiries are related to voltage drop, which means the power
to run the fridge is lost between the power supply (the battery) and the fridge compressor.
The fridge’s compressor requires over 10.9 volts (12 volt) and 22.7 volts (24 volt) to operate.
If the voltage drops to these points or below, the fridge will default, you will hear the
compressor trying to start every minute or so and the yellow fault LED light will be blinking
once every 4 seconds.
When Voltage Drops Occur:
• The cigarette lighter socket in your car or 4WD will have on average 2mm core wiring.
This wiring is too thin and will drop voltage from one end to the other. EvaKool
recommend a minimum of 6mm core cable and if the distance from the power source
is over 6 metres, 10mm core wiring is required. Consult an auto electrician should you
need to upgrade.
• Check for dirty or loose connections at the battery and outlet.
• Are there any relays or after market voltage protection devices in the line to your fridge.
These also have voltage drops through them.
• Check that your battery doesn’t drop voltage under load.
