When lighting the Danby Refrigerator in our RV it catches on fire. What can be the problem?

by D'Joi Boucher
(Kemmerer, WY)

We have a Danby brand refrigerator in our 1979 Itasca Class C Motorhome that we bought used. It is a 3 way (12 volt, 120 volt and LP) with electric ignition. When trying to light it, it catches on fire. It produces a huge flame that consumes the burner and the bottom of the unit and catches the wiring on fire.

We checked for gas leaks using soapy water and did not find any. What could be the problem and how can we fix it?

ANSWER: Greetings D'Joi thanks for submitting your question on our Ask An RV Question Page.

Having been a Fireman for several years in my younger days, my advice to you is to turn off your RV's propane and do not attempt to fix this fridge yourself simply take the Motorhome in and have a Certified RV Technician take a look at it.

The fact that it has flamed up to the point of burning the wiring on the refrigerator means that this is definitely not a do-it-yourselfer repair job. Since the wiring has been burnt and it is catching on fire when you try to light it the refrigerator is not safe for you to use and you should not attempt to fix it yourself.

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The next time you try to fix it yourself you stand a good chance of catching your Motorhome on fire which will cost you far more money than actually having an expert look at and repair the Fridge.

Do not be surprised if based on the damage that has already been caused to the Refrigerator that you end up having to buy a new RV Refrigerator.

I hope this helps.

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