Norcold 2118 Troubleshooting- 2 Issues With Fixes

Every modern luxury RV camper requires an integrated refrigeration unit that meets customers’ high demands. The Norcold 2118 does this perfectly. It is a robust system that has been engineered to integrate easily into an RV effectively. Offering versatility and long-term reliability, it is an idea for any owner.

However, like every electrical good, it is susceptible to breaking down. Follow the guide below to inform you of the most common problem and how to resolve them quickly.

Norcold 2118 Troubleshooting

Norcold is a renowned refrigeration unit specialist. They have a vast array of purpose-designed food-based appliances. Norcold has attempted to aim the engineering at energy-efficient units that can be used globally. They are highly functional and to be easily integrated into any home.

The Norcold 2118 has been specifically designed to be an easily integrated appliance into luxury RVs too. They are worked closely with industry specialists to devise the ideal product to meet the dynamic requirements of an increasingly demanding customer base.

This is why the unit has been designed with compact mechanisms which are installed close to the body of the unit. Its intention is to allow for minimum non-function space to be used. Effectively, they are designed to have the smallest footprint with the maximum interior refrigeration storage.

Moreover, they have been engineered to be operated using three styles of energy; Gas, Low Voltage DC, and Mains Power AC. Power versatility is an impressive advantage to the RV industry for several reasons.

Firstly, onboard leisure batteries store power typically in 12V or 24V in a DC orientation. Using power directly from the batter, bypassing a power inverter drastically reduces the power required to operate the refrigerator for long periods.

Alternatively, the refrigeration unit can be orientated easily for high-voltage power when there is ample power, similar to a mains outlet. This is a more assertive style of operation, which it uses for larger RVs which can be linked directly to the national grid.

Additionally, most RVs have a power inverter as standard, which can give users the choice of their preferred power source.

Finally, propane gas can be used to fuel the Norcold. This may seem like an unusual addition. However, it is an expertly integrated feature that is ideal for the RV industry. Most luxury RVs that would be able to accommodate a large refrigeration unit will likely have a large onboard propane gas supply.

The propane storage affords additional versatility for RV owners who can now choose between three of the most common power sources. Ultimately, the Norcold 2118 is precisely designed to offer the most effective refrigeration unit, which can be integrated into any large RV with ease.

Intermittent function

The initial symptoms of an issue with the Nordcold can be indicative of some concerning issues. Most often, however, there is one underlying issue resulting from its power supply.

Intermittent functionality or poor function refrigeration is a sign that there is a power issue with 2118. Keeping track of the power input is essential to ensure smooth operation, particularly if the source is changed regularly.

Often customers have connected both the gas input without disengaging the electrical source, which can cause the unit to work intermittently. Be very diligent when it comes to power source swaps, as they can ultimately damage critical internal elements.

Most often, power issues arise when the unit is hooked to an electrical supply. The electrical current will initially come from the onboard leisure battery in either AD or DC mode.

It will be using either stored energy, or it is being fed from a main supply through the battery system. Therefore in either instance, the battery should be inspected first.

Initially, it is critical to identify if the batteries are functioning optimally. This test can be performed with a multimeter or using the onboard battery life readout from the display board. Next, identify if the voltage has dropped below 10% of its voltage rating, e.g., a 12V battery system will have a battery that is at minimum of 11.91-12V.

If the read-out has dropped below that level, then it is most likely a dead battery that needs to be replaced.

Alternatively, identify if the AC operation is working as expected. The electrical energy will have to pass through an onboard inverter for the AC supply to reorientate the battery’s electrical energy. Identify the location of the inverter and ensure that it is working correctly.

Ideally, the route it takes from the inverter to the fridge should also be inspected. Often the connection is rattled loose by the vibrations experienced when driving. It is important to check all the connections to ensure they are properly fitted.

Be very careful to turn all of the electronics off before inspection, particularly the inverter. Electricity is always dangerous but particularly when it is at the same strength as the main outlet. It is advisable to contact an electrical specialist should the user not already be very experienced with electrical goods.

Refrigerators Fault Alarm

If there is an ongoing alarm signaling from the Norcole 2118, then it is safe to assess that there has been a fault detected. There are several faults to be aware of that have their own distinctive noise as well as displayed letters to indicate the particular fault.

Door Alarm

The door alarm is the most straightforward issue to identify and resolve. The alarm will sound with a clear ‘dr’ on the interface to indicate the door has been left ajar or open for two minutes. Then, simply close the door, which should resolve all of the issues instantly.

Burner Alarm

The burner ignition alarm indicated there is a problem with the gas power ignition spark coil in the internal mechanisms of the unit. This is a serious problem that will highlight that a major issue is occurring.

A read-out of ‘no FL will accompany the audible alarm.’ This is an indication that the gas supply and valve system should be inspected for issues. Addressing the user manual will highlight all of the processes to follow to identify the source of the ignition issue and resolve it at home.

AC Alarm

An AC sign accompanied by an audible alarm will indicate that the AC voltage is not available. In this stance, all of the electrical elements should be inspected closely. Pay particular attention to the fuse to ensure it has not been tripped. RVs are renowned for blowing fuses more often compared to standard homes.

DC Alarm

There are two distinct DC indicators. The display will show a ‘DC LO’ sign in both instances, but one will also offer an audible alarm. There is a two-step warning system due to the variability of the onboard battery charge, which will slowly reduce as the stored power is used.

The most common issue will be low reserve battery levels which is not pushing a high enough voltage to the unit. However, if there is an alarm instantly, then there will be a fault in the wiring. Inspect the fuses and connections to ensure that they are intact.

Interface Error

If there is an alarm signal with the ‘Sr’ symbol, then a fault has occurred within the refrigeration controls. Generally, this is a simple problem because too many instructions are sent at once. Reset 2118, and the code should disappear. If it persists, then contact the local dealer.

Temperature

If the ‘Temp Set’ or ‘Mode’ button is pressed and they simply flash in place, then there is a system error. Unfortunately, this means that the system relies on a backup operating system to function and needs to be professionally serviced.

Refrigeration Controls‘AC Re’ error indicates that there is a fundamental fault with the refrigeration controls. A dealership can only fix this.

Heater Controls

‘AC He’ error indicates that there is a fundamental fault with the internal heating system. This can only be fixed by a dealership.

Temp-Limit Controls

‘Op Li’ error indicates that there is a fundamental fault with the temperature limitation control component. This can only be fixed by a dealership.

Flame Occurance

‘FL –’ error indicates that there is the presence of an ignition flame when there should not be one. This can be a potentially dangerous error that requires a full system shutdown. Unfortunately this can only be fixed by a dealership.

Conclusion

Appliances will eventually need to be serviced or have internal components fail. The Norcold 2118 is no exception. Although these are some of the most renowned refrigeration units, they are eventually going to require some maintenance.

However, following the instruction above will afford you the necessary information to tackle most of the major problems that can occur. Follow the advice to get your refrigerator back up and running as soon as possible.