"Texas"fan option for refrigerator

[ADKzookeeper]

Noticed someone mention the "Texas" fan option for the refrigerator, could anyone elaborate on what this option is? Thanks, Howard

[jamman]

I asked for a fan on the fridge exterior venting side - that is what Escape called it. Southern Arizona (like Texas) tends to be on the warm side in the summer.

[Donna D.]

So... for that Texas Fan option.. what did it cost?

[Stargeezer]

Originally Posted by ADKzookeeper

Noticed someone mention the "Texas" fan option for the refrigerator, could anyone elaborate on what this option is? Thanks, Howard

Was strongly recommended by Kim at Escape when I inquired. I'm sure that we will go with one when we submit our build sheet. Anything to help the fridge/freezer unit stay cool. Doesn't have to be overly hot outside either.

Larry

[Stargeezer]

Originally Posted by Donna D.

So... for that Texas Fan option.. what did it cost?

Cost quoted to me was $125 ($CAN).

Larry

[Jubal]

What components are used in the Texas Fan option ?
http://www.campingworld.com/shopping...t-system/47888
Has anyone tried this solar fan option ?

[MyronL]

Is it possible to pull the fridge out of its spot and add your own little cooling fan? Wondering, before (or if) I try this, what bolts/wires/etc would hinder the effort.

[cpaharley2008]

Myron,
You may have better luck at the rear with removing the vents. Also, depending on your unit, some Escapes have the roof vent. There is a nifty solar powered roof vent that is available.

[MyronL]

Ah. Will have to get out there to see what my vent config involves. I sure don't want to drag out the fridge if not necessary. If a fan is employed to blow on the fridge elements I am guessing any vent could play a part in obstructing its efficient placement facing the tubes.

[Ruthe]

Thought my build sheet was complete -- just called Kim, but she said I should talk to Tammy about the fan. Does anyone have experience with and without the fan?

[Vermilye]

It the refrigerator is properly baffled, the fan (at least with my 5 cu ft in a 17) doesn't help until the outside temperatures exceed 90F. Below 90F I haven't needed it, although I did do quite a bit of work insulating, isolating, and baffling the back of the refrigerator.

[Ruthe]

We do like the southwest and I'm hoping to follow the sun to warm places in winter.

[MyronL]

Ruthe, the fridge generally doesn't require an extra fan, it's -- this is something extra some might feel is useful for places where it gets really-really hot. Its function is to make the fridge work less hard keeping cool under those conditions.

[Ruthe]

So when you say really really hot do you mean Joshua Tree in the height of summer as opposed to a place like Zion?

[MyronL]

I defer to Jon V's reply on this since I don't have the first hand experience. The fridge in our just acquired (Sept) Escape is my first ever fridge -- we have yet to test it under the extreme heat of AZ-NM-etc. I would not give advice without that. My interests at this point are primarily a probe that satisfies a love of tinkering.

[Jubal]

Ruthe
Please share information from Tammy concerning the additional (Texas) cooling fan for the frig if you receive it.
I have made inquires to Escape and have not received any useful information.
When we install a ‘Texas Fridge’ we add a fan to the fridge to increase air circulation during use. This fan can be added after production to help increase the fridges performance.
Tammy Harmatuik

Does the fan circulate air inside of the frig or the frig vent ?
The Texas Fridge includes an additional fan built into the larger 6.7 fridge to increase air movement for those customers who reside in above average temperatures. Please note the 4.3cuft fridge has fans built into it.
I looked at your build sheet and it looks like you have the 4.3 fridge.
Have a great day.
Kim Sherstobetoff

The frig cooling on our 2013 Escape 19 is dismal when the ambient air temps are 90 degrees plus. Even with the freezer box removed and an aftermarket interior auxillary fan the fridge temps are above 42 degrees in all power supply modes. If you are going to store perishables (meat) plan on using a cooler with ice.

[nealmccarter]

Originally Posted by Ruthe

Thought my build sheet was complete -- just called Kim, but she said I should talk to Tammy about the fan. Does anyone have experience with and without the fan?

Just when I think I have it all nailed down....I guess this is another thing I will have to be thinking about.

[cpaharley2008]

My experience without the fan was it was not needed. I think the Texas units, due to the extreme heat has it as an option, other wise in yours and my area of the country it is not needed.

[Donna D.]

Jubal's comment about the 42 degree refer temperature in 90 degree heat has been my experience also here in Oregon! This is not an Escape trailer issue nor is it because of a defective refrigerator. It's the nature of the beast. Parking with the refrigerator side in the shade, figuring out a way to shade the refrigerator, adding a fan or two (inside the vent or outside) are all possible solutions... and I've done them all a time or two on my Scamp.

If you're interested in using two computer fans, etc. I can point you to a thread or two on the CasitaForum (you have to be a member to view). It's a VERY popular mod on that forum and it seems nearly every owner in the SW does it.

I plan on adding this to my build sheet because I can't be certain where I will travel and what the temperatures may be...

[Nilotica]

I'm going to add it of course.