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A Dethleffs fridge that suddenly stops cooling often points to a break in the power supply or a faulty component such as the control board or thermocouple.
A Dethleffs fridge that suddenly stops cooling often points to a break in the power supply or a faulty component such as the control board or thermocouple. 12V only works with the engine running, 230V requires a correct mains voltage and gas needs a good flame. In Dethleffs, Dometic and Thetford are common; often it's due to a faulty control board, thermocouple or blocked burner.
A thorough diagnosis per mode is essential, because not every fault is equally serious: sometimes it's a simple fuse, sometimes an expensive control board.
Dethleffs has been building refrigerators for years from Dometic and Thetford, often models with automatic energy selection. That automation is convenient, but it can make diagnosis more complex. A refrigerator that does not work on any power source usually points to a central problem such as a faulty control board or a loose plug. If it does not work on one power source, the fault is often in that specific circuit.
For a Dethleffs refrigerator that does not cool on 12V: check whether the motor is running, because the 12V element only works when the engine is running. Measure the voltage at the element; a typical element consumes 120 to 170 watts. If there is no voltage, check fuses and relays. On 230V, the mains voltage must be correct and the fuse in the distribution board intact. Also measure the resistance of the heating element here. With gas, a clicking ignition without a flame is often a dirty burner or a faulty thermocouple. A yellow flame indicates insufficient air supply. Always consult the manual for your specific model, as the ignition sequence differs.
For a more general overview of refrigerator problems in campers, read our detailed explanation about a camper refrigerator that does not work. There we also discuss less obvious causes such as a blocked drain or a faulty thermostat.
Repair costs depend heavily on the part. A new thermocouple or a burner clean typically costs between 50 and 150 euros including labour. A replacement 12V or 230V element usually ranges from 80 to 200 euros. A new control board for a Dometic or Thetford can cost up to 300 to 500 euros, excluding installation. Always have a diagnosis done before ordering expensive parts; sometimes a poor earth or a corroded plug is the culprit.
If the refrigerator is older and the repair is heading towards 500 euros, it is wise to also consider the current market value of your motorhome. Sometimes investing in an expensive repair is no longer economically justified.
Frequently asked questions
If the diagnosis becomes too complex or the costs get too high, selling can be a sensible choice. We buy Dethleffs campers, even with a faulty fridge. Request a free valuation without obligation and find out what your motorhome is still worth. <a href="/dethleffs-verkopen">Sell your Dethleffs to us</a> and avoid expensive repairs.
