Norcold 2118 will not run on shore power

[Barnyfiver]

I have 2016 3160RL. On our last trip the fridge would not operate on shore power and is displaying a code “ac” “he”. That code is supposed to mean it’s related to the ac heater and is not owner serviceable. My question is there anyway to test the heating element to determine if it is bad, and if so is it easily replaceable from the outside? I have a service contract that will cover the repair but I don’t like the idea of waiting a couple of months to get it repaired. I have done most of the repairs that were needed on the rig but I have not had to do anything to the fridge except raise the left door to get the divider to close properly. By the way the fridge works fine on LP. Any insights would be much appreciated.

[Carl n Susan]

I don't know what refer you have but here is a PDF of the Dometic Diagnostic Service Manual for the RM150 & RME150 refer. On page 16 they talk about testing the heating elements. I suspect this is a common part across all the Dometic refers and is a good place to start. You may be able to find the similar manual for your model online.

[Barnyfiver]

It’s a Norcold 2118. Thanks for the info.

[Preston & Terri]

https://norcold.com/wp-content/uploa...6B_SM_2118.pdf

Page 18, 29, 30

If you know anything about electrical troubleshooting, this will put you in the correct location. A good heater should read between 45-51 ohms.

The biggest challenge may be access getting to the boiler to change the heater.

[jcurtis934]

Having changed one out on a smaller fridge on a friend's cedar creek...i can tell you that it can be done, but it isn't for someone with large hands or someone that is adverse to getting cuts on their hands. It is also very hot unless you have the fridge off for several hours. Make sure that the glass fuse for 120vac operation behind the black cover isn't blown first. Easy enough to meter the heater wires to make sure the heat probe has opened, if tg e fuse is good.

[Charlie 3931fb]

I am not being funny, did you check the GFI in the bathroom. The reason my fridge will go on LP power when that GFI is tripped.