The Minimum Temperature for Ammonia Refrigerators

Internal Temperatures

• The optimum minimum temperatures for an ammonia fridge average around 38 degrees Fahrenheit in the fridge and between 0 and 10 degrees in the freezer, according to the RV Mobile Inc. website. However, this can vary according to the model and size.

Maximum Ambient Temperatures

• Gas absorption refrigerators cool best when temperatures do not reach over 80 degrees Fahrenheit. For that reason, installation should be done in a space that contains an overhead or rear fan. A thermostat should operate the fan, triggering it to run when temperatures reach a maximum of 95 degrees and continue until the temperatures cool to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Minimum Ambient Temperatures

• Ammonia refrigerators and ice makers should not be used when temperatures around the appliance reach 0 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the Thetford Corporation website. At this point, disconnect your appliance and store it until warmer weather arrives.

Other Considerations

• The temperature of the heat source is also important. The heat must be high enough to vaporize the ammonia, causing it to rise up and mix with the hydrogen gas in the evaporation tubes. Excessively high heat, however, will damage the unit. A heat source that is too cool will not properly operate the appliance. Again, the amount of heat varies according to the model and size of the refrigerator; thus, check your owner's manual to determine the exact amount of heat needed to run the appliance.