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Originally Posted by Greenman  I have read propane refrigeration is shunned due to the dangers of explosion, how is a propane refrigerator different from a propane stove?
... What if you put your box in the cockpit rather than galley? Would that make them safer? |
I don’t think propane heated absorption refrigerators present any significantly increased danger of explosion over other propane appliances.
Separating the appliance from the living space may improve overall safety somewhat.
It’s important that a propane refrigerator (absorption cooling system) be level, particularly when running. Because gas refrigerators are based on gravity, if the appliance is not levelled, the circulation of ammonia coolant will be slowed down, which could inhibit its effective operation. This would require a gimbaled mount.
This may be one of the prime reason these units are not more commonly used on boats.
As an un-attended* appliance, some might recommend that a propane-fired fridge (or heater) be installed in a vented & scuppered compartment, separate from living-spaces.
* A stove is an attended appliance, because someone might always be expected to be "in attendance" when it’s in use.