Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits Review

Let’s Talk About Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits

As an avid RVer who’s faced more than a few chilly nights, I’ve learned that maintaining a consistent refrigerator temperature is crucial for food safety and enjoyment, regardless of the weather. The Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits promise to extend the operating range of Norcold gas absorption RV refrigerators down to a frigid 0°F. This caught my attention because my standard fridge performance drops noticeably in near-freezing temperatures, leading to partially frozen lettuce and lukewarm beverages.

What prompted me to explore this product was the increasing number of shoulder-season camping trips my family and I were taking. We love the solitude and beauty of campsites in the spring and fall, but battling a temperamental RV fridge put a damper on things. After enduring one too many trips where our milk crystallized and the steaks weren’t properly chilled, I knew I needed a solution.

Upon unboxing, the Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits seemed well-packaged and included all the necessary components for installation. The build quality appeared solid, though I’ll admit, the real test is how it performs in the field. Compared to DIY solutions involving heat tape and makeshift insulation, this kit offered a more professional and potentially more effective approach. I had considered simply upgrading to a compressor-based refrigerator, but the cost was significantly higher and the installation more complex. I also looked at generic fridge heating elements, but they lacked the Norcold specific engineering and potential for a seamless integration.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The kit seemed like a well-thought-out solution, addressing a specific need for RVers like myself. However, the proof would be in the pudding – or, in this case, the perfectly chilled beverages during a sub-freezing camping trip.

Real-World Testing: Putting Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits on my Norcold 12-cubic foot gas absorption refrigerator just before a late-fall camping trip to the mountains. The ambient temperatures were consistently in the 20s and low 30s Fahrenheit during the night, providing the perfect conditions for testing. Installation was straightforward, following the included instructions, although those with limited RV repair experience may want to seek professional help.

The performance was immediately noticeable. My refrigerator maintained a consistent temperature throughout the trip, even during the coldest nights. Previously, I would have been scrambling to adjust settings and move items around to prevent freezing. The kit provided a welcome peace of mind, allowing me to focus on enjoying the trip rather than babysitting the refrigerator. There were no unexpected issues or surprises – just consistent and reliable performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple camping trips with below-freezing temperatures, the Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile investment. There are no signs of wear and tear on the kit itself, and the refrigerator continues to operate efficiently.

Maintenance is minimal; a visual inspection of the components before each trip is all that’s required. Compared to my previous experiences struggling to maintain a stable refrigerator temperature in cold weather, this kit is a game-changer. It significantly outperforms any makeshift solutions I’ve tried, providing consistent performance and preventing food spoilage.

Breaking Down the Features of Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits

Specifications

The Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits is designed to enable Norcold gas absorption RV refrigerators to operate effectively in ambient temperatures as low as 0°F. It achieves this by adding a heating element and thermostat to regulate the temperature around the refrigerator’s cooling unit. This prevents the refrigerant from becoming too cold, which can cause the refrigerator to stop cooling efficiently.

The kit is specifically designed to be retrofitted to Norcold 6-, 8-, 10-, 12-, and 17-cubic foot gas absorption models. The kit includes all necessary wiring, connectors, and mounting hardware for a relatively straightforward installation. The thermostat is pre-set to maintain the optimal operating temperature, requiring no user adjustments.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits is to ensure consistent refrigerator operation in cold weather. It does this effectively, preventing the refrigerator from becoming too cold and maintaining a safe and stable internal temperature. This is critical for preserving food and preventing spoilage, as well as ensuring the refrigerator continues to operate efficiently.

The kit’s strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. There are no complex controls or adjustments required – it simply works. A potential weakness could be its reliance on the refrigerator’s existing gas or electric power source, meaning it won’t function if those sources are unavailable. However, this is a limitation of the refrigerator itself, not the kit. It definitely meets and exceeds my expectations for reliable cold-weather performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits is designed for relatively easy integration into existing Norcold refrigerators. The components are compact and well-made, using durable materials that should withstand the rigors of RV travel. The weight added by the kit is negligible, and it does not impact the refrigerator’s overall footprint.

The design is inherently user-friendly, as there’s no ongoing operation or maintenance required beyond the initial installation. There is a slight learning curve involved in the installation process, but the included instructions are clear and concise.

Durability & Maintenance

The Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits is built to last, using robust components that are designed to withstand the harsh conditions often encountered in RV travel. The heating element is protected from moisture and corrosion, and the thermostat is designed for long-term reliability.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a visual inspection of the components periodically. No specialized tools or skills are required for maintenance or repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits is a self-contained unit and does not require any additional accessories for its intended function. There are no customization options available, as the kit is designed to be a direct replacement or addition to existing Norcold refrigerators. While there aren’t specific accessories, ensuring proper RV insulation can further enhance the kit’s effectiveness. The kit is designed specifically for compatibility with Norcold 6-, 8-, 10-, 12-, and 17-cubic foot gas absorption models.

Pros and Cons of Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits

Who Should Buy Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits?

The Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits is perfect for RVers who frequently camp in cold weather, including those who enjoy shoulder-season camping in the spring and fall or those who live and travel full-time in their RVs. It’s also a great investment for anyone who relies on their Norcold refrigerator for food storage and wants to ensure consistent performance regardless of the ambient temperature. This kit is essential for those who use RV’s for worksite living, especially in colder climates.

Those who only occasionally camp in mild weather may not need this product. Someone who has a compressor refrigerator and who is happy with their current performance will likely not need this kit.

A must-have modification to compliment this kit would be to check and improve the existing insulation around the refrigerator compartment in your RV.

Conclusion on Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits

The Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits is a well-designed and effective solution for extending the operating range of Norcold gas absorption RV refrigerators in cold weather. It provides consistent performance, prevents food spoilage, and offers peace of mind for RVers who camp in colder climates.

The price of $76.99 is justified by the convenience, reliability, and food-saving benefits it provides. I would personally recommend this kit to any RVer who wants to ensure their refrigerator operates efficiently and effectively, regardless of the weather.

Don’t let cold weather ruin your camping trips! Invest in the Norcold 634913 Cold Weather Kits and enjoy perfectly chilled food and beverages, no matter the temperature outside. Extend your camping season and make the most of your RV adventures.