How to Reset a Norcold RV Refrigerator: Step-by-Step Guide

Having trouble with your Norcold refrigerator in your RV? You’re looking at a blinking light or error code on the display panel and wondering what to do next. A simple reset might be the solution, but it’s important to know when it’s safe to reset your fridge and when you need professional help. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about resetting your Norcold RV refrigerator safely and effectively.

Understanding When to Reset Your Norcold Refrigerator

Before you start pressing buttons or jumping pins, you need to know if a reset is actually the right solution for your refrigerator problem.

Your Norcold refrigerator might need a reset when:

• The front light is flashing 5 times (on N611/N811 models)
• The display shows “n” or “no co” alternating (on N400-N822 models)
• The display shows “no co” in sequence (on N641-N842 and 1200-2118 models)
• The refrigerator has stopped cooling properly
• The unit has entered lockout mode after a power fluctuation

These symptoms often indicate that the refrigerator’s control system has detected an operational issue and has shut down as a precaution.

Critical Safety Check: Before You Reset

IMPORTANT: Some conditions indicate serious problems that a reset won’t fix and could even be dangerous to attempt.

Do NOT Reset If You Notice:

• Yellow powdery residue beneath the cooling unit
• Strong ammonia smell inside or outside your RV
• Gurgling or hissing sounds from the cooling unit
• “LI OP” or similar high-temperature codes on the display
• 6 flashes on the front panel light

These symptoms point to a cooling unit failure or potential ammonia leak, which can create a fire hazard. If you notice any of these warning signs, turn off your refrigerator immediately and call a professional technician.

Identifying Your Norcold Model and Manufacturing Date

Norcold reset procedures vary significantly based on the model and when it was manufactured. The control board design changed around 2006, requiring different reset methods.

How to Find Your Model Number:

1. Look for a label inside the refrigerator compartment
2. Check the access panel on the back of the refrigerator
3. Refer to your RV owner’s manual

How to Locate the Serial Number:

The serial number will help determine if your unit was manufactured before or after the 2006 design change.

Reset Method 1: Pin Jumper Reset (Pre-2006 Models)

This method applies to older Norcold refrigerators manufactured before the 2006 cutoff dates.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Insulated jumper wire (12 AWG recommended)
• Screwdriver (likely Phillips head)
• Flashlight

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Turn OFF the refrigerator using the front panel control
2. Access the rear of the refrigerator by removing the outside access panel
3. Disconnect ALL power connections:
   • 12V DC positive and negative wires
   • AC power cord
   • Gas valve solenoid wires
   • Spark/sense electrode wires
4. Remove the control board cover (typically secured with 2-3 quarter-inch screws)
5. Reconnect ONLY the 12V DC power (positive and negative wires)
6. Turn ON the refrigerator from the front panel
7. Locate Pin 15 on the 16-pin connector (it’s on the bottom of the board, second pin from left on the top row – this will be an empty socket)
8. Using your insulated jumper wire, connect Pin 15 to ground (power board ground lug) for 10-15 seconds
9. Listen for an audible click – this indicates a successful reset
10. Turn OFF the refrigerator
11. Replace the cover and reconnect all wires in the reverse order you disconnected them

The reset procedure for older models requires more technical skill, but many RV owners can complete it successfully.

Reset Method 2: P2-2 Opening Reset (Post-2006 Models)

For newer control boards manufactured after the 2006 cutoff dates, the procedure is slightly different.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Multi-stranded wire (10 AWG recommended)
• Screwdriver
• Flashlight

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Follow steps 1-5 from Method 1
2. Locate the P2-2 opening on the control board
3. Insert the multi-stranded wire into the P2-2 opening
4. Ground the other end to the metal back panel for a minimum of 10 seconds
5. Listen for a click indicating a successful reset
6. Complete the remaining steps as in Method 1

This method works for newer models that don’t have the Pin 15 configuration of older units.

Reset Method 3: Display Panel Reset (Latest Models)

The newest Norcold models with digital displays offer a more user-friendly reset method.

Models:

N61/N81 (Serial 9056492+), and other newer models with digital control panels

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Enter diagnostic mode: Hold TEMP SET and MODE buttons simultaneously until “1” appears
2. Navigate to Screen 6: Press MODE button until “6” appears with “ER”
3. Clear fault history: Hold TEMP SET button until “CL” appears
4. Wait 5 seconds, then hold TEMP SET again until “ER” reappears
5. Exit diagnostic mode: Turn refrigerator OFF and back ON

This display panel reset is much simpler than the earlier methods and doesn’t require accessing the back of the refrigerator.

Limit Switch Reset (For Recalled Units)

Some Norcold refrigerators have high-temperature limit switches installed as part of safety recalls. These can sometimes trip due to moisture rather than actual overheating.

When to Use This Method:

Only attempt this if you’re absolutely certain there’s no ammonia leak or overheating issue.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Strong magnet
• Flashlight

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Verify there’s no ammonia leak or yellow residue
2. Locate the limit switch box behind the refrigerator access panel
3. Check if the red LED is lit – if so, the limit switch has tripped
4. Hold a strong magnet against the limit switch for 5-10 seconds until you hear a click
5. Verify the LED turns off and the refrigerator begins operating normally

WARNING: Only perform this limit switch reset if you’re certain the cause was moisture or a false trip, not actual overheating.

Simple Reset Methods Worth Trying First

Before attempting more complex reset procedures, try these simpler methods that often work for minor glitches:

Power Cycle Reset:

1. Turn OFF the refrigerator at the control panel
2. Disconnect 12V DC power for 5 minutes (unplug or disconnect the battery)
3. Reconnect power and turn the refrigerator back ON

Circuit Breaker Reset:

1. Turn OFF the refrigerator
2. Switch the circuit breaker OFF for 5 minutes
3. Switch the breaker back ON
4. Restart the refrigerator

These simple resets often clear temporary electronic glitches without needing to access the control board.

Testing After Reset: Did It Work?

After successfully completing a reset procedure, you need to confirm that the refrigerator is operating properly:

1. Allow a 3-4 hour test period – if the lockout code returns, you have an underlying problem
2. Monitor cooling performance – the refrigerator should achieve proper temperatures within 6-8 hours
3. Check for proper operation on both AC and LP gas modes
4. Listen for normal operational sounds – clicking relays and gas ignition
5. Verify that the freezer and refrigerator compartments are getting cold

Common Causes of Norcold Refrigerator Failures

If your reset didn’t solve the problem, you might be dealing with one of these common issues:

• Poor ventilation around the refrigerator cooling unit
• Off-level operation – RV not properly leveled
• Dirty burner assembly requiring cleaning
• Faulty thermistor sensor
• Low AC voltage supply issues
• Inoperative cooling fan
• Improper installation or clearances
• Failed cooling unit requiring replacement

Preventive Maintenance to Avoid Future Resets

Follow these best practices to keep your Norcold refrigerator running smoothly:

1. Keep your RV level when the refrigerator is operating
2. Clean the refrigerator vents regularly to ensure proper airflow
3. Check the burner assembly annually and clean if necessary
4. Inspect the door seals for proper sealing
5. Run the refrigerator on AC power occasionally, even if primarily using propane
6. Avoid overpacking the refrigerator, which can restrict air circulation
7. Keep the refrigerator away from direct sunlight when possible
8. Install a refrigerator fan to improve air circulation if operating in hot climates

The Cost of Professional Norcold Refrigerator Repair

If your reset attempts fail, here’s what you might expect to pay for professional service:

The cost of repair parts can vary significantly based on your specific model and the severity of the issue.

Understanding Norcold Error Codes

Knowing what the error codes mean can help you determine if a reset is appropriate:

• “no co” – No cooling detected by the control system
• “dr” – Door open too long
• “LI OP” – Limit switch opened (potential fire hazard)
• “AC rE” – AC relay stuck closed
• “dc LO” – Low DC voltage
• “FL” – Flame sensing issue
• “Sr” – Service needed

The meaning of these codes can help diagnose the underlying issue before attempting a reset.

Making the Decision: Reset or Replace?

Sometimes it makes more sense to replace your Norcold refrigerator rather than continually resetting and repairing it.

Consider replacement if:

• Your refrigerator is over 10 years old
• You’ve had multiple cooling unit failures
• Repair costs approach 50% of replacement cost
• You’re experiencing repeated lockouts despite resets
• The unit has been recalled for safety issues

Many RV owners find that upgrading to a residential-style refrigerator provides better reliability, though it requires more consistent access to shore power or enhanced battery systems.

Knowing how to reset your Norcold RV refrigerator can save you time and money when you’re on the road. Remember that safety comes first—never attempt a reset if you notice signs of a cooling unit failure or ammonia leak. With proper maintenance and care, your Norcold refrigerator should provide years of reliable service for your RV adventures.