Generator causes Hi AC for fridge

[Raining Star]

I'm not aware of a voltage adjustment on my generator, but when I use it my Norcold fridge displays a Hi AC error message.

[jbreault]

do you have a plug in style voltage meter (or handheld volt meter)? Read what the AC voltage is when the generator is running. If adjustments are needed, head to your local generator service repair facility. Are you in an abnormally higher or lower altitude?

[H. Miller]

Wonder which generator and Norcold we're talking about???

[Gary RVRoamer]

Generator 120vac output is very sensitive to engine RPMs - higher than normal RPms will result in excessive voltage and wrong frequency as well, both of which are harmful to most appliances. The generator has a governor that is supposed to keep the RPMs at the required value (usually 3600) and that is essentially the voltage regulation.

A simple plug-in voltmeter like this one will tell you what's happening, but there is no reason to disbelieve the error code on the Norcold.

http://www.pplmotorhomes.com/parts/r...FeY-Mgod1ngA1Q

[Raining Star]

Thanks everyone. I placed the order for the inline meter, which will be helpful when connected to shore power at RV parks too.

If it shows that my generator voltage output is too high I'll have a tech check it out. Until then I'll just set the fridge to LP when using the generator.

Again, my thanks to those taking the time to respond.

[Gary RVRoamer]

If your microwave acts funny when the generator is running, that's another indication of high voltage and frequency. So are clocks that gain time.

You might also watch your DC voltage with the generator running. The converter/charger probably puts out greater than 14.0 volts if the source voltage is too high. It's ok for the charge voltage to be high while the batteries are low, but once they begin to charge up the voltage should fall to about 13.6. If it doesn't, the genset voltage may be high.

[Raining Star]

Thanks Gary. I didn't think to consider the DC.