Update 12/27/2023 Our Universal Exhaust Venting Kit for Propane or Natural Gas Refrigerators and Freezers is now available HERE
One of the most common questions we get here at Ben's is regarding venting for gas refrigerators and freezers. The most common questions are whether or not it is needed, costs vs benefit, how it works, health concerns, etc. Here is a quick discussion on the topic.
Venting for gas refrigerators has traditionally been used to provide fresh air directly into the propane burner box and for allowing the carbon monoxide from the burned propane to exhaust outside.
In large open space rooms with windows and doors to the outside that are opened frequently allowing for plenty of fresh air to be exchanged, venting may not be necessary. With that said however, many choose to opt for venting so as not to worry about opening windows or to provide permanent fresh air exchange. Venting the flue provides for a more efficient cooling system as heat is dissipated quicker and not allowed to linger in the immediate area. If the burner box is vented for inlet air there is always fresh air to draw into the burner even in tight quarters.
Being that oxygen is consumed in the combustion of propane, many choose to provide venting so as not to have the interior oxygen levels slowly depleted. Though complete oxygen depletion would require a lot of time and probably be unlikely as there is always air coming into a property unless it has been specifically designed to be airtight.
As for the carbon monoxide emitted from the propane combustion, it is in very small quantities that fall well below safety levels, however we always recommend our customers install a carbon monoxide alarm in the room for safety and added peace of mind. Don't forget to maintain fresh batteries and have them tested or switched out every 6 months.
One of the added benefits of venting is that the heat from the exhaust is piped directly outside. This isn't that much of a problem in the winter, but in summer months most people notice the increased temperature differential in the room with the refrigerator from this added heat source. Venting helps remove this heat.
The cost for a venting kit with us is under $100 plus installation. Or, you can have one fabricated to suit your particular situation. Depending on your budget and kitchen design, it can be added without too much work and expense.
Our Universal Exhaust Venting Kit for Propane or Natural Gas Refrigerators and Freezers is now available HERE
We hope you find this information helpful. As always, exercise caution and check with your local health and safety codes to see what is required in your area.
Diagram of a venting kit used previously for Dometic refrigerator model RGE-400 (discontinued). It is shown here for demonstration purposes only:
Victoria Cantwell
December 27, 2023
I looked on your page and didn’t find the universal venting kit. Is there one to purchase? Thanks!