How to Reinforce Dometic Fridge Door Trays: A Guide to Extending Their Life
Dometic refrigerators, known for their reliability in RVs and boats, sometimes suffer from weak door trays. These trays, responsible for holding condiments, eggs, and other small items, can crack or break under stress, leading to spills and frustration. Fortunately, reinforcing them is often easier than replacing them entirely. This guide will walk you through several effective methods to strengthen your Dometic fridge door trays and extend their lifespan.
Identifying the Problem: Why Are My Trays Breaking?
Before jumping into solutions, let's diagnose the issue. Common causes of Dometic fridge door tray breakage include:
- Overloading: Packing too many heavy items onto a tray can put excessive pressure on the plastic, leading to cracking or breaking.
- Impact Damage: Accidental bumps or knocks can cause cracks, especially if the tray is already weakened.
- Age and Wear: Over time, plastic can become brittle and prone to damage, even under normal use.
- Material Defects: Occasionally, trays may have manufacturing defects that weaken their structure.
Reinforcement Methods: Solutions for Stronger Trays
Several methods can significantly reinforce your Dometic fridge door trays:
1. Reinforcement with Epoxy and Fiberglass Cloth
This method offers a strong, long-lasting solution.
- Materials Needed: Epoxy resin, fiberglass cloth, mixing cups, and mixing sticks.
- Process: Clean the tray thoroughly. Mix the epoxy according to the manufacturer's instructions. Cut small pieces of fiberglass cloth and apply them to the areas needing reinforcement, saturating them thoroughly with epoxy. Allow the epoxy to cure completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This creates a strong, durable patch. Important Note: Ensure proper ventilation when working with epoxy.
2. Using Acrylic Adhesive and Reinforcing Strips
A simpler, faster method suitable for minor cracks or weak spots.
- Materials Needed: Strong acrylic adhesive, thin strips of strong plastic (like acrylic or polycarbonate), and a utility knife.
- Process: Clean the tray. Cut strips of plastic slightly larger than the damaged areas. Apply a generous amount of adhesive to both the tray and the plastic strips, pressing firmly to ensure good adhesion. Allow the adhesive to cure completely.
3. Internal Support Braces
Adding internal support can distribute weight more effectively.
- Materials Needed: Small pieces of sturdy plastic or metal, strong adhesive.
- Process: Measure and cut the support pieces to fit inside the tray, providing support from underneath. Apply adhesive to secure the braces firmly in place, allowing the adhesive to fully cure.
4. Replacing the Trays (If Necessary)
If the damage is extensive or beyond repair, replacing the trays might be the most practical solution. While this might seem costly, it prevents ongoing issues and ensures the fridge functions properly. You can search for replacement trays online from various RV parts suppliers. However, always check the dimensions to ensure compatibility with your specific Dometic refrigerator model.
Preventive Maintenance: Keeping Your Trays in Top Shape
Preventing breakage is always easier than fixing it. Follow these tips to maintain your Dometic fridge door trays:
- Avoid Overloading: Distribute the weight evenly across the tray.
- Handle with Care: Be gentle when opening and closing the fridge door to avoid impacts.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the trays regularly to prevent spills from damaging the plastic.
By following these steps, you can effectively reinforce your Dometic fridge door trays and keep them working optimally for years to come. Remember safety first when working with adhesives and epoxies, always following manufacturer instructions.
