Fridge smell…with nothing in it!

[goletamoby]

Recently took delivery of a 2014 C26, and for the past probably 6mo (at least) the fridge has had nothing but a couple cans of water in it. In getting to know the boat I recently checked the fridge and it has a real funky/bad smell to it, but there hasn’t been anything perishable in it for quite a while and it’s always been on shore power.

Any idea what would be cause the smell and suggestions on how to get rid of it?

 

[Chimo]

We turn our fridge off over the winter so that we don't drain batteries in case of a power cut. There are a couple of cans of pop in there and always, year round, an open box of baking soda. That seems to solve any odour issues.

 

[scross]

Second an open box of baking soda when the refrigerator is running. Also, when not running (off season) we prop the refrigerator door open for circulation.

 

[knotflying]

When I have the refrigerator off for extended periods I leave the door cracked open. Putting baking soda box inside cant hurt as well.

 

[Martin610]

The fridge on my 2013 C 28 had that too. Baking soa wasn't enough for me. I found an odor eliminating product called Canberra that took care of it. The stuff is expensive but it works. There is a spray and a gel. I got it at my local boat supply store but I think that Amazon has it too.

-martin610

 

[bob daily]

What I have found that works best for me on refrigerators, freezers, or coolers is to wash with a bleach solution and air out for a day then use baking soda spread out on a baking tray and place inside. You can also use ashes from a fire pit or charcoal. The ashes from a fire pit is great to use in your outside garbage can at home during those hot summer months when everything rots in that green incubator.
Old coffee grounds, vanilla or some of the other spices in the kitchen will work to cover up or you can buy numerous items on the market that others have mentioned. Good luck. Bob

 

[Catch22]

When all else fails, Starbrite NosGuard SG packets work. They cancel odors, and don't mask them. NosGuard is commonly used by auto detailers and landlords for funky stuff.

 

[goletamoby]

Awesome feedback, thank you all!