Repairing A Chest Freezer
- Check with Your Manufacturer Continue reading below Our Video of the Day Each freezer is different depending on the manufacturer. ...
- Diagnose the Problem Several problems can arise with chest freezers. The fix will depend on the severity of the problem. ...
- Fix the Problem
Full Answer
Why is my chest freezer not working?
How To Repair A Freezer That's Not Working
- Start Relay or Controller. Need Help Finding Your Model Number? ...
- Electronic Control Board. Need Help Finding Your Model Number? ...
- Temperature Control or Thermostat. Need Help Finding Your Model Number? ...
- Start Capacitor. Need Help Finding Your Model Number? ...
- Defrost Timer. Need Help Finding Your Model Number? ...
How to troubleshoot a chest freezer?
- Check the temperature setting
- Clean the condensor coils
- Unplug the freezer, wait two hours and plug it in. If you hear it running, a problem is causing the compressor to overheat
- Test the temperature control
- Test the evaporator fan
- Test the defrost timer
- Test the compressor relay
- Test the overload protector
- Test the compressor motor
How to repair a chest freezer that runs continuously?
How to Repair a Chest Freezer that Runs Continuously
- Test the Circulating Fan. First, check the fan that helps circulate cool air around the freezer. ...
- Inspect the Door and Light Switch. The temperature inside your chest freezer may be high, resulting in it needing to cool itself constantly because the internal light ...
- Check the Thermostat. ...
- Replacing the Thermostat. ...
How to repair a chest freezer that leaks?
With foil backed butyl tape, you can protect yourself from moisture. Rubber tape seals leaks immediately and protects the interior of your residence, without damaging its inside. A primer and cleaning solution as well as an appropriate paint solution are part of the kit, all being included as a complimentary component.
How do you troubleshoot a chest freezer?
How Do You Troubleshoot A Chest Freezer?Check If The Temperature Control Thermostat Is Set To An Appropriate Temperature. ... Check For Dirt On The Condenser Coil. ... Check If The Evaporator Coil Is Frozen. ... Check If The Evaporator Fan Motor Is Working Correctly. ... Check If The Start Relay Is Working Well.
Why would a chest freezer stop working?
There may a leak and the system is low on refrigerant. There may be a restriction in the system due to a clogged drier-filter, there may be a clogged evaporator or condenser coil or a problem may have arisen with the compressor motor itself. All of these problems require an EPA-certified technician to repair.
Why is my chest freezer not getting cold?
The coils are be clogged and built up with frost. This prevents cold air from circulating. The freezer's self-defrosting mechanism could be the problem. Ice crystals will continue to build up until the evaporator fan is no longer able to move cold air across the coils if it doesn't defrost effectively.
How much does it cost to repair a chest freezer?
Repairs for a chest freezer average $50 to $400, depending on the problem and amount of repair work required. Chest freezers are a popular choice for basements and garages. They are affordable to own and maintain since they have relatively basic designs and fewer components.
Do chest freezers have a reset button?
Does a chest freezer have a reset button? Most chest freezers do not reset automatically. That is why they have reset buttons, which are set back ON after a power outage.
How do I reset my freezer compressor?
Here's how to do it:Unplug your refrigerator. Disconnect your fridge from its power source by removing the power cord from the wall outlet. ... Turn off the refrigerator and freezer from the control panel. ... Reset your freezer and fridge temperature settings. ... Wait for the refrigerator temperature to stabilize.
What to do if freezer is not cooling?
1:152:14Repair Tips For A Fridge That's Not Cooling - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipCheck the manufacturer's instructions for recommended refrigerator and freezer coolness settings.MoreCheck the manufacturer's instructions for recommended refrigerator and freezer coolness settings. And then reset the thermostat accordingly.
Why is my freezer running but not freezing?
A freezer that runs constantly may stem from multiple causes. One cause is that the temperature control thermostat is not working properly, forcing the freezer to run constantly to try and meet the correct temperature. If this is the case, you can try resetting the thermostat or replacing it altogether.
Is it worth fixing a freezer?
Two good rules of thumb to keep in mind are that if repairing your fridge costs less than half the price of buying a new one, it's generally worth making those repairs.
How long does a chest freezer last?
12 to 20 yearsOn average, the life expectancy of a refrigerator-freezer or chest freezer is 16 years. Freezers typically last anywhere from 12 to 20 years. Along with gas and electric ranges, freezers tend to be the longest-lasting kitchen appliances.
Is it worth fixing a freezer compressor?
As a rule of thumb, if replacing the compressor will cost you about half the price of the refrigerator you have, then it will be much wiser to replace the entire fridge itself than having it repaired.
Can a freezer compressor be repaired?
Major appliance repairs generally require a couple of hours of labor with costs ranging from $100 to $200 per hour. The cost of the new or reconditioned compressor which can run from $35 for a reconditioned unit to around $100 for a new unit.
What is the lifespan of a chest freezer?
between 15 and 20 yearsChest freezers are expected to last between 15 and 20 years while upright freezers have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years.
How do I reset my freezer?
1:132:36Refrigerator Troubleshooting, Hard Reset, and Liquid Temperature ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf the cause of your issue is still a mystery you'll want to try what is called a hard reset unplugMoreIf the cause of your issue is still a mystery you'll want to try what is called a hard reset unplug your unit from the wall for 30 to 45. Minutes then plug the unit back in this will reset the unit.
How do you tell if your freezer is broken?
Signs That Your Fridge Freezer Is BrokenFood going off too quickly. Food going mouldy quickly is a sure sign your fridge is struggling to regulate its temperature, particularly in the warmer months. ... An expensive energy bill. ... Too cold. ... Strange noises.
Why is my freezer not running?
Freezer Does Not Run Many things can keep a freezer from starting: a bad cold control or thermostat control, a bad start relay, a bad defrost timer or a bad compressor. If the compressor hums, but does not run, the problem might be a bad start relay or compressor.
How to fix a freezer that is not cold enough?
The first step you should take for a freezer that's not cold enough is to check the thermostat. Whether it has been knocked out of place or is faulty, it can often be the cause of temperature problems that affect your freezer. If it is in an inappropriate temperature setting, return it to the correct level and leave the freezer for an hour to determine whether this corrects the problem. Alternatively, the thermostat may be defective and will need to be replaced. It is usually located behind the temperature control dial and will require the use of a screwdriver to remove the cover after the Freezer has been unplugged. You may need to use a flashlight and remove the temperature dial to enable you to get proper access. Removing this will expose two wires which must be connected to a replacement thermostat.
How to fix a chest freezer that doesn't cool?
Step 1 - Inspection. Begin the process of repairing a chest freezer that fails to cool food properly by examining the freezer to determine the cause. There is a range of potential causes for the temperature being incorrect and you may be able to find it simply by looking hard enough.
Why does my chest freezer keep ice?
If you have a chest freezer that has a self-defrost system, you may find that a build-up of ice can still occur because the system has failed. To test this, follow the above defrost process to determine whether the temperature returns to normal.
What to do if your chest freezer isn't cooling?
If your chest freezer isn’t cooling food as it should, you will need to undertake immediate repairs to ensure that food doesn’t spoil. Following a few steps will enable you to undertake an effective repair. Browse chest freezers on Amazon. Continue reading below Our Video of the Day.
What is the purpose of articles being reviewed?
To ensure our content is always up-to-date with current information, best practices, and professional advice, articles are routinely reviewed by industry experts with years of hands-on experience.
Where is the compressor located on a chest freezer?
The compressor can be found at the rear of the chest freezer and, along with the condenser fan, helps to keep the freezer cool. If these become dirty or dusty, it can compromise their ability to do keep the freezer cool enough.
Can ice build up in freezers cause problems?
It is possible for the build-up of ice to become significant enough to prevent the freezer from cooling properly. Even if you are unable to see the coils, if you find that the space for food is gradually diminishing because of ice build-up, you know you have a problem.
Why does my chest freezer make a noise?
Problems you might encounter with your chest freezer include: Freezer makes a loud noise when it turns the power off. Here are some simple tips to fix the above problems. If the lid will not stay up, check the hinges. They usually have springs that hold them up. If ice builds up these springs can fail.
Why is my freezer not freezing?
If the freezer is running but not freezing could indicate a bad compressor or a leak somewhere in the system. This usually requires the services of a repair person who can tell you whether or not you should buy a new one. If you lost your freezer key, contact your manufacturer for a replacement.
How to fix a chest freezer?
Step 1: Check with Your Manufacturer. Continue reading below Our Video of the Day. Each freezer is different depending on the manufacturer. Check the owner's manual for the exact make and model of your chest freezer. Once you have identified the manufacturer, you need to diagnose the problem. Step 2: Diagnose the Problem.
What to do if freezer key is dead?
If your freezer is dead, meaning it is plugged in but not running at all, check the fuse box and the power cord. Or it might be that your cold control was left open. A freezer is a valuable and important appliance.
What to do if your lid won't stay up?
If the lid will not stay up, check the hinges. They usually have springs that hold them up. If ice builds up these springs can fail. The solution is to defrost the lid, which will thaw out the spring as well as thaw the ice on the lid to make it lighter.
What happens if a chest freezer goes on the blink?
If it goes on the blink, you stand losing months of food that will never make it to the table.
Why is a freezer important?
A freezer is a valuable and important appliance. It allows you to keep months of meals on hand for a hungry family. When they break down, the first instinct is to buy a new one. You may eventually need to buy a new freezer but the fix might be fairly simple.
What is the inside of a sandbox lid?
The lid is a steel frame around a solid foam panel. The inside of the lid is a thin plastic molded cover held on with plastic push-in retainers (under the gasket). The plastic cover is too thin to be able to use metal screws as a replacement.
What causes a chest freezer to freeze?
The lid contains wiring for lights and switches and the ice surrounding the wiring harnesses causes trickle-currents which trips GFI breakers.
How to remove old fasteners?
I removed the old fasteners by cutting the heads off with diagonal side-cutter and pushing the stems into the holes with a blunted nail. I pushed the new fasteners in with the back of a center-punch.
Why is my freezer not getting cold enough?
Some problems, such as a loss of refrigerant or a clogged drier, will require the attention of a professional who is certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to work with refrigerants.
What is the job of a condenser unit?
The condenser's job is to change the hot, compressed refrigerant gas into a liquid state, and in order to that , the condenser must be able to transfer the heat to its ambient environment.
How to test a thermostatic control?
The best way to test a thermostatic control is to bypass it and see if the freezer gets cold. To bypass the control, unplug the freezer, remove the control and jump across its terminals with a short piece of wire with alligator clips on each end. Plug the freezer back in, and if it gets cold, replace the control.
Where is the condenser fan located?
Check the Condenser Fan. Condenser fans are used on all freezers where the condensers are located inside the compressor compartment to force air through the coils. The condenser fan comes on every time the compressor starts up and runs throughout the compressor cycle.
What to do if fan doesn't turn freely?
If it does not turn freely, try shooting some penetrating oil between the shaft and the bearings, and try running the fan again. The penetrating oil may cure the problem. If the fan turns freely, the motor windings may have become opened.
Can a compressor leak be low on refrigerant?
There may a leak and the system is low on refrigerant. There may be a restriction in the system due to a clogged drier-filter, there may be a clogged evaporator or condenser coil or a problem may have arisen with the compressor motor itself. All of these problems require an EPA-certified technician to repair.
Can thermostatic switches go bad?
A defective thermostatic control is not as common a cause as dirty condensers, but thermostatic switches can go bad. Their internal contacts can become stuck in the open position, or they can lose their spring tension and open too quickly.
Do freezers have spings?
Most larger freezers will have spings on each hinge. You will want the lid to have some degree of down force when in the closed position to make a good seal. The biggest problem you are facing is the seal. Try to salvage the seal from the original door if it is usable.
Can a collar be a PIA?
A collar can be a PIA if too high. It is hard to lean over to reach the bottom of a freezer with anything more than a 2" x 4" collar and you will need to do that now and then for cleaning up spilled beer etc. A 2 X 4 frame covered with the "butcher Block" top would look cool and be very functional.
Do you insulate a 2x4 frame?
Finish sand it and give it a couple of coats of urethane and you will have a nice looking and durable lid. Yes, do insulate it with some polystyrene foam insulation. The insulationi is dirt cheap and easy to work with.
Can you sand a 2x6 frame?
You could hand sand it, but a sander will make your life a lot easier. It would be killer easy to build, just a 2x6 or 2x4 frame and a sheet of plywood. Some iron-on wood edging, and a couple of coats of stain and poly, or paint. You could easily build it in a day, then paint it in another day.
