- If the door won't shut tightly, tip the refrigerator slightly backward by propping up the front of the unit or unscrewing the front leveling legs two complete turns. ...
- If leveling doesn't work, tighten the hinge screws. You may have to open the door (especially the freezer door) to turn these screws. ...
- If the door is warped, tighten the screws that hold the inner door shell to the outer door shell. ...
- Check the catch. Newer units have a magnetic catch on the door. ...
When should I replace my Refrigerator?
Things You Should Know
- Method 1 Method 1 of 3: Replacing Old or Inefficient Refrigerators Download Article. Replace a fridge that would require expensive repairs. ...
- Method 2 Method 2 of 3: Troubleshooting Condensation and Frost Download Article. Replace fridges with interior wall damage. ...
- Method 3 Method 3 of 3: Knowing When to Consult a Pro Download Article. ...
Should you repair or replace that refrigerator?
When to replace:
- When the freezer side is not cooling properly (0 degrees).
- When there’s a humming noise coming from the compressor. (This can indicate the compressor is defective.)
- If the fridge is 15 years or older. Considering energy savings alone, it’s worth upgrading to an energy-efficient model. ...
- If the repair costs more than half the price of a new fridge.
How do you troubleshoot a refrigerator?
- Check the temperature setting.
- Assure that there is enough room for air flow in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Check for air flow restrictions in vents.
- Test the temperature control.
- Clean the condensor coils.
- Check the door seals.
- Test the door switch.
- Test the defrost heater.
Why is my Refrigerator not cooling?
- Be sure the fridge is plugged in and getting power. ...
- Check the thermostat to make sure it hasn’t been turned way down by mistake. ...
- Be sure the vents on the back of the freezer compartment aren’t blocked by boxes of ice cream or frozen vegetables—the vents have to be clear for cold air to ...
- Vacuum the coils under or behind the fridge. ...
How do I fix my refrigerator that is not cooling?
Pull the unit away from the wall and unplug it. Check the owner's manual for any “off” or “zero” settings in your fridge and freezer and set them to off or zero. Plug the unit back in and adjust the temperature controls of both to your desired setting. Give the fridge about 24 hours to cool to your set temperature.
Why is my refrigerator not getting cold?
Air inlet damper is broken The air inlet damper is located between the freezer and the fresh food compartment, controlling the amount of cold air that passes from the former to the latter. If the damper breaks or gets blocked, the cold air won't circulate the way it's supposed to.
What is the most common problem with a refrigerator?
The 5 Most Common Refrigerator Issues to Watch Out ForFridge Not Getting Cold. The appliance should keep food between 37 and 41 degrees. ... Everything in the Refrigerator is Freezing. ... Frost in the Freezer. ... Broken Ice Maker. ... Refusal to Run After Being Transported. ... Schedule Refrigerator Repair with Mr. ... It's Always Something.
How do you diagnose a refrigerator problem?
1:003:14Troubleshooting a Refrigerator Not Cooling - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPress the door switch twice to start the compressor. The control beeps twice needs to hear theMorePress the door switch twice to start the compressor. The control beeps twice needs to hear the compressor start if you don't hear the compressor turn on check the start relay on the compressor.
What is the first thing to check when a refrigerator stops working?
If Your Fridge Has Stopped and the Light is Off As obvious as this sounds, often a fridge shuts down completely because it's simply getting no power. The first thing to check is the breaker (in your home's electrical service panel) of the circuit serving the fridge.
Why is my fridge warm?
Refrigerator Is Too Full If there are too many items in your fresh food compartment, that cold air may not circulate properly, resulting in a refrigerator that's warm. It's fairly common for a refrigerator to feel warm if it's overstuffed, and this problem is obviously easy to resolve.
What causes fridge to stop working?
Typical causes are: 1) the door is left open frequently, 2) the condenser coils need cleaning, 3) the door doesn't seal against the refrigerator box, 4) the cold control is set too cold, or 5) something is blocking the flow of cold air inside the fridge.
Why is my fridge not cooling but freezer is?
Evaporator Coils One of the main reasons for fridge not cooling but freezer works is that the evaporator coils are not working in proper order. The evaporator coils are filled with frost, so air doesn't get space to pass through them to get cold. For a solution, you have to first remove the frost by blowing hot air.
How long should a refrigerator last?
How Long Do Refrigerators Last on Average? Estimates range in terms of how long fridges last; some sources say 10 years while others say as long as 25 years. According to the United States Department of Energy, refrigerators last approximately 12 years. At that point, it's likely time to replace it.
How do I know if my refrigerator compressor is not working?
So, if the sound stops for good, or if the sound goes from faint to a constant or very loud humming noise that does not shut off, it may be a sign the compressor is broken or malfunctioning. If you suspect you need a new compressor, it may be time to contact a refrigerator repair professional for assistance.
How to fix a leaky fridge?
First, check the water supply line. If your fridge has an ice maker or water dispenser, pull out the fridge and look for a leak. If there's a leak at the inlet valve, tighten the compression nuts. If the plastic or copper tube is leaking, replace it.
How do I remove the ice maker from my refrigerator?
To remove the ice maker, take out the screws that hold the ice maker in place. Unplug the wiring harness and remove the ice maker to expose the water inlet tube. Always unplug the refrigerator before you make any repairs.
How to tell if a refrigerator is loud?
If the noise doesn't get louder when you open the freezer, pull out the fridge. Most refrigerators have a condenser fan motor. Unscrew the back cover and listen. You'll be able to tell whether the noise is coming from the fan or the compressor. The best cure for a loud compressor is usually a new fridge.
Why does my refrigerator make a noise?
Refrigerator noise comes from the compressor under the fridge, the condenser fan motor under the fridge, or the evaporator fan motor inside the freezer. Open the freezer door while the fridge is running. If the noise doesn't get louder when you open the freezer, pull out the fridge. Most refrigerators have a condenser fan motor.
How do I unplug a freezer?
To unplug it, first remove the cover panel. Remove the screws that hold the back cover panel in place. On some models, you have to pry out plastic screw covers with a putty knife to expose the screws for freezer repair. In some models, you have to unscrew the floor panel too. Step 12.
Why isn't my refrigerator keeping food cold?
If your refrigerator isn’t keeping food cold, the cause could be a burned circuit board or a sticking circuit board relay. Before calling for repair service, try this trick. Unplug the fridge and roll it out. Remove any metal cover plates or cardboard access panels on the back and look for a circuit board.
How to make a fridge chill?
Clean the Coils. In order for your fridge to create a chill, air has to flow freely through the condenser coils. On most older refrigerators, these coils are on the backside. Cereal boxes on top of the fridge or grocery bags stuffed behind it can reduce the needed airflow.
How to troubleshoot a refrigerator?
To start troubleshooting your refrigerator: 1) Choose the symptom that best describes your issue. 2) Review the list of causes to learn the source of the problem. Refrigerator not cooling. 10 possible causes and potential solutions. View solutions. Featured Video.
Can you wait for a refrigerator technician?
What begins as a mere inconvenience could quickly turn into a rotting health hazard or frozen salad. Fortunately, you don't have to wait around for the refrigerator technician. You can save money and time by doing the repair yourself.
What to do if your refrigerator door gasket doesn't work?
If that does not work, replace the door gaskets entirely. Check to see if the defrost drain that leads out of the freezer is clogged. The drain pan at the bottom of the refrigerator may be so full of water that the water has begun to spill out. Clear the drain pan of water.
How to remove the cover of a refrigerator?
Unplug the refrigerator first, then open the cooling compartment. Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the cover located at the top of the cooling compartment (inside the box). Usually, there are no more than a couple of screws holding this in. Using the same screwdriver, remove the plastic control assembly cover.
How to clean a refrigerator seal?
First try cleaning the seals with warm water, then applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly. If this does not work, replace the seals. Check for Blockage. Tall items may have been placed in the refrigerator or freezer, blocking the flow of cold air. Move all tall items away from the back.
What is the thermostat on a refrigerator?
The thermostat will be a bronze-colored metal device attached to copper wires and a plastic capillary tube. At this point, you may find it helpful to take a photo of the wire arrangement so that you can duplicate it with the new thermostat.
How to stop ice maker buzzing?
Stop the buzz by turning the icemaker off (with the on-off switch) or raising the ice sensor arm.
Where is the damper located on a refrigerator?
The damper is located between the cooling and freezing compartments and is controlled by the thermostat. Replace the Thermostat. Refrigerator thermostats are easily obtainable online. Find your model number on the inside of your door or the back, then order a compatible thermostat.
Where is the supply valve on a refrigerator?
Check that the supply valve, usually found under the sink, is turned on. Also, check behind the refrigerator to see if the line is still attached to the refrigerator and is not leaking. You can access the evaporator fan inside your freezer compartment.
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Refrigeration Repair Companies
When your refrigerator goes on the fritz, it’s a pain, especially if it’s not cooling properly and you have to pull everything out of it. But before you reach for the phone, take a look at some common refrigerator problems and their fixes. Most refrigerator repairs can be done by a beginner DIYer and with tools, you probably already have on hand.
Safety Considerations
Make sure you unplug a refrigerator before beginning any repairs to prevent an electrical shock.
How to Fix a Fridge That Has Puddles
Puddles are the result of leaky water supply lines and/or inlet valves. Check your water supply line as well as your ice maker and water dispenser. If you notice a leak at the inlet valve, fix it by tightening the compression nuts. If it looks like it’s coming from the tube, it’s time to replace the tube.
How to Fix a Noisy Fridge
Refrigerators have a condenser fan motor and an evaporator fan motor for the freezer. They’re typically the cause of a noisy fridge. If the condenser itself is making the noise, your fridge is likely on its last legs. But if it’s a fan motor, remove the mounting screws, unplug the fan and replace it with a new fan.
When to Call a Pro
If you have checked all of the previous fridge problems and haven’t found the culprit, then it might be your fridge’s circuit board. Look for burn marks on the wires and if you notice any, you’ll want to call a pro (unless you have experience repairing circuit boards).
How long does it take for a refrigerator to cool down?
If so, it can take several hours for the temperature to return to normal. Similarly, if the refrigerator has just been installed, it can take 24 hours to completely cool.
Why is a refrigerator important?
A functioning refrigerator is an essential for feeding your family and getting everyone through the day. When something goes wrong, it can feel like an emergency. But the solution may be simple and even something you can do yourself. Use this guide to help you pinpoint the problem and try a few refrigerator troubleshooting steps to repair it.
Why does my refrigerator water dispenser drip?
The air in the water system may cause dripping at the dispenser that is considered a leak or for the water to dispense slowly.
What happens if water filter is clogged?
A clogged or incorrectly installed water filter will reduce the water flow to the dispenser and slow down dispensing. Check for a problem with the filter by doing the following: Dispense water and note the amount of water flow. Remove the filter.
Why does my refrigerator motor run so much?
If your refrigerator is new, it may have a high-efficiency compressor that optimizes energy and better regulates temperatures to match cooling demand. You may notice that it operates differently than your previously owned refrigerator.
What temperature should a refrigerator be?
Most refrigerators are designed to be used in a location where the temperature ranges from a minimum of 55°F (13°C) to a maximum of 110°F (43°C). They should not be installed near a heat source like an oven or radiator. A location that is too hot or too cold could cause the refrigerator motor to work too hard.
Where does the noise come from in a refrigerator?
These sounds may come from behind the refrigerator, inside the fridge or freezer compartment or from the ice maker . It’s important to know which noises are normal and which indicates a problem.
What to do if your refrigerator won't start?
What to do if Your Fridge Won't Start. When the refrigerator won’t start, your first instinct may be to panic. Keep calm—you may just be dealing with an overload relay issue, which is easily fixable with DIY refrigerator repair.
What to do if your refrigerator is stuck in closed position?
Some refrigerators use a temperature-sensing bulb to adjust changes in the interior temperature .
Why does my refrigerator make noise?
Noise can often be the sign of bigger issues, or an easy-to-fix nuisance. When refrigerator repair troubleshooting this issue, there can be a multitude of culprits. However, the most common one is the condenser fan. Your condenser fan circulates air throughout the condenser coil in order to remove heat. It also circulates air over the drain pan ...
Why is my refrigerator not cooling?
This issue could be due to your air damper, baffle, or diffuser. Don’t worry. A quick check can help fix a refrigerator that’s not cooling properly. Your refrigerator’s air damper/baffle/diffuser (one device, a few different names) helps balance the air flow from the evaporator fan housing. It also controls the amount of cold air entering ...
How to check overload relay on refrigerator?
Modern refrigerators combine the overload relay into the side of the compressor. Grab a multimeter (a hand-held electrical measure device) to check your over load relay. The start capacitor provides increased starting voltage to the compressor windings.
Where is the damper in the refrigerator?
You're probably wondering where you can find your air damper. It’s commonly located where the cold air enters your refrigerator's fresh food compartment; it looks a little like window blinds. You’ll notice the damper is encased in plastic, with a Styrofoam lining to prevent air leakage.
Can you sweat a door gasket?
If you’re experiencing moisture along the edge of the door, don’t sweat it. Inspect your gaskets for warping or damage, because even a small amount of air leakage from a defective gasket can result in defrost issues or water leaks. When replacing a gasket, you want it to be as pliable as possible. Insider tip: Just place ...
What to do if your refrigerator light doesn't work?
If the refrigerator’s light doesn’t work and its motor doesn’t run, here is the basic refrigerator troubleshooting you can do: 1 Check its electrical power. Make sure the refrigerator is plugged into a live receptacle that’s receiving power (plug in a working lamp or an outlet circuit tester).
How to clean a refrigerator that smells bad?
If your refrigerator smells bad inside, even after you’ve removed all suspicious foods, unplug it and remove the drawers and shelves to give it a thorough cleaning with soap and water. Next scrub it with a solution of 1/2 cup of baking soda dissolved in warm water.
Why does my refrigerator run constantly?
Typical causes are: 1) the door is left open frequently, 2) the condenser coils need cleaning, 3) the door doesn’t seal against the refrigerator box, 4) the cold control is set too cold, or 5) something is blocking the flow of cold air inside the fridge.
How long does it take for a refrigerator to defrost?
Normally, the defrost timer cycles the refrigerator to defrost for about 20 minutes every six to eight hours —it essentially heats up coils to melt the ice. If it isn’t working right, ice remains on the tubing and, eventually, restricts airflow through the refrigerator.
What temperature should a refrigerator be?
As a rule, refrigerators maintain 36 to 40 degrees F. in the refrigerator box and 0 to 5 degrees F. in the freezer box. If your refrigerator compartment freezes its contents, even when the cold control is set to its lowest setting, the problem is likely to be a defective refrigerator temperature sensor or cold control.
What happens if your refrigerator runs without stopping?
If your refrigerator runs without stopping, its refrigerant could be low. A refrigerator with low refrigerant cannot reach the low temperature of the cold control dial setting. You’ll need a refrigerator repair person to test and/or boost refrigerant levels.
Why does my refrigerator not close?
Fridge Door Does Not Close or Seal. A common cause of energy inefficiency in refrigerator operation is a door that doesn’t close or seal properly. If the door doesn’t swing closed, the hinge (sometimes called a “cam”) at the bottom of the door may be worn out.