Repairing Guides

how to repair refrigerator freezer

by Prof. Domenick Stanton DDS Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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  1. 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. ...
  2. If leveling doesn't work, tighten the hinge screws. You may have to open the door (especially the freezer door) to turn these screws. ...
  3. If the door is warped, tighten the screws that hold the inner door shell to the outer door shell. ...
  4. Check the catch. Newer units have a magnetic catch on the door. ...

Part of a video titled How to fix common refrigerator problems - YouTube
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If you take the panel off and you see frost you likely have a defrost. Problem turn the fridge offMoreIf you take the panel off and you see frost you likely have a defrost. Problem turn the fridge off and let it thaw plug. It back in after it's thawed.

How do you troubleshoot a refrigerator?

If your fridge is icing up, it also needs defrosting, but this also suggests you have a problem with your fridge. The internal temperature of a fridge should consistently be a minimum of 4ºC. It's worth investing in a fridge thermometer and adjusting the ...

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. ...

More items...

How do you repair a refrigerator?

  • Food and drink items aren’t as cold as they usually are
  • Soft ice cream
  • Melted ice or cubes that stick together
  • Food starts spoiling early
  • Water around the appliance
  • Unusual noises or clicking sounds

How to fix common refrigerator problems?

  • Do NOT open your refrigerator every time you eat something. This can lead to ice buildup and other issues. ...
  • Keep an eye on your freezer temperature. ...
  • Check your ice maker every month. ...
  • Check for seal cracks and crevices in your refrigerator. ...
  • Keep an eye out for strange noises. ...

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Is it worth repairing a fridge freezer?

Any fridge freezer that is over ten years old is unlikely to be worth repairing. A new one will be more energy efficient and cost much less to run. The high cost of replacing a side by side expensive large fridge freezer may make repairs cost effective especially if the machine is not too old.

How do you fix a freezer that is not cooling?

0:323:26Freezer Isn't Freezing — Freezer Troubleshooting - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou should check to see if there are any obstructions preventing the fan blades from turning. If theMoreYou should check to see if there are any obstructions preventing the fan blades from turning. If the blades do not spin freely it's likely that the motor bearings are worn out.

What causes a fridge freezer to stop working?

If your freezer is not working, the first thing to check is if the shelves are packed too tightly. Overstuffed freezers can cause airflow blockage especially when the evaporator fan is blocked. If your freezer is not cold enough, we recommend clearing off your freezer shelves.

What would cause a freezer not to freeze?

Clear the shelves. First, check to make sure you're allowing enough air to circulate throughout your freezer. This may sound elementary, but a freezer that's packed to the gills might be causing an airflow blockage, particularly if the evaporator fan is covered by a tub of ice cream or bag of vegetables.

Why is my refrigerator running but not cooling?

The most common reason why a refrigerator is not cooling is a problem with the evaporator coils. Over time, evaporator coils can become covered with ice, which prevents the coils from working properly. If the coils are covered in ice, the ice will need to be defrosted to fix the problem.

How do I know if my freezer compressor is working?

1:0910:03How to Check a Refrigerator Compressor - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipVibration going on if it's running and you should be able to hear a noise. But if you can't detectMoreVibration going on if it's running and you should be able to hear a noise. But if you can't detect any of that.

Do fridge freezers have a reset button?

Most don't automatically reset. If the appliance has a reset button, it should just need to be held in for 30 seconds to correct the fridge. Some refrigerators, including Maytag and Amana, need to have the lock button and the reset or auto buttons held at the same time to reset the fridge.

What is the average life of a fridge freezer?

The typical life expectancy of a refrigerator is 10 to 15 years, and the average fridge with a freezer on the bottom or top can reliably run for about 13 years. However, the refrigerator's lifespan varies by the model, so don't rely on its age alone to determine if you're ready for a new one.

How do you diagnose a freezer problem?

Freezer Troubleshooting GuideMake sure the freezer is plugged in.Check for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker.Test the power outlet for voltage.Inspect the electrical cord for damage.Eliminate use of an extension cord, if any is being used.Check the outlet voltage.More items...

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.

Can a freezer stop working but fridge still works?

If the evaporator fan is not working, it will not circulate the cold air to the refrigerator compartment. If this occurs, the freezer may still get cold, while the refrigerator will not get cold. To determine if the evaporator fan motor is defective, try turning the fan blade by hand.

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 clean condenser coils on a freezer?

0:152:13How to Clean the Condenser Coil on a Refrigerator - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBefore performing any internal repairs in refrigerator you'll want to make sure to unplug. It. NextMoreBefore performing any internal repairs in refrigerator you'll want to make sure to unplug. It. Next we remove the back panel from the refrigerator. With the back of the fridge removed.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

What to do if refrigerator runs too long?

Fridge runs too long. A defrost heater and defrost timer will help control the temperature in the refrigerator. If it’s running too long, consider replacing these parts. 1% of customers.

What causes a fridge to leak water?

Leaking. If the fridge is leaking water, the problem could be a gasket, the water inlet valve (which supplies the fridge with dispensable water and ice), or even the ice maker itself. 27% of customers.

What does it mean when your freezer is too cold?

If your freezer is too cold, it may mean that you need to replace the temperature sensor or thermistor. It may also be that the air damper is letting in too much cold air, and needs fixing.

Can a fridge keep food cold?

Fridge too warm. A fridge that won’t keep food cold is not much good to anybody. Replace the air damper, baffle, or diffuser to get cold air back into the fridge. 6% of customers.

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.

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 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).

Keep your home running and your budget on track

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How Do Refrigerators Work?

Although the look and options with mechanical refrigerators have come a long way since they were invented in 1899, the components and mechanisms at work are much the same as they were more than one century ago: Refrigerators stay cool with the use of evaporative refrigerant chemicals.

Which Professional Can Help With Refrigerator Repairs?

If you are looking for professional help with your refrigerator problem, you may wonder whether you should call an appliance repair specialist or an HVAC technician. The truth is that it depends on the nature of the problem.

What Are Some Common Refrigerator Problems?

When you call a professional to help with a refrigeration system repair, you are paying for both their time and the expense of any parts that are needed for the fix. There is a direct correlation between the ease of the repair and the cost you will pay.

What Are Common Refrigerator Repair Costs?

Depending on what exactly is the issue, refrigerator repair costs will vary. The cost may also increase beyond the national average if your refrigerator is old or an uncommon model because both of these scenarios make it hard to find the correct replacement parts.

Can I DIY Refrigerator Repair?

If you are handy with DIYs and willing to address problems with your refrigerator while avoiding major appliance repair costs, you may be able to get the job done. Some relatively easy and straightforward DIY refrigerator repair projects include cleaning the coils, unclogging the defrost drain and fixing a door gasket.

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