Instructions
- Disconnect electrical power. Unplug the refrigerator or shut off the circuit breaker for the refrigerator. Move highly perishable food to a cooler or other cooled space.
- Remove the control knob. Pull the control knob straight off the front of the the temperature control thermostat and set it aside.
- Detach the control housing. Remove the screws that secure the control housing to the top of the refrigerator compartment. ...
- Release the temperature control thermostat. Release the brackets that hold the temperature control thermostat and the sensing tube in place. ...
- Disconnect the wires. Take a digital picture of the wires or tag them with numbered pieces of masking tape so you know how to reconnect them.
- Connect the wires to the new thermostat. Remove the new temperature control thermostat from its package and carefully straighten the sensor tube.
- Insert the new temperature control thermostat into the bracket. Properly position the temperature control thermostat and the sensing tube in the control housing and push it into the brackets.
- Attach the control housing. Carefully push the control housing into position, making sure the wires are properly positioned so the edges of the control housing won't pinch them.
- Reinstall the control knob. Position the control knob on the front of the stem properly and push it onto the stem completely. ...
How do you replace a thermostat in a refrigerator?
- Even if your old thermostat was not using a C-wire, an unused C-wire may be stuffed in the wall behind the thermostat’s backplate. ...
- If there is no C-wire, one option is to use an “add-a-wire" kit or a power extender kit. ...
- Another option is to use a 24-volt adapter that provides a C-wire and plugs into a nearby outlet to power your thermostat.
How much does a thermostat cost for a refrigerator?
The cost to repair a refrigerator or freezer averages $200 to $330, depending on the parts that need replacing. A new thermostat might start as low as $100, while a new compressor can run up to $450. If your refrigerator is buzzing or humming, or if it’s failing to keep your food cold, you might need repairs. Some common issues include:
How to replace refrigerator thermostat?
Replacing a defrost thermostat
- Remove the screws holding the back panel in place. ...
- Remove the light cover toward the top of the freezer, under the ice maker. ...
- Remove the back panel to gain access to the evaporator. ...
- Locate the defrost thermostat. ...
- Carefully remove the defrost thermostat from the evaporator. ...
How to test a refrigerator thermostat [detailed guide]?
HOW TO TEST A REFRIGERATOR THERMOSTAT [DETAILED GUIDE ... From refrigeratorsreviewed.com. 2021-02-09 · Turn the refrigerator and freezer controls to OFF and 0 inside the refrigerator. Then, plug the refrigerator back into the wall outlet. Set the refrigerator ….
How do I know if my fridge thermostat is broken?
Here are some signs that your fridge has a faulty thermostat and some troubleshooting tips to help you deal with them.The Refrigerator Is Not Cool Enough.Unusually Cold Refrigerator.Refrigerator Temperature Fluctuation.Sub-Zero Refrigerator Temperature Troubleshooting Tips.Contact Wilshire Refrigeration.
How do I reset my fridge thermostat?
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 you bypass a fridge thermostat?
Plug in the external thermostat's power cord to a wall outlet. This bypasses the built-in thermostat.
How much does it cost to fix a fridge thermostat?
It's recommended you keep your refrigerator thermostat set to 35 to 38 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are in that window, but the temperature is still off, the thermostat may be the problem. This is a relatively easy fix or replacement for a professional to make with an average cost of $100 to $440.
What causes refrigerator to stop cooling?
Dirty condenser coils – Over time, the condenser coils can collect dirt, dust, and hair which hinder the coils' ability to dissipate the heat from the refrigerant passing through the coils. This can cause the refrigerator to stop cooling.
Does unplugging your refrigerator reset it?
Yes, unplugging the refrigerator will reset the appliance, provided you leave the refrigerator unplugged and undisturbed for 45 to 50 minutes. When the refrigerator is unplugged, do not open the doors.
Where is the thermostat on refrigerator?
A refrigerator thermostat/cold control is basically the brains of the refrigerator cooling system—it runs the show. Thermostats are typically found inside the refrigerator and have a knob that allows users to adjust the temperature setting.
How do you fix a freezer thermostat?
0:064:34Frigidaire Refrigerator Repair – How to replace the Freezer ThermostatYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOur next step will be to move the control knob simply pulls off and then next we'll remove all theMoreOur next step will be to move the control knob simply pulls off and then next we'll remove all the Phillips head screws that hold the evaporator cover.
How do fridge thermostats work?
The thermostat controls the cooling process by monitoring the temperature and then switching the compressor on and off. When the sensor senses that it's cold enough inside a refrigerator, it turns off the compressor. If it senses too much heat, it switches the compressor on and begins the cooling process again.
Is it cheaper to fix a refrigerator or buy a new one?
Typically, most refrigerator repairs will cost less than buying a new one. The rule of thumb is that if the cost of repairs is more than half the cost of purchasing a new refrigerator, you may be better off replacing it.
Is a refrigerator worth repairing?
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.
What is average life of a refrigerator?
between 10 and 20 yearsMost refrigerators are designed to last between 10 and 20 years. If you're having any of the other problems on this list and the fridge is over ten years old, you'll probably save more money in the long run by simply replacing it. Otherwise, you could sink money into repairs for a fridge that's already on its way out.
Does a fridge have a reset button?
0:021:54Does My Refrigerator Have a Reset Button? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipButton not all refrigerators have a reset for those that don't unplugging it and then plugging itMoreButton not all refrigerators have a reset for those that don't unplugging it and then plugging it back in is enough to reset it as long as the power in the circuits.
What should a fridge thermostat be set at?
The Best Temperature for Your Fridge The ideal refrigerator temperature is at or below 40°F (4°C), and your freezer temperature should be 0°F (-18°C). While some refrigerators and freezers are outfitted with all the bells and whistles, they might not have a built-in thermometer.
How do you check a fridge thermostat?
1:373:20No Cool Refrigerator - How to test the Thermostat - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPosition then the thermostat is probably bad especially if your refrigerators warm one quick way toMorePosition then the thermostat is probably bad especially if your refrigerators warm one quick way to test that is. You can take a piece of wire or whatever whatever you want to manufacture.
How do I reset my refrigerator compressor?
4 steps to reset a refrigerator compressorUnplug your refrigerator. ... Turn off the refrigerator and freezer from the control panel. ... Reset your freezer and fridge temperature settings. ... Wait for the refrigerator temperature to stabilize.
How To Tell If A Temperature Control Is Bad
When your refrigerator’s thermostat goes bad, it’s usually because one of the delicate components in the temperature control is broken – like contacts or the capillary wire. Small components like this can’t be repaired. You just have to replace the entire thermostat. But, how do you tell if it’s the thermostat causing issues?
Finding The Right Replacement Part
For the most reliable repair, get a genuine OEM replacement thermostat. It’ll ensure a perfect fit and exact calibration for your model of refrigerator. You can find tons of genuine OEM replacement parts at AppliancePartsPros.com, you’ll just need your refrigerator’s model number to track them down. Get started with your model number below:
How To Replace A Refrigerator Thermostat
We completed this repair on a Whirlpool side-by-side fridge. While our tutorial will be most accurate for other side-by-side refrigerators, the thermostat can be found in roughly the same place regardless of your refrigerator brand or style.
Wrapping Up
If your refrigerator returns to a proper temperature and the compressor seems to be back to normal, you can count that as a successful repair! We hope this how-to has helped you out, and if you need a bit more guidance on this particular task, don’t forget to check out our tutorial video. It provides a detailed look at how the job is done.
What Is a Refrigerator Thermostat?
A refrigerator thermostat is the part of the refrigerator that controls the internal temperature. You turn the thermostat’s knob to the setting you want, and the refrigerator begins to cool. It helps the refrigerator maintain a cool temperature for an extended period by its control of the electric power which the compressor receives.
How a Refrigerator Thermostat Works
A refrigerator thermostat keeps an eye on the internal temperature, turning the compressor off and on as needed. It does this task by cutting off the electricity flow to the compressor and other parts of the cooling system.
Adjusting a Refrigerator Thermostat – Steps
To adjust the thermostat in your refrigerator, take the following steps:
Re-calibrating a Refrigerator Thermostat
Locate the thermostat inside the refrigerator and disconnect its wires. Pull it down from the temperature control housing and find the two adjustment screws in front of it. The location of the screws may vary by refrigerator model, but you will find them on the thermostat.
Refrigerator Thermostat Bypass – Steps
To bypass the thermostat in your refrigerator, especially when it is not cooling, do the following:
Refrigerator Thermostat Clicking – What to Do
The refrigerator may have a faulty relay on the adaptive defrost control. It is the device that supplies power to the compressor, controlling how much of it the compressor gets each time. The issue is that you may have a hard time replacing it yourself, so you may need the services of a qualified technician to do the job.
What Causes a Refrigerator Thermostat to Fail?
A refrigerator thermostat may fail if the gas in the capillary tube depletes. It is a mechanical fault that requires you to replace the thermostat. Another possible cause of a failed refrigerator thermostat is loss of connection or damage to the connectors between the thermostat and the refrigerator.
How long does it take to replace a thermostat on a refrigerator?
This guide will walk you step-by-step through replacing the temperature control thermostat of your refrigerator in less than 30 minutes.
How to restore power to refrigerator?
Plug your refrigerator back into the wall or flip the breaker switch back on to restore power . Return Highly Perishable Items. Empty your emergency cooler or retrieve your highly perishable items from the freezer compartment and return them to the fridge. Set the Temperature.
How to remove a thermostat from a sleeve?
Remove the Thermostat. Carefully pull the thermostat out of its bracket or catch the thermostat as it falls, depending on how loosely it is held. Remove the Sensing Tube – Save the Sleeve. Now remove the sensing tube by opening it’s brackets and pulling it out or catching it.
How to check temperature of refrigerator?
Place a Thermometer in the Fridge. Place a fridge-safe thermometer into the refrigerator near the temperature control panel. Wait an Hour. Give your fridge at least an hour to reach its optimal temperature, then check back.
What happens when your fridge stops cooling?
Maybe you like it almost-icy, maybe you like your fridge a little warm. But when the fridge stops obeying your preferences or, starts cooling irregularly, there’s a problem.
What happens if your refrigerator thermostat isn't working?
If the refrigerator isn't at the temperature you set, the control thermostat might not sense the temperature correctly or might not signal the compressor to turn on. In either case, you can replace the refrigerator thermostat using the manufacturer-approved refrigerator temperature control replacement part that fits your model.
What happens if the temperature in my refrigerator doesn't match the temperature?
If the temperature in your refrigerator doesn't match the temperature you set, the problem could be the temperature control board —a service technician can give you a definite diagnosis. If the board is at fault, follow these steps to replace it yourself.
How long can you leave a refrigerator without power?
Move highly perishable food to a cooler or other cooled space. The refrigerator will be without power for about 30 minutes, which shouldn't affect most refrigerated or frozen foods.
Where is the thermostat located on a refrigerator?
If you have a refrigerator that is next to the freezer then the thermostat should be found at the back of the freezer.
What to do if your refrigerator is not cooling?
If you discover that your refrigerator is not getting cool enough or not cooling down at all, one possible solution is to replace your thermostat. If you wish to test the refrigerator thermostat to make sure whether it is working or not, change the refrigerator temperature to something a bit cooler than normal.
Can you take a thermostat out of a refrigerator?
Once you’ve removed any remaining screws or clips holding it in place, you are now in a position to take the old faulty thermostat out of the refrigerator. If the thermostat is around an evaporator tube then you should take care when removing as this may cause damage.
The Refrigerator Is Not Cool Enough
The thermostat is designed to regulate temperature to chill food and beverages. If items don’t seem as cool as they should be, reset the refrigerator thermostat by raising it a degree. It should then turn on or restart. But if it does not, there may be a technical malfunction.
Unusually Cold Refrigerator
If food freezes inside the fridge or its compartments, the cause may be a faulty thermostat. You can use an appliance thermometer to check the thermostat, or try increasing the temperature a couple of degrees. Then wait a day to check whether the food has become unfrozen.
Refrigerator Temperature Fluctuation
The best temperature for a refrigerator is between 30°F and 40°F, but even slight fluctuations can spoil food and allow disease-causing microbes to grow. Refrigerator temperature should be at or below 40°F to keep perishable food cool and fresh, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Sub-Zero Refrigerator Temperature Troubleshooting Tips
Thermostat problems aren’t always the cause of issues with your refrigerator’s temperature. These troubleshooting tips can help figure out why you have a warm refrigerator and determine what course of action to take:
Contact Wilshire Refrigeration
Wilshire Refrigeration is factory-certified to repair Sub-Zero appliances. We are open during the coronavirus pandemic to provide refrigerator service and provide any necessary repairs or maintenance.
