Common Refrigerator And Freezer Problems

Refrigerator: Repair or Replace?

Common refrigerator and freezer problems, and whether the solution is a DIY project, a job for a repairman or time for an upgrade.

Your refrigerator or freezer is the workhorse of the kitchen, running 24/7, 365 days a year. You might be on vacation or sleeping, but it’s still working. So if something goes wrong with your fridge or freezer, it can be alarming and inconvenient, to say the least. Here’s a guide on what to do when faced with common fridge problems.

DIY

1. Strange Noises

Refrigerators under a heavy load, in a warm location or just loaded with warm groceries may have elevated sound levels. Noises generally do not affect the operation of the refrigerator.

2. Door Seal Torn

That strip that seals your fridge door is known as a gasket – and after a while it wears out, either tearing or wrinkling. Buy a replacement using the model number to make sure you get the right size. Then, peel the old gasket back, remove screws if necessary and pull it away from the fridge door. Soak the new one in hot water to soften it and then install the part, starting at the corners.

3. Light Bulb Out

Make sure you don`t purchase a bulb that exceeds the wattage recommended by the owner`s manual. If the bulb is incorrect, it can overheat the interior or cause damage to the plastic inner liner. If your appliance uses a LED bulb, you`ll need a repairman to replace it. Either way, only purchase bulbs specifically for appliances, and unplug the refrigerator before changing the bulb.

4. Leak

Unplug your refrigerator overnight, as this will allow a potentially frozen drain to thaw. Make sure the refrigerator is mostly level but has slight tilt to the back for proper drainage. Clear blockages with hot water and turkey baster. If the drain looks fine and the fridge still leaks, call for service.

5. No Ice

Use a thermometer to make sure the compartment with the icemaker is 0 °F. If it`s not, adjust the temp settings and controls to factory-recommended settings and see if that does the trick. If the refrigerator has a water dispenser, see if it works. The problem could be a clogged water filter or a damaged water supply. No water means no ice – and that it`s probably a job for the pros.

REPAIR

6. Frost Buildup

When you see a thick coat of frost on the back wall of the freezer, it`s usually related to a defrosting problems caused by a heater, fuse, switch or sensor. In fact, not cooling is something that usually accompanies the issue. Call the technician to see what`s going on.

7. No Water in the Dispenser

This can also mean no ice and a possible water valve issue. First check that the house supply line behind the refrigerator is turned on all the way and that the filter is not clogged. If that does not clear things up, call in a technician.

REPLACE

8. Energy Suck

If your freezer is over 10 years old, you`d probably be better of replacing it, instead of spending the money on the energy it needs to run. Maybe it`s time to get that French door model you have been drooling over.

9. Compressor Not Running

The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator; it compresses refrigerant and is the thing that hums. In many cases a compressor is covered by an additional extended warranty. If not, it could be time to get a new fridge, since replacing a compressor can be costly.

From frost buildup to a full replacement, All Austin Repairs can help. With our tips for how to take care of your fridge and freezer, plus a repair team who can fix your more serious problems, All Austin Repairs is on your side, no matter where you bought your appliance.