Decoding the Puzzle: Top 5 Reasons Your Refrigerator Isn't Working
Have you ever opened your fridge and realized that your refrigerator isn't working as it should? There's no need to panic. This guide will help you understand the top 5 reasons your refrigerator isn't working and what to do about it. By familiarizing yourself with common refrigerator issues, you'll be better prepared to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem yourself.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Proper settings and maintenance ensure efficient refrigerator operation.
- Cooling issues often stem from dirty coils, damaged seals, or airflow blockages.
- For complex issues, seek professional help from Sears Home Services.
1. Faulty Electronic Control Board
The electronic control board is the brain of your refrigerator, managing its cooling processes and other functions. If this board is faulty, it can lead to the refrigerator not working correctly. Signs of a malfunctioning control board include erratic temperature control, the refrigerator not turning on, or various components not operating as they should.
Diagnosing issues with the control board requires professional expertise. If you suspect your refrigerator’s control board is to blame for its issues, consider contacting the fridge repair near you pros at Sears Home Services for a thorough diagnosis and repair.
2. Defective Temperature Control Thermostat
The temperature control thermostat directs voltage to the compressor, evaporator fan motor, and condenser fan motor. If it fails, these components might not run at all, or the refrigerator may not work properly. Symptoms of a defective thermostat include the refrigerator running constantly or turning on and off more frequently than normal. There might be a lack of proper temperature regulation within the refrigerator, with items freezing or it failing to cool adequately regardless of the setting.
A clear sign of a defective thermostat is if adjusting it to the coldest setting does nothing to improve the cooling situation. Such issues with temperature control suggest that the thermostat may not be functioning correctly and could require replacement. For accurate diagnostics and effective repair solutions, professional service is recommended.
3. Locked or Failed Compressor
The compressor is the heart of your refrigerator's cooling system, circulating refrigerant throughout the system. A locked or failed compressor can render your refrigerator inoperative. A refrigerator that's not cooling or one that emits unusual noises from the back are symptoms of a failing compressor.
Compressor issues are complex and require professional repair or replacement. Due to the critical and intricate nature of this component, it’s advisable to seek assistance from experts like those at Sears Home Services to ensure your refrigerator is accurately diagnosed and repaired.
4. Wrong Temperature Settings
Setting the correct temperature is crucial for your refrigerator's operation. Incorrect settings can prevent your refrigerator from cooling effectively. Here are a few tips:
- Consult the user manual: Different refrigerator models have unique temperature settings. Check the manual or the manufacturer's website for advice on the appropriate temperature range for your model.
- Use a thermometer: To get an accurate temperature reading, place a thermometer in a glass of water inside your refrigerator for a few hours. The reading should be within the recommended range.
- Avoid extreme temperature settings: Setting the temperature too high or too low can affect the food quality and potentially cause your refrigerator to stop getting cold.
If your refrigerator still isn't cold enough or if it's too cold, it might be time to call in the refrigerator repair experts at Sears Home Services.
5. Dirty Condenser Coils
Dirty condenser coils are a common cause of refrigerators failing to cool. These coils, located at the back or underneath the appliance, are essential for its cooling process. Over time, they can collect dust and pet hair, obstructing airflow and forcing your refrigerator to work harder.
Routine cleaning of condenser coils is important to maintain efficiency and prolong your refrigerator's lifespan. If your refrigerator isn’t working despite your best efforts, dirty coils could be to blame. Cleaning the coils regularly and scheduling routine refrigerator maintenance can help prevent these problems.
If your refrigerator is still not working despite your efforts to fix it, it's time to seek professional help. Sears Home Services is always ready to assist with your refrigerator and other appliance concerns. Schedule repair with us, and one of our experienced technicians will quickly return your refrigerator to working condition.
Schedule your refrigerator repair now!
Backed by years of experience, our technicians possess the skills necessary to fix your refrigerator. And because our techs our local, they can fix it for you fast.
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Glossary Terms
Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems and refrigerators to absorb heat from the environment by cycling through states of evaporation and condensation, enabling the cooling process through its cycle of evaporation and condensation.
R-12 refrigerant, also known as Freon-12, is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compound that was once widely used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and aerosol propellants before its phase-out due to environmental concerns.
CFC certification refers to the credentialing process that qualifies HVAC technicians to handle chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other refrigerants in a manner that complies with environmental regulations. It is essential for professionals who install, maintain, or repair HVAC systems and refrigeration equipment.
A refrigerator thermostat is a device within a refrigerator that regulates its temperature by turning the cooling system on and off based on the interior temperature compared to the set desired temperature.
Common Repair Refrigerator Symptoms
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The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator is not working are a defective electronic control board, bad temperature control thermostat or a locked compressor.