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  1. Repair

Refrigerator broken shelf

Common reasons your refrigerator broken shelf

The most common reasons your refrigerator has a broken shelf are broken shelves, faulty icemaker assembly or an inoperative user interface.

  • 65%

    65% of the time it's the
    Shelves

  • 26%

    26% of the time it's the
    Icemaker Assembly

  • 2%

    2% of the time it's the
    User Interface Control

  • 7%

    7% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Common refrigerator repair parts you may need

    Replacing one of these refrigerator parts may fix your problem.

    Shelves Replacement

    Damaged refrigerator shelves can impede the movement of a refrigerator drawer in multiple ways. The shelf provides structural support for stored items and contributes to the stability of the refrigerator's interior. If a shelf is damaged, it might sag or lose alignment, causing resistance when pulling or pushing the drawer. Fragments or edges from the broken shelf can block the drawer's path, making movement difficult. This obstruction not only affects access to items inside the drawer but also risks additional damage to the drawer or other components if force is used to overcome the resistance.


    Icemaker Assembly Replacement

    A faulty refrigerator icemaker can impact various aspects of the refrigerator's operation, including its ability to make ice. Increased noise during the ice-making process could indicate a problem in the icemaker's components. A failing icemaker may lead to water leaks around the icemaker assembly, potentially causing water puddles in and around the refrigerator. If the bail arm fails to shut off ice production, it could result in the icemaker drawer jamming due to an overproduction of ice, potentially leading to damage to the drawer or adjacent shelf. The failure of other components in a refrigerator that stops cooling will affect ice production, so a thorough inspection of the refrigerator by a Sears Home Services professional is recommended for an accurate diagnosis.

    User Interface Control Replacement

    If the user interface control in a refrigerator stops functioning, it can't communicate with the main control board, which affects settings like temperature or the icemaker's status. The display on the interface stops showing, making the refrigerator appear to be powerless. Sometimes, it might only show an error code. If the interface controls only drawer temperature settings, a crack in the shelf holding the interface might prevent it from responding to the selected settings.

    What to expect when you experience a refrigerator broken shelf issue

    How do you resolve a broken shelf problem?

    Resolving most broken shelf problems usually involves replacing the shelves, ice maker assembly or user interface control. However, there are many potential causes, so thorough troubleshooting is key to fixing the problem and preventing future issues.

    Sears Home Services suggestions for a refrigerator broken shelf

    Several factors can cause a broken shelf in a refrigerator. To prevent unnecessary part replacements and further damage, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the root cause of the issue.

    Things to consider with a refrigerator broken shelf diagnosis

    Successfully diagnosing malfunctions in modern appliances can be a formidable task for individuals lacking comprehensive knowledge and training. Attempting to address refrigerator issues without employing precise diagnostic techniques may lead to ineffective repairs reliant on guesswork. The past decade has witnessed significant advancements in appliance technology, resulting in the integration of complex electronic components that pose considerable challenges for troubleshooting. As a result, do-it-yourself repairs on contemporary appliance models have become increasingly complex.

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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 refrigerator symptoms to look out for

    These refrigerator brands may also experience broken shelf