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  1. Repair

Refrigerator leaking

Common reasons your refrigerator leaking

The most common reasons your refrigerator is leaking are a clogged defrost drain, faulty icemaker assembly or a damaged evaporator.

  • 58%

    58% of the time it's the
    Defrost Drain

  • 15%

    15% of the time it's the
    Icemaker Assembly

  • 12%

    12% of the time it's the
    Evaporator

  • 15%

    15% 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.

    Defrost Drain Replacement

    If the defrost drain becomes obstructed, melted frost and ice from the evaporator fins won't drain as intended during the defrost cycle. This can result in water overflowing in the drain pan and causing leaks underneath the refrigerator. To prevent potential damage from leaks, it's essential to have a Sears Home Services professional inspect the refrigerator promptly and address the clogged defrost drain.


    Icemaker Assembly Replacement

    A failed refrigerator icemaker can cause various disruptions, affecting different aspects of the refrigerator's functions, particularly its ice-making capability. Unusual noise during ice-making could signal underlying issues with the icemaker's components. A defective icemaker may trigger water leakage around its assembly, resulting in water accumulation inside and around the refrigerator. Failure of the bail arm to halt ice production may lead to the icemaker drawer becoming stuck due to excessive ice production, potentially causing damage to the drawer or nearby shelf. If other refrigerator components malfunction, affecting cooling, it can also impact ice production, warranting a comprehensive assessment by a Sears Home Services professional for an accurate diagnosis.

    Evaporator Replacement

    When the refrigerator's evaporator is damaged, it can reduce overall cooling performance, leading to higher temperatures in both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. These elevated temperatures may cause food spoilage and inadequate preservation of frozen items. Frost or ice buildup on the evaporator coils can impede their ability to absorb heat efficiently. Excessive condensation inside the refrigerator can result in leaks. Additionally, a damaged evaporator may generate unusual noises such as hissing or gurgling sounds during the refrigeration cycle.

    What to expect when you experience a refrigerator leaking issue

    Solutions to a leaking problem

    Fixing most leaking problems usually involves replacing the defrost drain, ice maker assembly or evaporator. However, this isn't always the case. Thorough troubleshooting and an accurate diagnosis are key to fixing the problem effectively and efficiently.

    Sears Home Services suggestions for a refrigerator that is leaking

    When a refrigerator is leaking it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having an experienced Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem.

    Things to consider with a refrigerator leaking diagnosis

    Identifying issues with modern appliances can present considerable difficulties for those without adequate expertise and training. Addressing refrigerator problems without employing accurate diagnostic techniques may result in ineffective repairs characterized by trial and error. With significant advancements in appliance technology over the past decade, contemporary models now incorporate intricate electronic components that pose substantial challenges for troubleshooting. Consequently, do-it-yourself repairs on modern appliances have become increasingly challenging.

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    Jake is a great person.

    He did a great job, the problem is with the refrigerator.


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    Great job

    Robert did a great job and was kind and courteous. He cleaned up everything. I would highly recommend using him.


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    Glossary Terms

    A French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.

    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.

    Common refrigerator symptoms to look out for