Refrigerator not draining
Common reasons your refrigerator not draining
The most common reasons your refrigerator is not draining are a locked compressor, defective electronic control board or a damaged door.
48% of the time it's the
Compressor34% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board7% of the time it's the
Door11% 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.
Compressor Replacement
When a refrigerator compressor is locked, it can present several symptoms indicating a failure. The most evident sign is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, resulting in higher temperatures and food spoilage. The freezer may also struggle to maintain the desired freezing temperatures, leading to no ice production from the icemaker or dispenser. Additionally, you may notice that the compressor is unusually quiet or fails to make its typical humming sound during operation. In certain cases, the compressor may attempt to start but fail, resulting in repeated clicking noises. The compressor's inability to circulate refrigerant properly can affect the defrost process, resulting in ice buildup in the freezer. Furthermore, a faulty compressor could cause a sudden influx of melting frost into the drain line, leading to blockages, inadequate drainage, and potential water leaks.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
If the electronic control board in a refrigerator malfunctions, it can lead to various problems, such as power loss, cooling irregularities, and water seepage. This is because the board functions as the brain of the refrigerator, overseeing crucial functions such as temperature management, fan activity, defrost cycles, icemaker functionality, and dispenser operations. When the board malfunctions, it can disrupt communication among different parts, including automatic door mechanisms if applicable. A defective board may generate clicking or chattering sounds and emit a burning scent. Given its potential impact on multiple components, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional inspect the board using diagnostic tests to determine if replacement is needed.
Door Replacement
A refrigerator or freezer door that's damaged can stop the door from closing and sealing properly. It might make it hard to open or close the freezer drawer, needing extra force or feeling like it's stuck. It could also make the drawer not line up precisely with the freezer door. The door might make scraping or grinding sounds due to friction or misalignment. The door gasket won't be able to maintain seal, letting warm, moist air into the refrigerator. This can cause condensation, leading to water collecting in the fridge.
What to expect when you experience a refrigerator not draining issue
How to fix a not draining problem
Solving most not draining problems usually involves replacing the compressor, electronic control board or door. However, there could be other issues, so a thorough diagnosis and accurate diagnosis are key to resolving the problem effectively.
Our recommendations for a refrigerator that is not draining
When your refrigerator is not draining, many things can be at fault. 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 and repair the issue.
What to be mindful of with a refrigerator not draining diagnosis
Effectively diagnosing malfunctions in modern appliances necessitates a comprehensive understanding and specialized training. Addressing refrigerator issues without employing precise diagnostic techniques may lead to ineffective repairs and unnecessary part replacements. With significant advancements in appliance technology over the past decade, contemporary models now feature intricate electronic components that pose considerable challenges for troubleshooting. Consequently, do-it-yourself repairs on modern appliances have become increasingly intricate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Repair Refrigerator Resources
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Glossary Terms
A dual ice maker is a feature in some refrigerators that includes two separate ice makers: one in the fridge compartment and another in the freezer section. This setup doubles the appliance's ice-making capacity.
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.
Common refrigerator symptoms to look out for
- Refrigerator noisy
- Refrigerator freezer not working but fridge is fine
- Refrigerator freezer not working but fridge is
- Refrigerator not cooling
- Refrigerator compressor not running
- Refrigerator leaking
- Refrigerator leaking water
- Refrigerator stopped working
- Refrigerator burning smell
- Refrigerator leaks water
- Refrigerator cold but freezer not freezing
- Refrigerator dispenser not working
- Refrigerator drawer problem
- Refrigerator leaking from bottom
- Refrigerator light not working
- Refrigerator too cold freezer too warm
- Refrigerator broken shelf
- Refrigerator no water
- Refrigerator door not closing
- Refrigerator no power
- Refrigerator water dispenser not working
- Refrigerator not working
- Refrigerator display not working
- Refrigerator fan not working
- Refrigerator will not make ice
- Refrigerator won't turn on when plugged in
- Refrigerator not turning on