Whirlpool refrigerator not turning on

Common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator is not turning on

The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator is not turning on are a defective electronic control board, locked compressor or an inoperative user interface.

39% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board

18% of the time it's the
Compressor

13% of the time it's the
User Interface Control

30% of the time it's the
Something else

Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool refrigerator

Electronic Control Board Replacement

A defective electronic control board can lead to various failures in a refrigerator, including a lack of power or cooling and water leaking. This is because the board serves as the brain of the refrigerator, controlling crucial operations such as regulating internal temperatures, running fans, managing defrost cycles, overseeing the ice maker, and controlling dispenser functions. If the electronic control board malfunctions, it can disrupt communication between many different components, including automatic doors if equipped. A failing board may cause a chattering or clicking noise from the refrigerator and may emit a burning odor. Due to the potential impact on multiple components, it is advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests on the board to confirm if replacement is necessary.

How to replace the electronic control board in a refrigerator

Compressor Replacement

A locked refrigerator compressor can exhibit several symptoms indicative of a malfunction. The most noticeable sign is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, leading to elevated temperatures and the potential for food spoilage. The freezer may also fail to maintain the desired freezing temperatures, resulting in no ice production from the ice maker or dispenser. Additionally, you'll observe that the compressor is unusually silent or fails to produce its typical humming sound during operation. In some cases, the compressor may attempt to start but fail, resulting in repeated clicking noises. The inability of the compressor to circulate refrigerant properly can affect the defrosting process, leading to ice buildup in the freezer. Furthermore, a faulty compressor could send a sudden influx of melting frost to the drain line, causing it to back up, preventing adequate draining, and potentially causing water leaks.

Troubleshooting compressor problems in refrigerators

User Interface Control Replacement

When a refrigerator user interface control becomes inoperative, it loses the ability to communicate with the main control board, affecting settings like temperature or ice maker status. The interface will cease to display, creating the appearance of a powerless refrigerator. In some instances, it may only show an error code. If the user interface solely controls drawer temperature settings, a crack in the shelf housing the interface can prevent it from responding to the selected settings.

How to replace the user interface control on a refrigerator

What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool refrigerator not turning on issue

How is the not turning on problem fixed?

Correcting most not turning on problems usually involves replacing the electronic control board, compressor or user interface control. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a refrigerator that is not turning on

When the refrigerator is not turning on it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures.

What to look out for with a refrigerator not turning on diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your refrigerator problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

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Refrigerator

Glossary Terms

What is a French-Door Refrigerator?

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.

What is Refrigerant?

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.

What is R-12 Refrigerant?

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.

What is CFC Certification?

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.