How to Diagnosis your Refrigerator not Cooling

Is your refrigerator failing to keep your groceries cool? A faulty refrigerator will soon become a major nightmare, likely resulting in spoiled groceries and other unplanned expenses. Before you give in to panic and call for professional assistance, there are several easy diagnostic procedures you can perform yourself.

Signs Your Refrigerator is Not Cooling Properly

When your refrigerator isn't cooling as it should, several telltale signs can alert you to the problem. The sooner you recognize these warning signs, the better positioned you'll be to deal with the issue before it becomes a more serious one that could be expensive to repair. Specifically:

Warm Food and Beverages

The first overt sign of a refrigeration problem is when the food and drinks in your refrigerator aren't as cool as they ought to be. If milk spoils quicker than you remember or your drinks simply are not refreshingly cold, something is not right, and you should investigate it. A properly operating refrigerator should keep its temperature between 35°F and 38°F (1.7°C to 3.3°C).

Excessive Condensation

If you notice water droplets on the inside walls or ceiling of your fridge or a puddle on the floor under it, your cooling system may be in overdrive. This excess moisture usually indicates that the refrigerator is working too hard to maintain its temperature and thus results in condensation problems.

Unusual Noises

While refrigerators naturally have some noise, notice new or strange noises. A continued hum or buzzing louder than usual could mean the compressor is working harder than it should. Clicking or popping noises could relate to the start relay and compressor.

Frequently Running Motor

If your refrigerator is running without cycling off, it's most likely struggling to hold temperature. This indicates not just a cooling problem but can also result in increased energy consumption and higher bills.

Warm Exterior

Check the sides and back of the refrigerator to see if they are exceptionally warm or hot. This may indicate that the cooling system is working too hard or that something is wrong with the ventilation around the appliance. In both cases, this may lead to inefficient cooling and, eventually, to a breakdown of the unit.

Being alert and noticing any of these signs will allow you to act quickly to diagnose and possibly treat the problem before it gets out of hand.

Checking the Refrigerator Thermostat and Temperature Settings

When the refrigerator is not keeping things cool, a common cause can be the thermostat and temperature settings. Before seeking professional help, look at some basic troubleshooting you can do yourself.

Inspect the Thermostat

The refrigerator's thermostat is the temperature control center. First, find it inside your refrigerator and make sure it is set to the manufacturer's recommended temperature, between 37°F and 40°F (3°C to 4°C). If it is set too high, your perishable foods will not last.

To test if the thermostat is functioning correctly:

1. Turn the dial to the coldest setting.
2. Listen for a click or humming sound, indicating the compressor has kicked in.
3. If you don't hear anything, the thermostat might be faulty.

Check Temperature Consistency

Even though the thermostat may appear to work well, it is essential to take the following steps and ensure that the inside of your refrigerator maintains a consistent temperature.

• Place a thermometer in different areas of your refrigerator.
• Check the readings after 24 hours.
• If temperatures vary widely or don't match the thermostat setting, you may have a problem.

Examine the Temperature Controls

Sometimes, the temperature controls themselves can be the culprit. Check the control panel for damage or wear. If you have an electronic digital display, ensure it works correctly and gives appropriate feedback for your changes.

Remember, a good refrigerator should be able to maintain a consistent temperature. Suppose you have worked through these steps, and your refrigerator needs to be cooling correctly. In that case, it may be time to contact an authorized technician in your area who can provide more advanced diagnostics and repairs to restore your refrigerator to optimal operation.

Inspecting the Refrigerator Condenser Coils for Dust and Debris

Your refrigerator's condenser coils are essential in maintaining coolness in your food. These coils at the back or bottom of your refrigerator let out heat from the refrigerant. When they become clogged with dust and debris, they won't be able to dissipate heat properly, and the fridge will have to work harder and may not cool as efficiently.

Locating the Condenser Coils

Before you begin, unplug your refrigerator for safety. The location of your condenser coils depends on your fridge model:

• For older models, check the back of the refrigerator.
• Look for a grille at the bottom front or back in newer models.

If you need more clarification, consult your refrigerator's manual or look up the model online.

Cleaning the Coils

Once you've located the coils, it's time to clean them:

1. Use a coil brush or vacuum cleaner attachment to remove dust and debris gently.
2. Use a soft cloth dampened with warm water and mild detergent for stubborn grime.
3. Be thorough but gentle to avoid damaging the coils.

Maintaining Clean Coils

Regular maintenance can prevent future cooling issues:

• Clean your condenser coils at least twice a year.
• Consider cleaning more frequently if you have pets or live in a dusty area.
• Keep the area around your refrigerator clean to minimize dust accumulation.

Cleaning your condenser coils will also benefit you by making your refrigerator cool more efficiently and may add years to its life. If you are not comfortable performing this or if cleaning the coils doesn't resolve the problem with the unit's cooling, then it's time to get a professional refrigerator technician.

When to Call a Professional Refrigerator Repair Technician

Although many refrigerator problems can be rectified simply by DIY repairs, there are situations where professional intervention is required. Knowing when to get professional assistance can save you time, money, and perhaps even safety. Here at applianceoverhaul.com we provide appliance repair services to the Raleigh, NC and Clayton, NC area.

Complex Electrical Problems

If you have ruled out the power supply and thermostat settings, your refrigerator may be experiencing an electrical problem. You will know this by symptoms including frequent cycling, loud, unusual noises, or a failure to turn on; these could indicate a problem with the compressor, start relay, or one of the control boards. These require knowledge and tools for diagnosis and safe repair of:

Refrigerant Leaks

A telltale sign of a refrigerant leak is when your fridge isn't cooling despite the compressor running constantly. You might also notice frost buildup on the evaporator coils. Handling refrigerants requires certification and special equipment, making this a job for professionals only.

Sealed System Issues

If you hear a hissing sound or find oil stains around the compressor, it signals a problem with the sealed refrigeration system. This complex network is best handled by