If your refrigerator isn't working well, look into it quickly.
A refrigerator is a complicated machine and, as such, many problems can arise over its lifespan. They can range from problems with solutions as simple as turning a dial, to complex issues that require the services of a professional. Either way, being able to identify and eliminate problems will help you determine what's wrong before spending your money to hire a technician. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Refrigerator Will Not Stay Cold
1. Adjust the temperature dial. There should be a dial in plain sight in both the freezer and the refrigerator itself. The freezer dial should ideally be between zero and 8 degrees Fahrenheit and the fridge should be around 38 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Make room for proper airflow. Overfilling the refrigerator and freezer compartment prevents the air from properly circulating. Check the vents as well to make sure there is nothing restricting the air. Freezer vents are easily blocked by too much frozen. Older refrigerators that aren't frost-free can develop ice buildup; use a hair dryer on the lowest setting to melt the ice.
3. Examine the condenser and evaporator coils. The condenser coils are the large spring-like apparatus on the back of the refrigerator. The evaporator coil can be found by removing the panel inside the refrigerator. Dust and lint build up can diminish their effectiveness. If they are iced up, the refrigerator or freezer will not get cold enough. As in Step 2, you can melt the ice with a hairdryer.
4. Check for leaks in the refrigerator. These, while rare, can pose a serious problem. If a leak is found, you will want to call a professional as the gases from the vents can be toxic.
Refrigerator is Making Unusual Noises
5. Ensure that the refrigerator is level. A refrigerator that is lying on an angle will suffer from problems with the drainage and ice-making cycles, which may cause it to make unusual noises. Unplug the fridge before leveling it to avoid an electric shock. Use a wrench or pliers to adjust the bolts on the leg until it is level.
6. Examine the drain pan. It may be too close to the compressor, which in turn will cause it to rattle. If this is the case, readjust it. It is located at the bottom of the refrigerator behind the front grill. It should be removed and cleaned at least once a year.
7. Check the compressor mounts. The compressor is located in the rear of the refrigerator and may be covered by a panel you will need to remove with a screwdriver. If the mounts have degenerated with age, they may not be holding the compressor properly, causing a rattling sound when it runs. If this is the case, they will need to be tightened or replaced.
Refrigerator Constantly Runs
8. Check the seal on the door. It may not be catching properly, causing the constant running sound. Place a piece of paper in between the door and close it. Remove the paper. If there is not tension when you pull out the paper, the seal will need to be cleaned or replaced.
9. Examine the thermostat. The refrigerator should cycle off when the temperature inside is cold enough. If the inside is the proper temperature and it is still running, you will need to replace the thermostat as it cannot be repaired.
10. Test the door switch and make sure it's aligned properly. Press the switch and see if the interior light goes off. If it does not go back on once it is released, it is likely misaligned. Use your screwdriver or a putty knife to gently pry the switch cover off. Inspect the wires. If they are corroded, they will need to be replaced.
11. Defrost the freezer. If the freezer is too cold, the components may freeze and it will constantly run. Many freezers have an automatic defrost switch. If yours does not, you can raise the temperature or unplug it completely. Just make sure you remove any perishables before warming it up.
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