Common fridge/freezer issues & how to fix them

Refrigerators/freezers are common household appliances you find in every home. Sometimes this appliances suddenly develop problems that may be caused by one or more factors.

In this post I am going to list some common problems of refrigerators/freezers, the possible cause(s) and remedy.

Problem 1: Unit doesn't cool (lights and compressor operate).

Possible cause i: Dirty or clogged condenser coil (lint, dust and dirt).

Solution i
• Clean the coils on the bottom or back of refrigerator or freezer with brush or vacuum.

Possible cause ii: The door gasket is damaged.

Solution ii
• check door gasket for tear/wear

Problem 2: Inside light doesn't work.

Possible cause i: Bulb connection loose. Bulb burned out.

Solution i
• Remove and reinsert bulb.
• Replace with special appliance bulb (made for your make or model).

Possible cause ii: light switch stuck.

Solution ii
 • Tap and release door switch button; then clean.

Problem 3: Frost builds up quickly; moisture on shelves.

Possible cause: Door not closing properly.

Solution:
• Readjust door, as per manufacturer's instructions.
• Pitch unit slightly back, by extending bottom front levelers. For some models,    small wedges may be needed in front, under legs.

Problem 4: Excessive operation noise.

Possible cause i: Drain pan rattles.

Solution i
• Replace drain pan in proper position under the appliance.
Possible cause ii: Object (e.g. plastic bag) trapped on the fan blade.

Solution ii
 • Check and remove any trapped object if any from fan blade.
 • Tap and release door switch button; then clean.

Possible cause iii: Refrigerator not level.

Solution iii
• Adjust leveling legs as per manufacturer's Instructions.

Problem 5: Moisture on door or cabinet exterior.

Possible cause: Improper setting on front edge trim heater (energy-saving switch on some models).

Solution
• Adjust switch to proper setting. Use of switch is usually only necessary in the summer, because of high humidity.

Problem 6: Water on floor.

Possible cause i: Drain pan not aligned.

Solution i
• Reset drain pan in carriage.
Possible cause ii: Drain pan is broken.

Solution ii
• Replace drain pan, or repair with epoxy cement.
Possible cause iii: Leaky icemaker or water dispenser.

Solution iii
• Clean drain tube with baking soda, or scrape tube gently with a soft length of wire.

These are some common issues and remedies with refrigerators/freezers. Please share with us.