Addressing unusual noises and changing the water filter on a regular basis will help extend your refrigerator’s lifespan. However, some problems require expert Refrigerator Repair services.
Look for a professional service that provides upfront pricing and online scheduling options. Ask about their licensing, certifications and experience. You also want to know how long they have been in business.
Power Issues
Refrigerators are among the most power-intensive appliances in a home, and when they malfunction it can lead to food spoilage and costly energy bills. Effective refrigerator troubleshooting and repair requires a comprehensive understanding of appliance technology. Attempting to address problems without precise diagnostic techniques can result in unnecessary part replacements and unnecessarily high repair costs.
A common fridge problem is the loss of electricity. A power outage can render a fridge completely inoperable and ruin the contents inside. Fortunately, this is a common issue that can be easily resolved by checking the circuit breaker and fuses.
If the fridge is plugged into an extension cord or power strip, disconnect it and plug directly into a wall outlet. Also, be sure the fridge is not overheating by testing its voltage with a multimeter (if you’re comfortable with electrical work). If the problem persists, consult a professional for further troubleshooting and disassembly of the refrigerator for repairs.
Evaporator Fan Issues
If the freezer fan is working but still doesn’t keep the refrigerator cool, it could be a problem with the evaporator fan motor. To test this, first see if the motor blades can turn freely. If the blades are stuck or can’t spin, the motor bearings may be worn out and need to be replaced.
Next, use a multimeter to check the evaporator fan motor for continuity. You’ll likely find two wires that are plugged into the fan motor, one red and one blue. The meter should read zero ohms if there is continuity. If not, the wires may need to be repaired or replaced.
To access the evaporator fan motor, you’ll usually have to remove some shelves from your freezer or refrigerator section. If you do this, make sure the power to that room of your home is turned off. This can prevent accidental shocks or burns as you work. Also, be sure to set any shelf brackets and mounting hardware aside for safekeeping.
Electronic Control Board Issues
The circuit board is the brains behind modern refrigerators and controls everything from compressor operation to defrosting cycles. It also reduces energy use by monitoring temperatures and system parameters. Understanding how these complex boards work allows homeowners to address problems, ensuring years of reliable cooling.
Power Surges: Abrupt increases in electrical current can inflict damage to sensitive components, resulting in erratic behavior or complete failure. Understanding how to protect these systems from such damage is a critical step in avoiding expensive repairs.
Environmental Influences: Moisture and heat can exacerbate circuit board issues by contributing to corrosion and short-circuiting. Ensure proper ventilation and insulation to mitigate these concerns.
Routine maintenance checks can help prevent a number of common control board issues. Inspecting the refrigerator for loose connections, visible signs of damage and test circuit boards with a multimeter can help identify and repair problems before they get worse. Precautions like unplugging appliances and wearing protective equipment should always be taken when doing these maintenance checks.
Water Issues
Water puddling up under your refrigerator isn’t good, and it often indicates that there’s a problem with the defrost drain. To check for this, unplug your fridge, move any perishables to another freezer or cooler, and remove the refrigerator’s rear panel to inspect the hose leading from the fridge to the house.
If the hose is damaged, you’ll need to shut off the water supply valve under your sink, unplug the fridge, disconnect the hose from the line, and replace the hose with a new section of tubing that has a fitting the same size as the old one. Make sure to have the right tools on hand and follow all safety precautions when attempting this repair.
Other reasons your refrigerator may be dispensing water incorrectly include a malfunctioning door switch or a clogged water filter. A professional appliance repair service can help you identify and fix these issues. Enter your zip to get matched with top-rated pros near you!