A malfunctioning freezer can be a nightmare, putting your frozen meats, veggies, and leftovers at risk of spoiling. To prevent the thaw and keep your food chilled, we’ve compiled some troubleshooting tips to help you identify and address common issues with your freezer. However, if your frozen food does start to thaw, it’s safer to replace it rather than risk consuming spoiled items.
Why freezer is not freezing
Freezers can encounter various problems, ranging from simple fixes to more complex issues requiring professional attention. Here are some common reasons why your freezer may not be cold enough:
- Dirty Condenser Coils: Blocked or dirty condenser coils can reduce cooling effectiveness. These coils, typically located behind a cover at the back of your freezer, are crucial for cooling. Cleaning them can often resolve the problem.
- Malfunctioning Evaporator Fan: The evaporator fan circulates cool air throughout the freezer. If the fan’s motor is broken, the freezer’s temperature can rise. The fan is usually located behind the back cover of the freezer, near the condenser coils.
- Broken Start Relay: The start relay powers the compressor, which is responsible for the freezer’s cooling functions. A broken relay can cause the entire air circulation system to shut down, leading to warmer temperatures. You may hear a clicking sound while the freezer is running if this is the case.
- Defective Electronic Controls: If no apparent issue is found with the freezer parts, check if the freezer is receiving power. Ensure “demo mode” is off in the settings. If the light doesn’t turn on when you open the freezer door, check the outlet by plugging in another electrical device. If the outlet is fine, the electronic controls may be faulty, requiring professional assistance.
- Faulty Defrost Thermostat: When the contacts on the defrost thermostat stop working, the freezer can’t regulate its temperature properly. If the temperature is set correctly and there’s no excessive frost blocking airflow, the thermostat may need replacement.
Further Freezer Troubleshooting
Before calling for professional help, you can try some additional troubleshooting steps:
- If the fridge is cold but the freezer is warm, focus on the freezer parts. Double-check the settings, clean the condenser coils, check if the evaporator fan runs, and test the start relay with a multimeter.
- To make your freezer colder, adjust the temperature control thermostat. If it doesn’t click at the highest setting, it may be defective. Also, ensure the defrost thermostat is clear of frost buildup.
- If the freezer has power but isn’t running, ensure all demo settings are off. If the issue persists, consult an expert technician to replace faulty electronic systems.
- If only one part of the freezer is freezing, it may indicate a sealed system leak, which can be costly to repair. In such cases, replacing the entire appliance may be more cost-effective.
- For chest freezers, check settings, compressor, condenser coils, evaporator fan, defrost thermostat, and power supply. Verify that the lid gasket seals properly when closed; replace the entire gasket if necessary.
When At-Home Troubleshooting Isn’t Enough
A malfunctioning freezer can lead to inconvenience and food spoilage. If you’ve attempted troubleshooting without success, it’s best to have an expert confirm the issue and provide a quick fix. Contact your local appliance repair service for professional assistance, ensuring your frozen foods stay safe and fresh. Schedule an appointment online today to get your freezer back to optimal condition.