Be Ready For These Common Fridge Failures

 A fridge is a vital part of any complete modern kitchen, of course, as important as it is for storing safe food and preventing contamination. However, while most of us will experience our fridges running just fine for the majority of the time, when an issue pops up, it can feel like a real emergency. Here are some of the common fridge failure points you should be aware of, and what you can do about them.

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Door Seal Failure

A faulty door seal can cause warm air to enter the fridge, making it work harder to maintain cool temperatures. This issue is often noticeable if the fridge runs continuously or food spoils quickly. To address this, inspect the door gasket for cracks or tears and clean it with warm, soapy water to ensure a proper seal. If damaged, replace the gasket with a new one, which can be purchased from appliance stores. Regularly cleaning and inspecting the seal can prevent future failures.

Evaporator Fan Failure

The evaporator fan circulates cold air throughout the refrigerator. If it fails, you'll notice inconsistent temperatures or a warmer fridge section. Check out Appliance Parts Pro's troubleshooting guide to refrigerator error codes to see signs of evaporator fan failure. To check, listen for the fan when the fridge door is open. If it’s silent or making strange noises, it might need replacement. Unplug the fridge and locate the fan behind the back panel inside the freezer compartment. Remove the old fan and install a new one, ensuring all connections are secure. This will restore proper airflow and temperature regulation.

Temperature Issues

Temperature problems in a fridge can stem from poor ventilation or a worn-down door gasket. Ensure the fridge is not overcrowded, allowing for adequate air circulation. Check the door gasket for signs of wear; a worn gasket can let warm air in, disrupting temperature control. Replace the gasket if necessary. Additionally, ensure the fridge is positioned away from heat sources and has sufficient space around it for ventilation. Maintaining these conditions helps the fridge operate efficiently.

Filthy Condenser Coils

Condenser coils dissipate heat from the fridge. When covered in dust and debris, they can't function properly, causing the fridge to overheat and work harder. To clean the coils, first unplug the fridge. Locate the coils either behind or beneath the appliance, depending on the model. Use a coil brush or vacuum cleaner to gently remove the dirt and grime. Cleaning the coils every six months can improve efficiency and extend the lifespan of your fridge.

Frost Buildup

Excessive frost buildup in the freezer can hinder airflow and cooling efficiency. This is often caused by a malfunctioning defrost heater or thermostat. First, defrost the freezer manually by unplugging the fridge and allowing the ice to melt. Clean up any water before turning it back on. If frost reappears quickly, inspect the defrost components. Replacing a faulty defrost heater or thermostat usually solves the issue. Regular maintenance and defrosting can prevent future frost problems.

Many of these fridge repairs can be done DIY. However, if you’re feeling uncertain about how to handle them, you should always rely on a professional.