5 Common Refrigerator Problems and DIY Solutions

A functional refrigerator is a necessity in every home. Which is why it can be so troublesome when your refrigerator starts to make strange noises or leak water. But there is no need to panic yet! While some problems may require professional attention, there are many common refrigerator problems that you can diagnose and fix yourself at home.

Whether you are trying to find a solution to a refrigerator problem yourself, or just brushing up on appliance repair knowledge, this article will explore five of these common issues and provide DIY solutions to keep your fridge running smoothly.

We also recommend reading some of our refrigerator maintenance hacks to hopefully avoid these issues. And as always, if you encounter a problem that you cannot DIY, then it’s time to call a professional appliance repair service.

Summary

1. Problem 1: The Fridge is Not Cooling Properly
2. Problem 2: The Fridge is Running Too Much
3. Problem 3: The Fridge is Making Unusual Noises
4. Problem 4: The Fridge is Leaking Water Inside
5. Problem 5: The Fridge is Not Defrosting
6. When to Hire a Professional

Problem 1: The Fridge is Not Cooling Properly

It can become a major problem if a refrigerator stops cooling properly. Fortunately, there are several ways to troubleshoot this issue.

• Check the temperature setting. Ensure that your fridge is set to the correct cooling temperature. A good rule of thumb is to keep it between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal performance.
• Verify that the condenser coils are clean. The condenser coils help cool down air circulating in the fridge, so if they become clogged with dirt and dust, they won’t be able to perform their job properly. Carefully remove the coils from the back of your fridge and clean them with a soft brush.
• Test the door seal. If air is leaking out of the fridge, it’s likely due to a faulty door seal. Inspect the seals around all four sides of your refrigerator door for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If necessary, replace the seals to ensure an airtight seal.

Problem 2: The Fridge is Running Too Much

Fridge motors are designed to run continuously, but if yours is running for longer than usual, it could be a sign of a bigger problem. Here are some tips for solving this issue:

• Check the temperature setting. If your fridge is set too high, it will run more often and for longer periods of time in order to cool down the interior. Adjust the temperature setting to keep it between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Make sure there are no blockages around air vents. If your refrigerator isn’t getting enough airflow, it could cause the motor to run more often in order to cool down the interior.
• Clean your condenser coils. Over time, these coils can accumulate dust and grime, reducing their efficiency and forcing your fridge to work harder to maintain a cool temperature. Unplug your refrigerator, then locate the coils – they are usually at the back or bottom. Use a soft brush or vacuum to carefully remove the dust. Be gentle to avoid damaging the coils.

Problem 3: The Fridge is Making Unusual Noises

Noisy fridges can be annoying and distracting. Fortunately, most noises can be easily fixed with a few simple tips:

• Inspect the fan blades for any damage or debris that could be causing noise. Carefully remove the fan blades and check for any signs of damage or dirt accumulation. If necessary, clean the blades with a soft brush or compressed air.
• Check if the compressor is running too often. If your fridge compressor runs more than usual, it could be causing excessive noise. To fix this, lower the temperature setting to keep it between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Replace the fan motor. If none of these tips work, it’s likely that your fridge fan motor needs to be replaced. Have a professional check and replace the motor if necessary.

Problem 4: The Fridge is Leaking Water Inside

One of the most dreaded questions you may find yourself asking is “Why does my refrigerator leak?” If you notice water on the floor near your refrigerator, it could be due to a few common causes. Here’s how to diagnose and fix the issue:

• Check the ice maker for any signs of leaking. If your fridge has an ice maker, inspect it for any cracks or loose connections that could be causing a leak. Tighten all connections and replace any broken components if necessary.
• Verify that the water line is properly connected and undamaged. If the water line is loose or damaged, it could be causing a leak. Carefully inspect the connections and replace any damaged parts if needed.
• Inspect the door seals. Door seals that are worn or cracked can cause leaks due to air escaping from around the edges of the door. Check all four sides of your refrigerator door for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If necessary, replace the seals to ensure an airtight seal.

Problem 5: The Fridge is Not Defrosting

If your fridge isn’t defrosting properly, it could be a sign of a few different issues. Here are some tips for troubleshooting the issue:

• Check the temperature setting, a good place to start for most of the common refrigerator issues. If your fridge is set too cold, it won’t be able to defrost properly. Adjust the temperature setting to keep it between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Verify that the evaporator coils are clean. The evaporator coils help remove moisture from the air in order for the fridge to defrost. Clean the coils with a soft brush or compressed air if necessary.
• Test the door seal. If air is leaking out of the fridge, it won’t be able to properly defrost and could cause frost buildup over time. Inspect all four sides of your refrigerator door for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If necessary, replace the seals to ensure an airtight seal.

When to Hire a Professional

While DIY solutions can be effective for these minor refrigerator issues, there are instances when hiring a professional is the best course of action. Complex problems like compressor failures, sealed system leaks, or electrical issues require technical expertise and specialized tools.

A professional repair service has the necessary skills and knowledge to diagnose and fix these problems accurately and safely. In addition, they can also provide valuable advice on maintaining your appliance and preventing future issues.

Comfort Appliance offers refrigerator repair on units from all major brands and units of all ages. If you find yourself in need of appliance repair or have questions about your refrigerator, contact Comfort Appliance today.