If you’ve ever dealt with a malfunctioning refrigerator, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only might you lose hundreds of dollars worth of fresh food, but a defective appliance can also run up your utility bills. While a handful of refrigerator issues are easy fixes, many problems require the expertise of a trained appliance repair professional. The experts at G&G Appliance Service in New York State discuss five of the most common refrigerator issues that typically necessitate professional service.
Frequent Power Cycling
If you’ve noticed your refrigerator seems to be running all the time, you may have an issue with the condenser coils. Over time, dust and other debris can build up on the coils located on the bottom of the appliance. This buildup can prevent the coils from releasing heat efficiently, leading your refrigerator to run almost constantly. If you can remove the grill and locate the coils, you can try using a vacuum or soft cloth to remove dust and other grime. Just make sure you power down the appliance before attempting to clean it.
Another very common culprit behind a constantly running refrigerator is an exceedingly low temperature setting. If you notice you’ve accidentally bumped the temperature setting, that’s an easy fix. However, if you regularly check the thermostat and your fridge doesn’t appear to be running at the correct temperature, you’ll need to seek the expertise of a refrigerator repairman. Try to keep your fridge set at around 40 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal performance and food quality.
Inability to Maintain Temperature
If your refrigerator doesn't maintain a specific temperature setting, this issue may also be related to buildup on the appliance’s condenser coils. Again, you can try using a soft cloth or vacuum to remove the buildup. If the temperature problem persists despite thorough cleaning, you may have a defective evaporator fan or a clogged diffuser duct.
Your unit’s evaporator fan directs cold air generated by your freezer into the refrigerator compartment of the appliance. If you can hear the fan running, and you can feel cold air dispersing from the freezer vents, you’re likely dealing with a clogged diffuser duct. However, if you cannot hear the fan, the motor has likely burned out, and you’ll need to have an appliance repair service replace the fan motor.
Overflowing Ice Maker
An overflowing ice maker is usually due to insufficient water pressure or a defective water inlet valve. If your water pressure is below 20 psi, the inlet valve may not close completely after the power cuts off. If that’s the case, water will continue to drip into the icemaker, causing it to overflow. If the water inlet valve itself is broken, it may remain in the open position constantly, even if your water pressure is equal to or higher than 20 psi. If your ice maker overflows even with sufficient water pressure, you’ll need to have a freezer repair service replace the valve.
Non-Functional Water Dispenser
If your water dispenser stops working, it’s usually due to one of three possible causes:
● Frozen water supply. If water freezes inside the supply line to the water dispenser, it will prevent water flow. Try disconnecting the supply line at the bottom of the refrigerator door and attempt blowing air into the line. If air cannot pass through it, you have a blocked supply tube.
● Low water pressure. Inadequate water pressure can cause either your ice maker or water dispenser to cease functioning. Your refrigerator’s water inlet valve requires a minimum of 20 psi to open and allow water to flow into the dispenser. Locate your home’s water supply to determine if there is sufficient pressure.
● Defective water inlet valve. The water inlet valve opens the water supply to allow water to flow into the dispenser. If you have a faulty valve, it won’t open, and water will not dispense.
If a frozen water supply is the issue, you can unplug the appliance and allow the tube to defrost. If you’ve checked your water pressure and it’s sufficient, a defective inlet valve is likely the problem. You’ll need to contact a refrigerator repair service to replace the valve.
Water Leakage
Have you ever noticed water leaking from your refrigerator onto the floor? If so, you likely have one of two problems: a blocked defrost drain or a clogged water supply. During the freezer’s defrost cycle, water slowly drips into the defrost drain, but when the drain becomes clogged with debris, that water has nowhere to go. Eventually, water begins leaking out of the freezer or refrigerator. You can try to remedy the problem by flushing the defrost drain with warm water, but it’s best to contact an appliance repair professional to ensure the drain is completely clear.
A frozen or clogged water supply can also result in water leakage from the refrigerator or freezer. Occasionally, water freezes inside the line that supplies the ice maker and water dispenser, or debris somehow makes its way inside the line, which blocks the water flow. Take a peek at the water line to see if the blockage is translucent. If it is, ice is likely the culprit. Leave your refrigerator unplugged for about two hours to allow the ice to melt. If the blockage is any other color, it is likely caused by debris. You’ll need to contact a refrigerator repair specialist to remove it or install a new line.
Prompt, Reliable Appliance Repair Throughout New York
If your refrigerator or freezer has been acting up, call the appliance repair professionals at G&G Appliance Service. For over 20 years, we’ve been serving residents throughout New York, and as a result of our superior service, we’ve developed a reputation as one of the state’s highest-volume appliance repair companies. Our expert technicians, advanced repair practices, and convenient scheduling make us the obvious choice for your appliance repair needs. For questions about our repair process or to schedule your service appointment, contact our team at 718-848-2100. Or, feel free to schedule your repair online!