DIY Guide to Repairing Refrigerators
In this article, you'll learn how to repair some common problems that may occur in a refrigerator. From faulty thermostats to leaky gaskets, you'll discover how to fix a few common problems.
You'll also learn how to replace a clogged condenser fan and check for leaking parts. Hopefully, you'll have a functioning refrigerator in no time!
Fixing a faulty thermostat
If you suspect the thermostat in your refrigerator is faulty, there are a couple of steps you can take to solve the problem. First, you should know what to look for in your refrigerator manual. Once you have found the part number, try to replace it.
Remember that replacing a faulty thermostat can cause further breakages. Therefore, always cut power to your refrigerator before starting the repair. After you have performed the repair, clean the entire refrigerator to ensure no electrical wires are touching it.
When you notice that the temperature in your refrigerator has gone beyond the infinity setting, your refrigerator's thermostat is probably the culprit. Check to make sure that you set it correctly and if it isn't, replace it. If you don't know how to do this, you can call a technician who specializes in specific brands. They will know which thermostat settings are faulty and also know what parts you're likely to need.
Checking for leaks
While you might be tempted to take on a more difficult repair task than checking for leaks, you should first ensure that you are dealing with a problem within your capacity. A refrigerator that leaks can be a safety hazard, as water can get everywhere and make your kitchen floor very slippery. In addition, a leaking refrigerator can also damage the structure of your home.
One of the most common causes of leaks is a copper line. You can check this by placing a sheet of newspaper underneath the pipe. Once you've located the leak, you can fix it by tightening the nut connecting the copper line to the shut-off valve. Use an adjustable wrench to turn the nut clockwise. If the leak persists, you may need to replace the ferrule. Check out here to know more.
Replacing a clogged condenser fan
If your refrigerator isn't cooling, chances are it has a clogged condenser-fan motor. These fans turn on when the thermostat signals that the fridge needs to cool faster. If the fan is clogged or not spinning, you'll need to replace it. This part is located on the bottom of the refrigerator, near the compressor and condenser coils. Alternatively, if the fan has stopped working, it may be a stuck or broken condenser fan motor.
To replace a clogged condenser, start by cleaning the unit thoroughly along with the protective grate. Then, run the vacuum over the coils and fan to remove any debris lodged in the system. Once the coils and fan are clean, you can move on to inspect the coils and fan using a flashlight.
Checking for a leaky gasket
The first step in repairing a refrigerator is to check for a leaky gasket. It can be a difficult task if the door gasket is too loose. In this case, you should replace the gasket. If this method is insufficient, you can use silicone grease or petroleum jelly to fix the gasket. To do this, remove the door gasket from the refrigerator and clean it with soapy water.
To test the seal, place a dollar bill with half inside and half outside the refrigerator. Open the door and observe the change. The gasket is probably not damaged if the bill is still in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can call an appliance repair specialist for the job. The technician will have the necessary tools and experience to diagnose the problem.
Replacing an inlet valve
Replacing an inlet valve in a refrigerator is easy, but you must first know the problem. The valve is the one that allows water to enter the refrigerator. You can check if the valve is clogged by checking the water line. The refrigerator's water line is connected to the inlet water valve. It should be attached to the valve assembly with a nut.
To replace the valve:
·
Unscrew the screw above the
water valve that secures it against the back panel.
·
Unscrew the screws and pull the
back panel slightly to the left to release it. You can then install the dual
water inlet valve assembly.
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