Refrigerator Thermostat Troubleshooting
- Visual Check. If the first indication of any refrigerator thermostat problems is food that is the incorrect temperature.
- Inspect Thermostat. If the dial is set correctly but the temperature is not, you will need to unscrew the cover of the refrigerator thermostat to get a closer look.
- Replace Thermostat. ...
How do you replace a thermostat in a refrigerator?
- Even if your old thermostat was not using a C-wire, an unused C-wire may be stuffed in the wall behind the thermostat’s backplate. ...
- If there is no C-wire, one option is to use an “add-a-wire" kit or a power extender kit. ...
- Another option is to use a 24-volt adapter that provides a C-wire and plugs into a nearby outlet to power your thermostat.
How much does a thermostat cost for a refrigerator?
The cost to repair a refrigerator or freezer averages $200 to $330, depending on the parts that need replacing. A new thermostat might start as low as $100, while a new compressor can run up to $450. If your refrigerator is buzzing or humming, or if it’s failing to keep your food cold, you might need repairs. Some common issues include:
How to replace refrigerator thermostat?
Replacing a defrost thermostat
- Remove the screws holding the back panel in place. ...
- Remove the light cover toward the top of the freezer, under the ice maker. ...
- Remove the back panel to gain access to the evaporator. ...
- Locate the defrost thermostat. ...
- Carefully remove the defrost thermostat from the evaporator. ...
How to test a refrigerator thermostat [detailed guide]?
HOW TO TEST A REFRIGERATOR THERMOSTAT [DETAILED GUIDE ... From refrigeratorsreviewed.com. 2021-02-09 · Turn the refrigerator and freezer controls to OFF and 0 inside the refrigerator. Then, plug the refrigerator back into the wall outlet. Set the refrigerator ….
How do you reset a thermostat on a refrigerator?
1:132:36Refrigerator Troubleshooting, Hard Reset, and Liquid Temperature ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf the cause of your issue is still a mystery you'll want to try what is called a hard reset unplugMoreIf the cause of your issue is still a mystery you'll want to try what is called a hard reset unplug your unit from the wall for 30 to 45. Minutes then plug the unit back in this will reset the unit.
How do I know if the thermostat has gone in my fridge?
To check the present condition of the thermostat of your refrigerator, you can raise a degree and wait for the machine to turn on automatically. If the thermostat fails to start, it might be there are some technical breakdowns inside your refrigerator.
What happens if thermostat is not working in refrigerator?
When a refrigerator thermostat is not working, it can cause the entire appliance to malfunction. The thermostat controls the compressor to keep the temperature cold. If not, you may deal with an inconvenient breakdown and perishable food can spoil.
Can refrigerator work without thermostat?
You can run a fridge without a thermostat. A thermostat is just an on/off switch for the compressor. When the temp reaches the point that you set it at, it goes one. Generally, it goes off 2 to 3 degrees below that point.
How much does it cost to replace a fridge thermostat?
$100 - $440What Are Common Refrigerator Repair Costs?RepairAverage CostThermostat replacement$100 - $440Coils replacement$100 - $440Door seal replacement$50 - $440Drip pan replacement$50 - $2003 more rows•Apr 27, 2022
What is the price of a refrigerator thermostat?
market price of Refrigerator Thermostat in India is Rs 100/ Piece.
Why is my refrigerator running but not cooling?
The most common reason why a refrigerator is not cooling is a problem with the evaporator coils. Over time, evaporator coils can become covered with ice, which prevents the coils from working properly. If the coils are covered in ice, the ice will need to be defrosted to fix the problem.
How do I fix my refrigerator not cooling but the freezer is fine?
1:513:20Fridge is Warm but Freezer is Cold? DIY Repair - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd slowly chisel at it and chip it away so that you can clear up this port. Because as long as thisMoreAnd slowly chisel at it and chip it away so that you can clear up this port. Because as long as this port is blocked. The freezer will get cold. But it won't be able to push down into the fridge.
What would cause a refrigerator to stop getting cold?
Clogged coils can cause poor cooling. Check to make sure nothing is stuck in the condenser fan and that it spins freely (models with coils on the back won't have a fan). To do this, unplug the fridge and pull it out. Clean the fan blades and spin the fan by hand to see if it's stuck.
Where is the fridge thermostat located?
A refrigerator thermostat/cold control is basically the brains of the refrigerator cooling system—it runs the show. Thermostats are typically found inside the refrigerator and have a knob that allows users to adjust the temperature setting.
Why does my fridge keep getting warm?
Refrigerator Is Too Full If there are too many items in your fresh food compartment, that cold air may not circulate properly, resulting in a refrigerator that's warm. It's fairly common for a refrigerator to feel warm if it's overstuffed, and this problem is obviously easy to resolve.
Why the fridge is not cold but the freezer is?
Evaporator Coils One of the main reasons for fridge not cooling but freezer works is that the evaporator coils are not working in proper order. The evaporator coils are filled with frost, so air doesn't get space to pass through them to get cold. For a solution, you have to first remove the frost by blowing hot air.
Why is your refrigerator not cooling?
Clogged coils can cause poor cooling. Check to make sure nothing is stuck in the condenser fan and that it spins freely (models with coils on the back won't have a fan). To do this, unplug the fridge and pull it out. Clean the fan blades and spin the fan by hand to see if it's stuck.
Why does my fridge keep getting warm?
Refrigerator Is Too Full If there are too many items in your fresh food compartment, that cold air may not circulate properly, resulting in a refrigerator that's warm. It's fairly common for a refrigerator to feel warm if it's overstuffed, and this problem is obviously easy to resolve.
Why is my fridge too cold?
Common causes of a fridge that's too cold Airflow issues. Defrost system malfunctions. Leaking seals. Clogged vents.
What Is a Refrigerator Thermostat?
A refrigerator thermostat is the part of the refrigerator that controls the internal temperature. You turn the thermostat’s knob to the setting you want, and the refrigerator begins to cool. It helps the refrigerator maintain a cool temperature for an extended period by its control of the electric power which the compressor receives.
How a Refrigerator Thermostat Works
A refrigerator thermostat keeps an eye on the internal temperature, turning the compressor off and on as needed. It does this task by cutting off the electricity flow to the compressor and other parts of the cooling system.
Adjusting a Refrigerator Thermostat – Steps
To adjust the thermostat in your refrigerator, take the following steps:
Re-calibrating a Refrigerator Thermostat
Locate the thermostat inside the refrigerator and disconnect its wires. Pull it down from the temperature control housing and find the two adjustment screws in front of it. The location of the screws may vary by refrigerator model, but you will find them on the thermostat.
Refrigerator Thermostat Bypass – Steps
To bypass the thermostat in your refrigerator, especially when it is not cooling, do the following:
Refrigerator Thermostat Clicking – What to Do
The refrigerator may have a faulty relay on the adaptive defrost control. It is the device that supplies power to the compressor, controlling how much of it the compressor gets each time. The issue is that you may have a hard time replacing it yourself, so you may need the services of a qualified technician to do the job.
What Causes a Refrigerator Thermostat to Fail?
A refrigerator thermostat may fail if the gas in the capillary tube depletes. It is a mechanical fault that requires you to replace the thermostat. Another possible cause of a failed refrigerator thermostat is loss of connection or damage to the connectors between the thermostat and the refrigerator.
How to know if your refrigerator thermostat is bad?
Check the thermostat dial as it can often be inadvertently knocked in the process of using the refrigerator. If this is the case, turn the dial to 37 degrees Fahrenheit before putting a meat thermometer in the fridge and checking the temperature after an hour. Be aware that the optimum temperature for keeping food cool is between 30 degrees Fahrenheit and 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Where is the thermostat located on a refrigerator?
Unplug the appliance first and move any items out of the fridge that will be in the way. The thermostat is located behind the dial so you may need to use a flashlight to get a proper look.
What to do if lettuce is frozen?
Whether you find your lettuce frozen or your milk warm, the first thing you need to do is check your refrigerator thermostat. Rather than immediately assume that you need a new appliance, initially check whether the problem lies with the thermostat.
Can you force a refrigerator to take off the cover?
Do not force it, you may need to remove the dial before taking off the plastic cover. Take care to do so carefully to not drag out any wires or cause damage. Two wires will be exposed once the cover is removed and the continuity tester probe should be used in accordance with the instructions; this will indicate whether there is a closed circuit and that would mean that there is no problem with the electrical current serving the refrigerator and the problem lies elsewhere, such as with a dusty coil or a freezer that has become iced over.
Can a refrigerator thermostat be repaired?
Replace Thermostat. In the event that there isn’t a closed circuit, then the refrigerator thermostat must be replaced as it cannot be repaired. This job is best undertaken by a professional who specializes in the brand of your refrigerator.
How To Tell If A Temperature Control Is Bad
When your refrigerator’s thermostat goes bad, it’s usually because one of the delicate components in the temperature control is broken – like contacts or the capillary wire. Small components like this can’t be repaired. You just have to replace the entire thermostat. But, how do you tell if it’s the thermostat causing issues?
Finding The Right Replacement Part
For the most reliable repair, get a genuine OEM replacement thermostat. It’ll ensure a perfect fit and exact calibration for your model of refrigerator. You can find tons of genuine OEM replacement parts at AppliancePartsPros.com, you’ll just need your refrigerator’s model number to track them down. Get started with your model number below:
How To Replace A Refrigerator Thermostat
We completed this repair on a Whirlpool side-by-side fridge. While our tutorial will be most accurate for other side-by-side refrigerators, the thermostat can be found in roughly the same place regardless of your refrigerator brand or style.
Wrapping Up
If your refrigerator returns to a proper temperature and the compressor seems to be back to normal, you can count that as a successful repair! We hope this how-to has helped you out, and if you need a bit more guidance on this particular task, don’t forget to check out our tutorial video. It provides a detailed look at how the job is done.
What happens if your refrigerator thermostat isn't working?
If the refrigerator isn't at the temperature you set, the control thermostat might not sense the temperature correctly or might not signal the compressor to turn on. In either case, you can replace the refrigerator thermostat using the manufacturer-approved refrigerator temperature control replacement part that fits your model.
What happens if the temperature in my refrigerator doesn't match the temperature?
If the temperature in your refrigerator doesn't match the temperature you set, the problem could be the temperature control board —a service technician can give you a definite diagnosis. If the board is at fault, follow these steps to replace it yourself.
How long can you leave a refrigerator without power?
Move highly perishable food to a cooler or other cooled space. The refrigerator will be without power for about 30 minutes, which shouldn't affect most refrigerated or frozen foods.
How to secure a control housing?
Carefully push the control housing into position, making sure the wires are properly positioned so the edges of the control housing won't pinch them. Insert the mounting screws, tighten them until they stop turning and then give the screws a reasonably firm twist to secure them.
How to reset a refrigerator thermostat?
It should then turn on or restart. But if it does not, there may be a technical malfunction. To correctly reset the system, unplug the appliance before adjusting the thermostat. If this doesn’t resolve the problem, contact a refrigerator repair technician specializing in your brand of refrigerator.
What causes a refrigerator door to leak?
Inspect the refrigerator door – A damaged seal or gasket can cause cold air to leak, making it warmer inside and potentially impacting the freshness and safety of food. Also check for damage to the fan, condenser, compressor, or evaporator.
What temperature should a refrigerator be?
The best temperature for a refrigerator is between 30°F and 40°F, but even slight fluctuations can spoil food and allow disease-causing microbes to grow. Refrigerator temperature should be at or below 40°F to keep perishable food cool and fresh, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Additional information on recommended temperatures can be found in your appliance manual. If you periodically check the fridge’s temperature, don’t use a glass thermometer, as cold temperatures can damage it.
How to keep refrigerator from growing bacteria?
Clean the condenser – If you haven’t done so in the past 6 months, dirt may have collected on the condenser coils, affecting refrigerator performance and efficiency. Cleaning the inside of the fridge regularly also helps protect the appliance and prevent the growth of bacteria.
Why does my fridge freeze?
If food freezes inside the fridge or its compartments, the cause may be a faulty thermostat. You can use an appliance thermometer to check the thermostat, or try increasing the temperature a couple of degrees. Then wait a day to check whether the food has become unfrozen. However, this problem often requires the help of a repair specialist and replacement of your old thermostat.
Is Wilshire Refrigeration a factory certified company?
Wilshire Refrigeration is factory-certified to repair Sub-Zero appliances. We are open during the coronavirus pandemic to provide refrigerator service and provide any necessary repairs or maintenance. Our professional technicians are available for no contact service (following social distancing, equipment sanitization, and other CDC guidelines) while being ready to ensure you get the service you need. We are trusted for refrigerator thermostat repair and other appliance services in Los Angeles and throughout Southern California.
How to know if thermostat is broken?
How to Know When the Thermostat Is Broken in a Fridge or Freezer. If you have a refrigera tor that never cycles on or a refrigera tor that runs continuously, freezing everything in the refrigera tor and freezer compartments, the chances are good that you have a bad thermostatic temperature control. For a refrigerator that never turns on, ...
Why won't my refrigerator turn on?
For a refrigerator that never turns on, the problem might also be a start relay switch, a bad motor start capacitor or even a bad compressor motor. Of all the possible causes, the thermostatic control is one of the easiest to test.
Why does my refrigerator freeze?
If the temperature control passed the electrical function test but the refrigerator runs continuously, freezing everything in the refrigerator compartment, the problem is a defective temperature sensing bulb on the temperature control. The temperature-sensing bulb is an integral part of the temperature control switch, so you need to replace the complete control.
Where is the thermostat located in a refrigerator?
The thermostat is usually located on the inside of the freezer and/or fridge.
How to fix a refrigerator that is not working?
Try another appliance in close proximity to the refrigerator. Plug the other appliance into the same outlet that your refrigerator was plugged into. If that appliance also does not work, check your fuse or circuit breaker box. You might have a blown fuse or tripped breaker.
How to check if refrigerator is overheating?
If it starts running "normally" again, the compressor is overheating and it should be checked by a repair technician. Use a multimeter to test each component for continuity. These include the temperature control, the evaporator fan, the defrost timer, the overload protector and the compressor motor.
Why is my refrigerator too warm?
It's important to check both the refrigerator and the freezer temperature settings, because the refrigerator gets its cold from the freezer . A problem with the freezer setting will affect the refrigerator as well.
Why do you defrost the freezer?
Defrost the freezer in case there's too much ice built up and clean your condenser coils. If there is a build of debris on your condenser coils, they won't be able to efficiently dissipate heat, and the refrigerator will have to constantly cool.
What happens if your refrigerator is not level?
If your refrigerator is not level, things might not seal correctly , and the defrost drain might leak. The refrigerator was designed to operate correctly when level. Unplug the refrigerator, then place a level on top of the refrigerator.
What temperature should a refrigerator be set at?
It should be set between 37 and 40º F (3-4ºC) for the refrigerator and between 0-5ºF (-15 to -18ºC) for the freezer.
