Common Refrigerator Issues and Their Causes

If your refrigerator is leaking water, check for a blocked defrost drain or frozen water line. Flush the drain with warm water or use a turkey baster to remove the blockage. If the water line is frozen, locate any ice blockages and allow them to thaw.

Dirty condenser coils are often the cause of a refrigerator not cooling properly. Locate the coils, usually at the back or bottom of the fridge, and clean off any dust, hair, or dirt buildup preventing proper heat release.

Inspect the door gasket (seal) for any cracks or worn areas. A damaged gasket will prevent an airtight seal when the door is closed, allowing cool air to escape. Replace the gasket if it is damaged to ensure a tight seal.

Excessive ice buildup is often caused by warm, humid air entering the fridge due to a faulty door seal. Check the seal for any cracks or gaps and replace it to prevent moist air from infiltrating.

Loud noises can be caused by dirty condenser coils making the compressor work harder or the temperature being set too low. Clean the coils and adjust the temperature setting to the recommended range. If the noise persists, professional repair may be required.

If the inside of your refrigerator feels too warm, the thermostat sensor is likely faulty. It may not be reading the temperature accurately to turn the compressor on and off properly. The thermostat may need to be replaced by a professional.

Yes, a spike in energy use could mean the refrigerator is inefficient due to dirty coils, gasket leaks, or old age. Clean the coils and check the gaskets. If the fridge remains inefficient, consider replacing an older unit.

Water pooling under crisper drawers is usually caused by a blocked defrost drain filled with food debris. Use a turkey baster to flush the drain with warm water. Severe blockages may require professional drain cleaning.

If the refrigerator runs constantly or can’t maintain the desired temperature, the thermostat control is likely faulty. Consult a technician to diagnose and replace the thermostat if it’s not properly regulating cooling.

Clean the evaporator fan blades regularly to prevent dust and debris buildup, which can hinder efficient air circulation. If the fan is damaged, it may need to be replaced by a professional.

Excessive frost buildup in the freezer often means the seal on the separating panel is damaged, allowing moist air to enter. Clean off any ice and inspect the seal for dents or damage, replacing it if compromised.

If the refrigerator runs continuously, there may be a defrost issue, stuck relay, or thermostat problem always calling for cooling. This strains components, so have a repair technician diagnose and fix the underlying issue causing the non-stop operation.