What Causes These 3 Common Refrigerator Problems

In any household, the fridge is one of the most important appliances. It keeps food fresh and can be like a treasure chest of edible gold when hunger hits in full force. However, this essential does not come without its issues. Let’s see what causes the most common refrigerator problems.

Some of the most common problems refrigerators face are temperature irregularities, suspicious loud noises, and leaks. These can be major annoyances that disrupt your entire household. Here are the main causes of these refrigerator problems so you know what to look for and whether you need refrigerator repair.

Temperature Problems

With around a dozen components simultaneously keeping your fridge cold, it can be tricky to identify what exactly has gone wrong.

• The most obvious cause of irregularities in temperature is the thermostat not being turned to a suitable setting. Make sure it’s cold enough (usually around 40 degrees Fahrenheit/4 degrees Celsius), but not too cold or the contents will end up with frostbite. If you have a fridge/freezer combo, the temperature of the freezer should be around zero degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius).

• Something a little harder to notice is whether or not your gasket is leaking. The gasket it the rubber seal that prevents air loss. If it endures major wear and tear, this could cause your refrigerator’s temperature to rise. Cracks are a sign that this important feature needs immediate replacement.

• Another common cause is dirt that has built up on the condenser coils, which is usually found on the back of refrigerators. Residue will accumulate over time, and if not cleaned every six months or so, it can cause your fridge to have major temperature issues.

If none of these factors seem to be the cause, it’s probably time to call in a professional. One of the many other components responsible for keeping your fridge cold may be faulty and in need of proper repair or replacement.

Loud Noises

While refrigerators are by no means a silent appliance and make some normal operational noises, excess sounds can be cause for concern. If you hear a large banging noise, it’s time to investigate what the root of the issue could be.

The various potential causes include:

• Your condensing pan being out of place
• The motor blade of your condenser fan bashing into something

If neither of these seem to be the cause, the exterior tubing may be rubbing together, which makes a vibrating sound. Similarly, your fridge may be too close to the wall, which would also create a vibration.

Once you have exhausted all of these options and still cannot find the cause of the banging, it’s best to call a professional as your compressor may be broken and in need of repair or replacement.

Leaks

Have you noticed a puddle underneath your fridge that doesn’t seem to be coming from any obvious place inside? Usually, one of two common causes are responsible for water leaking from your refrigerator:

• Blockages in the defrost drain are likely to make your fridge leak. This comes from the accumulation of food and other grime clogging it up. Ice will build up in the drain and water will then begin to leak out.

• The other common cause is your water supply line being clogged. If you are experiencing a pool of water underneath the base of your refrigerator, this is likely the issue. Your water and/or ice dispensers will also have a hard time operating properly under these conditions.

If these factors don’t apply to your situation or you are unable to fix it yourself, make sure you have a professional come out to repair the issue as water around electrical appliances can be extremely dangerous.