If your fridge stops keeping food cold or starts making weird noises, you’re not alone. Most homeowners face at least one of these problems each year. The good news is many fixes are easy and don’t need a professional. Below we walk through the top fridge issues and how to solve them.
The first thing to check is the temperature dial. It’s easy to knock it out of range when cleaning or moving the unit. Set it to the middle position and give the fridge a few hours to settle.
Next, look at the condenser coils. Dust and pet hair act like a blanket, making the motor work harder and reducing cooling. Pull the fridge away from the wall, unplug it, and use a vacuum brush to clean the coils. This simple step can boost efficiency dramatically.
If the coils are clean and the temperature is still high, the door seal might be leaking air. Close the door on a piece of paper; if you can pull it out easily, the gasket is worn. A cheap replaceable seal fixes the problem and saves energy.
Water pooling under the fridge is often caused by a blocked defrost drain. Locate the drain hole at the back of the freezer compartment, then pour a little warm water down it. The water will melt any ice blockage and let it flow to the drain pan.
Frost buildup inside the freezer can also create leaks. If you see thick ice, turn the fridge off, empty it, and let the ice melt completely. Clean the interior, dry it, and restart the unit.
Rumbling or buzzing noises usually come from the compressor or the fan. Make sure the fridge is level – an uneven floor can make the compressor vibrate. Use a level and adjust the front legs until the unit sits flat.
If the fan is noisy, it may be hitting the freezer wall. Unplug the fridge, remove the back panel, and gently clean the fan blades. A few weeks of cleaning can stop the rattling.
When you’ve tried these steps and the fridge still misbehaves, it’s time to call a repair tech. Most issues are simple, but a faulty thermostat or sealed system leak needs a professional.
Keeping your refrigerator running smoothly is mostly about regular maintenance. Clean the coils twice a year, check the door seal, and wipe up spills right away. These habits prevent most problems before they start.
Got a fridge problem that isn’t on this list? Write down what’s happening, when it started, and any recent changes in your kitchen. That information helps a technician diagnose the issue faster.
With a little know‑how, you can tackle the majority of refrigerator problems yourself and avoid costly repair bills. Keep these tips handy, and your fridge will stay cool and quiet for years to come.
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