Appliance Repair Blog

Five Common Refrigerator Problems Homeowners Face

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Refrigerator problems can lead to extensive food replacement bills. These issues may start appearing around the seven to eight-year mark since refrigerators typically don’t last as long. Even a clothes washer lasts about 10 to 13 years before it needs substantial repairs or a replacement.

Regardless of your refrigerator needs, Rick’s Appliance Service provides affordable appliance repair in Wichita, KS, and nearby areas. Here are five refrigerator problems to keep an eye out for to find out if you should give us a call.

#1. Faulty Cooling

One of the most common refrigeration issues stems from poor cooling. When a refrigerator doesn’t cool, the food inside reaches dangerous temperatures that may promote bacterial growth.

Refrigerators function using refrigerant, which circulates in the system and redistributes heat from inside the appliance to the drip pan. A problem with the fridge not cooling often shows up due to issues with one of several parts:

  • Thermostat
  • Blower fans
  • Condenser coils
  • Expansion valves
  • Evaporator coils

#2. Icy Food or Freezer Burn

Have you ever opened the refrigerator to get food only to find it frozen? While you can expect some frost on boxes or frozen food inside the freezer, the fridge is a different matter.

Usually, a frozen refrigerator section goes back to the thermostat, which may have wiring damage, causing the temperature to get too low. Of course, practice electrical safety at home and leave refrigerator repairs and wiring to a professional.

#3. Water Leaking from the Fridge

You shouldn’t have puddles of water coming from under the fridge. While this trend of refrigerator problems can seem minor, the leaking water can cause wall or floor damage.

In most cases, the defrost drain distributes the water supply melting in the freezer section to a drip pan, which evaporates over time. However, clogs in the defrost drain or damage to the drip pan can cause the water to overflow.

#4. Poor Lighting

Your refrigerator should have a light that turns on any time you open the door. However, if the light doesn’t turn on, you may have a problem with the bulb.

If you know the type of bulb you need, you may be able to replace it, just like you would for a lamp. However, if the replacement doesn’t solve the problem, an electrical fault inside the system may require professional care.

#5. Loud Noises from the Fridge

Generally, you shouldn’t hear when your refrigerator is running. If you do, your appliance may have trouble keeping the fridge or freezer side as cool as you’ve set. 

A noisy refrigerator may indicate dirty condenser coils, which have trouble redistributing heat energy and keeping cold air flowing. You should also check your thermostat settings to ensure they aren’t too low.

Rely on Rick’s Appliance Service to Help with Refrigerator Problems in Wichita, KS

Rick’s Appliance Service provides expert technicians to help with refrigerator and freezer repair in and around Wichita. We multiply the value of our services with friendly customer care, efficient work, and fast response times. If you need appliance services to address your refrigerator problems, call (316) 265-2866 today.