Refrigerator Repair Service
Common Refrigerator Issues:
- Fridge is not cold enough
- Fridge water dispenser is not working
- Fridge ice maker is not working
- Fridge not defrosting
- Fridge compressor is hot
- Fridge defrost drain problems
- Fridge leaking water
- Fridge freezing food
- Fridge light is not working
- Fridge is not cooling; freezer works
- Fridge indicator light is out
- Fridge smell bad
- Ice maker doesn’t make ice
- Ice maker doesn’t dispense
- Error code on the electronic panel
- Refrigerator broken door seal
- Refrigerator constantly runs or hums
- Refrigerator does not defrost
- Refrigerator is noisy or loud
- Refrigerant freon recharge
- Refrigerator has a refrigerant leak
- Refrigerator is not working at all
- Refrigerator fan is not working
- Refrigerator defrost thermostat
- Freezer is not working; clicking sound
- Freezer coils frosting up
- Freezer only freezes top shelf
- Freezer is leaking water
- Water doesn’t come out of the dispenser
- Fridge is too cold
- Condensation on the fridge door
- Freezer door is not sealing properly
- Freezer is cold, but refrigerator is warm
- Freezer not cooling
- Freezer is not freezing
- Condenser fan issues
The masters of our appliance repair team in Seattle repair refrigerators at home in all districts of Seattle, Washington. For more than 10 years we have been providing a wide range of services for the repair and maintenance of household refrigeration equipment.
Our service center offers professional repair of refrigeration equipment near your place right at your home.
Want to get the best fridge repair nearby? Contact us right away and the master of the service center in the Seattle area will arrive at a convenient time for you and repair the refrigerator right at your home with a guarantee.
To find out the cost of fridge repair near you, call our service center. Our fridge repair contact number is 206-590-5700. Repairs are carried out within 24 hours from the moment of contact or on a day convenient for you.
The main symptoms of refrigerator malfunctions:
- insufficient or excessive cooling of the refrigerator compartment
- lack of cooling when the compressor is running / not running
- the refrigerator turns off a few seconds after starting
If there is an under or overcooling of the refrigeration compartment, you should immediately seek technical assistance. There is nothing in this symptom that you can identify and fix yourself:
- breaking thermostat
- pipe rupture
- blockage of the capillary tube
- evaporator penetration (refrigerant leak)
If there is no cold and the compressor does not turn on, the causes of breakdowns may be as follows:
- malfunction of the thermostat, refrigerator control board
- compressor failure
- start relay failure
We repair refrigerators of ALL brands:
- Sub-Zero
- Wolf
- Viking
- Thermado
- Samsung
- GE Monogram
- Dacor
- Bertazzoni
- Maytag
- Miele
- Whirlpool
- Admiral
The most common malfunctions of the refrigerator
Fridge is not cold enough
When your fridge isn’t cold enough, it can lead to food spoilage and inconvenience. Here are some common reasons and solutions:
1. Temperature Settings: Check the temperature settings on your fridge. It’s possible that the settings were accidentally adjusted or that the thermostat is malfunctioning. Set the temperature to the recommended level (usually between 37°F and 40°F or 3°C and 4°C).
2. Dirty Condenser Coils: Dust and debris can accumulate on the condenser coils, reducing their ability to dissipate heat effectively. Clean the coils using a vacuum cleaner or a coil brush to improve cooling efficiency.
3. Blocked Air Vents: Make sure that the air vents inside the fridge are not blocked by food items or other objects. Blocked vents can restrict airflow and prevent proper cooling. Rearrange items inside the fridge to ensure adequate air circulation.
4. Door Seal: Inspect the door seal (gasket) for any signs of damage, wear, or dirt accumulation. A faulty door seal can allow cold air to escape and warm air to enter the fridge, leading to insufficient cooling. Replace the door seal if necessary.
5. Evaporator Fan Malfunction: The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer to the fridge compartment. If the fan is not functioning correctly, the fridge may not cool properly. Check the fan for any obstructions or signs of damage, and replace it if needed.
6. Defrost System Issues: If the defrost system is not working correctly, ice buildup can occur on the evaporator coils, restricting airflow and affecting cooling. Test the defrost heater, defrost thermostat, and defrost timer/control board for continuity and replace any faulty components.
7. Refrigerant Leak: A refrigerant leak can cause the fridge to lose its cooling ability over time. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, you’ll need to contact a professional technician to locate and repair the leak and recharge the refrigerant.
8. Compressor Problems: The compressor is the heart of the refrigeration system. If the compressor is not functioning correctly, the fridge may not cool adequately. Listen for unusual noises coming from the compressor or feel for excessive heat. If you suspect compressor issues, it’s best to consult a professional technician.
9. Thermistor or Temperature Sensor: The thermistor or temperature sensor monitors the temperature inside the fridge and sends signals to the control board. If the thermistor is faulty or out of calibration, it can cause temperature fluctuations. Test the thermistor for continuity and replace it if necessary.
If you’ve checked these common issues and your fridge still isn’t cooling properly, it may be time to consult our expert appliance repair technician for further diagnosis and repair.
Fridge water dispenser is not working
When the water dispenser on your fridge isn’t working, it can be inconvenient. Here are some common reasons and solutions to address this issue:
1. Water Supply Issues: Ensure that the water supply to the fridge is turned on and that there are no kinks or blockages in the water line. Sometimes, the water supply valve behind the fridge may accidentally get turned off, so check to make sure it’s open.
2. Frozen Water Line: If the water line inside the fridge or freezer compartment is frozen, it can block water flow to the dispenser. This can happen if the freezer temperature is set too low. Try increasing the freezer temperature slightly to see if it resolves the issue. You can also use a hairdryer to carefully thaw the frozen water line.
3. Clogged Water Filter: If your fridge has a water filter, it may be clogged with sediment or debris, restricting water flow. Replace the water filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically every 6 months, or if the filter is visibly clogged.
4. Faulty Water Inlet Valve: The water inlet valve controls the flow of water into the fridge’s water dispenser. If the valve is defective or clogged, it may prevent water from reaching the dispenser. Test the water inlet valve for continuity using a multimeter and replace it if necessary.
5. Dispenser Switch or Actuator: The dispenser switch or actuator, located behind the dispenser panel, may be faulty or stuck. Inspect these components for any signs of damage or malfunction and replace them if needed.
6. Dispenser Control Board: The dispenser control board regulates the functions of the water dispenser. If the control board is faulty, it may not send the proper signals to the water inlet valve or other components. Test the control board for continuity and replace it if necessary.
7. Air in the Water Line: Sometimes, air bubbles can get trapped in the water line when the water supply is first connected or after a filter change. Dispense several cups of water to flush out any trapped air and restore water flow.
8. Door Switch: Some refrigerators have a door switch that activates the water dispenser when the fridge door is closed. If the door switch is faulty, it may prevent the dispenser from working properly. Test the door switch for continuity and replace it if necessary.
By troubleshooting these common reasons for a non-working water dispenser, you can identify and resolve the issue, restoring the convenience of having fresh, cold water on demand. If you’re unsure about how to proceed or if the issue persists after troubleshooting, consider consulting a professional appliance repair technician.
Fridge ice maker is not working
When the ice maker in your fridge isn’t working, it can be frustrating. Here are some common reasons and solutions to address this issue:
1. Water Supply Issues: Ensure that the water supply to the fridge is turned on and that there are no kinks or blockages in the water line. Sometimes, the water supply valve behind the fridge may accidentally get turned off, so check to make sure it’s open.
2. Frozen Water Line: If the water line leading to the ice maker is frozen, it can block water flow and prevent ice production. This can happen if the freezer temperature is set too low. Try increasing the freezer temperature slightly to see if it resolves the issue. You can also use a hairdryer to carefully thaw the frozen water line.
3. Clogged Water Filter: If your fridge has a water filter, it may be clogged with sediment or debris, restricting water flow to the ice maker. Replace the water filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically every 6 months, or if the filter is visibly clogged.
4. Faulty Water Inlet Valve: The water inlet valve controls the flow of water into the ice maker. If the valve is defective or clogged, it may prevent water from reaching the ice maker. Test the water inlet valve for continuity using a multimeter and replace it if necessary.
5. Ice Maker Assembly Issues: Inspect the ice maker assembly for any signs of damage, such as broken components or ice buildup. If the ice maker is physically damaged or malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced.
6. Ice Maker Control Module: The control module in the ice maker regulates its functions, such as water fill and ice ejection. If the control module is faulty, it may prevent the ice maker from working properly. Test the control module for continuity and replace it if necessary.
7. Ice Level Sensor: Some ice makers have a sensor that detects when the ice bin is full. If this sensor is faulty or obstructed, it may prevent the ice maker from producing more ice. Check the ice level sensor for any obstructions or damage and replace it if needed.
8. Electrical Issues: Ensure that the ice maker is receiving power by checking the electrical connections. If the power supply is interrupted or if there’s a wiring issue, the ice maker may not function properly. Test the electrical connections and repair any issues found.
By troubleshooting these common reasons for a non-working ice maker, you can identify and resolve the issue, restoring the convenience of having ice readily available. If you’re unsure about how to proceed or if the issue persists after troubleshooting, consider consulting the expert appliance repair service.
Fridge not defrosting
When a fridge is not defrosting properly, it can lead to a buildup of frost and ice, affecting its cooling efficiency. Here are some common reasons and solutions for this issue:
1. Defrost Timer: The defrost timer controls the defrost cycle of the fridge, turning the defrost heater on and off at regular intervals. If the defrost timer is faulty or stuck, it may prevent the fridge from entering the defrost cycle. Test the defrost timer for continuity using a multimeter and replace it if necessary.
2. Defrost Heater: The defrost heater is responsible for melting frost and ice buildup on the evaporator coils during the defrost cycle. If the defrost heater is burned out or defective, it may not adequately melt the ice, leading to a buildup of frost. Test the defrost heater for continuity and replace it if needed.
3. Defrost Thermostat: The defrost thermostat monitors the temperature of the evaporator coils and signals the defrost heater to turn on when needed. If the thermostat is faulty or stuck open, it may not activate the defrost heater, causing frost to accumulate. Test the defrost thermostat for continuity and replace it if necessary.
4. Defrost Control Board: In some fridges, the defrost functions are controlled by a defrost control board. If the control board is defective or malfunctioning, it may prevent the defrost heater from operating properly. Test the control board for any visible signs of damage or test it for proper function according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Blocked Drainage System: During the defrost cycle, water from the melted frost and ice should drain out of the fridge through a drainage system. If the drainage system is blocked by debris or ice buildup, it can prevent water from draining properly, leading to water accumulation and refreezing. Clean out the drainage system to ensure proper water flow.
6. Door Gasket: A worn or damaged door gasket can allow warm, humid air from outside the fridge to enter, leading to excessive frost buildup. Inspect the door gasket for any signs of wear, tears, or damage, and replace it if necessary.
7. Air Circulation: Poor air circulation inside the fridge can contribute to uneven defrosting and frost buildup. Ensure that there are no obstructions blocking the airflow vents inside the fridge, and rearrange items to allow for proper air circulation.
By addressing these common reasons for a fridge not defrosting, you can identify and resolve the issue, restoring optimal cooling performance and preventing frost buildup. If you’re unsure about how to proceed or if the issue persists after troubleshooting, consider consulting a expert appliance technicians.
Fridge compressor is hot
If your fridge compressor is hot to the touch, it could indicate several potential issues:
1. Normal Operation: In many cases, the compressor can become warm during normal operation, especially when the fridge is actively cooling. However, if the compressor feels excessively hot or if it’s running continuously for an extended period, it could be a sign of an underlying problem.
2. Overheating: If the compressor is overheating, it could be due to a variety of reasons, such as dirty condenser coils, poor ventilation around the compressor, or a malfunctioning cooling fan. Overheating can lead to compressor failure and may require professional attention to diagnose and repair.
3. Dirty Condenser Coils: Dust and debris can accumulate on the condenser coils, restricting airflow and causing the compressor to work harder to cool the fridge. Regularly cleaning the condenser coils with a vacuum or brush can help prevent overheating and prolong the life of the compressor.
4. Faulty Cooling Fan: The cooling fan helps dissipate heat from the compressor and condenser coils. If the cooling fan is not working properly, the compressor may overheat. Check the fan for any obstructions or signs of damage, and replace it if necessary.
5. Refrigerant Issues: Low refrigerant levels or refrigerant leaks can cause the compressor to work harder and overheat. If you suspect a refrigerant issue, such as ice buildup on the evaporator coils or a hissing sound coming from the fridge, it’s best to contact a professional technician to inspect and repair the system.
6. Electrical Problems: Electrical issues such as a faulty start relay or capacitor can cause the compressor to overheat. These components help start the compressor and regulate its operation. If they’re defective, they can cause the compressor to run inefficiently or continuously, leading to overheating.
7. Compressor Malfunction: If the compressor itself is malfunctioning, it may overheat and eventually fail. Signs of a faulty compressor include loud noises, excessive vibration, or the fridge not cooling properly despite the compressor running. In this case, professional repair or replacement of the compressor may be necessary.
If you notice that your fridge compressor is consistently hot to the touch or if you suspect any other issues with your fridge’s cooling system, it’s important to address them promptly to prevent further damage. Consider consulting our appliance repair technician for proper diagnosis and repair in King County.
Fridge defrost drain problems
When a fridge has defrost drain problems, it can lead to water buildup and potential leaks. Here are common issues and solutions:
1. Clogged Drain: One of the most common issues is a clogged defrost drain. Over time, debris like food particles, dust, or ice can accumulate in the drain line, blocking water from draining properly. Use a turkey baster or a pipe cleaner to remove the clog. You can also try pouring hot water mixed with vinegar down the drain to dissolve any blockages.
2. Frozen Drain: If the drain line freezes, water won’t be able to flow through it, leading to water buildup in the fridge. This can happen if the freezer temperature is too low or if there’s a problem with the defrost system. Thaw the drain line using a hairdryer on a low setting or by manually removing any ice buildup with a plastic scraper.
3. Misaligned Drain Pan: The drain pan collects water from the defrost cycle and evaporates it over time. If the drain pan is misaligned or damaged, water may overflow and leak into the fridge. Check the drain pan for cracks or misalignment and reposition it if necessary.
4. Broken or Damaged Drain Line: Inspect the drain line for any signs of damage, such as cracks or tears. If the drain line is damaged, water may leak into the fridge instead of draining properly. Replace the drain line if it’s compromised.
5. Improper Slope: The defrost drain should have a slight slope to allow water to flow freely. If the drain line is not sloped correctly, water may pool and cause leaks. Adjust the slope of the drain line by gently bending it downward to ensure proper drainage.
6. Blockage in the Evaporator Drain Pan: Sometimes, debris can accumulate in the evaporator drain pan, causing water to back up and overflow. Remove the drain pan and clean it thoroughly to remove any debris or buildup.
7. Defective Drain Heater: In some fridges, a drain heater is used to prevent the drain line from freezing. If the heater is defective or not working properly, the drain line may freeze, leading to drainage problems. Test the drain heater for continuity using a multimeter and replace it if necessary.
By addressing these common causes of defrost drain problems, you can restore proper drainage in your fridge and prevent water buildup and leaks. If you’re unsure about how to proceed or if the issue persists after troubleshooting, consider consulting a professional appliance repair technician.
Fridge leaking water
When a fridge is leaking water, it can be a sign of various issues that need to be addressed promptly. Here are common causes and solutions for a leaking fridge:
1. Clogged or Frozen Defrost Drain: One of the most common causes of fridge leaks is a clogged or frozen defrost drain. This drain carries water from the defrost cycle to the drain pan at the bottom of the fridge. If the drain becomes clogged with debris or frozen, water can back up and overflow onto the floor of the fridge. Clear any obstructions from the drain using a turkey baster, pipe cleaner, or hot water to thaw any ice buildup.
2. Faulty Door Gasket: The door gasket creates a seal around the fridge door to keep cold air in and warm air out. If the gasket is damaged, torn, or dirty, it may not create a proper seal, allowing condensation to form and leak out of the fridge. Inspect the door gasket for any signs of wear or damage, and clean it with warm, soapy water if dirty. Replace the gasket if it’s damaged.
3. Overflowing or Misaligned Drain Pan: The drain pan collects water from the defrost cycle and evaporates it over time. If the drain pan becomes misaligned or damaged, water may overflow and leak onto the floor. Check the drain pan for cracks, misalignment, or excessive water buildup, and reposition or replace it if necessary.
4. Frozen Water Supply Line: If your fridge has a water dispenser or ice maker, a frozen water supply line can cause leaks. Check the water supply line for any signs of freezing or blockage, and thaw it using a hairdryer on a low setting or by manually removing any ice buildup.
5. Leaking Water Filter: If your fridge has a water filter, a leaky or improperly installed filter can cause water to leak out. Check the filter for any signs of leaks or damage, and ensure it’s properly installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Replace the filter if it’s leaking or damaged.
6. Cracked or Damaged Water Line: Inspect the water supply line for any signs of cracks, tears, or damage. A damaged water line can cause leaks, especially if it’s located behind or underneath the fridge. Replace the water line if it’s compromised.
7. Excessive Humidity: High humidity levels inside the fridge can cause condensation to form and drip onto the shelves or floor. Ensure that the fridge door is kept closed as much as possible to prevent warm, humid air from entering the fridge.
By addressing these common causes of fridge leaks, you can identify and resolve the issue, preventing water damage and maintaining the proper functioning of your fridge. If you’re unsure about how to proceed or if the issue persists after troubleshooting, consider consulting a professional appliance repair technician.
Fridge freezing food
When a fridge is freezing food, it can be frustrating and potentially wasteful. Here are common causes and solutions for this issue:
1. Temperature Settings: Check the temperature settings on your fridge. If the temperature is set too low, it can cause the fridge to run continuously and freeze food. Adjust the temperature settings to a warmer setting, typically between 37°F and 40°F (3°C and 4°C), and monitor the temperature to ensure it stays within the desired range.
2. Damaged or Faulty Thermostat: The thermostat regulates the temperature inside the fridge. If the thermostat is faulty or out of calibration, it may cause the fridge to run too cold and freeze food. Test the thermostat for continuity using a multimeter and replace it if necessary.
3. Airflow Obstructions: Blocked vents or airflow obstructions inside the fridge can disrupt the circulation of cold air and cause certain areas to become excessively cold, leading to food freezing. Rearrange items inside the fridge to ensure proper airflow and avoid blocking vents.
4. Faulty Damper Control Assembly: The damper control assembly regulates the flow of cold air from the freezer to the fridge. If the damper is stuck open or malfunctioning, it can allow too much cold air into the fridge, causing food to freeze. Inspect the damper control assembly for any signs of damage or obstruction, and replace it if necessary.
5. Door Seal Issues: A damaged or worn door seal can allow cold air to escape from the fridge, leading to temperature fluctuations and food freezing. Inspect the door seal for any signs of damage, wear, or gaps, and replace it if necessary.
6. Overcrowding: Overloading the fridge with too much food can restrict airflow and prevent proper circulation of cold air, leading to temperature imbalances and food freezing. Reduce the amount of food in the fridge to allow for better airflow and prevent overcrowding.
7. Refrigerator Location: The location of the fridge can also affect its temperature regulation. Placing the fridge near heat sources like ovens, stoves, or direct sunlight can cause it to run more frequently and become too cold. Move the fridge to a cooler location if possible.
8. Refrigerator Defrost System: If the fridge’s defrost system is malfunctioning, it can cause ice buildup on the evaporator coils, leading to temperature fluctuations and food freezing. Test the defrost heater, defrost thermostat, and defrost timer/control board for continuity and replace any faulty components.
By addressing these common causes of food freezing in the fridge, you can identify and resolve the issue, ensuring that your food stays fresh and properly preserved. If you’re unsure about how to proceed or if the issue persists after troubleshooting, consider consulting a professional appliance repair technician.
Freezer is leaking water
A freezer leaking water can indicate several potential issues that need to be addressed to prevent further damage. Here’s how to troubleshoot and potentially fix the problem:
1. Blocked or Frozen Drain: One of the most common reasons for a freezer leaking water is a blocked or frozen drain. Over time, dirt, debris, or ice can accumulate in the drain line, preventing water from draining properly. Locate the drain opening inside the freezer and check for any blockages. If the drain is frozen, carefully thaw it using hot water or a hairdryer on a low setting. Once the drain is clear, use a pipe cleaner or a small brush to remove any remaining debris.
2. Leaky Water Supply Line: If your freezer has a built-in water dispenser or ice maker, a leaky water supply line could be the cause of the water leak. Inspect the water supply line for any signs of damage, such as cracks or loose connections. Tighten any fittings or replace the water supply line if necessary.
3. Condensation: In humid environments, condensation can form inside the freezer and drip down to the bottom, causing water leakage. Check the door gasket for any signs of damage or wear that may be allowing warm air to enter the freezer. Replace the door gasket if it’s damaged or not sealing properly.
4. Excessive Frost Buildup: If there’s excessive frost buildup inside the freezer, it can melt and result in water leakage. Ensure that the freezer door is fully closed and that the door seal is intact to prevent warm air from entering. Additionally, check the freezer’s defrost system for any malfunctions that may be causing excessive frost buildup. Clean the freezer interior regularly to prevent frost accumulation.
5. Clogged Defrost Drain Pan: The defrost drain pan collects water from the defrost cycle and evaporates it over time. If the drain pan is clogged or damaged, water may overflow and leak onto the floor. Remove the drain pan and clean it thoroughly to remove any debris or buildup.
6. Damaged or Blocked Evaporator Coils: Inspect the evaporator coils located behind the freezer’s rear panel for any damage or blockages. Blocked or damaged coils can interfere with the defrost cycle and cause water leakage. If the coils are blocked by ice or debris, carefully remove the obstruction using a soft brush or cloth.
7. Refrigerant Leak: While less common, a refrigerant leak can also cause water to leak from the freezer. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact a professional appliance repair technician to inspect and repair the system.
By addressing these potential causes of a leaking freezer, you can identify and resolve the issue, preventing further water damage and ensuring the proper functioning of your appliance. If you’re unsure about how to proceed or if the problem persists after troubleshooting, consider consulting a professional technician for assistance.
Freezer not cooling
When a freezer isn’t cooling properly, it can lead to food spoilage and other issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot and potentially fix the problem:
1. Check the Power: Ensure that the freezer is plugged in properly and receiving power. Verify that the outlet is functioning by plugging in another appliance. If the outlet is dead, check the circuit breaker or fuse box to see if a breaker has tripped or a fuse has blown.
2. Temperature Settings: Make sure the temperature control dial or digital setting is set to the appropriate level. Adjust the temperature setting colder and wait several hours to see if the freezer begins cooling. If it doesn’t, there may be a problem with the thermostat or compressor.
3. Air Circulation: Check for obstructions around the vents inside the freezer. Blocked vents can restrict airflow and prevent proper cooling. Rearrange items in the freezer to ensure adequate airflow around the vents.
4. Clean the Condenser Coils: Dust and debris can accumulate on the condenser coils, reducing their efficiency and causing the freezer to run warmer than normal. Locate the condenser coils (usually at the back or bottom of the freezer) and clean them using a vacuum cleaner or brush.
5. Check the Door Seal: Inspect the door seal (gasket) for any signs of damage, wear, or gaps. A faulty door seal can allow warm air to enter the freezer, compromising its ability to cool properly. Replace the door seal if necessary to ensure a tight seal when the door is closed.
6. Defrost the Freezer: If ice has built up on the evaporator coils, it can impede airflow and prevent proper cooling. Turn off the freezer and allow it to defrost completely. Use a hairdryer on a low setting to speed up the process, but be cautious not to damage any components.
7. Check the Evaporator Fan: The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the evaporator coils throughout the freezer. If the fan is not working, the freezer may not cool properly. Listen for the sound of the fan running when the freezer is turned on. If it’s not running, the fan motor may need to be replaced.
8. Inspect the Compressor: The compressor is responsible for cooling the freezer by circulating refrigerant through the system. If the compressor is malfunctioning or failing, the freezer may not cool properly. Listen for any unusual noises coming from the compressor. If it’s not running or if it’s making unusual noises, it may need to be replaced.
9. Refrigerant Leak: A refrigerant leak can also cause the freezer to stop cooling. Look for signs of oil or refrigerant leakage around the compressor or refrigerant lines. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact a professional technician to inspect and repair the system.
If you’re unable to troubleshoot and fix the issue on your own, consider contacting our expert appliance repair service for assistance. They can diagnose the problem accurately and recommend the appropriate repairs to get your freezer cooling properly again.