Frigidaire refrigerators are very straightforward to use. But like with other electronic devices, there can be some issues. Before buying a new Frigidaire refrigerator and replacing the old one, make sure you’re doing everything in your power to fix these issues.
Frigidaire refrigerators may not cool due to a failing evaporator, a problematic defrost timer, or even a broken condenser fan. Changing these damaged tools and a few other necessary steps will help troubleshoot these issues.
In this article, we’ll talk about some troubleshooting tips for your Frigidaire refrigerator if it’s not cooling or freezing.
What Are The Common Issues You Can Face With Your Frigidaire Refrigerator?
After using it for some years, you may start to see some issues with your Frigidaire refrigerator. Some of these problems are easily fixable, and some of them may require accessory replacement and professional help.
There can be problems with the evaporator fan, condenser coil, compressor, programming of the system, and thermostats.
The common problems that you may face are:
- Frigidaire Refrigerator not cooling or freezing.
- Frigidaire refrigerator not cooling but the freezer is working.
- Frigidaire Refrigerator not cooling after a power outage.
- The Frigidaire fridge not cooling and beeping.
Fixing Guide: Frigidaire Refrigerator Not Cooling Or Freezing
There can be many reasons why your Frigidaire refrigerator is not cooling or freezing. It can be due to any problem with the evaporator fan or condenser.
If you notice that the compressor is functioning but there is no freezing in the fridge, the issue may be concerned with ice-jammed evaporator coils. A blocked or broken evaporator fan can also cause this issue.
If the evaporator fans begin to malfunction, they shrill or squeak. When the problem is associated with the evaporator fan, the sound will get louder as soon as you pull the refrigerator door. The evaporator fan and coils are concealed behind a cover in the freezer.
You may get an evaporator fan kit online. If you uncover the cap inside the freezer and discover the coils are totally filled with ice, remove your foods and other products from the refrigerator and disconnect it. Leave your refrigerator to defrost for one to two days. Put some clothes on the ground to absorb the water that could drop. Reconnect your refrigerator when all the ice has defrosted.
The problem here might be a defrost timer. In some cases, a defrost heater or a defrost thermostatic is to blame. It’s not hard to exchange these components with good ones, but it is a bit hard to determine which one is the defective one and needs troubleshooting. If you detect an issue with these products, you should hire a professional.
When the thermostat demands extra freezing, the condenser fan and the compressor of your refrigerator (which are placed close to the floor at the rear of most refrigerators) will turn on. If you notice the compressor is not operating even after keeping the door open, it could be because the condenser fan is stuck, broken, or the compressor is malfunctioning.
Here are some easy troubleshooting tips you can follow:
- Check to see if the refrigerator is plugged in and receiving power. When you unlock the door, the light should turn on.
- Keep in mind that the thermostat hasn’t been lowered all the way to the bottom by accident. If the thermostat in your refrigerator or freezer isn’t working, look online for some simple ways to install thermostats.
- Make sure the holes on the rear of the deep freezer aren’t covered by ice cream boxes or frozen vegetables; cold air needs to circulate, so the holes must be open.
- Clean the coils below or behind the fridge. Inadequate cooling can be caused by blocked coils.
- Ensure that the condenser fan isn’t jammed and that it rotates smoothly (devices with coils on the rear won’t have a blower). To do so, disconnect the refrigerator and remove it. To test if the fan is stuck, clean the wings and rotate it by yourself. Connect the refrigerator to the power source and make sure the fan is ON when the compressor is operating. If the fan won’t turn on, follow the instructions below to change it.
Changing The Fan Evaporator
If your refrigerator isn’t freezing, here are some DIY steps to help you figure out what’s wrong. See how to change the evaporator fan below.
Tools Requirements:
- Socket
- Wire cutter
Materials Requirements:
- Evaporator fan
- Condenser fan
Steps:
- Removing the cover: plastic caps may be covering the screws, which you must pull out.
- Removing the fan cover: Unplug the screws that hold the fan cover if your fridge has one. Then, to get to the fan, remove it.
- Removing the fan: If the evaporator fan is loud or does not rotate, you have to replace it with a new one. Disconnect the fridge first. Then unscrew the screws that attach the fan to the freezer’s frame.
- Changing the fan: Swap the old fan for a fresh one. Take out the old fan’s mounting bracket and replace it with the new one. Disconnect the cables from the previous fan and connect them to the new fan. Reinstall the cover and attach the fan.
Changing The Condenser Fan
In case the condenser fan is loud or not working, you may need to replace it. Based on your refrigerator’s repair, you may need to unscrew the fan plate first, and then detach the fan from the plate.
To reach the compressor and condenser fan, move the refrigerator away from the wall, disconnect it, and detach the thin plate on the rear at the bottom. After that, connect the refrigerator and allow the compressor to turn on.
It’s also a good idea to turn on the fan. A new fan is required if the compressor operates but the fan does not, or if the fan is loud. Disconnect the refrigerator and aim a fan or a hairdryer set to “zero warmth” at the compressor if it doesn’t run and it’s warm.
Remove the cables as near as possible to the previous fan. Disconnect the cables and use cable connectors to attach the fresh fan. Install the fan and bracket in the refrigerator after screwing the newly bought fan to the bracket.
Cleaning the Condenser Coils in the Fridge
The condenser coils in a refrigerator freeze refrigerant and produce colder air for the refrigerator. If the tubes become unclean, they will be unable to adequately freeze the refrigerant, causing the interior temperature to increase.
Refrigerator coil cleaning is recommended twice a year to guarantee that the coils are working correctly to maintain the right temperature inside the refrigerator.
Here are some easy ways to clean the condenser coil:
- Identify the condenser coils on your refrigerator by consulting the user guide. Many are hidden under an access panel or a front grille at the base of the refrigerator.
- Remove the plug from the refrigerator.
- To reach the coils, remove the cover or grill.
- With a thin nozzle vacuum tool, wipe the coils and the space surrounding them.
- Eliminate dust and dirt with a brush.
- Remove any leftover dust and grime from the floor with a vacuum.
- Reinstall the panel or grille, and the refrigerator will start functioning again.
Other Components To Check
- Thermistor: Look for consistency. If there isn’t one, get yourself another one because it affects the refrigerator’s warmth.
- Start Relay: Use a voltmeter to test for connection. Repair it if it doesn’t have any. The compressor receives electricity from the start relay. The compressor will not function properly if the relay is broken.
- Starting Capacitor: Check the function of the capacitor with a voltmeter. Replace the capacitor if it has no connection. The initial capacitor raises the compressor’s power to get it started.
- Temperature Controlling Thermostat: To see if it’s broken, turn it from the lowest setting to the maximum setting. The thermostat is working properly if you feel a snap. If you do not hear a snap, however, check for connection with a voltmeter. Change it if there is no continuity.
You can follow all these procedures if your Frigidaire fridge is not cooling and beeping. If your Frigidaire fridge isn’t getting cold enough, first double-check the temperature setting.
Frigidaire Refrigerator Not Cooling But Freezer Fine
If the refrigerator of your Frigidaire is not working but the freezer is functioning properly, there may be a few things you need to do to fix it. They are:
- Test the evaporator fan if the freezer area of your Frigidaire refrigerator is cooling but the refrigerator is not. If the wings do not rotate properly, the motor is defective. Furthermore, if it is too loud, it should be replaced. If the motor does not operate at all, use a voltmeter to check for connection. Replace the motor if the coils are not functioning.
- If the motor is broken, it will not be able to supply conditioned air to the refrigerator or freezer. If the freezer is working properly, the refrigerator is not receiving enough cold air.
- You need to test the evaporator coils to see if the evaporator fan is working properly. The air ventilation of the refrigerator will be restricted if the evaporator coils are iced. The refrigerator will not freeze as a result of this.
Frigidaire Refrigerator Not Cooling After Power Outage
If you face this issue, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Test the compressor if the Frigidaire fridge isn’t freezing after a power outage. The compressor should make a quiet buzzing sound while the motor rotates. If no sound comes from the compressor, test the starting circuit on the system board, which is in charge of sending energy to the compressor.
- Check for connection with a voltmeter. If it cannot provide 120 volts AC, then the circuit is defective and must be replaced. You should request assistance in replacing the system board.
- Assess the condenser fan if the compressor is functioning properly. It’s the fan that’s immediately beside the compressor. If the fan’s wings aren’t whirling, the motor may be damaged. This will damage the compressor, as it will overload and reduce the refrigerator’s cooling.
- If you need to replace it, unscrew the screws that hold the fan in place and take it out of its container. Remove the bracket that connects the wings to the motor. Replace the old motor and reinstall it.
If you’re not sure how to replace broken or malfunctioning parts of your refrigerator, seek professional assistance. This is really essential if your item is still covered by the manufacturer’s guarantee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the cooling process of a Frigidaire refrigerator?
Answer: Frigidaire refrigerators work by turning the refrigerant vapor circulating inside into gas. This evaporation process cools the space around it and creates the desired impact. You can examine this mechanism by pouring a couple of drops of alcohol on your body.
Also, different parts of the refrigerator including the expansion valve, compressor, evaporator, condenser coils, and refrigerants play important roles in the cooling process.
Q. What temperature should my Frigidaire refrigerator be set at?
Answer: Frigidaire refrigerators should be adjusted to 37° Fahrenheit in the fresh food chamber and 0° Fahrenheit in the freezer.
Q. How do you clean the coils on a Frigidaire refrigerator?
Answer: To clean the coils in your Frigidaire refrigerator, you have to know the location of the coils first. You need a brush or a vacuum cleaner to clean the coils.
First, disconnect the fridge and pull it away from the wall. Uncover the cover and clean the coils with your vacuum cleaner. After cleaning the coils, place the cover again and you’re done.
Q. How long does it take for a Frigidaire mini fridge to get cold?
Answer: For best results, Frigidaire recommends that a mini-fridge take at least 4 hours to get cold.
Q. Why is Frigidaire refrigerator making a clicking sound but not cooling?
Answer: When a Frigidaire refrigerator makes a clicking sound but not cools, it can be due to a dirty condenser or a bad relay start.
If you hear a continuous clicking sound, it means the start relay is trying to start the compressor but failing. Try cleaning the condenser or replacing the start relay to solve this problem.
Conclusion
It’s normal if you are facing some issues with your old Frigidaire fridge. The right knowledge about the system and the fixes will make it easy for you to troubleshoot the problems, including the Frigidaire refrigerator not cooling.
So if you are facing any problem in your Frigidaire refrigerator, understand the problem and detect the faulty part. By following some easy procedures, you can fix these issues without even taking your fridge to a mechanic.
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