Refrigerators - Home Gadgets Appliance reviews & troubleshooting Wed, 03 Aug 2022 10:47:53 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.3 https://homegadgetshq.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/homegad-fav-1.jpg Refrigerators - Home Gadgets 32 32 Samsung refrigerator is leaking water on the floor? The fix https://homegadgetshq.com/samsung-refrigerator-leaking-water-floor/ Sun, 10 Apr 2022 11:41:34 +0000 https://homegadgetshq.com/?p=1774 You might have noticed that your Samsung refrigerator is leaking water on the floor. Upon checking whether there are any unsealed containers, you find that they are tightly closed. There are several reasons why your refrigerator is experiencing such a technical issue.  When your refrigerator is leaking water underneath, it might be alarming and stressful. ... Read more

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You might have noticed that your Samsung refrigerator is leaking water on the floor. Upon checking whether there are any unsealed containers, you find that they are tightly closed. There are several reasons why your refrigerator is experiencing such a technical issue. 

When your refrigerator is leaking water underneath, it might be alarming and stressful. But that shouldn’t be the case. 

In this article, we will explain the common reasons why your Samsung refrigerator is not working. You will also learn how you can fix them in easy and cost-free steps.

Reasons why your Samsung refrigerator is leaking water

What is causing the Samsung refrigerator to leak? There are various reasons why your fridge is leaking, from a clogged defrost drain to the fridge not being leveled properly.

We shall highlight each of them and describe how you can fix them.

1. The defrost drain is clogged

A clogged defrost drain is the most common reason your fridge is leaking water. The defrost drain filters excess water from the defrost system to the drain pan under the fridge for evaporation. Sometimes this water moving in the defrost drain is so cold that it freezes, hence clogging it.

To thaw away the ice, you should turn the refrigerator off and wait for the ice to defrost in the defrost drain. Samsung manufacturers advise that you not flush it with hot water because it may interfere with the general defrost system.

You can also unclog the defrost drain using the following procedure:

  • Remove the shelves, drawers, and items in the fridge to get to the drain hole at the fridge’s back wall.
  • Create a solution of baking soda and water and slowly pour the solution into the drain hole to unclog the defrost drain. 
  • You will know that it is unblocked when water flows down the tube to the drain pan. 

2. The refrigerator is not properly leveled

Tilting fridge

When the fridge is not correctly leveled, it may cause defrost draining problems. Its front should be higher than its back to cool correctly. You can check whether it is leveled properly by checking out the wheels. If the front wheels are squarely on the floor, the refrigerator is not leveled well. 

You can solve this by adjusting the back wheels so that the front wheels are lifted higher from the floor. You can use a screwdriver to adjust the wheels to the right level as per the instructions in the user manual.

3. Damaged water filter

The Samsung refrigerator water filter housing is leaking because it is damaged or incorrectly installed. You will notice water around the filter compartment area near the deli or drawers. 

You can avoid this by checking whether the water filter is fitted well. If the filter’s head is cracked, has a hole, or missing, then the water filter needs to be replaced. Contact a professional repair technician to replace and fix the water filter.

4. High humidity

High humidity levels in the house can cause your fridge to leak water on the floor.  The moisture in the air may enter the refrigerator and accumulate with the water already in the fridge. It leads to the drain pan overflowing and leaking water from the units and pipes.

If you live in a humid environment, it is best that you place it in a cool place to prevent excess moisture and condensation from clinging to the refrigerator’s internal walls. During hot days, you can reduce the AC temperature or run a fan near the fridge to cool it down.

5. Overflowing drain pan

As obvious as it sounds, the drain pan underneath the refrigerator may be overflowing. In this case, the water flow may be too much than the drain pan keeps up with, hence the water leakage on the floor. 

The solution is manually draining the drain pan, but this only solves half the problem. You should check on the clogged defrost drain and replace it.

Conclusion

It is frustrating when your Samsung fridge is leaking water from the bottom. There are different reasons why it does so.

You can fix issues such as a clogged defrost drain, high humidity levels, and a faulty water filter, while others require replacement. If the problem persists, contact a professional technician to diagnose the problem and fix it.

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Samsung fridge has an ice build-up on the back wall and bottom. Fix  https://homegadgetshq.com/samsung-fridge-ice-build-up-back-wall-bottom/ Fri, 18 Mar 2022 11:30:39 +0000 https://homegadgetshq.com/?p=1657 We can all agree that a fridge comes in handy when it comes to preserving our foodstuffs and drinks. Due to its low temperatures, your Samsung fridge may build up ice blocks at the back wall and at the bottom.  You might be wondering what has formed the sheen moisture in your fridge and would ... Read more

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We can all agree that a fridge comes in handy when it comes to preserving our foodstuffs and drinks. Due to its low temperatures, your Samsung fridge may build up ice blocks at the back wall and at the bottom. 

You might be wondering what has formed the sheen moisture in your fridge and would like to remove it immediately. In this article, we will explain what causes ice buildup and what to do if your Samsung fridge has an ice build-up.

Why is there an ice buildup in your fridge?

The ice buildup is formed when cold air combines with hot air outside the fridge. The result is your Samsung refrigerator will have an ice buildup on the back wall. This issue may be caused by improper air ventilation, not closing the fridge door properly, and leaving the ice maker flap open.

1. The door is not properly shut

You need to make sure that the fridge’s door is properly and completely closed. If there is a faulty door seal, repair it. 

You should also ensure that the door gaskets are clean and fixed to the door. There should also be no foodstuffs or drinks stored against the back wall of the fridge.

2. Poor ventilation in the fridge

When cold air in the fridge meets with hot air outside, your Samsung refrigerator/freezer forms ice buildup on the bottom and back wall. To avoid this, ensure that there are no foodstuffs stored near the back wall of the fridge. 

You should also spread out your food to improve ventilation in the fridge. The air vent, which releases hot air from the fridge, should not be blocked. Finally, move the fridge further away from the wall to allow free circulation of air.

Read Also: Why your Samsung refrigerator ice tastes bad and how to fix it

3. The ice maker flap is open

Samsung Fridge ice maker

When the flap of the ice maker is open, warm air enters the fridge and forms frosts on its walls. You can confirm whether it is open by opening the fridge’s door and checking out the black flap in the ice chute.  

If it is in the right place, it will flush against the housing. If not, look out for ice or frosts that may be preventing the ice maker flap from closing.

4. High humidity level

Your Samsung fridge may have an ice buildup on the back wall because your house has high humidity. 

The action of opening and closing the fridge door will cause ice to form on its wall.  The good thing is that the fridge has a built-in heater that will thaw away the frosts.

How to fix ice buildup in a Samsung refrigerator

Follow these steps to clear ice build-up in your Samsung refrigerator:

  • Remove the food from the refrigerator and store it in another cool place.
  • Disconnect the fridge from the power socket and take off its shelves and drawers so that it can defrost.
  • During the defrosting process, place a deep pan or small bucket to fetch water that drips from the ice while keeping the door open.
  • Wait until all the ice has defrosted to clean the inside of the refrigerator, its shelves, and drawers using a moist cloth.
  • Once the fridge is clean and free of ice, return the shelves and drawers back into the fridge. 
  • Connect the fridge to the power socket and adjust the thermostat dial to a proper temperature.  
  • Check whether there is any ice buildup and if the fridge is at the right temperature. If no ice is formed, you can return the food back to the fridge and shut the door.

Remember to constantly check the refrigerator for any ice that is formed and repeat the defrosting process again. 

Wrapping up

It is not uncommon to find that the Samsung fridge has an ice build-up on the back walls and bottom. It may be caused by a faulty door seal, improper ventilation, or an open ice maker flap. 

The Samsung twin cooling fridge/freezer defrosting process is an easy and effective way of getting rid of them and ensuring that the fridge runs as intended.

Read Also: How to stop a refrigerator from tripping a GFCI outlet

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Why your Samsung refrigerator ice tastes bad and the fix https://homegadgetshq.com/samsung-refrigerator-ice-tastes-bad/ Thu, 17 Feb 2022 12:00:41 +0000 https://homegadgetshq.com/?p=1617 You are looking forward to a glass of ice-cold water, but the taste of the ice is off. What could be the issue? Well, there are a couple of reasons why the ice tastes bad but the water is fine in your Samsung refrigerator. We will cover the most common causes and provide working solutions. ... Read more

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You are looking forward to a glass of ice-cold water, but the taste of the ice is off. What could be the issue?

Well, there are a couple of reasons why the ice tastes bad but the water is fine in your Samsung refrigerator. We will cover the most common causes and provide working solutions.

4 reasons why ice from your Samsung refrigerator tastes bad

If the water or ice smells bad or is accompanied by a terrible taste, the causes range from the items you’ve kept in your refrigerator to a malfunctioning ice maker. The top 4 causes are:

1. Food odors

Food in storage can lead to bad-tasting ice as it’s capable of transferring smells, especially when containers are not well sealed, leading to spillage of foods in the fridge. In some cases, you may find that the water will taste just fine while the ice is rancid.

To resolve this;

  • Ensure that all food containers are tightly sealed.
  • Ensure no spills are left unattended.
  • Discard all spoilt food.
  • Place baking soda in the fridge as it absorbs odors. Ensure to change every 3 months.
  • Clean the fridge regularly using a damp cloth and, or a mild cleaning agent, diluted vinegar, or lemon water.
  • Deep clean your refrigerator at least four times a year.

Read Also: How to fix a fridge door seal that is not sticking

2. Issues with the copper supply line

You may get a coppery taste in ice cubes from your Samsung fridge ice maker if the fridge has a copper supply line and the water hasn’t been in use for a while.

You can also get the taste if you use corrosive liquids to clean your fridge. These liquids tend to wear out the copper pipes and the mixture of water and copper is washed into the ice maker.

These issues can be remedied by;

  • Cleaning your Samsung fridge ice maker internal components with warm water mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.
  • Flushing out the refrigerator’s supply line to empty it.
  • Replacing the copper tubing of the refrigerator with a plastic one.

3. Water source

Samsung fridge water connection

While municipal water is considered safe for drinking, the treatment process does not rid the water of any unwanted tastes or odors.

Well, water has a smell and taste too because of the minerals and salts present in it. Since ice cubes are just solidified water, they’ll retain the taste and smell of the water.

This can be sorted by;

  • Installing a water purifier with a carbon filter right on the refrigerator water supply.
  • Get a water treatment system installed professionally, to treat well water.
  • If you have filters, change them at least twice a year while using municipal water, or on an as-needed basis when using well water.

If the water tends to leak on the floor, you can use this troubleshooting guide.

Read Also: The best ice crushers for margaritas

4. Infrequent use of the ice maker

You’re on vacation, and you are no longer using your ice maker as frequently as you were in summer. This causes the ice to become stale as it absorbs dust, and grows mold and mildew from contamination by food particles, causing the ice cubes to have a stale taste.

Here is how to clean the ice maker in a Samsung refrigerator if you intend to leave it unused for a prolonged period:

  • Empty the ice maker of any ice.
  • Detach the removable pieces and clean them using a dishcloth and warm soapy water.
  • Rinse and air dries them.
  • Use a dishcloth and warm soapy water, or one-part water mixed with one part vinegar to clean the ice maker. You can incorporate a toothbrush to access the unreachable parts of your ice maker.
  • Flush vinegar through the water lines and rinse out with warm water to eliminate the smell of vinegar
  • Disconnect the water supply to the refrigerator and turn off the ice maker.

You can now enjoy your vacation.

Conclusion

Hopefully, the tips provided above will help you when the ice smells bad or tastes terrible in the refrigerator. In addition to these tips, clean your fridge on a regular basis. This way, your fridge and everything in it won’t have any foul odors.

Read Also: Fix: Frigidaire refrigerator ice maker is not working

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How to stop a refrigerator from tripping a GFCI outlet https://homegadgetshq.com/stop-refrigerator-tripping-gfci-outlet/ Mon, 24 Jan 2022 16:17:36 +0000 https://homegadgetshq.com/?p=1578 GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter) is a safety mechanism built into the power socket to protect you from electrocution in case of a ground fault or short circuit. It monitors the circuit and shuts down automatically when it senses an electrical imbalance. It’s mainly connected in areas prone to water like the kitchen, bathroom, and garage ... Read more

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GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter) is a safety mechanism built into the power socket to protect you from electrocution in case of a ground fault or short circuit. It monitors the circuit and shuts down automatically when it senses an electrical imbalance.

It’s mainly connected in areas prone to water like the kitchen, bathroom, and garage too.

Now, even though your refrigerator tripping the GFCI outlet saves you from electric shock, it turns off the refrigerator and this will cause your food to spoil. Especially if you don’t notice it early.

That said, this article will look into why your refrigerator trips the GFCI outlet and how to stop it.

What causes a refrigerator to trip a GFCI?

These are the main reasons for a refrigerator to trip a GFCI outlet and how you can fix them:

1. The cooling cycle/defrosting

The GFCI outlet is very sensitive. It can trip randomly when your refrigerator starts its cooling cycle. This is because the cooling cycle requires a lot of power which triggers the GFCI outlet. Considering the cycle is automated, you can bet on your refrigerator trips GFCI after a few hours.

Solution: To correct this problem, you need to reset your GFCI outlet using the guide below.

  • First, unplug your refrigerator and other appliances connected to the GFCI circuit.
  • You’ll see two little buttons on the outlet: TEST and RESET.
  • Press the RESET button. It’s usually red in color.
  • You’ll hear a click sound and your refrigerator should start working.
  • Monitor the refrigerator. If it doesn’t trip again or often then it is probably a false trip.

The other option is to connect controllers and modern chips between the GFCI and your refrigerator. They increase the response time thus preventing nuisance/false tripping. Also, there are snubbers that you can install between the fridge and GFCI to reduce or eliminate the effect of the electrical current imbalance.

Read Also: How to fix a GE refrigerator that doesn’t stop running

2. Overloaded circuit

Your refrigerator can also trip the GFCI outlet when you connect multiple appliances to the same circuit. You can confirm this by either removing the other appliances then leave the refrigerator on the circuit. If it runs without tripping, then you’ll know the overload was the problem.

Solution: Connect your refrigerator to a dedicated power circuit.

3. Faulty appliance

Ge refrigerator

System malfunctions within the refrigerator could easily cause it to trip a GFCI outlet that it’s connected to. For one, if the trip happens immediately after the fridge starts its defrost cycle, you could be dealing with a bad defrost heater. Secondly, it could be a failing compressor that forces your refrigerator to work harder to provide enough energy.

Lastly, wiring issues like loose connections and damaged wires can trigger the GFCI outlet to trip. This can happen through a short circuit (the charged wire contacts the neutral wire and cause too much heat) or ground fault surge (current wire and the ground wire touch resulting in overheating).

Solutions: You need to inspect the different refrigerator parts and repair or replace the faulty ones. You should consider hiring a qualified and experienced technician for this solution. In fact, to avoid future problems, schedule regular maintenance of the refrigerator.

4. Damaged power cord and plug

A damaged power cord and plug are also possible reasons the GFCI outlet keeps tripping. The damage usually results in a short circuit that triggers the trip. Unplug the power cord and inspect it for damages like rodent bite marks, holes, worn-out insulation, etc.

Next, inspect the prongs on the power plug for signs of rust and other damages.

Solutions: Replace the damaged parts to stop a fridge from tripping the GFCI.

5. Faulty circuit breaker

When your circuit breaker is faulty, chances are that it will affect the power supply in your home. This includes the GFCI outlet that your refrigerator is connected to, hence the constant tripping.

Solution: Hire a technician to inspect the circuit breaker and replace it if there are signs of damage. Try and get a breaker that’s rated for GFCI.

Read Also: How to fix a fridge door seal that is not sticking

6. Faulty outlet

The GFCI outlet can also trip because of internal damage. It could be burned-out wires, loose connections, or water getting into the outlet. To be sure, connect your refrigerator to another power outlet. If it works, then your GFCI could be the problem. But, you should try and plug another electrical device into the GFCI outlet that keeps tripping to see if it’s receiving power.

If the device is getting power then the outlet is okay, only that it doesn’t work with the refrigerator because their settings don’t match.

You can reach out to a technician to open the outlet and check for physical damages. They should then use a multimeter to test the outlet for continuity.

Solutions: When you discover the outlet has no continuity, wires are damaged, or any other malfunction, the best thing to do is replace it immediately.

Ideally, connect your refrigerator to a non-GFCI outlet.

Should a refrigerator be plugged into a GFCI outlet?

Based on the high inductive nature of refrigerators, it’s not recommended to connect them to GFCI outlets.

They pull a lot of power that triggers the GFCI to trip falsely. The refrigerator doesn’t need GFCI outlet protection. Especially if it’s connected to a dedicated circuit.

Conclusion

To wrap up, we hope that our troubleshooting guide helps you to stop a refrigerator from tripping a GFCI outlet. If the problem persists, consult a qualified and seasoned electrician.

Don’t take any chances. These simple issues can escalate if you don’t apply a timely solution. Not to mention the extra repair costs.

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How to fix a fridge door seal that is not sticking https://homegadgetshq.com/fix-fridge-door-seal-not-sticking/ Thu, 20 Jan 2022 13:28:31 +0000 https://homegadgetshq.com/?p=1569 For your refrigerator to function effectively, the door seal must be airtight. Its purpose is to seal in the cold temperature that helps to keep your food fresh. Now, when the door seal is not sticking, the refrigerator’s performance suffers. As a result, you must worry about food and other items in the fridge going ... Read more

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For your refrigerator to function effectively, the door seal must be airtight. Its purpose is to seal in the cold temperature that helps to keep your food fresh. Now, when the door seal is not sticking, the refrigerator’s performance suffers.

As a result, you must worry about food and other items in the fridge going bad, and your utility bills going up.

In this article, we want to help you avoid unnecessary stress by discussing possible causes and solutions to a fridge door seal that is not sticking. Read on to learn more.

Why your refrigerator door seal won’t stick

Some of the reasons the seal is not sticking include:

  • Excess food in the fridge is protruding and blocking the door from closing.
  • Heavy food items in the door make it heavy and affect its alignment.
  • The gasket around the door is damaged or dirty.
  • The door seal magnet has been demagnetized.
  • Obstruction in the fridge door hinges.
  • The hinges are out of alignment.
  • The refrigerator isn’t level.

Troubleshooting a fridge door seal that is not sticking

There are different ways you can fix the seal on a refrigerator door without having to call a technician. They include:

1. Remove items blocking the door

The first thing to do to fix a weak seal on a refrigerator door is to remove any items that might be blocking the door. It could be a food item protruding too far from the shelves because it’s long or your refrigerator is filled up.

Whatever the case, remove the item and see if your refrigerator seal sticks when you close. You may have to rearrange the fridge to make sure the items fit properly.

While at it, remove heavy items like gallons of milk and other drinks from the door. These usually weigh down the door and cause it to move out of alignment.

2. Reattach the refrigerator seal

Refrigerator seal

Next, check if the refrigerator seal is attached well. Sometimes the gasket will fail to stick because it’s detached or loose. This is common, especially after several years of use.

To determine the loose area, run your hand along the edge of the fridge door while it’s closed. When you feel cold air leaking from the refrigerator, that’s the spot you’re looking for.

Simply reattach the refrigerator seal and the problem is fixed. How? Start by applying petroleum jelly under the gasket to make it easy for the rubber to slide back into place, then push the gasket.

3. Clean the fridge seal

Dirt, build-up grime, and food spills on the fridge gasket could also prevent it from sticking when you close the door. Fortunately, you can avoid this by cleaning the seal regularly.

There are two ways to go about it: Cleaning the gasket while it’s attached to the door and removing the seal for a thorough clean-up.

For the first option, you’ll mix warm water with dishwashing liquid then dip a toothbrush into the mixture and use it to scrub off the build-up grime.

Make sure you scrub every surface, including the door pocket and the frame that comes into contact with the gasket. When you finish, wipe down the seal with a towel.

For the second option, remove the seal and put it in the mixture of warm water and detergent. Let it sit there for a while then use the old toothbrush to scrub every inch of the gasket. Allow it to dry before you reattach.

Read Also: How to fix a GE refrigerator that runs almost constantly

4. Apply petroleum jelly/silicone grease

After cleaning the gasket, apply some silicone grease/petroleum jelly on the side that connects to the fridge.

This helps to restore the seal’s softness and prevent it from cracking in the future. In addition to improving functionality.

5. Level the fridge

When the fridge tilts in any direction, it could make it hard for the fridge door seal to stick and keep the door closed.

Get a level and check the fridge’s alignment then adjust the feet accordingly.

6. Adjust/replace the refrigerator door hinges

After years of use, the refrigerator door hinges are likely to take a hit. They could either move out of place or wear out completely. This results in misalignment of the refrigerator door and the fridge, preventing the door seal from sticking.

To solve the issue, you must get your screwdriver and tighten the screws in place. If the hinges are damaged, buy new ones and screw them in.

Refrigerator

7. Remagnetize the door seal

If your refrigerator seal relies on magnetization to stay closed, chances are that it has lost its magnetic power. To be sure, put a metal object close to the gasket and see if there’s a pull. If the power has faded you must boost it to maintain the fridge’s peak performance.

But how do you remagnetize a refrigerator door seal? It’s simple. Rub a strong magnet along with the refrigerator door seal magnets. Here’s a guide.

8. Replace the fridge door seal

Lastly, if your fridge door gasket is damaged beyond repair, replace it immediately. Make sure you know the make and model of your fridge so that you can order the right product. When the gasket arrives, leave it for 24 hours before you start the replacement procedure. You can soak it in warm water for a while so that it’s pliable for installation.

Next, get your fridge door seal repair kit and get to work. First, the old gasket has to go. Lift the gasket to expose the screws underneath then use your screwdriver to loosen the screws.

But, don’t remove them from the hole. Once all the screws are loose, the seal should come off easily.

Installing a new refrigerator seal

  • Before you start the fridge door seal replacement, clean and dry the area.
  • Apply grease to the side that connects to your fridge.
  • Start installing in the top left corner moving towards the right corner.
  • Press the seal firmly until it fits in the grove.
  • You can use a fridge door seal glue to ensure it sticks properly.
  • Also, blowing a low heat dryer helps to remove kinks.
  • If it’s a screw-in seal, tighten the screws to secure the gasket.
  • When you’re done, inspect the gasket to be sure it’s installed evenly.

NOTE: Check your user manual for the right installation procedure because they vary from one fridge to the next.

Read Also: Why your Frigidaire ice maker is not working and how to fix it

The ultimate test would be to close the door and if the door seal sticks then your problem is solved. Also, you can try the pull paper test below to clear any doubts.

  • Put a piece of paper between the refrigerator and the door.
  • Close the door and pull the paper.
  • If the paper slips out with little resistance, then your gasket has a problem.

Conclusion

From these solutions, you should be able to solve your fridge door seal problem without any complications. Feel free to share this article with friends and family that might be experiencing the same issue. However, if the seal is not clicking still, call a certified fridge technician to help you out.

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How to fix a GE refrigerator that keeps running https://homegadgetshq.com/ge-refrigerator-keeps-running-fix/ Wed, 19 Jan 2022 12:28:33 +0000 https://homegadgetshq.com/?p=1561 Out of the many GE refrigerator issues that you could encounter, running constantly is one of the most challenging. First, it’s caused by a wide range of factors, so it could take a while to pinpoint the actual cause. You then have arising issues like reduced performance and lifespan to worry about. Not to mention ... Read more

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Out of the many GE refrigerator issues that you could encounter, running constantly is one of the most challenging.

First, it’s caused by a wide range of factors, so it could take a while to pinpoint the actual cause. You then have arising issues like reduced performance and lifespan to worry about. Not to mention the skyrocketing electricity bill.

On average a refrigerator runs 35% – 85% of the day. Anything beyond that means there’s a problem. Usually, it’s 6-8 hours of the cooling cycle, then it stops running and the defrost cycle begins.

That said, we are here to help you fix this problem before it gets out of hand. We’ve compiled a comprehensive troubleshooting guide that you can use when your GE refrigerator runs all the time. Check it out below.

Reasons your GE refrigerator keeps running and their solutions

Here’s a troubleshooting guide for your GE refrigerator:

1. High-temperature setting

When your GE refrigerator fan is running constantly, check the temperature setting. Chances are that it’s set too high. So, the refrigerator must run constantly to cool the internal temperature. The recommended temperature setting is between 34-420F for the refrigerator and -5-80F for the freezer.

READ: What causes a Samsung fridge to leak water on the floor?

Also, when you keep opening the refrigerator, warm air gets in and forces the refrigerator to work overtime to cool to the appropriate temperature. The solution is to avoid opening the refrigerator frequently. You may have to restrict access. Especially for children.

During the warm season, the high temperatures could also cause your GE refrigerator to run non-stop. This is because it works harder to preserve the ideal internal temperature. Consider adding a drape over the refrigerator or turning up the AC

2. Dirty condenser coils

Dirty condenser coils

After using your GE refrigerator for a couple of years, you can be sure dirt and dust will build up. Now, while most people do a good job of cleaning the front body, they almost always forget the condenser coils.

As a result, the steady build-up of debris prevents the condenser coils from dissipating heat effectively. To cover up and ensure the heat is removed, your refrigerator runs continuously.

The solution is to keep the condenser coils dirt-free by cleaning at least twice a year. Make sure you turn off a GE refrigerator before you start cleaning. Unplug it from the power source or cut off the power at the circuit breaker/fuse box.

Read Also: How to fix a frigidaire ice maker that doesn’t work

3. Faulty defrost heater

The work of the defrost heater is to thaw the frost and ice that accumulates on the evaporator coils. This happens during the defrost cycle.

So, a malfunction means the frost will continue accumulating on the evaporator coils unabated, affecting their performance. This forces the refrigerator to run non-stop to remove the heat.

To determine the status of the defrost heater, use a multi-meter to test for continuity. If it doesn’t have continuity, replace it immediately.

4. Defective defrost thermostat

If the defrost heater is okay, you need to check the defrost thermostat. Its job is to measure the temperature of the coils. When the temperatures are too cold it alerts the defrost heater to heat the coils.

A defective defrost thermostat means that it won’t sense the temperature of the coils and signal the defrost heater to turn on. Therefore, the frost will continue to build up on the coils, causing a shortage of air circulation that’s important for cooling.

Just like the defrost heater, you’ll use a multi-meter to test for the thermostat’s continuity. If it reaches the lowest temperature of its operating range, then it has continuity. If not, you should replace it.

5. Faulty defrost timer

The other reason your GE refrigerator defrost cycle is too long could be a defective defrost timer. This part is responsible for starting the defrost cycle after the compressor runs a total of 8-10 hours. It shuts down the compressor for 20-30 minutes and turns on the heater to allow defrosting.

When the defrost timer is faulty the cycles won’t run accordingly. The cooling cycle will run endlessly—until you fix the timer.

For an electrical timer, check its continuity using a multi-meter. If it doesn’t have continuity, consider getting a new timer.

For a mechanical timer, use a screwdriver to turn it around manually. Listen for a click sound as it signals that the heater switch is activated. If it fails to activate the switch, it means the timer is faulty and should be replaced.

6. GE refrigerator is too full or empty

Ge refrigerator full

When you fill your GE refrigerator with a lot of food, there won’t be enough room for cool air to circulate. Also, the items could block air vents that deliver cool air. As a result, the refrigerator must keep running to maintain the required temperature.

On the other hand, an empty refrigerator has a lot of free space that must be cooled. This causes the refrigerator to keep running for a long time to maintain the temperature inside.

The solution, in this case, is to simply keep your refrigerator ¾ full.

7. Dirty or damaged door gaskets

If your GE refrigerator is still running non-stop you need to check the door gaskets. Watch out for any wear and tear or dirt.

These two could easily loosen the airtight grip of the gasket that’s meant to keep warm air out and cool air inside the refrigerator. The air leak causes the refrigerator to run constantly as it struggles to keep the temperature inside cool.

To clean the gasket, make a mixture of warm water and baking soda, dip a clean cloth inside and use it to wipe away the dirt.

If the gasket is loose or damaged, get it replaced. Follow the guide below:

  • Unpack the new gasket and dip it in a tub filled with hot water. This helps to stretch it out.
  • Remove the old gasket using a flat head screwdriver.
  • Once one side is free, use your hand to pull the rest off.
  • Clean the surface of the refrigerator door.
  • Remove the new gasket from the water and let it air dry.
  • When it’s ready, start installing.
  • First, install the new gasket on the top corners of the refrigerator door.
  • Make sure you push firmly to secure the gasket’s connection to the door.
  • Move down and secure the bottom, then finish with the sides.
  • Rub down petroleum jelly on the gasket and close the door.
  • Leave the door for at least 2-3 hours to develop an airtight seal.
  • After a few days, wipe off remnants of the jelly from the gasket.
  • Pay attention to the duration and frequency of your refrigerator operation. A reduction in the run time means the problem is solved.

NOTE: Always make sure you turn off a GE refrigerator during any installations.

8. Faulty condenser fan motor

The condenser fan motor works by blowing air over the condenser coils to cool them. If it fails to function, there will be no cold air so the compressor must work harder and longer to cool the refrigerator.

To check for any defects, follow this guide:

  • Unplug the refrigerator from the power source.
  • Pull it from the wall and remove the back access panel at the bottom.
  • You’ll find the condenser fan motor close to the compressor.
  • Try and move the fan manually to see if there are any obstructions.
  • Remove the obstruction. You can use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris.
  • Look for signs of wear and tear on the motor, mounting grommets, and fan blades.
  • Next, check the fan motor terminals for continuity.

If you notice any defects to the fan motor or lack of continuity, you need to replace the specific parts or the entire condenser fan motor.

9. Faulty evaporator fan motor

Another reason your GE refrigerator keeps running throughout is a faulty evaporator fan motor. Its main work is to blow air over the evaporator coils and ventilate the freezer and food compartments.

Therefore, a malfunction means a lack of cool air circulation. This leads to a rise in temperature inside the refrigerator, thus forcing the refrigerator to work overtime to cool down.

To check the status of the evaporator fan motor, start by listening to its sound from the freezer compartment. If you don’t hear anything, locate the evaporator fan motor at the back of the freezer compartment. Check if the fan is clogged with ice and other debris, look for damage signs, and test for continuity using a multi-meter.

The solutions involve defrosting the ice and clearing debris, replacing the damaged parts, or installing a new evaporator motor.

10. A defective main control board

If your GE refrigerator is still running non-stop, then your main control board could be defective. This board stops the cooling system and turns on the defrost heater to melt the frost on the freezer evaporator coils. When it fails, the cooling system will run endlessly.

To fix the problem, you must install a new main control board.

Other issues

Other factors that could cause your GE refrigerator to run non-stop are:

  • Lack of maintenance: When you don’t service your refrigerator for a while, small issues escalate and affect the performance of the appliance. You should schedule regular maintenance with a qualified technician to prevent the refrigerator from running continuously.
  • Adding warm food into the refrigerator: This causes a rise in the internal temperature that makes the refrigerator work overtime to cool down. Fortunately, it’ll get back to the normal cycle once the temperature stabilizes.

Conclusion

We hope one of these troubleshooting solutions helps you to fix your refrigerator that keeps running continuously—and running your utility bills in the process.

If nothing works, or you find yourself dealing with complex solutions, reach out to a qualified technician and let them investigate the problem. Provided you do everything right, your refrigerator should work efficiently in no time.

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Frigidaire refrigerator ice maker is not working? The fix https://homegadgetshq.com/fix-frigidaire-ice-maker-not-working/ Mon, 17 Jan 2022 07:50:40 +0000 https://homegadgetshq.com/?p=1546 So, you just realized that your Frigidaire ice maker is not working, but the water does get cold. Don’t worry because this is a common issue that can be fixed with a few DIY solutions. In most instances, you wouldn’t need to call a technician. Not until you’ve read our troubleshooting guide and tried out ... Read more

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So, you just realized that your Frigidaire ice maker is not working, but the water does get cold. Don’t worry because this is a common issue that can be fixed with a few DIY solutions.

In most instances, you wouldn’t need to call a technician. Not until you’ve read our troubleshooting guide and tried out the fixes.

But, before that, you need to know how the ice maker system works to get a better understanding of the malfunctions.

How does a Frigidaire ice maker work?

An ice maker is simply a plumbing fixture with electrical components inside a refrigerator that automates the manual ice-making process.

When you connect it to a power and water source, an electrical signal is sent to a water valve to release water into the ice mold. The freezer will start freezing the water immediately and stop when an internal thermostat indicates that the ice cubes have reached 5-9 Degrees Fahrenheit.

Next, a heating coil is activated momentarily to loosen the ice cubes from the molds. You then have ejector blades pushing the ice cubes into a collection tray. Immediately, the tray is full; a signal is sent to stop the ice production cycle.

All the steps in the cycle are interdependent. So, when one step fails, everything stalls. And that could be the reason your Frigidaire ice maker is not working.

Read Also: List of the best ice crushers for margaritas

Possible reasons why your Frigidaire ice maker isn’t working

The most common problems with the Frigidaire ice maker are caused by:

  • A clogged water filter: Debris and other foreign particles could accumulate and clog the filter.
  • Low water pressure: The water inlet valve requires a minimum of 20 psi of water pressure.
  • A faulty water inlet valve hinders the water supply through the system.
  • High freezer temperature: The freezer works best when the temperature is between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • A faulty thermostat: This prevents the continuation of the ice production cycle since the system can’t read the ice temperature.
  • A faulty ice maker motor affects movement in the ice maker cycle.
  • Clogged or frozen fill tubes: This affects water intake in the ice maker.
  • A faulty ice level control board: With this out of order, the system can’t tell how much ice is produced, so it halts the process.

Others that are not related to the ice maker system are:

  • A faulty door seal: This affects the stability of the freezer temperature, thus preventing ice production.
  • Faulty door switch: When the freezer door switch malfunctions, the light in the freezer turns on and the ice maker turns off.

Frigidaire ice maker repair kit

How to fix Frigidaire ice maker issues

The solutions to the ice maker issues include:

1. Turn On the ice maker

Make sure you turn On your ice maker before you start troubleshooting other issues. You might have turned On the refrigerator and forgot to switch On the ice maker.

2. Reset the ice maker

Fortunately, most of these problems can be solved by simply resetting the ice maker. Here is how to reset your Frigidaire ice maker.

First, adjust the feeler arm. This is the plastic or metal rod that moves up and down depending on the level of ice in the ice maker. It prevents the production of too much ice.

  • Push the arm down if it’s stuck at the top.
  • This will allow water to flow into the ice molds.

Next, press the ice maker’s On/Off button or the reset button

  • You’ll find the On/Off button on the front control panel.
  • Press and hold the button until the LED turns red.
  • Wait for 15 minutes.
  • Press and hold the button again until the LED turns green.
  • Your Frigidaire ice maker is now reset. Check if it’s working.

Also, you could just press the reset button directly. But where is the reset button on the Frigidaire ice maker?

  • It’s under the motor housing when you remove the top cover.
  • Press and hold the button for 10 seconds to reset the ice maker.
  • You can release it sooner if you hear a chime inside the refrigerator or the ice maker starts operating.

Lastly, to reset your Frigidaire ice maker, unplug the refrigerator power source, wait for a few minutes, and plug it back on. If you have a built-in refrigerator that’s hard or impossible to move, simply switch it Off then back On.

Read Also: How to fix a Samsung dryer that keeps shutting off

3. Defrost the refrigerator water line

When frozen water clogs the supply line, switch off the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the line to defrost.

4. Replace the water filter

If you notice your ice maker isn’t producing enough ice or the cubes are becoming smaller, you’re dealing with a clogged water filter.

You need to replace it immediately to ensure the ice maker performs optimally.

5. Check the error codes

Look at the error codes on the control panel, then crosscheck in the manual or the manufacturer’s website if they relate to the ice maker.

Get a hairdryer and melt the ice for simple issues like ice covering the freezer air vents or ice on the fan blades.

Conclusion

From this guide, it shouldn’t be hard to reset and troubleshoot your Frigidaire ice maker. But, if nothing works, you could be dealing with a bigger issue that requires the expertise of a technician to diagnose and solve.

Usually, for electrical or mechanical issues within the ice maker, it’s recommended that you replace the entire unit since they’re not built for disassembly.

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