How to Repair the Internal Components of a Refrigerator?

Answer 1

A refrigerator is one home appliance that constantly runs day and night. It works hard, and it is simply remarkable that they rarely do break down. When a refrigerator does stop working, there may be reasons for it, and parts to be inspected before the actual repair. The internal components of a refrigerator can be a mixed bag. Some are easy to repair while others are better left at the hands of the professionals.

It can be quite surprising that repairs can be easy, with only a little knowledge and a little patience as requirements. Learn how to make a few trouble shootings with these simple steps.

Internal Components

Before embarking on the actual repair, check the refrigerator’s components first and know which internal part is the culprit for the break down. It can be the thermostat control, the evaporator fan, or the limit switch. Except for the limit switch, other components can be repaired easily. Do not try to fix the limit switch, call a professional to do the inspection and the replacement.

Thermostat Controls

The temperature of the refrigerator and freezer is regulated by the thermostat control. They are mounted in the refrigerator, and the control knob regulates the temperature of the refrigerator. To test if this control is working, follow these basic procedures:

Step 1

Turn OFF the control knob, if the compressor is still running, unplug the unit. Take out the control knob to be able to remove the thermostat. From the thermostat’s terminal, remove either the red or the blue wire. Plus in the unit, if the compressor does not run then the thermostat must be replaced.

Step 2

If the compressor works while the wire is removed, a short circuit somewhere in the unit’s wiring may be the problem. If that is the case, better call for the professionals.

Step 3

If the unit runs but does not cool, unplug the unit. Disconnect both wires from the thermostat, and secure the ends of the wires together with an electrical tape. Then, plug the wires into the unit. If the refrigerator starts and runs normally, replace the thermostat.

Evaporator Fan

If the cause of the break down is not the thermostat, then it must be a defective fan. The fan may be blocked, or there may be broken or bent fan blades. Try to free the fan from blockage or straighten a bent blade with fliers. If the problem still persists, call in the professionals.

Tips

Before trying to repair a refrigerator, make sure, that it is unplugged. After unplugging the unit, check if its motor has a capacitor. This part is mounted atop the motor. Capacitors keep electricity, even when unit is turned off. Before doing any work on a capacitor-type unit, first, discharge the capacitor because it might give a severe electrical shock.