When your refrigerator is not working properly, refrigerator repair seems like an expensive and daunting challenge. Modern appliances cost much more than they used to, and due to COVID-19, many people in Colorado Springs are experiencing financial uncertainty and are thus hesitant to spend money. There are many pros and cons to consider when you debate between hiring a refrigerator repair technician and trying to repair it yourself. Below we examine common issues with refrigerators and easy DIY tips to try before calling that repairman.
Too Warm
When your refrigerator is not keeping your food cool enough, you run the risk of spoiled food and wasted groceries. Proper refrigerator temperature control is paramount for food safety and storage. If your refrigerator is too warm, first, check that the appliance temperature control switch is set to the coldest setting. If the temperature control switch is not the issue, the temperature sensor might be broken. Next, examine the vent parts. Vacuum around the coils under and behind the refrigerator. Dirty and dusty vents and coils prevent heat exchange and proper cooling. Last, a warm refrigerator might be due to a broken evaporator motor fan. While replacing a broken fan is not hard, the issue might be the result of a broken circuit board, which a refrigerator repair technician can diagnose.
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Too Much Frost
Frost occurs when moist air condenses on cold surfaces (think of the early morning frost on your windshield). This ice build-up is natural. However, excessive ice likely means the seal around your door is cracked, letting in moist air. Sealant is inexpensive and can be purchased from a quick trip to the hardware store. Another cause for too much frost could be a malfunctioning thermistor, or temperature sensor. This is a less common cause and might justify a call to a refrigerator repair technician, as certain parts are not very user-serviceable.
Ice Machine Malfunctioning
An ice maker that is not making ice is usually due to the water supply. A partial or complete blockage in the supply can occur in several locations. First, inspect the inlet tube into the ice maker, a slow water flow can result in ice forming. Unplug your unit and wait for the ice to completely melt. When water stops dripping from the inlet tube to the ice maker, the ice will be melted. Next, inspect the refrigerator inlet valve at the back. This small electric valve controls the water flow into the refrigerator. Replacing this valve requires caution, and be sure to have a bucket handy to catch the water coming out of the valve. Lastly, locate the saddle valve. The needle hole in the pipe can clog. To unclog, locate this valve and screw it fully closed, and then open it. This process should remove mineral deposits that might have formed, blocking the water supply to the ice machine.
Contact Experienced Refrigerator Repair Technicians
Unfortunately, not all appliance troubleshooting is simple. Less common issues such as a broken compressor, relay capacitor, or circuit board require professional refrigerator repair or part replacement from a licensed technician. Of course, if your refrigerator is over ten years old, it might be nearing the end of its life. Our expert refrigerator repair technicians at Reliable Appliance are here, ready to help you diagnose your repair, or let you know if it is more cost-effective to replace your appliance. As a family-owned and operated company, we strive to provide the best, most honest appliance repair service in Colorado Springs. We look forward to talking to you today!
Before you go:
Reasons To Get Your Home Ice Maker Serviced During Colorado Summers
