Appointment Lookup
646-440-2692
Refrigerator not draining
Common reasons your refrigerator not draining
The most common reasons your refrigerator is not draining are a locked compressor, defective electronic control board or a damaged door.
48% of the time it's the Compressor
34% of the time it's the Electronic Control Board
7% of the time it's the Door
11% of the time it's the Something else
Schedule your refrigerator repair now!
We can help! Our service technicians have repaired over 42M refrigerators. We can fix yours no matter where you bought it.
Common refrigerator repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these refrigerator parts may fix your problem.
Compressor Replacement
When a refrigerator compressor is locked, it can present several symptoms indicating a failure. The most evident sign is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, resulting in higher temperatures and food spoilage. The freezer may also struggle to maintain the desired freezing temperatures, leading to no ice production from the icemaker or dispenser. Additionally, you may notice that the compressor is unusually quiet or fails to make its typical humming sound during operation. In certain cases, the compressor may attempt to start but fail, resulting in repeated clicking noises. The compressor's inability to circulate refrigerant properly can affect the defrost process, resulting in ice buildup in the freezer. Furthermore, a faulty compressor could cause a sudden influx of melting frost into the drain line, leading to blockages, inadequate drainage, and potential water leaks.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
If the electronic control board in a refrigerator malfunctions, it can lead to various problems, such as power loss, cooling irregularities, and water seepage. This is because the board functions as the brain of the refrigerator, overseeing crucial functions such as temperature management, fan activity, defrost cycles, icemaker functionality, and dispenser operations. When the board malfunctions, it can disrupt communication among different parts, including automatic door mechanisms if applicable. A defective board may generate clicking or chattering sounds and emit a burning scent. Given its potential impact on multiple components, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional inspect the board using diagnostic tests to determine if replacement is needed.
Door Replacement
A refrigerator or freezer door that's damaged can stop the door from closing and sealing properly. It might make it hard to open or close the freezer drawer, needing extra force or feeling like it's stuck. It could also make the drawer not line up precisely with the freezer door. The door might make scraping or grinding sounds due to friction or misalignment. The door gasket won't be able to maintain seal, letting warm, moist air into the refrigerator. This can cause condensation, leading to water collecting in the fridge.
What to expect when you experience a refrigerator not draining issue
How to fix a not draining problem
Solving most not draining problems usually involves replacing the compressor, electronic control board or door. However, there could be other issues, so a thorough diagnosis and accurate diagnosis are key to resolving the problem effectively.
Our recommendations for a refrigerator that is not draining
When your refrigerator is not draining, many things can be at fault. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having an experienced Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem and repair the issue.
What to be mindful of with a refrigerator not draining diagnosis
Effectively diagnosing malfunctions in modern appliances necessitates a comprehensive understanding and specialized training. Addressing refrigerator issues without employing precise diagnostic techniques may lead to ineffective repairs and unnecessary part replacements. With significant advancements in appliance technology over the past decade, contemporary models now feature intricate electronic components that pose considerable challenges for troubleshooting. Consequently, do-it-yourself repairs on modern appliances have become increasingly intricate.
What our customers say about us
With more than 1.3 Million 5 Star Reviews, you don't have to take our word for it
Jake is a great person.
He did a great job, the problem is with the refrigerator.
Nancy V, Meridian, ID
Great job
Robert did a great job and was kind and courteous. He cleaned up everything. I would highly recommend using him.
Karen K, Mount Laurel, NJ
Service appointment
Joe was very professional and knowledgeable technician who quickly found and fixed the problem. I would recommend for service again
Tim R, Schaghticoke, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Repair Refrigerator Resources
Learn how to install refrigerator ice maker kit IM116000 on a compatible top-freezer refrigerator.
Find out why your Samsung fridge is not cooling but the freezer section works. Get expert troubleshooting tips to fix the problem.
Find out why the fridge is not cool but the freezer is and learn how to troubleshoot the common problems that cause this failure.
Find out what to do when the freezer is not freezing but the fridge works fine. Fix the problem fast with our expert DIY troubleshooting tips.
Glossary Terms
A dual ice maker is a feature in some refrigerators that includes two separate ice makers: one in the fridge compartment and another in the freezer section. This setup doubles the appliance's ice-making capacity.
A French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.
Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems and refrigerators to absorb heat from the environment by cycling through states of evaporation and condensation, enabling the cooling process through its cycle of evaporation and condensation.
R-12 refrigerant, also known as Freon-12, is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compound that was once widely used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and aerosol propellants before its phase-out due to environmental concerns.