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Refrigerator stopped working
Common reasons your refrigerator stopped working
The most common reasons your refrigerator stopped working are a locked compressor, damaged evaporator or a defective electronic control board.
35% of the time it's the Compressor
29% of the time it's the Evaporator
23% of the time it's the Electronic Control Board
13% of the time it's the Something else
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Common refrigerator repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these refrigerator parts may fix your problem.
Compressor Replacement
A locked refrigerator compressor can display several symptoms of malfunction. The most evident indication is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, leading to higher temperatures and the potential for food spoilage. The freezer may also struggle to maintain the desired freezing temperatures, resulting in no ice production from the icemaker or dispenser. Additionally, you may observe that the compressor is unusually silent or fails to produce 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 impact the defrosting process, leading to ice buildup in the freezer. Moreover, a defective compressor could cause a sudden influx of melting frost into the drain line, leading to blockages, inadequate drainage, and potential water leaks.
Evaporator Replacement
A defective refrigerator evaporator can reduce cooling efficiency, resulting in higher temperatures in both the refrigerator and freezer sections. This temperature increase may lead to food spoilage and less effective preservation of frozen goods. Frost or ice accumulation on the evaporator coils can impede their ability to absorb heat effectively. Inside the refrigerator, excessive condensation may lead to leaks. Furthermore, a damaged evaporator might produce unusual noises like hissing or gurgling sounds during the refrigeration process.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
A faulty electronic control board can cause various issues in a refrigerator, like loss of power, cooling problems, and water leaks. This happens because the board is like the brain of the fridge, managing essential tasks such as temperature control, fan operation, defrost cycles, ice making, and dispenser functions. If the board malfunctions, it can disrupt communication among different parts, including automatic doors, if present. A malfunctioning board might produce clicking or chattering sounds and emit a burning smell. Due to its potential impact on multiple components, it's wise to have a Sears Home Services professional check the board with diagnostic tests to determine if it needs replacement.
What to expect when you experience a refrigerator stopped working issue
What is the solution to a stopped working problem?
Although most stopped working problems are resolved by replacing the compressor, evaporator or electronic control board, the problem could be with something else. A thorough diagnosis and accurate diagnosis are key to understanding the repair costs and resolving the issue.
Recommendations from our pros when a refrigerator has stopped working
Many things can be at fault when refrigerator stops working. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures.
Things to watch for with a refrigerator stopped working diagnosis
Identifying issues with modern appliances can present considerable difficulties for those without adequate expertise and training. Addressing refrigerator problems without employing accurate diagnostic techniques may result in ineffective repairs characterized by trial and error. With significant advancements in appliance technology over the past decade, contemporary models now incorporate intricate electronic components that pose substantial challenges for troubleshooting. Consequently, do-it-yourself repairs on modern appliances have become increasingly challenging.
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He did a great job, the problem is with the refrigerator.
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Great job
Robert did a great job and was kind and courteous. He cleaned up everything. I would highly recommend using him.
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Joe was very professional and knowledgeable technician who quickly found and fixed the problem. I would recommend for service again
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Frequently Asked Questions
Repair Refrigerator Resources
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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.