The dependable kitchen appliances are freezers. You can always rely on tiredly wandering into the kitchen and browsing your dependable freezer to satisfy your midnight food hunger. Your freezer serves as the go-to location for last-minute food, offering anything from frozen yogurt, vegetables, fruits, and meat to pizzas that are ready to bake and delicious sorbet, ice pops, and different kinds of ice cream like an ice cream cake, an ice cream sundae, and an ice cream bar. What happens, though, if your freezer isn’t freezing?
This article will tackle why my freezer is not freezing, its causes, and more. So keep on reading to find out more.
How Does The Freezer Work?
If your freezer isn’t operating, it’s helpful to know how it operates before starting to fix problems.
Most freezers operate through a cooling pipe containing liquid coolant that rapidly evaporates. The refrigerant gas is compressed, condensed, and evaporated through the freezer’s mechanical parts, which include the
- Condenser, which converts the refrigerant from the gas phase to the liquid phase,
- Compressor, which delivers refrigerant gas to other parts of the freezer,
- Evaporator, which transfers heat from the freezer through the condenser,
- Filter, which removes unwanted components from the refrigerant, along with the
- Accumulator, which stores additional refrigerant on hand because some of it evaporates, condenses, and compresses during the cooling process.
Common Freezer Problems
When a freezer breaks down, it frequently leaves behind signs that can point to the problem. For instance, a malfunctioning freezer producing a loud motor noise suggests a different problem than a freezer with an overly iced interior. It’s recommended to start by listing the problems before figuring out why your freezer isn’t working.
Overpacked Freezer
Filling your freezer to make the most of the available space makes sense. Having a full freezer helps the appliances stay cold. It could, however, backfire if the freezer becomes overloaded and stops working, since air must have space to move for it to function efficiently, and the evaporator fan cannot be blocked.
If your freezer’s shelves are overloaded, move everything inside to allow for greater airflow and clear space around the evaporator fan. It might be a good idea to throw away the items stored in the freezer while you’re going through everything else. Although freezing food is an intelligent technique to increase its shelf life, it is not a permanent fix. For instance, most foods should be frozen for up to a year.
Defrosted Freezer
Much like having too many items, having a lot of ice inside the fridge and freezer might be problematic. Remove the items inside your freezer and manually defrost them if it doesn’t automatically defrost so that the vents and coils will work. If your freezer can automatically defrost, but there is still ice buildup, a component may not function properly.
Dirty Compressor Coils
Condenser coils are essential to a freezer’s operation, but if they are dirty, they could also cause a breakdown. While many condenser coils are inside and won’t be an issue, other models’ coils sit on the back of the freezer’s exterior and are more prone to collecting dirt and dust. Pull the freezer out from the wall, then vacuum the condenser coils using a vacuum attachment to see whether they need to be cleaned.
Door Not Properly Sealed
The freezer door not closing is frequently apparent, but it is only sometimes the case. Run your hand over the door seam to see if you sense cold air leaking out. If you think your freezer door is closed, it still isn’t keeping the cold air in. If so, the door gasket, an elastic band that closes off the freezer, may need to be replaced. The good thing is that this affordable solution is doable on your own.
Broken Thermostat
The internal thermostats of freezers are used to measure and control the temperature. Therefore, the freezer may react by slowing down if the thermostat is transmitting erroneous information, like a lower temperature compared to what the appliance is maintaining. Purchase a second thermometer and put it in the freezer if there is a problem. Then, contrast that reading with the reading from the thermostat.
Your freezer temperature control thermostat has to be repaired or changed if the numbers are noticeably different.
Malfunctioning Internal Parts
Despite being less complicated than other appliances and sometimes having longer lifespans, freezer parts must work together effectively for the freezer to operate. Your freezer may have a larger problem with some of its mechanical parts, like the compressor, condenser, or coils, if it produces a loud sound or noise or has entirely ceased freezing.
Why Is The Freezer Not Freezing?
Even the calmest person might become irritated by a freezer that isn’t freezing. Throwing several hundred dollars over the drain is unnecessary because the freezer broke. The first step in restoring a freezer that has stopped freezing is identifying the cause—saving your freezer and your money.
Escaping Freezer Air
If your freezer is cold but not completely freezing, you must first test the freezer door. Your freezer may be losing valuable cold air because you weren’t aware that something was sticking out far enough to leave the door ajar.
Similarly to this, outdated or improperly built freezer door seals may result in a reduction in freezer temperature. Placing a piece of paper or a dollar bill within the freezer and door will allow you to test the seals on your freezer doors. After that, shut the freezer door. If you can remove a dollar bill, your freezer door sealer has to be fixed or replaced.
Contents of the Freezer Are Obstructing the Evaporator Fan
Poor packing of the contents of your freezer may also be to blame for its malfunction. Make sure that the evaporator fan, which is often located in the back of the freezer, has enough room under it to ensure the cold air it emits can circulate throughout the whole refrigerator freezer.
Dirty Condenser Coils
Dirty coils cause the condenser to store heat rather than release it, reducing your freezer’s overall cooling capability. The compressor overcompensates as a result of this. Make sure to routinely clean the condenser coils to avoid this from occurring.
Malfunctioning Evaporator Fan
Faulty internal components can cause your freezer to not freeze because of more significant causes. If your refrigerator’s evaporator fan isn’t functioning properly, unplug it before removing and cleaning its fan blades. Your freezer’s evaporator fan blades can become clogged with ice and stop effectively circulating air. You must replace a bent fan blade if you notice one.
If the evaporator fan blades are freely turning, but the fan won’t operate, you might need to replace the motor or fix damaged wires that connect the thermostat control and fan motor.
Frost Buildup
The coils and vents that keep your freezer operating can become clogged if there is too much frost buildup within the freezer’s walls. Knowing when to defrost a freezer and breaking down accumulated ice might help relieve congestion if your freezer isn’t operating by enabling your freezer to retain the right temperature. Contemporary freezers have auto-defrost functionality in most cases. Therefore, frost buildup is a warning that parts need to be replaced. That is crucial to keep in mind. It is a more complicated problem that could arise from professional evaluation.
Bad Start Relay
Last but not least, a non-freezing freezer could indicate that the start relay is malfunctioning, failing to supply electricity to your compressor. You can do a physical test of your start relay by unplugging the refrigerator, opening the compartment under your freezer, taking the start relay out of the compressor, and shaking the start relay. Your starting relay has to be changed if you hear what sounds resembling dice in a can rattling. If it doesn’t rattle, you may experience a compressor problem that needs to be fixed by a freezer repair technician.
Tips for Freezer Maintenance
A freezer that stays cool is a content freezer. Here are several tried-and-true methods to enjoy continuous cooling, maintaining the coldest appliance within the house as cold as feasible and properly covering food for storage.
- Regular Defrosting: Ice buildup can reduce your freezer’s cooling efficiency and capacity. Schedule regular defrosting sessions to keep it running smoothly.
- Temperature Control: Ensure your freezer maintains a consistent temperature to prevent spoilage and ice crystals. Keep it set to the recommended temperature for frozen treats like granita, sherbet, gelato, and milkshake.
- Proper Organization: Arrange frozen treats like a smoothie, a frappe, a slushie, a milkshake, and beverages in an organized manner. Group similar items together to minimize the time the freezer door stays open during retrieval.
- Avoid Overloading: Don’t overload your refrigerator freezer; this can hamper airflow and reduce the cooling efficiency. Leave enough space for air circulation.
- Check Seals: Inspect the gasket seals around the freezer door for any damage or cracks. Damaged seals can cause cold air to escape, making the freezer work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
By following these tips, you can ensure your fridge freezer operates efficiently, allowing you to enjoy your favorite treats like an ice cream sandwich, sherbet, smoothie, frappe, slushie, gelato, and more whenever you crave them!
When to Call for Professional Help
If you’re experiencing issues with your freezer, there are certain situations when calling for professional help is best. While you can efficiently address some minor problems on your own, a trained technician may be required to handle others who need expertise.
Here are some instances when you should consider seeking professional assistance:
- Complete failure: If your freezer has stopped working and is not cooling your food and water, you must call for professional help immediately. That could indicate a significant issue with the compressor, thermostat, or other critical components.
- Frequent temperature fluctuations: If you notice that the freezer temperature fluctuates significantly or fails to maintain a consistent temperature. Inconsistent temperatures can lead to food spoilage and compromise the freezer’s efficiency.
- Excessive frost buildup: While a small amount of frost is normal, excessive frost or ice accumulation can indicate a problem with the defrost system. An appliance repair technician can identify the root cause and prevent further damage.
- Water leakage: If you find water pooling inside or around your freezer, it could be due to a clogged drain line or a faulty water inlet valve. It requires immediate attention from a professional to avoid potential water damage and electrical hazards.
Remember that attempting complex repairs without proper knowledge and training can lead to further damage or personal injury. In such cases, it’s best to leave the job to experts with the right tools, knowledge, and experience to handle freezer problems safely and effectively.
If you need help with your refrigerator’s freezer, call Robs Appliance Plus phone number at (615) 766-4485.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions.
What should I do if I find a refrigerant leak in my freezer?
A refrigerant leak is a serious issue that requires professional repair. Contact our technician to identify and fix the leak, then recharge the refrigerant to restore freezing capability.
Why is my ice cream not freezing properly in the freezer compartment?
The freezer’s cooling capacity may be insufficient due to a faulty control board or a refrigerant leak, affecting its ability to freeze items consistently, including ice cream popsicles, an ice cream bar, and an ice cream cone.
Why are my frozen beverages, like frappes and slushies, taking longer to freeze in the freezer compartment?
There might be airflow blockage due to overcrowding or items blocking the vents. Ensure proper air circulation inside the freezer to improve freezing performance for your beverages.
Are certain freezer brands offering longer warranties for parts and labor replacement?
Some reputable brands offer extended warranties for their appliances, including freezers. It’s essential to research different brands and their warranty policies before purchasing. If you have questions regarding this matter, call us right away.
Do specific freezer brands have more frequent freezing issues than others?
While some brands may have better overall reliability, freezer issues can occur with any brand. Proper maintenance and usage play a significant role in preventing problems, regardless of the brand.
Fix Your Freezer Today
Do you want your freezer to perform as it should, leaving your treats like ice cream, gelato, and frozen yogurt a melted mess? Don’t let spoiled food and melted treats dampen your day any longer! Don’t worry! At Robs Appliance Plus, our company offers freezer repair services. We will repair and fix your freezer.
If you have any questions or want more information, please fill out our contact us form or text our phone number at (615) 766-4485. You can also email us at robsapplianceplus@protonmail.com.
If you need to talk to someone about a more complex issue, let us know, and we will have a technician or the owner, Rob, call you back between appointments.
