How to troubleshoot common problems with your side-by-side refrigerator and when to call a professional for repairs

A side-by-side refrigerator is a popular device in many houses since it provides plenty of storage space for food and beverages. A side-by-side refrigerator, like any other appliance, can malfunction from time to time. In this article, we will go over some typical difficulties with side-by-side refrigerators and how to troubleshoot them.

1. Refrigerator is Not Dispensing Ice or Water

There are a few possible causes for your side-by-side refrigerator not delivering ice or water:

  • Water filter: If the water filter becomes blocked, water will not flow through the dispenser. Replace the water filter as directed by the manufacturer.
  • Water inlet valve: The water inflow valve is in charge of delivering water to the ice maker and water dispenser. It may need to be changed if it is damaged or malfunctioning.
  • Dispenser switch: The dispenser switch might become trapped or damaged, causing the dispenser to malfunction. Examine the switch and, if required, replace it.

2. Refrigerator is Not Making Ice

There are a few possible causes for your side-by-side refrigerator not producing ice:

  • Water supply: Check the refrigerator’s water supply to confirm that it is turned on and working correctly.
  • Ice maker assembly: The ice maker assembly might become clogged with ice or debris, making it unable to create ice. Clean the assembly per the manufacturer’s directions.
  • Ice maker thermostat: If the ice maker thermostat is not working properly, the ice maker will not produce ice. Check the thermostat and, if necessary, replace it.

3. Refrigerator is Freezing Food

There are a few possible causes for your side-by-side refrigerator freezing food:

  • Temperature control: If the temperature is adjusted too low, the food in the refrigerator may freeze. Check the temperature setting and make any required adjustments.
  • Damaged door gasket: Cold air might escape if the door gasket is broken or unclean, causing the refrigerator to overcool. If necessary, clean or replace the gasket.
  • Damaged thermistor: The thermistor is in charge of keeping track of the temperature inside the refrigerator. It may need to be changed if it is damaged or malfunctioning.

4. Refrigerator is Producing a Foul Odor

There are a few possible causes of a bad odour in your side-by-side refrigerator:

  • Spoiled food: Check the refrigerator for any spoiled or expired food and discard it.
  • Dirty interior: To eradicate any odours, clean the interior of the refrigerator using a light cleaning solution.
  • Drain pan: The drain pan at the bottom of the refrigerator can accumulate dirt and odours. Use a gentle cleaning solution to clean the drain pan.

5. Refrigerator is Producing Excessive Frost

There are a few possible causes for excessive frost on your side-by-side refrigerator:

  • Door gasket: Cold air might escape and produce frost formation if the door gasket is broken or unclean. If necessary, clean or replace the gasket.
  • Damaged defrost heater: The defrost heater is in charge of removing frost from the freezer. It may need to be changed if it is damaged or malfunctioning.
  • Damaged defrost thermostat: The temperature of the evaporator coils is monitored by the defrost thermostat. It may need to be changed if it is damaged or malfunctioning.

6. Refrigerator is Leaking

If your side-by-side refrigerator is leaking, there are a few possible causes:

  • Water filter: Check to see if the water filter is correctly installed and securely in place. If it is, you may need to replace it.
  • Defrost drain: Water might accumulate and spill out of the refrigerator if the defrost drain becomes clogged. To remove any debris or ice from the drain, use a turkey baster or a pipe cleaner.
  • Water line: The water line that feeds the ice maker and water dispenser may be leaking. Check for any cracks or kinks in the line and replace it if necessary.

7. Refrigerator is Making Strange Noises

If your side-by-side refrigerator is making unusual noises, it may be due to the following:

  • Evaporator fan: The evaporator fan moves cold air around the refrigerator. It can make weird noises if it is broken or filthy. If necessary, clean the fan blades or replace the fan.
  • Compressor: The compressor is the refrigerator’s heart and can generate noise as it wears out. If you feel that the noise is being caused by the compressor, it is time to contact a professional for repairs.

8. Refrigerator is Not Cooling

If your side-by-side refrigerator is not cooling properly, there are a few possible causes:

  • Dirty condenser coils: The condenser coils on the refrigerator’s back or bottom can grow filthy and limit airflow. To restore optimal airflow, clean the coils using a brush or hoover cleaner.
  • Temperature control: If the temperature control is not adjusted appropriately, the refrigerator may not cool adequately. Check the temperature setting and make any required adjustments.
  • Damaged door gasket: Cold air can escape and warm air can enter the refrigerator if the door gasket is torn or unclean. If necessary, clean or replace the gasket.

When to Call a Professional for Repairs

While some side-by-side refrigerator problems are simple to resolve, others may necessitate the assistance of a professional technician. Consider consulting with a specialist if:

  • The compressor is making a loud, knocking noise.
  • The refrigerator is not cooling at all.
  • There is a significant amount of frost buildup in the freezer.
  • You smell a burning odor coming from the refrigerator.
  • You are not comfortable performing the necessary repairs.

Conclusion

Finally, with the correct information and tools, fixing typical problems with your side-by-side refrigerator can be rather simple. You can identify and repair many common refrigerator problems by following the procedures indicated above. However, knowing when to call a professional for repairs is critical to ensuring the safety and life of your appliance. Your side-by-side refrigerator can continue to deliver reliable and efficient cooling for years to come with appropriate maintenance and timely repairs.

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