Caution: Please read our safety information before attempting any testing or repairs.

Most gases used as refrigerants pose health risks if inhaled. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, provide adequate ventilation and contact a qualified service technician.

A refrigerant leak can cause a freezer to fail to get cold enough; however, leaks are very uncommon. Also, unlike some automobile air conditioners, it is never necessary to "top off" the refrigerant. The refrigeration system is a closed system and the addition of refrigerant is rarely called for.

Never attempt to chip away ice in your freezer. Even the slightest nick of the cooling coils can result in a very expensive repair or even the total loss of your appliance.

A refrigerant leak can be repaired only by a qualified service technician. If you have ruled out all other possible causes, have a technician inspect your freezer.

In theory, if you can locate the leak, a cold weather epoxy seal could be used to patch the hole. However, these patches will often fail after only a year or two. Once a patch is made, then the system must be recharged with refrigerant. Recharging the system can only be done by a qualified technician.