Symptom

Check
Click on underlined items for further information

Refrigerator does not run and the light does not work

• Make sure the refrigerator is plugged in securely
• Check for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker
• Test the power outlet for current
• Inspect the electrical cord for damage
• Eliminate use of an extension cord, if any is being used
• Check the outlet voltage

Refrigerator does not run but the light works

• Check the temperature setting
• Make certain there is a three inch space outside of the refrigerator between the walls and the back and sides and at least a one inch gap above, to allow for air flow
• Clean the condensor coils
• Unplug the refrigerator, wait two hours and plug it in. If you hear it running, a problem is causing the compressor to overheat
• Test the temperature control
• Test the evaporator fan
• Test the defrost timer
• Test the compressor relay
• Test the overload protector
• Test the compressor motor

Refrigerator light does not work

• Replace the bulb
• Test the door switch

Refrigerator or freezer is not cold enough

• Check the temperature setting
• Assure that there is enough room for air flow in the refrigerator or freezer
• Check for air flow restrictions in vents
• Test the temperature control
• Clean the condensor coils
• Check the door seals
• Test the door switch
• Test defrost heater
• Test defrost timer
• Test evaporator fan
• Check for a clogged drain tube
• Check for refrigerant leak

Refrigerator or freezer is too cold

• Check the temperature setting
• Test the temperature control

Refrigerator is noisy

• Hissing and popping is normal on frost free refrigerators, it is the defrost heater
• Check that the refrigerator is level
• Check the drain pan
• Check the condensor fan
• Check the evaporator fan
• Inspect the compressor mounts

Refrigerator runs continuously

• Defrost the freezer
• Clean the condensor coils
• Check the door seals
• Test the door switch
• If you recently adjusted the temperature control, loaded the refrigerator or are in a humid location, it is not uncommon for a refrigerator to run for 24 hours.

Refrigerator starts and stops frequently

• Clean the condensor coils
• Check the outlet voltage
• Test the condensor fan
• Test the compressor relay
• Test the overload protector
• Test the compressor motor

Freezer does not defrost automatically

• Test the defrost timer
• Test the defrost heater
• Test the defrost thermostat

Refrigerator has an unpleasant odor

• Remove spoiled food
• Clean refrigerator interior with a solution of hot water and baking soda
• Clean the door seals
• Remove breaker strips and check for wet insulation

Water on floor outside of refrigerator

• Check the drain pan
• If you have an ice-maker, check the water supply hose going into and coming out of the water inlet valve

Water inside the refrigerator

• Check for a clogged drain tube
• If you have an ice-maker, check refrigerator and ice-maker for level