What is what to do when fridge stops working?

Okay, here's some information on what to do when your refrigerator stops working, formatted in Markdown with Wikiwhat links:

My Fridge Stopped Working! What Now?

When your refrigerator stops working, time is of the essence to prevent food spoilage. Here's a breakdown of steps to take:

  1. Assess the Situation:

    • Check the Power: Is the fridge plugged in securely? Check the electrical%20outlet to ensure it's working. Test it with another appliance.
    • Tripped Breaker/Blown Fuse: Check your home's circuit%20breaker or fuse box. Reset the breaker or replace the fuse if necessary.
  2. Diagnose the Problem (If Possible):

    • Listen for Sounds: Is the compressor running? A humming sound often indicates it's trying to start. If it's silent, the compressor might be the issue.
    • Check the Light: Does the interior light turn on when you open the door? If not, it could indicate a power supply problem or a faulty light bulb. But this could also be a separate issue from the cooling system.
    • Look for Ice Buildup: Excessive ice%20buildup can sometimes block the vents that circulate cold air.
  3. Take Immediate Actions to Preserve Food:

    • Minimize Door Openings: Every time you open the fridge, you let out cold air and speed up spoilage.
    • Move Perishable Items: Transfer highly perishable items (meat, dairy, eggs) to a cooler with ice.
    • Use Another Fridge (If Available): If you have a second refrigerator, move as much food as possible to it.
    • Consider Freezing: If you have time, freeze items that can be frozen to extend their shelf life.
  4. Call a Professional:

    • If you've checked the basic power supply and the fridge still isn't working, it's time to call a qualified appliance%20repair technician. Don't attempt to repair complex components yourself unless you have the proper training and experience.
    • Provide the technician with the fridge's make and model number.
  5. Clean Up:

    • Once the fridge is repaired, clean it thoroughly to remove any spoiled food and prevent odors.