What is what to do when refrigerator stops working?

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Refrigerator Not Working? Here's What To Do:

When your refrigerator stops working, acting quickly is crucial to prevent food spoilage. Here's a step-by-step guide:

  1. Check the Power Supply: This is the most common and simplest fix.

    • Is the refrigerator plugged in securely?
    • Check the outlet. Test it with another appliance to make sure the outlet is working.
    • Look for a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse in your home's electrical panel. Reset the breaker or replace the fuse. You can find useful information at this Check%20the%20Power%20Supply.
  2. Inspect the Temperature Settings: Ensure the thermostat hasn't been accidentally turned off or set too low. Increase the settings if it's a warmer temperature.

  3. Examine the Condenser Coils: Dirty condenser coils can cause the refrigerator to overheat and stop working.

    • Locate the coils (usually on the back or bottom of the refrigerator).
    • Unplug the refrigerator.
    • Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clean the coils thoroughly.
    • Learn more from this Condenser%20Coils.
  4. Check the Door Seals: A faulty door seal can let warm air in, forcing the refrigerator to work harder and potentially leading to failure.

    • Inspect the door seals for cracks, tears, or gaps.
    • Clean the seals with a damp cloth to remove any debris.
    • To test the seal, close the door on a dollar bill. If you can easily pull the bill out, the seal may need replacing.
    • Information on Door%20Seals.
  5. Listen for the Motor: If the refrigerator is plugged in and the power is on, listen for the motor. If you don't hear anything, the motor may have failed. This usually requires a professional repair.

  6. Defrost the Refrigerator (If Applicable): If your refrigerator isn't frost-free, excessive frost buildup can prevent it from cooling properly.

    • Unplug the refrigerator.
    • Empty the refrigerator.
    • Leave the door open and allow the frost to melt completely. You can place towels inside to absorb the water.
    • Once defrosted, clean the interior and plug the refrigerator back in.
    • Defrost%20the%20Refrigerator
  7. Call a Professional: If you've tried these steps and the refrigerator still isn't working, it's time to call a qualified appliance repair technician.

Important Considerations:

  • Food Safety: If the refrigerator has been off for more than 4 hours, discard perishable foods like meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers.
  • Preventative Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the life of your refrigerator and prevent future problems.