This article is a quick guide on fixing the problem of a Bosch refrigerator not working. You will find proven solutions for different problems with the refrigerator’s components.
Table of Contents
Bosch Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Working – Fixed
You must be sure that the ice maker is on; you may accidentally turn it off while cleaning. Search for a power button on the ice if it is not readily visible. Turn on the machine if you find the button. Otherwise, use the wire shut-off arm to turn it on; move it down to start an ice-making cycle.
However, if the ice maker is on but not working, it may be due to other faults. Check the following if you find that your Bosch refrigerator ice maker is not working:
1. Water Supply
The first thing to check is the water supply to the ice maker. There is usually an ice maker fill tube that connects the water supply to the ice maker. Also, the water’s main valve must be fully open and the water pressure must be high enough to supply water. The pressure must not be less than 20 psi or more than 60 psi.
Turn the main valve to ensure it is fully open. Next, check the water line that connects to the ice maker to see if there is an obstruction or damage. Water puddles may indicate the water line is leaking, but dirt or ice can block the water from flowing to the ice maker.
If the water line is damaged, the best repair is to replace it. But if it is obstructed, flush it with warm water to clear it. Ice in the water line can be removed with warm air from a hair dryer. Additionally, ensure the fill tube inside the freezer does not have an ice obstruction; use a small sharp object to pry any piece of ice loose from the fill tube if necessary.
2. Temperature Setting
Most ice makers are in the freezer section of the refrigerator. And since the ice maker typically works with the freezer temperature and does not generate its temperature to make ice, the freezer’s temperature must be low enough to freeze the water in the machine.
For the ice maker to work, a Bosch refrigerator freezer must have a temperature setting below 10 degrees Fahrenheit or -12 degrees Celsius. It is best to keep it between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit for maximum production. If the temperature is too high, the ice maker will stop working.
Therefore, check the setting and adjust it if necessary. You must give the freezer time to adapt to the new setting before determining whether or not the temperature caused the ice maker problem. If the machine resumes working, the problem is solved. But if not, there may be other issues causing it.
3. Water Filter
If you recently replaced the water filter, ensure it is the right type and proper fit for your Bosch refrigerator model. Also, ensure you flush the system after replacing it. You must clear the water line of air after putting in a new filter so that the trapped does not stop the water from flowing.
Therefore, put a container under the dispenser and press the lever to dispense water for two to three minutes. If there is no dispenser, flush the water directly from the water line. It should fix the water supply problem to the ice maker and get it working again.
However, if you have not replaced the filter in six months or more, the dirt clogging the filter will restrict the water flow and stop the ice maker from working. Not all refrigerators have a filter status indicator to alert you when you need to replace it. So, monitor it and count the months to determine when it needs a replacement.
4. Water Inlet Valve
A clogged or faulty water inlet valve can stop the ice maker from working. If you are sure the water line is not obstructed or damaged, and the water supply is enough, check the inlet valve. It is an electrically controlled component that controls how much water flows into the ice maker.
It can get clogged with mineral deposits and dirt like a water filter clogs over months of constant usage. And if this happens, you may hear the inlet valve humming or notice a drop in the water supply. Also, low water pressure keeps the component from working well.
Use a water pressure regulator to correct the pressure issue if applicable. Also, clean it to remove obvious deposits and see if it improves. Otherwise, test its solenoid for continuity using a multimeter. Replace the solenoid or the entire inlet valve if there is no continuity.
5. Ice Buildup
Ice buildup can cause the ice maker to stop working. That means ice in the water line, around the machine, or in the ice bucket. If you suspect or see ice in the ice maker system, turn off the refrigerator and inspect it closely.
You can use a hair dryer to melt the ice in the water line if it applies. Typically, it is difficult for the water line to freeze unless the water pressure is too low. However, if it clogs, use a heat source to melt it so that water can flow again to the ice maker.
But if the ice bucket is frozen, remove it from the refrigerator and put it in the sink. Run warm water into it to melt the ice. Scrape it off using a plastic spatula to remove any stubborn ice as it melts.
Ensure the ice storage bucket is clean and free of ice before putting it back under the ice maker. Otherwise, the machine will not work if it detects ice in the bucket that you do not remove. You must also use the ice in the bucket more often.
The ice melts and refreezes, causing clumps. And when this happens, the ice maker will stop working because the ice sensor detects the ice in the bucket. So, it stops the ice maker from working.
6. Door Switch
The door switch controls when the ice dispenser works. When the door is not entirely shut or does not seal, the dispenser may not dispense ice. The same is true if the switch stops working. So, it looks as if the ice maker no longer works.
So, open the door and find the switch. Toggle it and see if the interior lights turn on and off. If the lights do not respond, the switch may be faulty. Try taping the switch in place to see if it is only loose. But if the problem persists, replace the door switch.
7. Ice Maker
Finally, consider the ice maker; it may be faulty. A typical ice maker has several individual parts, so one or more of them may be defective.
However, some individual parts are difficult to find. Contact Bosch to see if there are replacement parts you can buy. Otherwise, replace the ice maker assembly.
Note: These repair steps work for Bosch refrigerator models.
Bosch Refrigerator Water Dispenser Not Working – What to Do
If your Bosch refrigerator water dispenser does not work, it may be a problem with one of the dispenser’s components. So, check the dispenser switch and dispenser switch. You can also check the door switch that controls the interior lights and dispenser functions.
Other parts to check are the water filter and the water inlet valve. This article on Bosch refrigerator dispenser problems explains the steps to troubleshoot and fix the problem.
The water line may be crooked or damaged. It is crucial to check and fix it if the water dispenser stops working. Keep the refrigerator a few inches away from the back wall to give the water lien space. If there is a spool, tape it to the back of the refrigerator to get it out of the way.
Bosch Freezer Not Working – Quick Fix
The first thing to check is the power connection to the freezer. As simple as it may sound, the power cord may be loose, cutting off the voltage flow from the transformer. So, ensure the power cord is firmly fixed to the wall outlet. Then, check the freezer.
But if that is not the problem, ensure the power cord still works and the power outlet delivers enough voltage. A freezer or refrigerator requires a dedicated circuit to run and function. If you connect other appliances to the same circuit, it may affect how the freezer works.
So, check the power cord; ensure there are no twists and kinks. Check the prongs or terminals to see if they are damaged or burnt. If that is the case, replace the power cord. You will need a multitester to check the outlet to determine the voltage output. If it is too low, hire an electrician to fix the problem.
You can also check the condenser coils. Dirty coils are notorious for making freezers stop working or cooling. They trap the heat from the freezer as the refrigerant absorbs it and dissipates it into the atmosphere.
However, if the coils are too dirty, they become unable to release heat from the freezer. Consequently, the freezer loses its ability to cool or freeze and looks like it is not working. Therefore, clean the coils and ensure you remove every debris from the back of the freezer. Do this once or twice a year to keep the appliance functioning well.
Start Relay Problems
The start relay is the powerhouse of the compressor. It is a small device attached to the side of the compressor, producing a power boost when the compressor needs to start and run. Without it, the compressor will have difficulty operating, if it turns on at all. And if the compressor does not work, the freezer will not start.
Checking the relay is easy. Turn off the freezer and move it to access the compressor. Next, look for the relay device on one side and carefully detach it. Once done, shake the relay and listen for a rattle. The device should not rattle when in good condition. If it does, it is defective and requires a replacement.
However, if you hear no rattling sound, you can run a continuity test on the relay using a multimeter. Place the multimeter’s probes between the start and run terminals and check the value displayed. If there is no continuity, replace the start relay.
Compressor Issues
There is also the possibility that the compressor is faulty. You may notice this if the freezer does not cool at all or the compressor starts and stops. If you verify that the relay works well, but the compressor has run issues, consider testing the motor to determine if there is a fault.
You may need to use the services of a professional technician because compressor testing involves live voltage. Besides, you may not know the resistance value to check. If the compressor is faulty, compare the price of a new one to that of a new freezer. Sometimes, it is more cost-effective to replace the entire appliance when the compressor fails to work.
Refrigerant Leak
Finally, the freezer may be leaking refrigerant. One way to check is to observe the cooling pattern inside it. If one side cools more than the other, there may not be enough refrigerant to circulate.
For a freezer where you can access the evaporator coils, you can tell there is a sealed system leak if the coils freeze on only one side. If that is the case, you will need professional assistance to find and fix the leak.
Contact the Bosch Service Center to report the issue and request service. Alternatively, use the services of an independent technician. Otherwise, consider replacing the appliance.
Bosch Refrigerator Control Panel Not Working – Quick Fix
Try resetting the entire unit to see if it fixes the problem. Disconnect the refrigerator from the wall outlet or power the circuit breaker down for about five to ten minutes. Turn it on again and give the appliance time to boot. If the control panel resumes normal operations, the problem is solved.
However, if the problem persists, there may be a problem with the electronic or dispenser control board. Consider replacing it to see if the control panel starts working. The control board is usually the cause of a malfunctioning control panel. You may also need professional assistance if you cannot locate or remove the control board.
Bosch Refrigerator Water Not Working – Solved
Start with the main water supply and water valve. First, ensure the main water supply is working and has enough pressure. If the water pressure is too low, it can restrict the water supply and stop the refrigerator water from working.
Next, open the main valve to the end; ensure it is fully open. Partially opening it can affect the pressure and how much water comes out of the main source. Replace the valve if it is faulty.
1. Water Filter and Filter Housing
But if the above parts are in good condition, check the water filter. A clogged filter restricts the flow of water, making it difficult for the dispenser and ice maker to work. The water filter is crucial in how well a refrigerator’s water functions, so you must replace it every six months.
However, this depends on usage, as some people use the refrigerator’s water and ice more often than others. In such a case, you can regulate how often you replace the filter. Ensure you use the correct filter for your Bosch refrigerator model for the best results.
But if the filter is not the problem, inspect the water filter housing. It may be damaged or the filter connection point may be obstructed. Clean the housing or replace it if damaged. Otherwise, the new filter will not work.
2. Door Switch
Inspect the door switch to see if it is stuck. Sometimes, dirt and food crumbs can make the switch stick, and since it can control the dispenser functions, it may stop the water from working. Press the switch to see if the lights respond. If they do not, you may have to replace it.
3. Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve is an electrically controlled component that checks how much water flows into the refrigerator. That way, there is not too much water and the ice maker does not overflow. However, like most components, it can fail and may become stuck.
If this happens, the water dispenser may stop getting water. The inlet valve opens for about seven seconds to supply water. But the solenoid may stop getting power and affect the water supply. Mineral deposits may also clog the valve and restrict the water flow.
So, try cleaning the valve with warm water and dish soap to see if there is an improvement. There is also an internal screen filter in the inlet valve that can get clogged with dirt. If you can reach the screen and clean it, it may improve the valve’s performance.
But if not, check the continuity of the valve and see if the solenoid gets sufficient power using a multimeter. If there is sufficient power but the valve does not work well, replace it. The same solution applies if you find no continuity in the valve.
4. Water Line and Reservoir
Finally, check the water line and reservoir to see if they are frozen. Sometimes, the temperature may be too low and the cold air freezes these components. Also, irregular usage can cause the water line and water reservoir to freeze.
If that is the case, you may have to disconnect the refrigerator from electric power for a few hours to melt the ice. Alternatively, locate the reservoir and water line, and thaw them with warm water if it applies.
Ensure you increase the temperature by a few degrees to prevent the reservoir and water from freezing in the future. Check the ice maker; if it is not in use, turn it off and disconnect it. It will cause the freezer temperature to drop if it constantly runs without making ice.
Bosch Refrigerator Ice and Water Dispenser Not Working – Solutions
Several issues can cause the ice and water dispenser on your Bosch refrigerator to stop working. If you have this problem, check the control panel Control Lock feature. Also, check the door switch and the dispenser switches.
Additionally, the control board may have failed. This article on Bosch refrigerator ice and water dispenser not working explains the steps to fix these possible problems.
Bosch Fridge Compressor Not Working – Fixed
The thermostat is likely faulty, causing the compressor not to work. The temperature control thermostat supplies voltage to the cooling system, part of which is the compressor. The thermostat must detect the temperature needs and provide power to meet them.
However, if the thermostat fails, the compressor may stop working. Therefore, locate the thermostat in your Bosch fridge and test it. Consult the user manual for the exact location. You may have to detach it from the appliance for a proper test.
Turn it from low to high and wait for a click. The click indicates that the thermostat is in good condition. If there is no audible click, use a multimeter to run a continuity test on it. Replace the thermostat to get the compressor working again.
But if the thermostat works well while the compressor does not, you need to check the start relay and condenser couple. Also, check the condenser fan and refrigerant level. Finally, the compressor may be damaged. Check out the resources in this article on a Bosch refrigerator compressor not running to determine how to fix the problem.
Bosch Fridge Fan Not Working – What to Do
If the evaporator or freezer fan stops working, the problem may be with frost buildup, a damaged blade, or a defective motor. The likeliest problem is with the fan motor but you can start with the easiest solution.
Turn off the fridge and empty the freezer to reach the back access panel. Unthread the screws holding the panel in place and lower it. Inspect the fan and coils; if there is frost, it may explain the fan’s fault.
If that is the case, leave the fridge off until the ice melts. The load on the fan blade restricts its movement, and the excessive moisture from the frost affects the motor. If that does not solve the problem, check the blade for any other obstruction. Ensure it is not bent or damaged; you may have to replace the blade if it is.
Finally, test the motor with a multimeter to check its continuity. Replace the fan motor if there is no continuity. Additionally, prevent future frost accumulation on the fan and evaporator coils by troubleshooting the defrost system. Ensure the door seal works fine and there is no sealed system leak.
Bosch Refrigerator Light Switch Not Working – Quick Fix
The light switch controls when the interior lights in your Bosch refrigerator turn on and off. So, if the switch stops working, the lights may never go off. And if that happens, the food will go bad and the refrigerator may stop working. Additionally, there is a risk of a fire outbreak.
Therefore, fixing the light switch is crucial. First, locate it on your Bosch refrigerator model. Next, turn it on and off to see if there is any response from the lights. If there is no response, test the switch with a multimeter to check for continuity. Replace the light switch if you find no continuity.
You can replace the switch yourself. Put a piece of painter’s tape near the switch to prevent the refrigerator’s body from getting scratched. Use a putty knife to pry the switch out of its housing on the refrigerator frame.
Now, disconnect the wires attached to it and discard the old switch. Next, connect the wires to the new switch and put it back into the housing. Ensure it snaps into place and test it to see if it works.
Bosch Fridge Light Not Working – How to Fix
You may have left the door open for too long. Most fridges automatically turn off the light and beep the alarm when the door is not properly shut. Before deciding that the light is faulty, ensure the fridge door closes and seals tightly. If it does not, replace the door gasket and ensure every item is properly arranged in the appliance. Do not overstock it so the door can close.
However, if that does not apply, replace the lightbulb because it may have burned out. It is crucial to use the correct bulb or LED light for your Bosch fridge model. If it is the LED light, follow the manual instructions for the correct installation.
The light should resume normal operations if the bulb is the problem. But if not, check the light socket. The socket can keep the interior light from working, even if the bulb works well. So, use a multimeter to check its continuity and replace it if there is none.
Next, check the door or light switch. Many fridge models use the door switch as the light switch. And if it is defective, the light will not work. Dirt can prevent the switch from functioning, so try cleaning it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, check its continuity using a multimeter and replace it if you find none.
Test the control board or replace the entire light assembly if nothing else seems to work. Replacing the light assembly means replacing the entire light fixture. But replacing the control board will affect how a few other things work.
However, the control is likely the problem if the light does not work after fixing the bulb, socket, and switch. If unsure, let a professional handle the job.
Bosch Refrigerator Water Dispenser Not Working After Replacing Water Filter – Solved
Several issues can cause a refrigerator water dispenser to stop working after a filter replacement. First, ensure you have the right filter type. Most refrigerator brands have specific water filter brands for their products.
While a generic filter may work, it may not produce the best results. Other times, it will not work at all. If that is the case, ensure you have the right filter for your Bosch refrigerator model. But if that is not the case, remove the filter and reinstall the old one to see how it works.
If it works, the problem is with the new filter, and it is important to replace it. But if the problem continues, reinstall the new filter and ensure you properly sit it in the filter housing. Check to be sure nothing is obstructing the connection point.
You may want to clean the filter head and connection point inside the housing to create a better flow of water. Follow the instructions on the filter packaging to install it correctly.
Another possibility is that there is trapped air in the water lines. Usually, it is crucial to flush the lines after every filter replacement to ensure no air restricts the water flow. If you have not flushed the system after replacing the filter, dispense water for about two minutes to fix the problem.
You may need professional assistance if nothing else works. There may be a problem with the water system or the entire refrigerator. Have a technician check it to determine the problem and fix it.
Bosch Fridge Alarm Not Working – Quick Fix
Resetting the refrigerator may fix the alarm problem. Disconnect the fridge from electric power and allow it to sit for about five to ten minutes. Reconnect it to the electric power and that should resolve the problem.
If not, there may be a problem with the control board. The board governs how the entire fridge works, including the alarm system. But before deciding that, check the alarm button on the control panel.
You may have accidentally turned it off while cleaning, so find the button and press it. In any case, resetting the fridge as mentioned earlier should fix the audible alarm problem.
Ensure the temperature sensor is working and the door switch is not defective. These can affect how the alarm functions, so have an appliance technician check your Bosch fridge.
Bosch Refrigerator Not Working – What to Do
Inspect the power source to see if the refrigerator is properly connected to it. Sometimes, the power cord does not fully connect, making it seem as if the refrigerator has stopped working. Pull the power cord out and reconnect it to see if it fixes the problem.
If it does not, check the power cord for damage or the power outlet for voltage output. Replace the power cord if damaged, but use a multitester to check the voltage output. Low voltage may indicate a problem with the circuitry or wiring.
Also, it may indicate that you have too many appliances connected to the same circuit, lowering the voltage output. You may need an electrician to check and fix the wiring or remove other appliances from that circuit to another one.
The electrician should also check the voltage supply to the refrigerator to see how high it is. They are in the best position to fix any electrical problems.
The circuit breaker may also have fuse issues. Inspect the breaker controlling the refrigerator to see if it works well. Also, test the fuses to see if they work well. A faulty fuse can affect how well the entire circuitry functions. Replace any blown fuse and see if it solves the problem.
But if that is not the problem, check the following:
1. Condenser Coils
Dirty condenser coils can stop a refrigerator from working. The coils dissipate heat from the refrigerator so that it can cool. But when they become significantly dirty, the coils trap heat and reduce the appliance’s cooling capacity.
Therefore, clean the condenser coils with a vacuum cleaner or a coil cleaning brush. Ensure you also clean the area around it, including the condenser fan and compressor. Repeat this process every six to twelve months.
2. Thermostat
A defective thermostat can affect the compressor, making it impossible for the refrigerator to function. It can also stop the cooling function, even if the compressor works. So, test the thermostat by turning it from low to high.
If the thermostat clicks, it is in good condition. But you may want to test it using a multimeter to check for continuity. The same applies if there is no audible click. Replace the thermostat if you find no continuity.
3. Fan Motors
The condenser fan and evaporator fan are part of the cooling system. If your refrigerator does not seem to work, it may be a cooling system problem. You can determine this by testing the motors to check for continuity.
You will need a multimeter for this test. Check the evaporator or freezer fan; ensure the blade is not damaged. Then, run a continuity test on the motor windings and replace the motor if there is no continuity. Check the condenser fan in the same way and replace it if you find no continuity.
4. Compressor
Ensure the compressor is in good working condition. You will need professional assistance to test it because of the voltage involved in the test. So, hire an appliance technician to run the test and determine whether or not you need a new compressor.
There is also the possibility that there is a sealed system leak, which can affect the refrigerator. The appliance will stop working if there is not enough refrigerant, so a technician can check this problem and fix it.
Get Instant Help — Ask An Experienced Verified Appliance Technician
Need expert help? Click here to use the chat box on this page to speak with a verified appliance technician right away. No need for expensive in-home service calls. No appointments. No waiting.
