If you are looking for how to solve the problem of a freezer not working, look no further than this article. We discuss different freezer problems and how to solve them.
Table of Contents
Freezer Not Working But Fridge Is – Quick Fix
Here are possible causes of your freezer not working when the fridge is, and how to fix them:
1. Compressor
If the compressor does not run long enough, the freezer won’t cool enough even when the fridge is somewhat cool. The freezer needs a longer time to cool than the fridge, so a compressor that runs for short intervals cannot give it the time it needs to chill.
Several things cause the compressor not to run long enough. Check the start relay attached to its side. Disconnect the fridge from electric power and pull the relay out. Shake it a little and if it rattles, consider replacing it. To be sure, test the terminals using a multimeter to check for continuity. Replace the relay if you find no continuity.
A faulty condenser fan can also cause the compressor to run only part of the time. The fan is responsible for blowing air over the compressor and condenser coils so that they don’t overheat. If the fan is faulty, the compressor will overheat and shut down. The heat will keep it from often running, hence the poorly working freezer.
The simple fix is to check the functionality of the condenser fan. Clean the blades to remove every debris on and around them. Then, turn them to determine whether or not there is any restriction. If the blades don’t turn well, add a little penetrating oil to the shaft, wait for a little while, and turn them again. If they still do not turn well, it may mean the motor is bad.
Remove the motor and check it for continuity using a multimeter to verify this. If the meter registers no continuity, replace the condenser fan motor.
Yet another possible cause of overheating is the condenser coils, though they directly relate to the condenser fan. If the coils are dirty, they will cause the compressor to overheat, shut down, and not run efficiently. Clean the coils and make a note to clean them every six months.
Finally, check the compressor. Test the pins or terminals on the compressor’s side, where the relay attaches. Use a multimeter to run the test. If there is no continuity, the compressor may have an open circuit. The only repair is to replace the compressor.
2. Ice Maker
One often-overlooked reason a freezer stops working even when the fridge is working is the ice maker. If your freezer has an ice maker that is not often in use, turn it off so that it does not run ice-making cycles.
If you leave it on, the coil under it will heat during the cycle and reduce the freezer’s internal temperature. Over time, the freezer will stop cooling, and the ice maker may stop working because of constantly running with no water.
3. Freon Leak
Check the fridge for a freon leak. You may not be able to detect the leak without a leak detector. But a strange chemical odor may alert you to a leak in the fridge’s sealed system. The freezer’s top shelf will stop cooling, and the evaporator coils will have heavy frost on only one section if the freezer is leaking freon.
If you suspect this issue, it is a serious one and should not be managed. Disconnect the fridge from electric power, open windows for proper ventilation, and call for professional help. Don’t continue using the fridge with a gas leak as it may be dangerous. Instead, store perishable food in an ice-packed and well-insulated cooler or another fridge.
In some cases, a trained and licensed technician may be able to patch the leak and give the fridge a few years of life. But in most cases, there is no better fix than a new fridge. The sealed system should not spring a leak by design. If it does, there is no solution.
Freezer Not Working after Power Outage – Solved
If your freezer is not working after a power outage, it means it is not receiving power anymore. So, check the following to determine why:
1. Circuit Breaker
Check the circuit breaker that powers the freezer. Sometimes, a power outage trips the breaker and causes appliances connected to it to stop working. The breaker is usually outside your house, so inspect it and turn it on for the freezer to start working again.
2. Power Cord
Check the power cord if the circuit breaker is not tripped or you turn it on, but the freezer is still not working. It may be shorted due to an internal wiring failure. Inspect the terminals for signs of burning and if you find any, replace the cord.
3. Outlet
While checking the power cord, take the opportunity to inspect the power outlet. It may be damaged because of a power surge. Burn marks on it will tell you if you need a new outlet. If you are not sure, try connecting another appliance to the outlet. If the appliance comes on and is steady, it may be a low voltage problem. Let an electrician check the voltage supply and replace the wall outlet if necessary.
You may have to reset the outlet if it is the GFCI type. It makes the job easier for you; simply locate the reset button and press it. Then, give the freezer some time to run and cool.
4. Control Panel
It is not common, but a power outage may cause the freezer to go off. If it has a control panel, check for a power button and press it. Otherwise, check the user manual for button combinations that may power the freezer.
When all the above fail to get the freezer working again, it is time to troubleshoot internal components. The thermostat may be damaged, or the compressor may have failed. Find the faulty parts and replace them. Employ the services of a qualified appliance technician if you are unsure how to troubleshoot the freezer parts.
Note: The freezer needs some time to begin cooling after a power outage. At first, it may seem as if it is not working, especially if the outage lasted for a while. But if the lights are working, give it about an hour and check for signs of cooling.
Freezer Not Working After Unplugging – Quick Fix
You may have filed to plug the power cord fully into the wall outlet. Disconnect the cord and reconnect it. Wait for the compressor to come on. If it does not, ensure the power cord is still in good working condition, and the wall outlet is delivering the needed voltage.
To check it, try connecting the freezer to another wall outlet. If it starts working, you know the outlet was the issue. But if it still does not work, the cord may be damaged and in need of a replacement. But there are other possibilities to consider.
Try other electrical appliances in the same room as the freezer. No other appliance will work if there is a sudden power outage or a wiring fault. That will let you know the problem is not the freezer. Otherwise, check the thermostat in the freezer. It may be incorrectly set, causing the compressor to stop working. Adjust it to a correct point and wait for the compressor to resume working.
If the freezer automatically defrosts, it may have gone through a cycle and is cooling. So, if you unplug it in the middle of a cooling process after a defrost, the liquid coolant may accumulate inside the compressor. The compressor only compresses gas, not liquid, so it stalls and begins to draw too much electric current to try to start. The overload protector will shut it down, stopping the freezer from working.
Leave the freezer unplugged for about 30 minutes so that the motor can settle and reset itself. Afterward, plug it back to electric power and see if it starts working again. That is, if the compressor has not burned out under strain. If that is the case, you may have to replace the compressor.
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Freezer Not Working After Door Is Left Open – What to Do
Check the evaporator coils to see if they have a heavy frost accumulation. Leaving the door open lets warm air into the freezer. The warm air, usually laden with moisture, settles on every available surface in the cold freezer, including the evaporator coils. As a result, the coils become frozen and stop releasing cold air into the freezer.
If there is a significant amount of frost, disconnect the freezer from electric power and open the door. Allow the ice to defrost from the coils. If that seems like a long process, you can use a hairdryer to thaw the coils.
After the defrost process, clean the freezer so that the leftover moisture does not form frost when it starts working again. If the evaporator fan is affected by the frost buildup, the manual defrost should thaw it. However, it helps to inspect it to see whether or not the blades are in good working condition. If they are not, replace them or the entire fan assembly.
Ensure the thermostat is set low enough to get the compressor up and running. The compressor will have difficulty starting and running if you set it too high. Consequently, the freezer won’t work.
Freezer Not Working in Hot Weather – Quick Fix
Keeping the freezer coils clean will help reduce the buildup of heat which causes the freezer to stop working with time. If your freezer has visible condenser coils, clean them with a vacuum cleaner or small brush. Make a note to clean them again in six months.
Then, ensure you create space around the freezer so that hot air can efficiently dissipate into the atmosphere. In hot weather, the heat from the refrigerant becomes even hotter. If it remains trapped at the back of the freezer, the compressor may stop working due to the heat overload.
Also, reduce the number of times you or others open the freezer door. You let out cold air and warm air in, compromising the internal temperature. Set the temperature low enough and keep the door shut for most of the day. If you open the door, ensure you don’t hold it open for prolonged periods.
Avoid storing too much food at room temperature at the same time. The items will inhibit the flow of cold air and reduce the freezer’s cooling capacity. The same applies if you store hot food without letting it cool. Instead, load the food items in batches. And if your freezer has an extra freezing feature, it is the best time to activate it.
Hot weather tends to come with increased humidity. And the humidity may be affecting the cooling coils behind the inside rear cover. It may help to dehumidify the room or use an air conditioner. Manually defrost the freezer every year if it does not have an auto-defrost function.
If all else fails, contact the manufacturing brand to report the issue and request service. Otherwise, hire an independent appliance technician for further assistance.
Freezing Not Working After Moving – Solved
Whether or not a freezer will work after transporting it from one location to another will depend on its position during transportation. Typically, a freezer should stand upright during transportation. If that is not possible, prop it on a stand. But never lay it on its side or back.
Oil from the compressor may flow out and enter the cooling lines. And if that happens, the oil contaminates the refrigerant and stops the freezer from working. It has the potential to damage the freezer beyond repair.
If you had to lay it down on its back or side, allow it to stand upright for about three hours without plugging it into electric power. And if the freezer lay down for hours, you may need to leave it unplugged for up to 24 hours. The time allows the oil to slowly flow back into the compressor and leave the cooling lines.
Sometimes, it may need a few days of constantly running before the freezer will become cool enough. So, if you notice that the freezer does not cool enough after plugging it into power, don’t panic. Give it time to run and cool. But get professional help if it does not begin cooling after about three days.
Deep Freezer Not Working – How to Fix
Do the following if you find that a deep freezer is not working:
1. Check the Power Supply
It is crucial to check the wall outlet that powers the freezer. Disconnect the freezer from power and plug a smaller appliance into the same wall outlet. If the appliance comes on, the problem is not with the outlet, so you must consider other possible causes. There may be a blown fuse inside the breaker box, or the power cord is damaged. But if the appliance does not come on, consider replacing the outlet.
2. Check the Condenser Coils
Many deep freezers have visible condenser coils. But some have the coils installed within the walls of the freezer by design. If your freezer has visible ones, check to see how dirty they are. If they are significantly dirty, take a rag and thoroughly clean them. Ensure you also clean the area around the coils.
Dirty coils keep the freezer from cooling because they cannot dissipate heat from the system. As a result, the trapped heat reduces the freezer’s cooling capacity. And if the trend continues, the heat may damage the compressor beyond repair.
3. Check the Start Relay
You will find the start relay mounted to the side of the compressor. Its position makes it easy to supply the power needed by the compressor to start and run. Remove the relay and give it a little shake. If you hear a rattling, the relay is damaged and should be replaced.
However, if the relay does not make any side, you can test it with a multimeter to check for continuity. Replace the start relay if there is no continuity.
The compressor cannot run if the relay is defective. That is because the relay’s job is to supply power to the compressor. Then, it keeps providing the power until the compressor stabilizes. You will find that replacing the inexpensive start relay gets the freezer up and running again.
4. Check the Thermostat
Remove the access cover on the freezer’s side to find the thermostat. Unmount and disconnect it from the compartment without touching the sensor tube. Next, take a multimeter and set it to the Rx1 range scale to check the thermostat for continuity. If there is no continuity, replace the thermostat.
The thermostat regulates the freezer temperature by controlling the cooling system. If it becomes defective, the compressor may stop running or start running more than necessary.
5. Check the Evaporator Fan
Check the user manual of your freezer to find the fan’s location. Turn the blades to see if they spin well when you find the fan. If they do, the fan may not be defective. But if you have a hard time turning them, there may be a problem with the motor. Run a continuity test on the windings of the motor using a multimeter. If the motor has no continuity, replace it.
The fan circulates cold air throughout the freezer. If it stops working, the freezer won’t work even if the cooling coils release cold air.
While checking the fan, it may be a good time to check the cooling or evaporator coils. The freezer will stop working if the coils are frozen; they cannot release cold air that way.
Typically, the coils should be cold and may have a light coating of frost on them. If they do, fixing the fan will solve the problem. But if the coils have a considerable frost coating, there is a problem with the defrost system. To fix the frosting issue, manually defrost the freezer or use a heat source to thaw the coils.
6. Check the Compressor
Consider testing the compressor if you replace the start relay, and other components are in good working condition, yet the freezer is not working. The compressor is the center of the freezer’s cooling function, so the unit may stop working if the compressor fails.
If you are unsure how to test the compressor correctly, hire a service technician to test it. However, there are many online resources to guide you on testing and replacing a freezer compressor.
Freezer Not Working After Defrosting – What to Do
If you find that your freezer is no longer working after a defrost cycle, check the defrost system. One or more of the components have failed and need a replacement. This is especially true if the freezer has an automatic defrost function.
Start with the defrost timer. Turn it clockwise to advance it in or out of a defrost cycle. If stuck in a cycle, it may leave the heater on and compromise the internal temperature. If the timer does not automatically advance out of the cycle in 30 minutes, run a continuity test on it. If you find no continuity, replace the defrost timer.
Next, run a continuity test on the defrost heater. It should warm the evaporator coils and melt built-up frost in the freezer. But if it does not work, the coils may freeze or remain too warm. Either way, the freezer will stop working to cool. So, if the test reveals no continuity, replace the defrost heater.
However, test the defrost thermostat if the heater and timer are working well. The thermostat closes contacts after it senses the coolness of the coils so that power can flow to the heater. But if it becomes faulty, the heater won’t warm the coils, even if the timer is functioning. Replace the defrost thermostat if the test shows no continuity.
Freezer Not Working After Cleaning – Quick Fix
Ensure you did not accidentally nudge the thermostat’s dial to a higher temperature setting during cleaning. The higher the number on the dial, the colder the freezer. So, adjust the thermostat to a lower temperature setting.
After that, give the freeze some time to see if the compressor runs and the unit begins to cool. If that does not happen, inspect the power cord to be sure it is fully plugged into the outlet. Disconnect and reconnect it, this time firmly pushing it into place. That should fix the issue. However, if the freezer still does not work, contact a technician to troubleshoot further.
Freezer Not Working After Flood – Solved
It might have affected the power supply if it had been a big flood. The circuit breaker box should be the first thing to check unless other electrical appliances are working. If that is the case, ensure the outlet is still working. If possible, move the freezer to another outlet and see if it works.
But if the flood directly touched the freezer, you will need to hire a technician to determine whether or not the freezer should be replaced. The water may have damaged different components, including the compressor and main control board. Most parts are replaceable, but you may need a new freezer if the compressor is the problem. That is, if it is an older model. Otherwise, buy a new compressor as it may be more cost-effective if the freezer is new.
Freezer Not Working and Making Noise – Solution
Check the start relay. If it becomes defective, you will hear the compressor turning on and off in short intervals. You will find that the freezer stops working because of the compressor’s inability to run. Test the relay with a multimeter and if there is no continuity, replace it.
Next, check the condenser coils. A compressor will make a noise if the coils overload it with heat. Clean the coils if you notice they are dirty, and remove dirt from the fan and compressor, too. In addition, clean the area around the coils and compressor.
Freezer Not Working But Light Is On – What to Do
Ensure the freezer is not flush to the wall behind and around it. That will restrict air circulation around the unit and overheat the compressor. So, while the light keeps working, the freezer will stop cooling. It may help to clean the condenser coils while at it to help them efficiently release heat.
Also, ensure you set the temperature right. Most freezers should be set at 0 degrees Fahrenheit for optimum operation. If the temperature is high, the freezer may not work as it should. Therefore, take a look at the thermostat. Adjust the dial to a mid-setting. If your freezer has a control panel, check the temperature setting on display and set it accordingly.
Inspect the evaporator coils if none of the above works. The coils may be frozen and in need of a defrost. Use a heat source to thaw the coils or manually defrost the freezer. Ensure the ice does not affect the evaporator fan. If the blades are bent, replace them. And if the motor is not working, replace it.
Disconnect the freezer from power for about two hours and reconnect it. That may get the compressor up and running again if the problem stems from it. An overheating compressor cannot cool a freezer. But if it starts working after reconnecting the freezer, examine the condenser fan. It should prevent the compressor from overheating. If the fan is not working, replace it.
Otherwise, test the compressor and consider replacing it if you get no continuity from its terminals.
Freezer Not Working, Compressor Hot – How to Fix
A hot compressor stems from too much heat, either directly or indirectly. If the freezer has a heat source directly hitting it, it will overheat and cause the compressor to work harder. The extra work will cause it to overheat and stop working. The same applies if the heat is directly on the compressor.
Relocate the freezer to a cooler area if possible. But if not, lower the internal temperature. That will help cool it. Find a way to reduce the heat getting to the freezer.
Ensure the condenser fan is working and the condenser coils are not dirty. These two factors can cause the compressor to become hot and stop the freezer from working. Clean the coils and fan, then test the fan. Replace it if it does not seem to be working.
Try adjusting the thermostat’s setting if the above fixes do not work. An incorrectly set thermostat reduces the cooling in the freezer, prompting the compressor to run non-stop. If the freezer does not work, run a test on the thermostat.
Take it to the highest setting and wait for it to click. If it does not, run a continuity test on it using a multimeter. And if it shows no continuity even in the lowest operating range, replace the thermostat.
The freezer’s sealed system may be leaking. If the refrigerant level drops, the freezer will stop working. As a result, the compressor runs to help maintain a cool temperature. Consequently, it overheats. An odd smell in and around the freezer may point to a leak. If you are not sure, hire a professional to find the possible leak and fix it.
Finally, the compressor may be the origin of the problem. Wear and tear from age or constant running may cause it to fail. Test its terminals using a multimeter. If the readings are wrong, you may have to replace the compressor.
Fridge Freezer Not Working But Light Is On – Fixed
- Check the temperature setting
- Check the space around the fridge freezer
- Check the thermostat
- Check the condenser coils
- Check the evaporator coils
- Check the compressor
These are possible causes of a fridge freezer not working, even though the light is on, as this article explains in detail.
Freezer Not Working in Cold Garage – What to Do
A garage kit may work on the freezer. Get one and fix it next to the temperature control thermostat. The equipment will supply heat to the thermostat, prompting it to turn the cooling system on to cool the freezer. The thermostat may be sensing that the internal temperature is cold enough. So, there is no need to turn on the cooling system.
Also, ensure you set the temperature correctly. It will be counterproductive to lower the temperature in cold weather. The items inside the freezer will freeze.
Fan in My Freezer Not Working – Quick Fix
If you suspect the fan in your freezer is not working, you need to verify it. If you own a fridge freezer, open the freezer door and activate the door switch to see if the motor starts running. If it does not, check the fan blades and motor.
Remove the fan from the freezer and turn the blades. If they are stiff, run a continuity test on the motor. Replace the motor if you find no continuity. You can follow these steps if you own a standalone freezer.
My Freezer Light Is Not Working – Solved
There may be an internal wiring issue. Or the light bulb is out. Another possible cause is the light switch.
Replace the bulb to see if the light resumes working. Test the light switch for continuity using a multimeter if it does not. If the switch has no continuity, replace it. Otherwise, check the light socket. Burn marks or dirt may be keeping it from working. Clean the socket and try the light again. If it still does not work, replace the light socket.
Seal On Freezer Not Working – Quick Fix
If the door seal on the door of your freezer is not working, you need to replace it. However, ensure the seal is not loose or dirty before replacing it. You can fix a loose freezer door seal with a small flat-head screwdriver. Simply push it back into place. And if it is dirty, clean it with warm soapy water.
But if these don’t fix the seal issue, use the dollar-bill trick. Close the door on a dollar bill and see if you can pull it out with the door closed. If you can, the seal is weak, and you should replace it.
This video shows how to replace the door seal on a freezer door…
Compressor in Freezer Not Working – How to Fix
Low refrigerant will cause the compressor to stop working. A freezer should not lose refrigerant, but it will if there is a leak. You need a professional to fix this refrigerant issue if it is the origin of the compressor problem.
But a power surge can burn out the compressor. If there was a storm around your area, it might have damaged the compressor. If that is the case, only a replacement will fix the issue.
Also, dirty coils can affect the compressor’s functionality. That is why it is crucial to keep the coils as clean as possible, especially if you have pets. An overload of heat from the coils will shut down the compressor and cause a failure in the long run.
However, the compressor may be the problem. Consider replacing the compressor if other parts are in good working condition and the compressor has no continuity. This is especially true if the freezer is old.
Top Part of Freezer Not Working – Quick Fix
Your freezer may have a freon leak if the top part is not working. But before concluding, ensure the air vents have no obstruction. And don’t overfill the freezer so that there will be proper air circulation.
If these don’t apply, inspect the evaporator coils. They should be evenly cold and frosted with a light coat. But if only one section is heavily frosted, the freezer’s sealed system is leaking. Contact the manufacturing brand and request service or hire an independent technician for a permanent fix.
Ice Maker in Freezer Not Working – Solved
Replace the water filter older than six months if the unit uses a filter. Ensure it is clean and has no damage; otherwise, it won’t work. Most freezers and refrigerators are filter-specific, so be sure to purchase a replacement using the model number.
Check the water pressure. Low water pressure won’t allow water to fill the ice mold. As a result, the ice maker won’t produce ice. You may need the services of a plumber to fix water pressure issues where applicable.
Then, make sure the temperature is set correctly. The ice maker won’t work if the temperature is too high. Keep at 0 degrees or lower for the best results.
Freezer Stops Working Intermittently – Quick Fix
There is not enough voltage to power the freezer steadily. That is why it keeps going off. Check the circuit breaker and power outlet to ensure they are in good working condition. The breaker may have tripped, or the outlet may have been damaged. Reset the breaker and replace the outlet if it is damaged. The same applies if the freezer’s power cord is damaged.
You can also check the condenser coils and clean them if noticeably dirty. Finally, check the thermostat. It will keep the freezer from smoothly running if it is incorrectly set. Adjust the setting and monitor the freezer. If it continues stopping intermittently, test the thermostat with a multimeter. If you find no continuity, replace the thermostat.
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