PROBLEM
POSSIBLE CAUSE
REFRIGERATOR DOES
• May be in defrost cycle when motor does not operate for about 30 minutes.
NOT OPERATE
• Temperature control is in “0” position.
• If interior light is not on, refrigerator may not be plugged in at wall outlet.
• If plug is secure and the refrigerator still fails to operate, plug a lamp or a small
appliance into the same outlet to determine if there is a tripped circuit breaker or
burned-out fuse.
MOTOR OPERATES
• Modern refrigerators with more storage space and a larger frozen food storage
FOR LONG PERIODS
compartment require more operating time.
• Normal when refrigerator is first delivered to your home—usually requires
24 hours to completely cool down.
• Large amounts of food placed in refrigerator to be cooled or frozen.
• Hot weather—frequent door openings.
• Door left open.
• Temperature control is set too cold. Refer to Temperature Control section.
• Grille and condenser need cleaning. Refer to Care and Cleaning section.
MOTOR STARTS AND
• Temperature control starts and stops motor to maintain even temperatures.
STOPS FREQUENTLY
VIBRATION OR RATTLING
• If refrigerator vibrates, more than likely it is not resting solidly on the floor.
The front leveling legs need adjusting, or floor is weak or uneven. Refer to
Rollers in the Preparation section.
• If dishes vibrate on shelves, try moving them. Slight vibration is normal.
QUESTIONS?
USE THIS PROBLEM SOLVER
NORMAL OPERATING SOUNDS
These sounds are normal and are due mostly to highly efficient operation.
Icemaker (on some models). Occasionally you will hear ice cubes
dropping into the ice bin.
Evaporator Fan. You may hear air being forced through the cabinet by the fan.
Evaporator. The flow of refrigerant through the evaporator may create a
boiling or gurgling sound.
Defrost Heater. During defrost cycles, water dripping onto the heater may
cause a hissing or sizzling sound. After defrosting, a popping sound may occur
and the evaporator may create a boiling or gurgling sound.
Cold Control & Defrost Timer. These parts can produce a snapping sound
when turning the refrigerator on or off. The timer also produces a sound similar
to an electric clock.
Plastic Liner. Cracking or popping sounds due to expansion of the plastic liner.
Condenser Fan. You may hear air being forced over the condenser by the fan.
Compressor. Modern, high efficiency compressors operate much faster than
older models. The compressor may have a high pitched hum or pulsating sound.
Water Valve (on models equipped with an automatic icemaker). When
the icemaker fills with water, a buzzing sound and running water will be heard.
Water Pan. Water may be heard running into the drain pan during the
defrost cycle.
Depending on the placement of the refrigerator in your kitchen, you may want to
place a piece of rubber-backed carpet under the refrigerator to reduce the noise.
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