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TROUBLESHOOTING AND REPAIRS
1. NORMAL REFRIGERATOR FUNCTIONS
A domestic refrigerator is comprised of an electric control system and a refrigerating
system. Since both systems work together, it is difficult to tell whether the refrigerating
system is in good working condition. If any part of the refrigerating system or electric control
does not work properly, the refrigerator’s efficiency will decline, operating properties will
destabilize, and in worst cases, it will not function at all.
Sending refrigerators to a service department can be difficult since they are generally large. At
times, normal phenomena are incorrectly diagnosed as troubles. Before we deal with the
recurrent problems of refrigerators, here is a brief outline of normal occurrences that should not
be considered as problems. If any of the occurrences listed below happens, you can continue to
use your refrigerator:
a) Rumbling Sounds
When the compressor of a refrigerator stops running, a rumbling sound will be heard from the
evaporator. This sound is caused by the flow of refrigerant in the evaporator tube. The
refrigerant flows shortly after the compressor has stopped running. This sound, therefore, does
not constitute a problem.
b) Clicking Noises
Refrigerators often make clicking noises. This is also normal. It is the result of the intake or
release of the armature of a current dead weight start relay when the compressor is started. The
compressor motor makes a clicking sound while it is running. This sound is faint in the
daytime but becomes louder at night.
c) Hot Refrigerator Parts
The compressor consists of an electric motor and a compressing apparatus. During its normal
operation, the temperature of the motor’s starter core and windings will range between 212°F-
230°F. The temperature of the piston and cylinder of the compressing mechanism is normally
212°F due to the heat produced when compressing the refrigerant. Most of the heat radiates
through the compressor casing to the air, therefore the temperature of the casing is generally
between 185°F and 194°F. It becomes extremely hot, particularly in summer when the ambient
temperature is higher than usual.
All these are normal phenomena.
d) Crackling Sounds
For the direct cooling refrigerator, an irregular crackling sound is caused by expansion and
contraction of the compressor. This sound will not affect the normal operation of the
refrigerator.
