21
The Problem Solver
Questions?
Use this
problem
solver!
PROBLEM
POSSIBLE CAUSE
REFRIGERATOR/
• May be in defrost cycle when motor does not operate for about
FREEZER DOES NOT
45 minutes.
OPERATE
• Temperature control in the
OFF
position.
• If interior light is not on, refrigerator/freezer may not be plugged in
at wall outlet.
• The house fuse is blown/house circuit breaker is tripped. Replace fuse
or reset the breaker.
• The Sabbath Mode Kit may be installed and operating. Turn off
the Sabbath Mode device.
MOTOR OPERATES
• Normal when refrigerator/freezer is first plugged in. Wait 24 hours
FOR LONG PERIODS
or the refrigerator/freezer to completely cool down.
OR CYCLES ON AND
• Often occurs when large amounts of food are placed in refrigerator/
OFF FREQUENTLY
freezer. This is normal.
• Door left open or package holding door open.
• Hot weather or frequent door openings. This is normal.
• Temperature control set at the coldest setting. See Temperature
Control.
VIBRATION OR RATTLING
• Refrigerator may not be properly installed.
(Slight vibration
is normal.)
THUMPING SOUND
• This is a normal operating sound.
WHEN DOOR IS CLOSED
• The mechanism that closes the door makes a slight thumping sound as
it passes over its lever point, at approximately 80 degrees.
• Closing the door slowly will minimize the sound.
OPERATING
• The variable speed compressor motor.
SOUNDS
• Normal fan air flow—multiple fans blow cold air through the fresh food
and freezer compartments—another fan cools the compressor motor.
• The fans change speeds in order to provide optimal cooling and
energy savings.
• These NORMAL sounds will also be heard from time to time:
– You may hear a whooshing or gurgling sound when the door closes.
This is due to pressure equalizing within the refrigerator.
– A water dripping sound may occur during the defrost cycle as ice
melts from the evaporator and flows into the drain pan.
– The flow of refrigerant through the freezer cooling coils may make a
gurgling sound like boiling water.
– Water dropping on the defrost heater can cause a sizzling, popping or
buzzing sound during the defrost cycle.
– You may hear cracking or popping sounds when the refrigerator is
first plugged in or during/after the defrost cycle. This happens as the
refrigerator cools to the correct temperature.
– The compressor may cause a clicking or chirping sound when
attempting to restart (this could take up to 5 minutes).
– The electronic control board may cause a clicking sound when relays
activate to control refrigerator components.
– Ice cubes dropping into the bin and water running in pipes as
icemaker refills.
– The icemaker water valve will buzz when the icemaker fills with water.
(Modern refrigerators
and freezers with more
storage space and a
larger freezer require
more operating time.
They start and stop
often to maintain
even temperatures.)
36” All-Refrigerator and All-Freezer Units
