DIY Fridge Repair: Here Is How You Can Fix 5 Common Refrigerator Problems

Considering the amount of work your refrigerator does, it is a surprise that it doesn’t break down frequently. At times when it does, it gives serious tension and can quickly add up to the repair cost. Not to mention, we really can’t do without a fridge, especially, in summers.

Here Is How You Can Fix 5 Common Refrigerator Problems: DIY Fridge Repair

Huffington Post reports that refrigerators that have ice makers in their freezers tend to break within 3-4 years of their purchase. You have two choices though. Either you can save some money for the rainy repair days or you can fix the refrigerator yourself.

Since the latter is a budget-friendly option, let’s dive into some easy ways to fix common fridge problems as recommended by Soundproof Zone.

1. Fixing a Leaky Refrigerator

Chances are your fridge is dripping puddles of water. A study by PartSelect reveals that 27% of their customers report the problem of a leaking fridge. There can be two reasons behind this. These include a blocked defrost drain or a frozen or clogged water supply line. The latter can impact ice production too.

• Repairing a Fridge Leak Due to Blocked Defrost Drain

In the case of a clogged defrost drain, you can try to remove the blockage with the help of a coat hanger. Straighten it so that you can use it to unclog the drain. Alternatively, use a small funnel or pipe cleaner.

If this does not work, then you can get rid of the accumulated debris by unclogging the rubber check valve. This is located at the end of the drain hose. Start with pulling the fridge away from the wall and locating the defrost drain hose. Next, clean the valve with soap and hot water and then reinstall it. This should solve your problem.

• Correcting the Leak by Fixing a Clogged Water Supply Line

In the second case, unplug the fridge and find the shut-off valve. This is typically present behind the appliance or at its base. If you note a tear in the plastic supply line, then replace it with a new one. If you track a translucent clog, then leave your refrigerator off for about two hours.

The clog should clear itself. As soon as the defrost melts, you are good to switch on your fridge. However, if you see a blockage that isn’t translucent or clear, then Dial An Appliance Man.

2. Repairing a Noisy Refrigerator

If you hear your refrigerator making strange sounds that get louder as you open the freezer, then you can blame the evaporator fan motor. You can set the noise right by replacing the motor. You don’t necessarily need an expert to do that for you because changing this fan is fairly simple.

Begin by unscrewing the back cover panel located in the freezer compartment. Some refrigerator models may need a nut driver for the unscrewing job. Unplug the wires. Once done, start working on removing the evaporator fan motor from its bracket. Next, fasten the new motor to the mounting bracket. Plug the wires back in and screw the new fan in its position.

3. Working on a Sagged Refrigerator Door

This refrigerator problem is pretty basic to fix for DIYers. To repair a sagging door, commence the work by removing the hinge cover at the door. Use a nut driver to loosen the screws. There’s a possibility that there is no hinge plate, which saves you from some hassle of the repair work.

If your appliance has a separate freezer door, then you will have to open it as well, so that you can adjust the main unit’s door. Once done, reposition the door of the refrigerator. Hold it in place and tighten the hinge screws. By the end of the day, you’ll have a decent looking fridge at your service.

4. Correcting the Improper Cooling Issue

Another common problem that you may encounter is the fridge’s cooling issue. You have three answers to this concern. Firstly, adjust the temperature control dial. There are high odds that a curious kid rolled it a bit. To this end, your role is to make sure that the dial is not turned down.

Also, make sure that a food container or two isn’t blocking the air vents in the fridge. Secondly, clean the coils to solve this problem. It is essential for the air to flow freely through these coils for the refrigerator to cool things on the inside. In most cases, the coils are on the backside.

Newer models have them underneath the appliance. To restore the chill of your fridge, clean the coils. It is best to clean these coils every year even if your fridge doesn’t suffer from a cooling issue. This move extends the life of the appliance and keeps the frequent need for repairs at bay.

Lastly, clean the condenser fan. In cases where the coils are underneath the fridge, there’s a solid chance that dust or dirt has collected on these fans. Consequently, they slow down, negatively impacting the appliance’s cooling. In this regard, it is best to clean them to restore the cooling.

5. Setting Right the Ice Buildup in the Freezer

The freezer compartment of your refrigerator may end up looking like a winter wonderland. You can fix this in two ways. For one, the concern can surface if you leave the freezer door open for an extended period. This can amp up the humidity inside, leading to ice and frost buildup.

To solve this, don’t leave the freezer door open for longer than required. Secondly, a faulty gasket can leave the door of the freezer open for longer resulting in frost. An easy solution to this is cleaning the seal with a washcloth, soap, and warm water. Dry the seal with a towel and close the freezer.

If this doesn’t yield positive results, then unplug the machine. In this case, lift the gasket and remove all the screws. Next, align the new gasket and fix it back into place. Plug in the fridge again.

Bottom Line

Summing up, you can fix most of these common refrigerator problems yourself. However, keep in mind an important precaution — unplug the appliance for your safety whenever you work on it.