When your refrigerator stops working, you might panic, but there could be an easy solution. The first thing you should do is avoid opening the door. Keep the cool air inside to preserve your food for as long as possible. Food will likely be able to last around four hours once a fridge loses power if the door stays closed. This gives you time to troubleshoot and contact a professional for emergency fridge repair. But before you contact the pros, there are some things you can try first.
Check the Circuit Breaker
It’s possible that the circuit to your fridge or kitchen outlets blew out. Check your circuit panel to ensure everything is still receiving power. Sometimes, the solution is as simple as flipping a switch.
If you find that your circuit breaker constantly trips and shuts off your fridge, it’s best to consult with an electrician. The problem will be beyond your ability to fix safely.
Make Sure It’s Plugged In
It sounds so simple that you may roll your eyes; however, if it has been some time since you checked your fridge outlet, it’s possible that it came loose and cut off the power. Gently pull the fridge out and make sure it’s securely plugged in. While you’re here, it’s a suitable time to unplug it and plug it back in again so that you know it’s 100% connected to the power supply.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Your fridge relies on refrigerant to cool the air that chills your food. If your levels are low, then it won’t work even if it’s plugged in and the light turns on. You’ll need a professional to check the refrigerant levels and make sure they’re what they need to be.
If there’s a refrigerant leak, you’ll likely notice a musty smell and that the motor never shuts off. An oily residue may appear at the bottom of the fridge as well. This is an emergency fridge repair that requires immediate attention from a professional.
The Coils Are Dirty
If the coils in your fridge collect too much dust, they could stop working properly. Cleaning them is as simple as running a vacuum cleaner hose over them or using a coil cleaner brush to remove any dirt and debris. Older models have an exposed panel of coils on the back while newer models have coils located behind a plate at the top or bottom.
If you have questions about where your coils are located, consult the user manual for your fridge. If you don’t have the user manual, look inside the fridge for the sticker that has its brand and model number. Look that up online, and you’ll usually be able to find the user manual for your particular model.
If you learn that the problem involves more than minor troubleshooting, do not delay in calling for professional help. For professional refrigerator and freezer service in Rochester, MN, contact the team at Rochester Appliance Service.
