← Freezer Problems

Coils frozen

Most Likely Causes

Defrost Thermostat

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The defrost heater activates multiple times daily to melt frost that might have built up on the freezer's evaporator coils. However, before the heater can turn on, the defrost thermostat needs to detect that the coils are sufficiently cold (usually below 30 degrees Fahrenheit). If the thermostat is working correctly, it will allow the defrost heater to turn on. If it's faulty, the heater won't activate, leading to frost over the evaporator coils. You can use a multimeter to test if the thermostat is defective. If the defrost thermostat doesn't show continuity, it means it needs replacing.

Repair Steps

  1. 1.Unplug the freezer - Unplug the freezer from the electrical outlet to avoid electric shock.
  2. 2.Remove food and shelves - Take out all food items and removable shelves from the freezer to provide easy access.
  3. 3.Locate thermostat - The defrost thermostat is usually located behind the back freezer wall. Consult the freezer's user manual if you can't find it.
  4. 4.Disconnect thermostat wires - Remove the thermostat cover and disconnect the wiring harness by pulling it off the thermostat terminals.
  5. 5.Unscrew thermostat - Unscrew and remove the old thermostat from the freezer wall.
  6. 6.Install new thermostat - Screw in the new thermostat and snap the wiring harness onto the terminals. Ensure the connections are tight.
  7. 7.Replace cover and shelves - Put the thermostat cover back on and return the shelves and food items to the freezer.
  8. 8.Plug in freezer - Plug the freezer back into the electrical outlet and check that it starts up normally.
  9. 9.Test operation - Allow the freezer to cool down completely, then confirm the new thermostat cycles on and off as expected during defrost cycles.

Defrost Timer

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The defrost timer activates the defrost heater several times a day to melt any frost build-up on the freezer's evaporator coils. If the heater doesn't turn on, frost will keep gathering on the coils, causing them to freeze over. The defrost timer needs to move into the defrost cycle to activate the heater. If the timer isn't moving correctly, the heater won't switch on. To check if the timer is faulty, carefully turn it using a screwdriver or by hand until it clicks, which will switch off the compressor and fans. If the defrost thermostat and heater are functioning well, the heater will then activate. If the heater switches on, it means the timer is faulty and needs replacing.

Repair Steps

  1. 1.Safety Precautions:
  2. 2.Prepare the Workspace:
  3. 3.Locate the Defrost Timer:
  4. 4.Identify Wiring Connections:
  5. 5.Release the Old Defrost Timer:
  6. 6.Replace with a New Defrost Timer:
  7. 7.Reconnect Wiring:
  8. 8.Secure the New Timer:
  9. 9.Plug the Freezer Back In:
  10. 10.Test the Freezer:
  11. 11.Final Checks:

Defrost Heater Assembly

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The defrost heater works several times daily to melt any frost build-up on the freezer's evaporator coils. If it fails to turn on, frost will continue to gather on the coils, eventually causing them to freeze over. To check if the defrost heater is the problem, use a multimeter to test its continuity. If the defrost heater doesn't show continuity, it's time to replace it.

Repair Steps

  1. 1.Safety Precautions:
  2. 2.Prepare the Workspace:
  3. 3.Locate the Defrost Heater Assembly:
  4. 4.Remove the Rear Panel:
  5. 5.Identify the Defrost Heater Assembly:
  6. 6.Disconnect Wiring:
  7. 7.Remove the Old Heater Assembly:
  8. 8.Replace with a New Defrost Heater Assembly:
  9. 9.Reconnect Wiring:
  10. 10.Replace the Rear Panel:
  11. 11.Plug the Freezer Back In:
  12. 12.Test the Freezer:
  13. 13.Final Checks:

Door Gasket

appliancepartspros

The door gasket keeps air from leaking into or out of the freezer. If the gasket is damaged, not sealing properly, or the freezer door isn't closed securely, moist air can seep into the freezer. This humid air, when it comes in contact with the cold evaporator coils, condenses and freezes, causing the coils to ice over fast. If this continues, the defrost cycle can't keep up. To check the gasket's seal, try the dollar bill test: close the door on a dollar bill and attempt to pull it out. If it sticks, the gasket is good. If it slides or falls out, the gasket is leaking. Do this around the entire door. If the dollar bill doesn't stick at any point, the gasket needs to be replaced.

Repair Steps

  1. 1.Unplug freezer - Unplug the freezer to avoid electric shock while working on it.
  2. 2.Remove old gasket - Use a flathead screwdriver to pry up the old gasket from the door frame. Remove any remaining adhesive residue.
  3. 3.Clean surface - Wipe down the freezer door frame thoroughly to remove dirt and debris. Ensure the surface is dry.
  4. 4.Apply adhesive - Run a bead of gasket adhesive along the door frame where the new gasket will be installed.
  5. 5.Install new gasket - Starting at the corner, press the new gasket firmly into place along the adhesive on the frame.
  6. 6.Trim excess - Use scissors to trim off any excess gasket material around the door.
  7. 7.Allow adhesive to dry - Let the adhesive cure fully before using the freezer, usually 24-48 hours.
  8. 8.Plug in freezer - Plug the freezer back in and make sure the door seals properly when closed.
  9. 9.Test seal - Place a piece of paper between the gasket and frame and close the door. The paper should be held firmly in place and difficult to pull out, indicating a good seal.