Cutting edge tools and techniques for your culinary creations

Why Does My Frost-free Freezer Keep Freezing Up? Here’s The Shocking Truth!

Summary

  • There are a few different things that could be causing the issue, and it’s important to figure out what the problem is so you can fix it.
  • In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the reasons why your frost-free freezer might be freezing up, and what you can do to fix the problem.
  • Start by aiming the hair dryer or heat gun at the ice closest to the door, and work your way in.

If you’re wondering why your frost-free freezer keeps freezing up, you’re not alone. This is a common problem that many people experience. There are a few different things that could be causing the issue, and it’s important to figure out what the problem is so you can fix it. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the reasons why your frost-free freezer might be freezing up, and what you can do to fix the problem.

Why Does My Frost Free Freezer Keep Freezing Up?

If your frost-free freezer is freezing up, there may be a few reasons why. Here are a few things you can check:

1. Check the temperature setting: Make sure that the temperature setting on your freezer is set to the correct level. It should be set to 0°F or -18°C for food safety and to prevent ice buildup.

2. Check the seals: Make sure that the seals around the door are tight. A loose seal can cause cold air to escape, causing the freezer to work harder and ice to build up.

3. Check the defrost timer: If you have a defrost timer, make sure it is set correctly. The timer should turn the defrost heater on periodically to melt any ice buildup.

4. Check the defrost heater: If the defrost heater is not working, it can cause the freezer to freeze up. Check the heater for continuity using a multimeter. If the heater is faulty, you will need to replace it.

5. Check the evaporator fan: If the evaporator fan is not working, it can cause the freezer to freeze up. Check the fan for continuity using a multimeter. If the fan is faulty, you will need to replace it.

6. Check the defrost thermostat: If the defrost thermostat is faulty, it can cause the freezer to freeze up. Check the defrost thermostat for continuity using a multimeter. If the thermostat is faulty, you will need to replace it.

7. Check the defrost drain: If the defrost drain is clogged, it can cause the freezer to freeze up. Check the drain for clogs and clear it if necessary.

8. Check the temperature probe: If the temperature probe is faulty, it can cause the freezer to freeze up. Check the temperature probe for continuity using a multimeter. If the probe is faulty, you will need to replace it.

If none of these steps solve the problem, you may need to call a service technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

How Do I Unfreeze My Frost-free Freezer?

  • 1. Unplug the freezer: To unfreeze a frost-free freezer, the first step is to unplug the unit. This will allow the ice to melt more quickly.
  • 2. Thaw the ice: Use a hair dryer or heat gun to melt the ice. Start by aiming the hair dryer or heat gun at the ice closest to the door, and work your way in. Be careful not to overheat the freezer or damage any internal components.
  • 3. Check the temperature: Once the ice has melted, check the freezer’s temperature. If the temperature is still too low, try adjusting the thermostat to a higher setting.
  • 4. Clean the freezer: Use a clean cloth or sponge to wipe down the freezer’s interior. This will help to remove any residue or odors that may be causing the freezer to freeze up.
  • 5. Check the seals: Make sure that the freezer’s seals are in good condition. If the seals are loose or damaged, cold air can escape from the freezer, causing the unit to freeze up. Replace any damaged seals or gaskets.

What Causes Frost-free Freezers To Freeze Up?

Frost-free freezers use a technology called “auto defrost” to prevent ice buildup. This technology works by using a heating element to melt any ice that has formed on the evaporator coils, which then drains out through a defrost drain.

There are several reasons why frost-free freezers may freeze up:

1. Clogged defrost drain: The defrost drain can become clogged with debris, such as food particles or ice, preventing the melted ice from draining properly.

2. Thermostat problems: The thermostat that controls the heating element may not be functioning properly, causing the heating element to stay on too long or not turn on at all.

3. Condensation buildup: Condensation can build up on the evaporator coils, causing them to become too cold and ice to form. This can happen if the freezer is not well-ventilated or if there is too much humidity in the room.

4. Faulty defrost timer: The defrost timer, which controls the defrost cycle, may be faulty, causing the heating element to stay on too long or not turn on at all.

5. Ice buildup on the condenser coils: The condenser coils can become coated with ice, preventing the freezer from cooling properly. This can happen if the freezer is not well-ventilated or if there is too much humidity in the room.

To troubleshoot a frozen frost-free freezer, you can try the following steps:

1. Check the defrost drain: If the defrost drain is clogged, you can unplug the freezer and use a turkey baster or a small wire to clear it.

2. Check the temperature setting: Make sure that the temperature setting on the thermostat is set to the correct level.

3. Check the vents: Make sure that all of the vents on the back of the freezer are clear and unblocked.

4. Check the defrost timer: If the defrost timer is faulty, you may be able to replace it.

How Do I Prevent My Frost-free Freezer From Freezing Up?

Frost-free freezers use a heating element to keep the freezer compartment at a consistent temperature, so they don’t frost up. However, sometimes the heating element can malfunction, causing the freezer compartment to freeze up. Here are a few things you can do to prevent your frost-free freezer from freezing up:

1. Check the temperature setting: Make sure that your freezer is set to the correct temperature. Most frost-free freezers should be set between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Clean the condenser coils: The condenser coils are located on the back of the freezer. They can become dirty and clogged with dust, which can prevent the freezer from working properly. To clean the condenser coils, unplug the freezer, remove the back panel, and use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a damp cloth to clean the coils.

3. Check the defrost timer: The defrost timer controls how often the heating element comes on to melt any frost that has built up in the freezer. If the defrost timer is not working correctly, the heating element may not come on often enough, causing the freezer compartment to freeze up. To check if the defrost timer is working correctly, unplug the freezer and check the defrost timer for continuity using a multimeter.

4. Check the heating element: The heating element is responsible for keeping the freezer compartment at a consistent temperature. If the heating element is not working correctly, the freezer compartment may freeze up. To check the heating element, unplug the freezer and check the heating element for continuity using a multimeter. If the heating element does not have continuity, replace it.

5. Check the seals on the door: The door seals should be tight and free of cracks or gaps. If the seals are not tight, cold air can escape from the freezer, causing the freezer compartment to freeze up. To check the seals, close the door on a piece of paper and try to pull the paper out. If the paper pulls out easily, the seals are not tight.

How Do I Clean The Coils On My Frost-free Freezer?

Cleaning the coils on a frost-free freezer is important for maintaining optimal performance and extending the lifespan of your appliance. Here’s how to do it:

1. Unplug the freezer: Before you start cleaning, it’s important to unplug the freezer to avoid any risk of electrical shock.

2. Remove the cover: Most frost-free freezers have a plastic cover over the coils to protect them from dust and debris. Remove the cover by gently pulling it away from the freezer.

3. Vacuum the coils: Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to clean the coils thoroughly. Vacuum in the same direction as the coils to remove any dust and debris.

4. Use a damp cloth: If there are any stubborn stains or debris on the coils, you can use a damp cloth to wipe them down. Be sure to use a mild detergent or vinegar solution to avoid damaging the coils.

5. Replace the cover: Once you’ve cleaned the coils, replace the cover by gently pushing it back into place.

6. Plug the freezer back in: Finally, plug the freezer back in and turn it on.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your frost-free freezer is running efficiently and keeping your food fresh. It’s important to clean these coils at least once a year, or more often if you live in a dusty or dirty environment.

How Do I Adjust The Temperature On My Frost-free Freezer?

Adjusting the temperature on your frost-free freezer is a simple task that can be done with a few easy steps.

First, locate the temperature control knob on your freezer. This is usually found on the inside of the freezer, near the door.

Once you have located the temperature control knob, turn it to the desired temperature setting. Most frost-free freezers have a range of temperatures from 1 to 7, with 1 being the coldest and 7 being the warmest.

Next, wait a few hours for the temperature inside the freezer to stabilize. This may take a little longer if the freezer is new or has recently been moved to a new location.

Once the temperature inside the freezer has stabilized, you can check the temperature with a thermometer. If the temperature is not correct, adjust the temperature control knob again and wait a few hours for the temperature to stabilize.

It is also a good idea to check the freezer’s temperature regularly to ensure that it is set correctly. This will help you avoid wasting energy and food, and will also ensure that your freezer is running efficiently.

Summary

In conclusion, if your frost free freezer keeps freezing up, there is likely an issue with the defrost system. This can be caused by a malfunctioning timer, a frozen evaporator coil, or a clogged drain. It is important to regularly clean your freezer and defrost it as necessary to prevent these issues from occurring.

Was this page helpful?No
About the Author
Chelsea Monroe is the Test Kitchen Director for Chop'n Prep magazine. With 15 years in the culinary industry, Chelsea has worked as a chef at acclaimed restaurants in New York and San Francisco. She now oversees recipe development and product testing for the magazine. Chelsea specializes in discovering the best...