Cutting edge tools and techniques for your culinary creations

Why Your Freezer Stops Working And How To Fix It

Main points

  • If the thermostat in the freezer is not functioning properly, it may not turn the cooling unit on and off as needed, causing the freezer to stop working properly.
  • If the defrost system in the freezer is not functioning properly, it may not defrost the freezer properly, causing the cooling unit to work harder and eventually causing the freezer to stop working properly.
  • Troubleshooting a freezer that is not working properly can be a frustrating task, but with some patience and a few simple steps, you may be able to identify and fix the issue.

Freezers are amazing appliances. They help us store our food and keep it fresh. But what happens when the freezer stops working? There are several reasons why a freezer might stop working. One common problem is that the freezer is not getting enough power. This can be caused by a faulty power cord or a problem with the outlet. Another possibility is that the freezer’s thermostat is not working correctly. This can cause the freezer to run continuously or not turn on at all. Finally, there could be a problem with the freezer’s motor. If the motor is not running, the freezer will not be able to cool the food inside.

Why Freezer Stops Working?

Freezers stop working for a variety of reasons, but some of the most common causes include:

1. Faulty thermostat: If the thermostat in the freezer is not functioning properly, it may not turn the cooling unit on and off as needed, causing the freezer to stop working properly.

2. Clogged air vents: The air vents in the freezer can become clogged with dust, dirt, or ice, preventing the freezer from cooling properly.

3. Overloading the freezer: Overloading the freezer can cause the cooling unit to work harder, leading to increased wear and tear and eventually causing the freezer to stop working properly.

4. Faulty defrost system: If the defrost system in the freezer is not functioning properly, it may not defrost the freezer properly, causing the cooling unit to work harder and eventually causing the freezer to stop working properly.

5. Poor insulation: If the insulation in the freezer is not in good condition, it may not effectively retain cold air, causing the freezer to stop working properly.

If you are experiencing issues with your freezer, it is important to troubleshoot the problem to determine the cause. Some common troubleshooting steps include checking the freezer’s thermostat, air vents, defrost system, and insulation, and taking steps to address these issues. If the freezer is still not working after troubleshooting, it may be necessary to contact a professional for assistance.

What Are The Common Causes Of Freezer Failure?

  • 1. Overloading: Freezers can only hold so much before they start to become less efficient and are at risk of breaking down. It’s important to not overload your freezer, as this can strain the cooling system and ultimately lead to a breakdown.
  • 2. Inadequate maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your freezer running smoothly and efficiently. This includes cleaning the coils, checking the seals, and making sure the freezer is properly leveled. Neglecting maintenance can lead to a breakdown.
  • 3. Power surges: Power surges can cause significant damage to freezers, as the sudden surge of electricity can cause the components to overheat and break down. It’s important to use a surge protector to protect your freezer from power surges.
  • 4. Faulty components: Over time, wear and tear can cause various components of your freezer to malfunction. This can include the cooling system, the compressor, or the evaporator fan. It’s important to have these components checked by a professional to ensure they are functioning properly.
  • 5. Improper installation: If your freezer was not installed properly, it may not be able to function properly and may be at risk of breaking down. It’s important to have a qualified professional install your freezer to ensure that it is set up correctly and will operate efficiently.

How Can I Troubleshoot A Freezer That Is Not Working Properly?

Troubleshooting a freezer that is not working properly can be a frustrating task, but with some patience and a few simple steps, you may be able to identify and fix the issue. Here are some steps you can follow to troubleshoot your freezer:

1. Check the temperature: Make sure that the freezer is set to the correct temperature. Most freezers should be set between 0°F and 10°F (-18°C to -12°C). If the temperature is set too high, the freezer may not cool properly.

2. Check the power source: Make sure that the freezer is receiving power. Check the outlet and the power cord for any signs of damage. If the freezer is not receiving power, you may need to reset the circuit breaker or replace the power cord.

3. Check the freezer door: Make sure that the freezer door is closed properly. A loose-fitting door can cause the freezer to lose cold air.

4. Check the freezer coils: Make sure that the freezer coils are clean and free of debris. Dirty coils can cause the freezer to work harder and may not cool properly.

5. Check the freezer thermostat: Make sure that the freezer thermostat is functioning properly. A faulty thermostat can cause the freezer to cycle on and off frequently, which can prevent it from cooling properly.

6. Check the freezer fan: Make sure that the freezer fan is functioning properly. A faulty fan can cause the freezer to overheat and may not cool properly.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, you may need to call a repair technician. They will be able to diagnose the problem and make any necessary repairs.

Are There Any Specific Signs That My Freezer Is About To Break Down?

Freezers, whether upright or chest-style, are built to last for many years, but like all appliances, they can break down eventually. Here are some signs to look out for that may indicate your freezer is about to break down:

1. Increased frost buildup: If you notice that your freezer is building up a lot of frost, it could be a sign that the cooling system is not working properly. This can cause the compressor to work harder, which can lead to a breakdown.

2. Loud noises: If your freezer is making strange noises, it could be a sign that there is a problem with the motor or the compressor. These noises may become louder over time and eventually lead to a complete breakdown.

3. Temperature fluctuations: If your freezer is not maintaining a consistent temperature, it could be a sign that there is a problem with the cooling system. This can cause the food in the freezer to spoil, which can lead to a breakdown.

4. Leaking: If your freezer is leaking water, it could be a sign that there is a leak in the cooling system. This can cause the food in the freezer to spoil, which can lead to a breakdown.

5. Electrical problems: If your freezer is not working properly, it could be a sign that there is a problem with the electrical system. This can cause the compressor to stop working, which can lead to a breakdown.

If you experience any of these signs, it is important to take action immediately. A broken freezer can cause a lot of damage to food, and it can also be a safety hazard. It is important to call a service technician right away to diagnose the problem and fix it.

How Often Should I Service My Freezer To Ensure Its Longevity?

The longevity of your freezer will depend on several factors, including how often you use it, how well you maintain it, and the quality of the unit. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should service your freezer at least once a year to keep it running smoothly and efficiently.

Here are some steps you can follow to service your freezer:

1. Clean the inside: Remove the shelves and drawers from your freezer and wash them thoroughly with soap and water. Wipe down the inside walls and floor of the freezer with a damp cloth. This will help remove any dust or debris that has accumulated over time.

2. Check the seals: Check the seals around the door of your freezer to ensure that they are in good condition. If the seals are cracked or worn, they may need to be replaced.

3. Check the temperature: Check the temperature inside of your freezer to ensure that it is set correctly. The ideal temperature for a freezer is between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Check the condenser coils: The condenser coils are responsible for removing heat from your freezer. Make sure that the coils are clean and free from dust and debris.

5. Check the evaporator fan: The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating cold air throughout your freezer. Make sure that the fan is clean and free from dust and debris.

6. Check the defrost drain: The defrost drain is responsible for removing condensation from your freezer. Make sure that the drain is clean and free from debris.

7. Check the condenser fan: The condenser fan is responsible for removing heat from your freezer. Make sure that the fan is clean and free from dust and debris.

8. Check the power cord: Make sure that the power cord is securely plugged in and free from damage.

By following these steps, you can help to ensure that your freezer is running efficiently and will last for many years to come.

Are There Any Specific Foods That Should Not Be Stored In A Freezer?

Yes, there are some specific foods that should not be stored in a freezer. These foods include:

1. Raw eggs: When raw eggs are frozen, the whites and yolks become thick and rubbery, making them difficult to cook properly. They also lose some of their nutritional value.

2. Bread: Bread can become stale and hard when frozen, and it can also absorb odors from other food in the freezer.

3. Soft cheeses: Soft cheeses such as ricotta, cream cheese, and mascarpone can become grainy and lose their creamy texture when frozen.

4. Milk: Milk can become thick and lumpy when frozen, and it can also develop a sour taste.

5. Fresh fruits and vegetables: Fresh fruits and vegetables can become mushy and lose some of their flavor when frozen.

6. Sauces: Sauces such as tomato sauce, pesto, and gravy can become thick and lose their flavor when frozen.

7. Fried foods: Fried foods can become soggy and lose their crispy texture when frozen.

8. Cakes and baked goods: Cakes and baked goods can become dry and crumbly when frozen.

It’s important to note that while these foods should not be frozen, they can be frozen if they are properly prepared. For example, bread can be frozen before it is stale, and sauces can be frozen in airtight containers.

Final Note

If you’re wondering why your freezer has stopped working, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem. First, check to see if the freezer is plugged in and that the cord is in good condition. If the cord is damaged, it could cause the freezer to stop working.

Next, check to see if the freezer is getting power. You can do this by checking the circuit breaker or fuse box. If the circuit breaker has tripped or the fuse has blown, reset the breaker or replace the fuse.

If the freezer is getting power, the next step is to check the thermostat. The thermostat controls the temperature of the freezer. If the thermostat is set too low, the freezer will not be able to maintain the correct temperature. If the thermostat is set too high, the freezer will not be able to cool properly.

If the thermostat is set correctly, the next step is to check the evaporator fan. The evaporator fan circulates cold air throughout the freezer. If the fan is not working properly, it will not be able to cool the freezer properly.

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...