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Why Is My Frost Free Freezer Not Working? Here’s The Shocking Truth!

Quick summary

  • A frost-free freezer is a type of refrigerator that uses a heating element to prevent the accumulation of frost on the inside.
  • If the seals are not tight, the freezer will allow cold air to escape, which will cause the freezer to work harder and use more energy.
  • The defrost system in a frost-free freezer helps to remove frost buildup by heating the inside of the freezer.

If you’re like me, then you love the convenience of a frost-free freezer. But what do you do when your freezer stops working? In this blog post, I’m going to tell you why is my frost free freezer not working and how to fix it. Stay tuned!

Why Is My Frost Free Freezer Not Working?

A frost-free freezer is a type of refrigerator that uses a heating element to prevent the accumulation of frost on the inside. The heating element is usually located at the bottom of the freezer and is turned on periodically to melt any frost that has formed.

If your frost-free freezer is not working properly, there are several things you can check:

1. Make sure that the freezer is plugged in and that the cord is securely connected to the wall outlet. If the freezer is not plugged in, it will not turn on.

2. Check the temperature setting on the freezer. If the temperature is set too low, the freezer will not cool properly.

3. Check the freezer’s power switch. If the switch is turned off, the freezer will not turn on.

4. Check the freezer’s door seals. If the seals are not tight, the freezer will allow cold air to escape, which will cause the freezer to work harder and use more energy.

5. Check the freezer’s thermostat. If the thermostat is not working properly, the freezer will not turn on or will not cool properly.

6. Check the freezer’s defrost system. If the defrost system is not working properly, the heating element may not come on, which will cause the freezer to accumulate frost.

7. Check the freezer’s air filter. If the air filter is dirty, it will cause the freezer to work harder and use more energy.

If none of these problems are causing the freezer to stop working, you may need to call a service technician to diagnose and repair the freezer.

How Do I Troubleshoot A Frost Free Freezer That Is Not Cooling?

  • 1. Check the power supply: Ensure that the freezer is receiving power from the main outlet. If the outlet is not providing power, check the circuit breaker or fuse box.
  • 2. Check the temperature setting: Make sure that the temperature setting is correct and that the freezer is not in defrost mode.
  • 3. Check the condenser coils: The condenser coils are responsible for cooling the refrigerant. If the coils are dirty or blocked, the freezer may not cool properly. Clean the coils with a soft brush or vacuum.
  • 4. Check the evaporator fan: The evaporator fan circulates cold air throughout the freezer. If the fan is not working, the freezer may not cool properly. Check the fan motor and blades for any damage.
  • 5. Check the refrigerant level: The refrigerant is responsible for cooling the freezer. If the refrigerant is low, the freezer may not cool properly. Check the refrigerant level with a refrigerant gauge and recharge if necessary.

What Are Some Common Reasons Why A Frost Free Freezer May Not Be Working?

Frost-free freezers are designed to prevent ice buildup, but occasionally, they may not function properly. Here are some common reasons why a frost-free freezer may not be working:

1. Faulty defrost system: The defrost system in a frost-free freezer helps to remove frost buildup by heating the inside of the freezer. If the defrost system is not working properly, the freezer may not defrost properly, which can lead to ice buildup.

2. Clogged air vents: Air vents in a frost-free freezer allow air to circulate around the evaporator coils, which help prevent frost buildup. If the air vents are clogged, the freezer may not cool properly, which can lead to ice buildup.

3. Thermostat issues: The thermostat in a frost-free freezer controls the temperature of the freezer. If the thermostat is not working properly, the freezer may not maintain the correct temperature, which can lead to ice buildup.

4. Faulty fan motor: The fan motor in a frost-free freezer helps to circulate air around the evaporator coils, which helps prevent frost buildup. If the fan motor is not working properly, the freezer may not cool properly, which can lead to ice buildup.

5. Door seal problems: The door seal in a frost-free freezer creates a tight seal around the freezer door, which helps to maintain the correct temperature inside the freezer. If the seal is not working properly, the freezer may not maintain the correct temperature, which can lead to ice buildup.

6. Condensation problems: Condensation is water that accumulates on the evaporator coils of a frost-free freezer. If the condensation is not properly drained, it can drip onto the food in the freezer, causing spoilage.

7. Power issues: A frost-free freezer will not work if the power is off or if there is a problem with the electrical supply. Check the outlet and the circuit breaker to ensure that the freezer is receiving power.

How Do I Clean The Coils On A Frost Free Freezer?

To clean the coils on a frost-free freezer, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the freezer from the power outlet.

2. Locate the coils. They are typically located on the bottom or back of the freezer.

3. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a coil cleaning brush to gently remove any dust or debris from the coils.

4. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the coils.

5. Reconnect the freezer to the power outlet.

6. Check the freezer’s temperature to ensure that it is working properly.

It is important to clean the dust and debris from the coils regularly to prevent the compressor from overheating and the freezer from running inefficiently. If the coils are excessively dirty, you may need to use a more thorough cleaning method, such as using a compressed air canister to blow the dust and debris away.

It is also a good idea to check the condenser fan and blades to ensure that they are working properly. The fan helps to keep the coils cool, so if it is broken or clogged, the compressor may overheat and the freezer may not run properly.

How Do I Check The Defrost Timer On A Frost Free Freezer?

To check the defrost timer on a frost free freezer, follow these steps:

1. Locate the defrost timer. It is usually located on the inside of the freezer compartment, near the evaporator coils.

2. Remove the cover or panel that covers the timer. This may require unscrewing screws or removing plastic clips.

3. Locate the defrost timer switch. It is usually a small, white, plastic switch that has two wires connected to it.

4. Set the switch to the “on” position. This will allow the defrost timer to operate and defrost the freezer.

5. Observe the defrost timer. It should click on and off at regular intervals, indicating that the timer is functioning properly.

6. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations. If the timer is making strange noises or vibrating, it may be malfunctioning.

7. Check the wiring. Make sure the wires are securely connected to the defrost timer switch and the timer itself.

8. Replace the defrost timer if necessary. If the timer is not functioning properly, it may be necessary to replace it.

It is important to check the defrost timer regularly to ensure that it is functioning properly. A malfunctioning defrost timer can cause the freezer to work harder, resulting in higher energy bills and potentially damaging the freezer.

How Do I Replace The Defrost Thermostat On A Frost Free Freezer?

A defrost thermostat is a component in a frost-free freezer that regulates the temperature of the evaporator coils. The thermostat senses the temperature of the coils and shuts off the heating element when the coils reach a certain temperature, usually around 40°F. This prevents the coils from overheating and melting the frost that has built up on them.

To replace the defrost thermostat, you will need to unplug the freezer and empty it of any food. Then, you will need to locate the defrost thermostat. It is usually located behind the evaporator coils.

Next, you will need to remove the screws that hold the thermostat in place. Carefully remove the thermostat and disconnect the wires connected to it.

To install the new defrost thermostat, simply reverse the removal process. Connect the wires to the new thermostat and screw it into place.

Once you have installed the new defrost thermostat, plug the freezer back in and allow it to run for 24 hours. This will allow the thermostat to calibrate to the proper temperature.

If the freezer is still not defrosting properly, you may need to check the heating element. If it is burned out, you will need to replace it.

It is important to replace the defrost thermostat in a frost-free freezer as soon as it stops working. If the thermostat fails, the freezer will not be able to properly defrost, which can lead to excessive frost buildup and damage to the freezer.

The Bottom Line

If your frost-free freezer is not maintaining a cold enough temperature, it could be due to a number of reasons.

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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...