The refrigerator produces cold in its cavity and evacuates heat outside the appliance, thanks to a condenser, which allows a fluid to pass from the gaseous state to the liquid state. The condenser is usually associated with a fan, which is important for moving air through the system and for cooling the condenser.
The condenser fan can cause failures if dust accumulates in it, if it is mechanically blocked or if the electronics no longer work correctly.
The fan can be the cause of the following failures:
- The fridge no longer produces cold or takes time to reach the desired temperature.
- The fan does not spin or does not turn fast enough.
- The fan is noisy or blocked.
The condenser fan is located at the bottom of the refrigerator, at the back. It is easily accessible through the open part behind the fridge.
The condenser fan of your refrigerator plays a vital role in the cooling process. It dissipates the heat from the condenser coils and helps maintain the refrigerator’s optimal temperature. If your fridge isn’t cooling as well as it used to, or if you notice it’s louder than normal, you may need to replace the condenser fan. Here’s how you can do it yourself.
Things You Will Need:
- Replacement condenser fan (Make sure to get the exact model for your fridge)
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Safety gloves and goggles
Steps to Change the Condenser Fan in a Refrigerator:
- Unplug the Refrigerator: As always, the first step when working with electrical appliances is to ensure safety. Unplug the refrigerator from the power source.
- Access the Condenser Fan: The condenser fan is usually located at the back of the fridge, near the bottom. You’ll need to move your refrigerator away from the wall to reach it. Once you have access to the back, remove the back panel using a screwdriver.
- Identify the Fan: Once the back panel is off, you’ll see the condenser fan. It’s typically near the compressor and looks like a small, round fan blade inside a housing.
- Remove the Fan: Start by unplugging the wires connected to the fan. Make sure to note or take a picture of the wire configuration to make reconnection easier. Next, using an adjustable wrench, remove the fan blade from the motor shaft. Then, unscrew and remove the old fan motor from the bracket.
- Install the New Fan: Secure the new motor in the bracket and screw it in place. Make sure the fan rotates freely without any obstruction. Attach the fan blade to the new motor shaft.
- Reconnect the Wires: Using your earlier notes or picture as a guide, plug the wires back into the new fan motor.
- Replace the Back Panel: Once everything is in place, replace the back panel and secure it with the screws.
- Test the New Fan: Plug your refrigerator back in and listen for the condenser fan to start up. Also, make sure the fridge is cooling properly over the next few hours.
Tips:
- Always make sure to buy the exact replacement fan for your specific refrigerator model.
- If you’re uncertain about any step in this process, it’s always better to consult with a professional to avoid damaging your fridge.
In conclusion, changing the condenser fan on a refrigerator is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require patience and a bit of technical know-how. If done correctly, it can save you the cost of a professional repair service and keep your refrigerator working efficiently for years to come.
