The thermostat regulates the temperature of the refrigerator.
The thermostat may be faulty if you observe that:
- Your refrigerator is no longer cold.
- Your refrigerator is too cold.
- Food is poorly preserved.
- The refrigerator smells bad.
The thermostat is located inside the refrigerator, in the box where the temperature adjustment knob is located.
The thermostat plays an essential role in a refrigerator’s operation, regulating the temperature to keep your food stored safely. However, like all components, it can wear out or break down over time, potentially causing the fridge to become too warm or too cold. If you’re experiencing issues with your refrigerator’s temperature, it may be time to replace the thermostat. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Screwdriver
- Needle-nose pliers
- Replacement thermostat
Note: Before proceeding, ensure that the replacement thermostat is the correct type for your specific model of fridge.
Safety First
Ensure your safety by unplugging your fridge from the power supply before you start. This will protect you from electric shocks while working on the fridge. Also, clear out any food items from the fridge.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Access the Thermostat
The thermostat is usually located inside the refrigerator, behind the control panel. You may need to remove a few screws to access it. Refer to your refrigerator’s manual if you’re unsure where the thermostat is located.
Step 2: Remove the Thermostat
Once you’ve accessed the thermostat, you’ll need to remove it from its mounting bracket. It’s typically held in place by a couple of screws. Use your screwdriver to remove these.
Next, you’ll need to disconnect the wires from the thermostat. Take note of which wires connect to which terminals on the thermostat so that you can correctly connect the new one. You can use the needle-nose pliers to help you disconnect the wires.
Step 3: Remove the Thermostat Tube
The thermostat will be connected to a thin tube, known as the capillary tube. This tube senses the temperature in the fridge and signals the thermostat to switch on or off. Carefully pull this tube out from its position. Be careful not to kink or break it.
Step 4: Install the New Thermostat
Now that you’ve removed the old thermostat, you can install the new one. Connect the wires to the new thermostat, following the same arrangement as the old one.
Next, attach the new thermostat to the mounting bracket with the screws. Then, carefully insert the capillary tube into its correct position.
Step 5: Replace the Control Panel
Once you’ve installed the new thermostat, replace the control panel and secure it with the screws you removed earlier.
Step 6: Test Your Fridge
Plug your refrigerator back into the power supply. Set the temperature dial to the middle setting and allow the fridge to run for a few hours. Then, use a refrigerator thermometer to verify that it’s maintaining the correct temperature.
Conclusion
Replacing the thermostat on a fridge can be a straightforward task, as long as you take the necessary precautions, follow the steps correctly, and ensure you have the right replacement part. However, if you feel uncomfortable or unsure about any part of the process, it’s always best to contact a professional appliance repair technician. Proper maintenance and timely replacement of faulty parts will help ensure your fridge’s longevity and efficiency.
