A freezer can experience breakdowns, often related to temperature problems. If this happens, it is necessary to react immediately and to shelter the food so that it does not deteriorate further.
This temperature problem can cause the proliferation of bacteria such as salmonella, so it is necessary to know how to maintain these devices to avoid future breakdowns. If the freezer is not cold enough, you will need to check certain elements:
- the thermostat
- the door seal
- the condenser
- the fan
- the evaporator
An efficient freezer is a must-have for every kitchen. From storing frozen vegetables to making ice, we rely on our freezers for a multitude of tasks. However, a freezer not cooling adequately can lead to a multitude of problems, including food spoilage and waste. If you’re noticing that your freezer is not as cold as it should be, this article will help identify the potential issues and provide solutions.
Probable Causes for Inadequate Cooling
Several factors can contribute to your freezer not cooling efficiently. Let’s look at some of the common causes:
1. Incorrect Thermostat Setting
If your freezer isn’t cold enough, the first thing to check is the thermostat. An incorrect setting may be the culprit. The ideal freezer temperature is 0 degrees Fahrenheit or -18 degrees Celsius.
2. Condenser Coils are Dirty
The condenser coils are responsible for dissipating heat as the refrigerant passes through them. If these coils are covered with dust and debris, they will not be able to efficiently release heat, causing the freezer to work harder and leading to a rise in temperature.
3. Door Seal is Damaged
The door seal, or gasket, ensures that the cold air stays inside the freezer. If the seal is broken or worn out, cold air will escape, and warm air will infiltrate, leading to inefficient cooling.
4. Evaporator Fan Failure
The evaporator fan circulates the cold air from the evaporator coils throughout the freezer. If the fan is not working correctly, it will cause a drop in the freezer’s temperature.
5. Problems with the Defrost System
If the defrost system malfunctions, it can lead to a buildup of frost on the evaporator coils. This frost buildup can prevent the coils from cooling as they should, leading to a warmer freezer.
THERMAL SAFETY CHECK
The role of the thermal fuse (pos. 2 in the photo opposite) is to turn off the heating of the defrost resistance in case of abnormal overheating. It usually comes into contact with the evaporator (item 3) from the side.
- Set the multimeter to the continuity function
- Place the test probes on the thermal protection connector.
If you have 1 or OL displayed, it is faulty. On the other hand, if the thermal protection is good, then you will have to replace the electronic card.
TEST CLICKSON
To check the safety klixon located on the compressor:
- Remove the black cover of the compressor: it usually slides up.
- Remove the trigger by prying it out with a flathead screwdriver.
- With the multimeter set to continuity, connect the test leads to the Klixon terminals.
- If you have value, that means Klixon is good. If you see 1 or OL, the Klixon is faulty.
Solutions to Improve Freezer Cooling
Once you’ve identified a potential cause, you can implement these solutions:
1. Adjust the Thermostat
If the thermostat setting is incorrect, adjust it to the recommended temperature. If the freezer doesn’t cool after changing the settings, the thermostat might be faulty and need replacement.
2. Clean the Condenser Coils
If the condenser coils are dirty, they will need to be cleaned. You can do this using a coil brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment. Remember to unplug the freezer before cleaning for safety.
3. Replace the Door Seal
If the door seal is worn out or damaged, it will need to be replaced. This task can often be done by yourself, but you can also hire a professional if needed.
4. Check the Evaporator Fan
If the evaporator fan isn’t working correctly, it will likely need to be replaced. This task should be handled by a professional, as it involves dealing with electrical components.
5. Address Defrost System Issues
If the defrost system is malfunctioning, you will need to determine whether it’s the heater, timer, or thermostat that’s causing the problem. It is recommended to hire a professional to diagnose and fix issues related to the defrost system.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your freezer working efficiently. By understanding common issues that can impact your freezer’s performance, you can catch problems early and prevent food spoilage, saving time and money.