If your fridge is humming but the food is warming up, you’re probably wondering what went wrong and how to fix it without breaking the bank. The good news is that many fridge problems are easy to diagnose and repair yourself. In this guide we’ll walk through the most common faults, simple checks you can do at home, and the signs that it’s time to call a qualified technician in Northampton.
Fridge not cooling – The first thing to check is the temperature setting. It’s easy to nudge the dial too high during a power outage or after cleaning. Set it to the recommended 3‑5°C for the fridge and -18°C for the freezer, then give it a few hours to stabilise.
If the temperature is correct but the interior stays warm, look at the condenser coils at the back or underneath the unit. Dust and pet hair act like a blanket, making the compressor work harder. Unplug the fridge, remove the coil cover and brush away the grime. A vacuum with a brush attachment works well and can improve cooling by up to 20%.
Another frequent culprit is a blocked airflow vent inside the fridge. Shelves that block the vents prevent cold air from circulating. Rearrange items so there’s space around the vent, and wipe any ice buildup with a warm cloth.
Weird noises – Clicking or buzzing can mean the fan motor or compressor is struggling. A simple fan cleaning often solves the problem. If the noise persists after cleaning, the motor may need replacement – a job best left to a pro.
Water leakage – Check the drip pan at the bottom for cracks or overflow. Also inspect the door gasket for tears; a leaky seal lets warm air in and forces the fridge to work overtime, causing condensation. Replace a damaged gasket for a few pounds and stop the drip.
Some issues require tools and expertise you probably don’t have at home. If you notice the compressor is constantly running, the fridge is still warm, and you’ve already cleaned the coils and vent, the refrigerant could be low. Only a certified technician should handle refrigerant leaks or re‑charging.
Electrical problems like tripped breakers, burnt smells, or a fridge that won’t start at all are also a red flag. Working with electricity can be dangerous, so it’s safest to let a qualified electrician or appliance repair service take over.
Finally, if your fridge is over eight years old and repairs keep adding up, compare the total cost with the price of a new, energy‑efficient model. Modern fridges use far less power, which can save you money on electricity bills in the long run.
At Northampton Appliance Repairs Services we specialize in fast, reliable home refrigerator repair. Our technicians know the common faults and have the tools to handle the complex ones. Give us a call, and we’ll get your fridge back to keeping your food fresh in no time.
Ever wondered if you can fix a fridge yourself? Here’s the nitty-gritty—what you can repair, what you shouldn’t touch, and tips for the brave DIYer.
Continue reading...