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Common fridge repair problems and how to solve them in Durban

troubleshooting your whirlpool fridge

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Fridges are essential in every home. They keep our food fresh and our drinks cool. However, they can experience issues over time. In Durban, common fridge repair problems can disrupt your daily routine. From poor cooling to strange noises, these issues can be frustrating. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most frequent fridge problems and offer practical solutions. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or prefer to call a professional, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and get your fridge back in top shape!

Why Fridge Maintenance Matters in Durban

Regular maintenance is very important when it comes to prolonging your fridge’s lifespan and preventing costly repairs. Durban’s climate can be particularly harsh on appliances, with heat and humidity potentially causing components to wear out faster. By staying proactive, you can ensure your fridge runs efficiently and keeps your food safe.

 
  • Insufficient cooling: Your fridge isn’t keeping things as cold as it should.
  • Strange noises: Unusual humming, buzzing, or rattling sounds emanating from your fridge.
  • Water leaks: Finding puddles of water around the base of your fridge.
  • Ice build-up: Excessive frost or ice forming in your freezer.

Possible causes 

  • Dirty condenser coils: Dust and debris can accumulate on the coils, hindering heat dissipation. This is especially common in Durban’s dusty environment.
  • Faulty thermostat: An inaccurate thermostat can lead to incorrect temperature regulation.
  • Refrigerant leak: Refrigerant is very important  for cooling, and a leak can significantly impact performance.
  • Door seal problems: Worn-out or damaged door seals allow cool air to escape and warm air to enter.

Fast fixes 

  • Clean those coils: Unplug your fridge and locate the condenser coils (usually at the back or underneath). Gently clean them using a brush or vacuum cleaner.
  • Check the thermostat: Make sure it’s set to the correct temperature. If you suspect it’s faulty, consider replacing it.
  • Inspect the door seals: Close the door on a piece of paper. If you can easily pull the paper out, the seal may need replacing.

When to Call a Pro:

Refrigerant leaks and compressor issues require professional expertise. Don’t attempt to fix these yourself.

 

 

Identifying the Source

  • Humming: Could indicate a problem with the condenser fan motor or the compressor.
  • Buzzing: Might be due to a faulty evaporator fan motor or a loose component.
  • Rattling: Often caused by items vibrating against each other or a loose shelf.

Solutions and Seeking Help

  • Tighten loose parts: Check for any loose screws or shelves and secure them.
  • Defrost the freezer: Ice build-up can cause noise, so defrosting might help.

When you call our appliance repair technician 

If the noise persists after basic troubleshooting, contact a qualified technician to diagnose the issue. Compressor or fan motor problems require professional attention.

 

 

What causes a leakage 

  • Blocked defrost drain: A clogged drain can cause water to overflow and leak.
  • Damaged water line: A cracked or broken water line (if you have an ice maker or water dispenser) can lead to leakage.
  • Faulty inlet valve: This valve controls the water flow, and a malfunction can result in leaks.

How to Fix It

  • Clear the defrost drain: Locate the drain hole (usually at the back of the fridge) and use a thin wire or pipe cleaner to clear any blockages.
  • Inspect the water line: Check for any visible damage and replace the line if necessary.

When to Call a Pro

If you can’t identify the source of the leak or suspect a faulty inlet valve, call a professional plumber or appliance repair technician.

 

 

 

Regular TLC

  • Clean the condenser coils: Every few months, clean the coils to ensure efficient cooling.
  • Check the door seals: Regularly inspect and clean the door seals to maintain a tight seal.
  • Defrost the freezer: Defrost your freezer periodically to prevent ice build-up.
 
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  • How do I tell what's wrong with my fridge?

    • Check Temperature Settings: Ensure they’re set correctly (37°F for the fridge, 0°F for the freezer).
    • Listen for Noises: Unusual sounds may indicate compressor or fan problems.
    • Inspect for Frost: Excess frost in the freezer suggests a defrost issue.
    • .Look for Leaks: Water around the fridge may point to a clogged drain or damaged seals.
    • Look at  the Light: If it doesn’t turn on, check the bulb or door switch.
    • Test the Compressor: A compressor thats too hot may indicate it’s overworking or failing.
  • Whats the first thing I should check if my fridge stops working?

    Check the the power supply. Ensure it’s plugged in and the outlet works. If the power is fine, check the thermostat and clean the condenser coils. 

Fridge repair technician working on a refrigerator in Isipingo.

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