Troubleshooting Tips... Before you schedule service
PROBLEM
REFRIGERATOR DOES NOT
OPERATE
MOTOR OPERATES FOR LONG
PERIODS OR CYCLES ON AND OFF
FREQUENTLY
(Modern refrigerators with more
storage space and a larger freezer
require more operating time. They
start and stop often to maintain
even temperatures.)
VIBRATION OR RATTLING (Slight
vibration is normal.)
THUMPING SOUND WHEN DOOR IS
CLOSED
OPERATING SOUNDS
18
POSSIBLE CAUSE
May be in defrost cycle when motor does not operate for about 45 minutes.
Temperature control is set to Cooling OFF.
If interior light is not on, refrigerator may not be plugged in at wall outlet.
The house fuse is blown/house circuit breaker is tripped. Replace fuse or reset the
breaker.
Sabbath Mode may be activated. Turn off the Sabbath Mode.
Normal when refrigerator is first plugged in. Wait 24 hours for the refrigerator to
completely cool down.
Often occurs when large amounts of food are placed in refrigerator. This is normal.
Door left open or package holding door open.
Hot weather or frequent door openings. This is normal.
Temperature controls set at the coldest setting. See Temperature Controls.
Refrigerator may not be properly installed.
This is a normal operating sound.
The mechanism that closes the door makes a slight thumping sound as it passes
over its lever point, at approximately 80 degrees.
Closing the door slowly will minimize the sound.
Normal fan air flow. Fan cools the compressor motor.
The fans change speeds in order to provide optimal cooling and energy savings.
These NORMAL sounds will also be heard from time to time:
– You may hear a whooshing or gurgling sound when the doors close. This is due
to pressure equalizing within the refrigerator.
– A water dripping noise may occur during the defrost cycle as ice melts from the
evaporator and flows into the drain pan.
– The flow of refrigerant through the refrigerator cooling coils may make a
gurgling noise like boiling water.
– Water dropping on the defrost heater can cause a sizzling, popping or buzzing
sound during the defrost cycle.
– You may hear cracking or popping sounds when the refrigerator is first plugged
in or during/after the defrost cycle. This happens as the refrigerator cools to the
correct temperature.
– The compressor may cause a clicking or chirping sound when attempting to
restart (this could take up to 5 minutes).
– The electronic control board may cause a clicking sound when relays activate to
control refrigerator components.
– Ice cubes dropping into the bin.
– The water valve will buzz and water will run in tubes when the icemaker fills
with water.
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