| If you refrigerator is hot on the sides the likely problem is the condensor fan has failed or the condensor coil is dirty.If the condenser is dirty, the compressor will cut off on the overload. (A thermostat that is on the side of the compressor that cuts it off if it overheats). Often when this happens you’ll hear a clicking noise about 2 to 3 minutes apart. This is your compressor cutting in and out as it overheats and cools off. Now you need to find out why the compressor is overheating. First you’re going to need to remove the cover from the back of the refrigerator. Once you remove the cover you should see the compressor. Now look at the condensing coils (condensing coils are going to be either behind the compressor, beside the compressor or on the back of the refrigerator) to see if they are dirty if so clean them. To clean the condenser I normally use a brush made for this. You can buy them at Wal-Mart. Once clean your problem may be fixed. Leave refrigerator unplugged for a while (20 min. or so). Then plug it back in. Now when the compressor comes on the condensor fan should also if it does not or is spinning slow replace the condensor fan motor. If it is not moving at all you can check for power at the wire connector, if you have power and it does not run the fan needs to be replaced. If you do not have power the control is at fault. |
