Appliance Parts
How To Fix A Refrigerator That's Running Too Long
by Steve Ash
Mechanical timers can be checked with a multi-meter for continuity and most can also be manually advanced with a flat blade screwdriver. The slot for the advance gear is normally located in the center of the timer and can only be turned in one direction. You will normally hear a loud click when the internal cam engages the heater switch. If the timer does not advance on its own, or if the internal switch does not engage, then the timer will need to be replaced. The defrost timer can usually be found near the bottom of the refrigerator behind the kick plate, in the control panel or in the back of some side-by-side units.
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The condenser and motor are located at the rear of the refrigerator next to the compressor, and can be accessed by removing the back panel. Verify that the condenser fan motor operates when the compressor is on and check for any restrictions in the airflow that might contribute to this symptom. If the fan does not come on with the compressor, then check to see if the motor or fan may be seized and replace if defective. Verify that power is supplied to the fan motor terminals and that the connections are tight. The motor can be checked for continuity and voltage with a multi-meter. Live voltage checks should only be performed by qualified persons.
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The evaporator motor and fan are located in the freezer compartment and you can normally here the motor or feel the air movement when running. If you suspect that the fan motor is not running properly, then turn off the refrigerator and remove the evaporator fan cover. Verify that the fan blade is secure and that the motor is not seized. You can check the motor for continuity with a multi-meter. You can also verify that power is applied to the motor when the compressor is running. This is a live voltage check and should only be performed by a qualified person.
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