Most of us don’t fully realize the importance of a refrigerator until it starts acting up. Like any other electronic device, refrigerators can encounter problems from time to time. One common issue is the freezer failing to freeze food, while another is the refrigerator section freezing everything inside. Fortunately, there are ways to address these concerns. In this guide, we’ll explore the reasons behind a Frigidaire refrigerator freezing food and provide solutions to prevent it from happening. So, read on to discover how to keep your food at the perfect temperature.
Understanding the Causes of Food Freezing in Your Frigidaire Refrigerator
Let’s delve into the potential factors contributing to your Frigidaire refrigerator freezing food:
1. Accumulation of Dust on Coils
If the coils of your fridge are dirty or covered in dust, the compressor will have to work harder. This extra effort results in excess cold air being produced, leading to freezing in your Frigidaire refrigerator.
2. Improper Temperature Settings
Although it may seem obvious, many people overlook the temperature dial. If set too low, the refrigerator can become excessively cold, causing food to freeze.
3. Damaged Door Seals
Refrigerator and freezer doors come with seals that help retain cold air. If these seals have leaks, the fridge will work harder to maintain the desired temperature, potentially resulting in food freezing.
4. Food Placement
Fridges rely on air vents to distribute cold air evenly. If these vents are blocked by food items, certain areas may receive an excessive amount of cold air, leading to food freezing. Additionally, a fully stocked fridge absorbs cold air better than an empty one, so make sure it’s adequately filled.
5. Malfunctioning Components
In many cases, a Frigidaire refrigerator freezing food can be traced back to faulty parts. Here are a few components to inspect:
A) Thermistor
The thermistor measures air temperature and relays the information to the temperature control board. A malfunctioning thermistor can cause the fridge to become excessively cold. To check its condition, use a multimeter to monitor the thermistor resistance and observe any changes when adjusting the refrigerator’s temperature.
B) Thermostat Control
The thermostat controls voltage distribution to the evaporator fan, compressor, and condenser. A defective thermostat may force the compressor to work harder, resulting in a colder fridge. Verify the thermostat’s functionality by listening for a click sound while adjusting the temperature dial.
C) Damper Control
The damper control opens and closes to regulate the amount of cold air entering the refrigerator. If it malfunctions, it may remain open, causing the fridge to become colder than necessary.
D) Main Control Board
The main control board manages power distribution throughout the fridge. If it malfunctions, it can disrupt the operations of other components, leading to excessive coldness.
E) Temperature Control Board
A malfunctioning temperature control board can fail to power the compressors and fans, causing the fridge to become too cold. Ensure that all other components are functioning correctly before considering the temperature control board as the source of the problem.
Preventing Food Freezing in Your Frigidaire Refrigerator
Now that we’ve explored the causes, let’s discuss preventive measures to keep your Frigidaire refrigerator from freezing food:
1. Clean the Coils Regularly
To prevent food freezing, make sure to clean the coils of your fridge. First, turn off the refrigerator and unplug it. Then, access the coils by moving the appliance away from the wall. Clean the coils thoroughly before returning the fridge to its original position and plugging it back in.
2. Adjust the Temperature Setting
Check the temperature setting of your fridge and ensure it’s not too low. If it is, raise the temperature slightly and wait for a few minutes to see if the issue persists. Aim for an ideal temperature between 38 and 42 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Maintain Door Seals
Regularly inspect the door seals of your refrigerator and replace any worn, warped, or torn ones. Properly sealed doors prevent excess cold air from entering the fridge, helping to maintain an optimal temperature.
4. Optimize Food Placement
To ensure adequate airflow, avoid obstructing the air vents with food items. Additionally, distribute the contents evenly throughout the fridge to promote consistent temperature regulation.
5. Address Faulty Components
Refer to the earlier section on malfunctioning components and thoroughly examine each one for signs of damage or malfunction. If necessary, replace the faulty parts to restore your fridge’s proper functioning.
Frigidaire Vegetable Drawer Freezing
If you’re experiencing issues specifically with the vegetable drawer freezing, it can lead to spoiled vegetables and frost buildup. Start by checking the refrigerator’s temperature setting to ensure it’s appropriate for storing vegetables, typically between 37 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, inspect the gasket around the drawer for cleanliness and tightness. A damaged or dirty gasket can allow cold air to leak into the drawer. If the problem persists despite these efforts, it may be necessary to seek professional assistance.
Replacing the Temperature Control Thermostat of a Frigidaire Refrigerator
If you need to replace the temperature control thermostat in your Frigidaire refrigerator, follow these steps:
- Turn off and unplug the fridge.
- Remove the screws and shelving to access the damper covers and conduit.
- Take out the thermostat sensor from the damper and detach the control panel.
- Disconnect the wires from the thermostat and replace it with the new thermostat.
- Reattach all knobs and wires to the control panel.
- Replace the damper covers and conduit, and tighten the screws.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced the temperature control thermostat in your Frigidaire refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
We’ve covered the main reasons why your Frigidaire refrigerator may be freezing food and provided practical solutions to prevent it from happening. If you’re uncertain about replacing the temperature control thermostat, it’s best to hire a professional. This component can be complex to work with, and attempting a DIY repair may lead to further damage. We hope this guide has been helpful. Until next time, take care!