Refrigerator Troubleshooting: Possible Solutions for Fixing 7 Problems
A refrigerator is a vital appliance for every household. We rely on it every day and when it’s not working as it should, it can turn our lives upside down.
When a refrigerator part is broken or not operating, it typically must be fixed immediately. Depending on the issue, you can perform some repairs on your own while others require the help of a professional. Before paying for repairs, review these refrigerator troubleshooting solutions that can help return your valuable kitchen appliance to its optimal performance.
Select your issue to explore some possible solutions. It’s recommended to always read your refrigerator’s Use and Care Guide for troubleshooting instructions specific to your model.
1. The Refrigerator’s Light Is on but It Won’t Cool
A simple reason may be behind your fridge not cooling or your freezer being unable to reach the correct temperature.
Note that you may have to wait up to 24 hours for the temperature to lower if any of the following have occurred:
The appliance has been recently installed
The doors have been opened for a long time that day
You’ve recently stored a lot of food in it
If none of these apply, use the below steps to locate the cause of the issue.
Adjust the Temperature of the Refrigerator
The recommended temperature for a fridge is 37°F and 0°F for the freezer. If your refrigerator is next to a heat source or in an especially warm room, try adjusting the temperatures directly from the factory settings.
Inspect the Settings
You may have accidentally activated a setting that restricts cooling. Many models have a “Cooling On/Off” setting, a “Power Outage” setting that turns on after a power outage or a “Showroom Mode” that must be deactivated after installing the refrigerator.
Inspect if a Refrigerator’s Vents Are Obstructed
Your refrigerator should have vents to keep things cool and promote airflow from the freezer to the refrigerator. Inspect the vents to ensure they aren’t blocked by beverages, food or containers. If the vents are obstructed this can cause the food in the fridge to freeze.
Can You Unplug a Fridge to Reset It?
Contrary to popular belief, simply unplugging and plugging a refrigerator won’t reset it. To reset most models, unplug it and leave it that way for a minimum of five to ten minutes. If unplugging your fridge for at least ten minutes does not reset it, you should consult your product’s owner’s manual or hire a professional to diagnose the issue and perform the repairs.
Review more cooling troubleshooting information on Maytag Product Help.
2. The Ice Maker Isn’t Producing Enough Ice
A standard ice maker is designed to make roughly three pounds of ice per day. If you recently installed a refrigerator, it may need 24 hours to start making ice and up to three days to reach full ice production. Furthermore, if a large amount of ice was recently removed, full replenishment may take 24 hours.
If your ice maker isn’t producing enough ice, try these three troubleshooting tips before turning to a professional:
Confirm That the Ice Maker is On
It’s common for an ice maker to get turned off by accident. To activate it, turn the dial to “Ice Maker On” or push down the lever located above the ice bin.
Look To See if There’s a Kink in the Fridge’s Water Line
Start by finding the water line. It’s usually behind the fridge. If you notice that it’s kinked or looped, you must straighten it to enhance water flow.
Confirm that the Water Shut-Off Valves Are Completely Open
Inspect to see that the refrigerator is fully connected to the water supply located behind the fridge. If so, ensure all water shut-off valves are completely open. You can usually find the main valve in the cabinet next to the refrigerator, under the sink or in the basement. Additional valves may exist in the tubing.
Find more troubleshooting info for ice maker issues on Maytag Product Help.
3. Condensation in the Fridge / Frost in the Freezer
It’s normal for a fridge to have a minimal amount of condensation and moisture, especially when higher humidity conditions are present. The issue is when excess moisture builds up.
Try these tips to avoid excess moisture buildup:
Limit how often you open the door
Load items into your fridge at one time
Store food in an organized manner
Don’t leave the door open for too long
If this problem persists, use these three troubleshooting steps:
Wipe Clean the Fridge Door Seal Gasket
It’s possible that door seals could become dirty with food pieces and soil. If so, wipe clean the seals with a cloth, water and soap.
Confirm that the Refrigerator Is Level
An unlevel fridge can prevent the doors from closing properly and would let in humidity. This can be caused by incorrect installation or an uneven floor, causing the fridge to lean. Confirm if the fridge is sitting on the floor evenly by using a level to measure from side to side and front to back. If it’s unlevel, adjust the levelling legs accordingly.
Ensure the Fridge Door Is Properly Sealed
Ensure that door seals are in full contact with the refrigerator, preventing humidity from entering. If this is not the case, inspect to see if something is obstructing the door. If the fridge is level, make sure the doors are correctly aligned by consulting your owner’s manual. Remember, the refrigerator cannot seal if its doors are unaligned.
For more troubleshooting information related to moisture, review our Maytag Product Help.
4. The Refrigerator Is Noisy
Refrigerators can make noise for many reasons, some of which are normal. If your refrigerator is making noises that you think are unnatural, try cleaning its condenser coils. Routine cleaning is normally not required for condenser coils, but they can become dusty or greasy, causing a loud humming noise. Refer to your owner’s manual for detailed instructions on how to clean your fridge’s condenser coils
| NOISE | POSSIBLE CAUSES | SOLUTIONS |
|---|---|---|
| Vibration | The refrigerator may be unsteady or unlevelled | Adjust the levelling screws and then lower the levelling foot, so that it’s firmly on the floor |
| Banging or Rattling | Items placed on the refrigerator cabinet or movement of the water lines against the refrigerator cabinet |
Fasten excess tubing to the refrigerator cabinet or move the excess water line away from the cabinet |
The sound of the compressor running longer than it should |
High-efficiency compressor and fans | This is normal. Larger, more efficient models may run longer |
Whirring or Pulsating |
Fans or compressor adjusting to optimize performance |
Normal |
| Popping | Expansion or contraction of the interior walls, especially during the initial cool-down |
Normal |
| Dripping or Hissing | Flow of oil or refrigerant in the compressor | Normal |
| Sizzling | During the defrost cycle, water may drip on the heater | Normal |
| Water gurgling or running | The water valve opening to fill the ice maker |
Normal |
| Buzzing | Heard when the water valve opens to fill the ice maker | Normal |
| Cracking or creaking | The ejection of ice from the ice maker mould | Normal |
| Ker-plunk | Ice falling into the ice storage bin | Normal |
5. The Water Dispenser Isn’t Working
If you just installed your fridge, try connecting it to the water supply and flush the system using the instructions below to deter leaks and promote better flow. Also, allow 24 hours post-installation for the water to turn cold. Dispenser problems could also be caused by low water pressure in your house, which should be at or above 35 psi.
Try these three solutions if your water dispenser is clogged:
Inspect the Fridge’s Water Supply Connection
Check to ensure your refrigerator is properly connected to the water line. It is often located on the back of the refrigerator toward the bottom. If it’s already connected, tighten it with a wrench in case it is loose.
Inspect the Water Filter
Take out the water filter and then operate the dispenser. If the water flow improves, the filter may have been installed incorrectly or clogged.
Flush the Water System
By flushing the water system, you can force air out of the water line after the fridge has been installed or you’ve recently replaced the water filter. Using a sturdy container, press and hold the water dispenser pad for 5 seconds and then release it for another 5 seconds. Repeat these steps until the water starts to flow. Next, keep pressing the dispenser pad for 5 seconds and releasing it for another 5 seconds until it dispenses 3 gallons (12 L) of water.
Find more troubleshooting information related to water dispensers on Maytag Product Help.
6. A Short Cycling Compressor
Short cycling is when your model’s compressor cycles on and off too often. This can cause a frequent clicking sound every time the compressor restarts. The issue is a short cycling compressor and it is serious as the energy consumption will be greater even though your food will likely remain chilled. Immediately contact a professional if you think this is the issue.
7. The Fridge Light Won’t Turn On
If your refrigerator light is not working, a burnt-out bulb could be the culprit. Newer models have LED bulbs that don’t need to be replaced. On the other hand, if your refrigerator uses a traditional bulb, ensure it is as tight as possible in its socket. If you need to change the light bulb, exchange it for one that has the same wattage, size and shape.
Confirm that the Door Switch Is Activated
Typically, the door switch has to be activated for the light bulb to turn on. This switch is at either the top or bottom of the door’s opening on most models. To confirm that the switch is operating as it should, inspect the refrigerator door’s alignment and remove any electronic devices or magnets close to the door switch.
Cycle Power
If the interior light isn’t working, try disconnecting power to your refrigerator for at least one minute. This will cycle power in your appliance. Often, the light will turn back on once power has been restored.
Still Need Help?
Regardless of your model, search the Maytag® refrigerator help page to find solutions to your refrigerator issues. If you’re the owner of a Maytag® Refrigerator and need professional help, call 1-800-344-1274 to schedule a service.
Shop for Maytag® Refrigerators
If it's time for a refrigerator upgrade, look no further than the wide selection from Maytag brand. With features designed for control, durability and convenience, you can count on a Maytag® refrigerator for your storage and refrigeration needs.
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