When your freezer stops working, it’s not always a disaster requiring repair or a complete replacement. With some inside information from Elders Appliance technicians, you can sometimes conduct some investigating yourself before you have to call a professional repair servicer.
The best way to deal with a leaky freezer is to first figure out where the leak is coming from. Defrosting is the greatest method for accomplishing this. This is because defrosting can be a viable solution to your problem. Since ice can cause blockages in freezer components, defrosting is generally the simplest and easiest technique.
Once everything is defrosted, you can try and pinpoint the problem with these tips!
Ice Maker
If the problem reappears after defrosting, there may be an underlying issue somewhere. One of the most prevalent sources of a freezer water leak is the ice maker. You can check the ice maker’s valve – typically in the back of the fridge – to see if there’s a leak there. The ice maker’s pipes could also be the source of the problem. If you’re unsure if this is your problem or want a second opinion, consider a professional repair servicer.
Freezer Drain
When food particles or other debris clog the drain hose, ice forms, and eventually, water leaks from the freezer and refrigerator. The defrost drain tube and drain hole are usually found within the freezer at the bottom back. If you are struggling to locate your defrost drain, the best thing to do is look at your manual. If you have concerns about reaching it safely, please have a professional brought in.
Typically, you can look near the bottom of the freezer for the drain tube and drain hole. With a screwdriver or a piece of strong wire, clear the debris from the drain hole. To remove the ice, fill a basting syringe halfway with warm water. Squeeze the warm water into the drain hole or alternatively use a funnel to pour warm water into the hose. Either method can clear the drain of any residual ice.
Gaps In the Seal
A hole in the freezer’s seal can result in a slew of issues. For instance, a gap can be caused if mold forms around the seal or just inside or outside the door. The temperature shift in the freezer will cause ice to melt and water to form because cold air can escape. Keep in mind that water follows the path of least resistance and will leak anywhere it can and can leave mold behind if not caught in time. The problem can be solved by replacing the seal.
Check the Drip Pan
The water from a defrosting freezer is directed to the drip pan. If the drip pan is not emptied once it has filled up, it will naturally overflow and leak. To access the back, disconnect the freezer from the power supply and move it. The drain pan is located under the freezer, near the compressor. It’s possible that it’s been overfilled, resulting in a leak.
Alternatively, the pan may be cracked and leaking water. If there is any liquid in the pan, remove it and empty it. Then examine it. Replace it if it is cracked. However, if the pan is not broken, replace it and see whether it fills up before you have to run another defrost cycle. If the drip pan is constantly filling up, even when you aren’t defrosting the fridge, it’s time to call in a technician.
Check the Temps
It’s possible that the thermostat is on its last legs and needs to be replaced. There could be a problem with the main control or user interface boards, temperature-monitoring devices like sensors, or the thermostat in its entirety. Temperature control is unpredictable and can result in unnecessary food spoilage. If your freezer is constantly melting and refreezing, it can cause significant damage to other parts of your freezer, so act soon and get it checked out by our team of qualified repair professionals.
Need Help?
If you still can’t pinpoint the direct cause of your freezer leaking, then don’t worry! That’s why we’re here! Go to our professionals at Elders Appliance, and we’d be happy to give your freezer a look over. If you don’t like the prognosis for your freezer, or If you’ve been putting off getting a new fridge, no biggie, just look through our selection for a new one. We can handle all your home appliance needs! Give us a call today, or come in and get started on your kitchen upgrades!