Three Common Refrigerator Problems

1.  Why does it seem like my refrigerator runs constantly?

When working properly, the thermostat turns the compressor on and off. Once the thermostat turns the compressor on, it will run until the temperature inside the refrigerator is lower than the setting of the thermostat.

Make sure that the refrigerator has enough air clearance on all sides. Refrigerators with a condenser coil grid on the back of them need room to radiate the heat away from the coils.

Verify that the door light switch is working properly. Push the switch with your finger to verify the light is turning off. If the light stays on, it will actually warn the interior of the refrigerator. Fix or replace the switch if it is faulty.

Modern refrigerators that have a lot of storage and large freezer compartments run for longer periods of time. They also start and stop very frequently to maintain an even temperature. This is especially true if you have just put a lot of warm food in the refrigerator, or if it is very hot and humid. It can take several hours to get back to the cool temperature you have it set for after putting a large amount of food in it.

If the compressor is not shutting off when the temperature inside the refrigerator is cold enough, you may have a bad thermostat. You may also have the temperature set too high in the refrigerator. Try adjusting the thermostat to a lower temperature. If this turns the compressor off, you had it set too high. With the help of a refrigerator thermometer, you can find a more ideal setting that will keep your food cold, but not so cold that the compressor is always running. If raising the temperature setting doesn't help, it may be a problem with the thermostat and you will need to replace it. 

If your thermostat is working properly, there's a chance that you have low levels of refrigerant in the sealed system. If this is where the symptoms lead you, you need to contact a professional appliance repair person. Only an EPA certified technician can legally work on a sealed system. If you attempt to do work on this system, you will void the warranty.

If this is a new refrigerator, it will run for a long time, almost constantly, before it gets cooled enough to stabilize the interior temperature. Allow up to 24 hours for it to stabilize. The refrigerator should be at least one half to two thirds full. This will help to maintain a stable temperature inside the unit. The cold items inside will help to keep an even temperature inside after the door has been opened and closed. Some people prefer to keep a lot of stuff in the refrigerator as ballast, even jugs of water. This helps to maintain temperatures inside so that when the door gets opened and closed often, it doesn't need to run as much to maintain the temperature inside.

2. Why doesn't the freezer area freeze my food?

This is a common occurrence, and doesn’t always have a clear-cut solution. You’ll want to check the internal freezer temperature. The operating temperature range of most residential freezers is between -10F and +10F. The optimum temperature of the freezer is between 0F and 5F. Proper refrigerator operating temperatures should be between 36 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit. If the refrigerator temperature is very close to the 35 degree mark, you can try turning the temperature up a little bit. 

Sometimes, rearranging how you put your foods in the refrigerator can make a difference. The temperatures vary from compartment to compartment. Another common cause is a leaky gasket. Try putting a dollar bill between the gasket and the frame of the freezer as you close the door. If the dollar comes out without resistance, then you need a new door gasket.

When installing a refrigerator door gasket, you should allow the gasket to adjust to room temperature before removing it from the carton. When carrying or handling the gasket, you want to carry it by the corners. This will help to prevent breakage of the flexible magnet. Should the magnet be found to be broken, it will NOT impair its effectiveness. If the gasket is deformed or twisted from long storage, you can heat the deformed section with an electric heater, hair dryer, or a 150-300 watt light bulb. Holding the heat source about 1 inch to 3 or 4 inches from the gasket, move the heat source back and forth to maintain even warming. Apply heat until gasket has resumed its original shape. This can also correct an already installed, deformed gasket. Make sure you use caution so as not to damage the inner door panel.

3.  Why is my refrigerator not cooling properly?

If the refrigerator isn't cool, check to see if the light comes on when you open the door. Next check to see if the thermostat is set properly. If both of these are OK, then check to see if the compressor is running.

See if the compressor motor is running. The compressor is in a case with no visible moving parts. It is usually located at the back of the refrigerator near the bottom. If it’s humming, or making a steady noise, and your refrigerator is still not cooling properly, there could be a problem with one or more various components.

Refrigerators have either a mechanical defrost timer, or an ADC (Adaptive Defrost Control). If your refrigerator has a mechanical timer, set the cold control to the coldest setting and then advance the defrost timer. You can manually advance the timer with a screwdriver. Insert the screwdriver into the advancement pinion and turn clockwise a 1/4 to 3/8’s of a turn. If the compressor starts, replace the defrost timer. For further help, you’ll want to call a professional appliance repair technician.

Sometimes you can hear a click-buzz-click sound coming from the compressor. This is the relay/overload at work. If you hear this, power is getting to the compressor. If you do, something is wrong with either the compressor or the compressor starting components. If you have a newer model with solid-state starting components, you may not hear anything at all. If there is power to the starting components, you may be able to test each part and replace any bad parts. There is also a 3-in-1 unit that may work on your model which replaces all the components in one unit. If the compressor still won’t start, you have a bad compressor and need to replace it. If it does start, wire the 3-in-1 part in permanently. Make sure the one you buy is rated for the horsepower of your appliance.

If you don’t hear anything, you can take the cover off the side of the compressor and test for voltage at the two leads. If no voltage is present, it’s time to check the cold control. To test if the cold control is bad, you can temporarily jump the two wires at the cold control. If you get power to the compressor after doing so, the cold control needs to be replaced.

More common refrigerator problems can be found here.

Refrigerator Replacement Parts can be found here.

Common Questions About Clothes Dryers

We often get alot of calls about problems with clothes dryers. Here are some of the most common questions we hear and some answers that may help:

Q: My dryer works fine for a few minutes and then shuts itself off like it overheated. Is this a heater problem, thermostat, or fuse?

A: It is possible that the dryer is overheating. Most dryers bring fresh air in through the front of the dryer. Make sure that there is nothing blocking the intake. Some dryers feature load detector sensors. If you have one and the dryer is tilted to the rear, the no-load sensor may turn the dryer off. The remedy for this problem is to make sure the dryer is level from front to back and from side to side. The redeeming value of this feature is that when it is working properly, you can save energy and reduce wear and tear to the dryer.

Q: Why does my dryer do nothing when I turn it on?

A: Plug something else into the same outlet. If it works, you know you have power to the dryer. If it doesn' t work, you'll need to check for any blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers. Electric dryers should have the wiring checked at the terminal block to make sure that the connection is good, or to verify that the connection is burnt out.

If the power is there, you will want to check the door switch, thermal fuse, thermostats, and start switch to see if one of these is faulty. Make sure that the control settings are appropriate, and that any buttons are fully depressed. Make sure that the start button has been fully pushed down or turned far enough to activate the dryer.

The door or lid switch performs two main functions. When the dryer door is open, it keeps the dryer from starting, and turns on the light. If the door switch is faulty, your dryer won't work, and you'll need to replace the switch. The door switch is located inside of your dryer's main housing right by the door frame. You'll probably need to access this switch through the top or front of your dryer.

There may also be a problem with the start switch. Test and replace if it is faulty.

Many dryers use what's called a thermal fuse. This is often mounted within the exhaust duct in the back panel. This fuse is about an inch long, and is usually found within a white plastic housing. Your dryer will not operate if this fuse is defective. You can test this fuse, and if faulty, replace it.

Most fuses have a thin wire that conducts electricity. When fuses blow, it means the wire is broken, they have no continuity and no power will flow through it. When this happens to the thermal fuse, your dryer either doesn't work at all, or it stops heating. Give your vent and heating system a visual check before you replace this fuse.

You will also want to test each thermostat to determine if any one is faulty. A bad thermostat may prevent your dryer from working at all.

To see more common questions about dryers, click here.

To read about how clothes dryers work, click here.

And finally, if you have a question that you haven't found the answer to, try posting in AP Wagner's Appliance Repair Forum. There are often several service guys on the boards that can help!

Simple appliance fixes - How long should your appliance last?

Two excellent articles on simple appliance repair that could help you save some money.

The first is from Popular Mechanics and offers some repair tips for small appliances. If a simple and easy fix repairs your vacuum or blender then it is worth doing and saving the extra money. Many of these tips come from their book, “When Duct Tape Just Isn't Enough.”

Problem: Blender blades not spinning but motor is making noise

Solution: Syrup and gooey liquids can cause the blades to get stuck to the housing. Soak the entire blade assembly in hot soapy water for about fifteen minutes and rinse with hot water.

Problem: Vacuum has suction, yet nothing is being vacuumed up and you have company coming!

Solution: Check the belt, it is probably broken. A quick fix, use a nylon stocking stretched tight around the rollers and knotted securely for a makeshift belt. Be sure to order a new vacuum belt to replace this temporary fix.

Problem: Countertop Microwave –Microwaves can be dangerous to fix yourself as even a small unit can hold several hundred volts as part of its power supply. However, it might be worth calling in a professional as it might need something as small as a microwave oven fuse.

Solution: Cosmetic fixes such as scratches on the microwave paint and replacement of the circular glass plate that you set food on (aka the cooking tray), are microwave oven parts you can order online and replace yourself. Microwave Oven Repair Help and Replacement Parts

So what if one of your appliances breaks? How do you know when to replace or repair it?

A good rule of thumb is, if the repair costs more than half the cost of buying a new version of the appliance, then replace it. Keep in mind, more expensive appliances with extra features will be more costly to replace.

So how long should your appliance last?

This article from the SouthTownStar.com, has some good advice on the lifespan of your appliance which they gathered from appliance experts:
10-15 years for refrigerators and freezers
10-20 years for ovens and ranges
10-15 years for dishwashers
10-15 years for clothes washers/dryers
10-20 years for water heaters
15-20 years for central air-conditioning unit

Simple repair tips for appliances

If your appliance is not working, always check the simple things first:

Is the appliance plugged in? Turned on?

Is there power going to the circuit? Test the outlet by plugging in another appliance that you know works.

Has the surge protector gone bad, or do you have a tripped circuit?

If power is getting to your appliance, make sure there is nothing blocking any door switches. Such switches appear on dishwashers, clothes dryers, washing machines, and microwave ovens. These are often safety measures and if the doors switch is broken or obstructed, the appliance will not operate. In many cases you can buy replacement lid switches for washers and clothes dryers and make this repair yourself with a little help.

For more information or to read the articles quoted in this story in full:

“Appliances: Repair it or replace it?” from the SouthTownStar.com.

“Fix it or Ditch it? A PM Guide to Home Appliances” from Popular Mechanics.

Washing Machine Repair help and Replacement Parts

Dishwasher Repair Help and Replacement Parts

Clothes Dryer Repair Help and Replacement Parts

10 simple ways to save energy with your appliances!

1. Make sure that your refrigerator has a few inches of space behind it so air can circulate around the condenser coils. The appliance that uses the most energy is the refrigerator.
2. Dusty condenser coils cause your refrigerator to work harder, leading to higher bills, and a shorter life for the fridge. Clean them with a vacuum, duster, or a cleaner every three months to ensure it is running efficiently. If you have pets clean it every month. You can find vacuum attachments, dusters, and cleaner at AP Wagner
3. How cold is your refrigerator? Having it too cold can be a waste of energy. It is recommended that the temperature for the refrigerator is 37 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and that the freezer is 0 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Is your refrigerator full? A fuller fridge ensures the temperature is evenly distributed. If you have a lot of room in your refrigerator, fill some containers with water, and fill in the space. If that doesn't work, consider a smaller fridge.
5. Make sure your fridge gasket is clean and does not have any holes or cracks in it. The gasket's job is to keep the cold air in and the warm air out. If it is not working properly the refrigerator will work harder keeping the air cold, and thus lead to a larger energy bill.
6. Wash clothes in cold water if possible. Most of the energy used for machine-washing clothes goes to heating the water.
7. Is the lint screen on your dryer clean? A clogged lint screen makes the dryer use more energy. In addition to that it can also become a fire hazard.
8. Dry one load right after the other. This will reduce warm-up and drying times.
9. Set the fan on your central air conditioner to "on", rather then "auto". Doing this will circulate the air constantly, leading to a more evenly distributed temperature throughout the house.
10. Maintain your central air conditioner by cleaning the compressor with a garden hose. Make sure the power-flow is off before you do this.If your appliance is broken, don't replace it, visit AP Wagner for all your appliance part needs, and detailed repair help!

5 things you need to know about your refrigerator

• Clean your coils!!! The coils under your refrigerator accumulate dust and dirt, making your refrigerator work harder. This can jack up your electricity bill. Clean your coils with a coil brush.


• If you have a refrigerator that is less then 20 years old you can add an icemaker on if you don’t already have one.


• As the defrost timer gets old, the motor that runs the defrost timer can begin to make noises as well. If the timer motor is making a loud sound, then you should replace the entire timer.


• Using bleach or ammonia products to clean is not a good idea because the plastic parts inside the refrigerator can be damaged by them. Cleaning products with lemon scent are also not recommended as the odor from it can stay in the refrigerator for a very long time and may cause your foods to smell like lemons.


• If your compressor is not shutting off when the temperature inside the refrigerator is cold enough, you may have a bad thermostat. You may also have the temperature set too high in the refrigerator. Try adjusting the thermostat to a lower temperature. If this turns the compressor off, you had it set too high. With the help of a refrigerator thermometer, you can find a more ideal setting that will keep your food cold, but not so cold that the compressor is always running. If raising the temperature setting doesn't help, it may be a problem with the thermostat and you will need to replace it.

What to do if your burners do not work on your gas stove

Make sure you have turned the knob to the light position first. Then turn the knob to the desired heat setting after you have a flame. If you have recently cleaned your range, are you sure everything is dry? Moisture may prevent the electric ignition from working properly. If you hear clicking when the burner is supposed to be off, make sure the knob is turned all the way to off, and that the knob has popped out.

Gas Range burners are round and have small holes evenly placed around their perimeter. This appliance part is also sometimes referred to as a Gas burner grate. The holes around the perimeter allow gas to flow out and create a controlled flame when lit. Sometimes the gas orifices get plugged and the gas can’t get through to be ignited. The trick is to clean them without making the holes any bigger. You need to clean the burners thoroughly. Many people use a toothpick, old toothbrush, or a small pin to clear the holes, allowing the gas to flow freely. If, after cleaning the burners, they still don't light, you should call a professional appliance repair person.

Sometimes ranges have different size burners on them. If you have recently cleaned the burners, it is possible you put a small burner cap on the large burner, or vice versa. You should double check to make sure that the correct gas range parts are in the correct place. If this isn't the problem, and make sure they are seated properly.

For more information on how to repair or fix your own gas range burner, gas cooktop, gas stove or gas oven by purchasing the needed appliance parts online, visit www.apwagner.com.

Washer won’t finish the cycle. Washing Machine will not agitating and/or spinning?

If the washer won't finish a cycle, it probably means that your timer went bad or stalled. You can take the control panel off and look at the contacts for scorching or corrosion on any Washing Machine Parts.

Why is the washer not agitating and/or spinning?

Make sure the lid is closed. There is a switch inside that completes the connection. Your washer may not spin or agitate if this connection is not completed. Make sure that the speed selector switch is not between speeds. Verify that the washer is not in a soak cycle. You can also reset the water level up or down to make sure that the water level control switch isn't stuck. If you hear a humming sound when the washer is full of water, you may have something stuck in the drain pump.

If one of above mentioned washer parts is not the problem, check the belt. The main drive motor has two distinct functions. The first function is to spin the basket; the second function is to reciprocate your agitator. Inside your washer's transmission is a crank type gear and connecting rods that are used to agitate the washer, with the spinning coming from the washer motor itself. This usually entails some sort of clutch mechanism. Some things to check if your washer is not agitating and/or spinning are:

If you notice weak or no agitation, the splines connecting the agitator to the drive shaft may be stripped and need to be replaced.

After a lot of use, belts can become worn or damaged. Replace any worn or damaged belts immediately. If you have a broken belt, replace it and check the pulley to make sure it's not seized.

Sometimes the drive pulley can wear out and it won't turn the drive belt. Look for wear marks, pits, or uneven spots. It's best to just replace it with a new pulley. To insure a successful repair, be sure to use quality appliance parts. If you have a Whirlpool Washing Machine or a Sears Washing Machine, be sure to use Whirlpool Washing Machine Parts or Sears Washing Machine Parts. Be careful to buy your parts from a reputable dealer and make sure you are ordering and buying the correct parts for your make and model.

Many washers use a reversing motor. Sometimes it will continue to work in one direction even if it won't spin in the other direction. If your washer has a drive motor issue, you probably need to replace the motor with a new one. Call a professional appliance repair person to verify this first.

The lid switch is a safety device that's there to protect you from sticking your hands into a spinning washer. If this switch goes bad, the washer will not work. You will have to replace it. It is inside the main housing for the washer, and located near the door frame.

The coupler connects the motor to the transmission. After lengthy use, this plastic and rubber coupler can wear out. If this happens, you need to replace it.

Transmission and clutch assemblies can cause agitator and spinning problems They are fairly complex, so if you suspect you have transmission or clutch issues it's probably in your best interest to call a professional appliance repair person.