5 most common issues that can affect your fridge

Your refrigerator keeps your food tasty and fresh every day, whether you have a simple, older model or a shiny new smart fridge. But like any appliance, it can run into problems. 

That’s where we come in. Asurion’s trusted appliance experts are certified to fix all major appliances and have the know-how to keep your devices running as they should. Here’s a rundown of the most common refrigerator problems they encounter and what they recommend you do to fix them.

What are some common fridge problems?

Like any other appliance, refrigerators can face their fair share of issues. Some of the most common ones include:

• The fridge is making a loud noise.
• The refrigerator isn’t getting cold. 
• The ice maker won’t make ice. 
• Water isn’t coming out of the fridge.
• The fridge is leaking water.

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Troubleshooting common refrigerator problems

Now that you know some of the most common fridge problems, here are some steps you can take to fix them.

Loud noises

Check for any visible frost build-up when your fridge makes more noise than usual. It can be time-consuming, but defrosting the fridge can sometimes resolve this issue. If the noise persists, it could be a sign of a failing fan motor, which might need an expert to repair. 

For more tips, check out this article on how to fix a noisy refrigerator.

Not cold enough

If your fridge isn't keeping things cool, there could be underlying issues: a malfunctioning thermostat, dirty coils, or problems with the cooling system, just to name a few.

First, check the thermostat settings to make sure they are at the correct temperature—an ideal range is between 34 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If they are, next try cleaning the condenser coils, which you can access by removing the plate at the bottom or back of your fridge. These coils can get clogged up with dust and debris, causing your fridge to not regulate temperature properly. 

Still having trouble? Read up on more ways to troubleshoot a fridge that’s too warm.

A broken ice maker

It’s not so nice when your fridge stops making ice. A non-functional ice maker can result from a clogged water line, a faulty water inlet valve, or even a turned-off ice maker.

Check the water fill tubes for any obstructions and clean the water filter if you haven’t in a while (you should do this regularly). Those two steps typically solve the problem, but if not, check out our explainer on what to do when your refrigerator is not making ice.

Water isn’t coming out of the fridge

When your fridge’s water dispenser stops working, it may be due to a blocked water supply line, a clogged filter, or low water pressure.

Start by inspecting the water filter and replace it if necessary. Ensure the water supply line isn’t kinked and your home’s water pressure is adequate. If you still have problems, the dispenser's mechanism might be the culprit.

Water is leaking

Fridge leaks are often caused by a clogged defrost drain—and fixing it is usually simple. Before you call the plumber, first unplug your fridge and inspect the defrost drain for blockages. Check your owner’s manual for the exact location of your model, but the drain is typically found at the bottom back of your fridge. Use a funnel to run warm water through the drain, using a pipe cleaner or plastic straw to push out any clog you find. 

Water still creeping out of your fridge? Find out more ways to fix a leaky fridge.