Why Has My Fridge Stopped Working? Common Problems We Fix
Understanding what might be wrong with your fridge can be baffling. Modern refrigerators are complex machines with numerous components working in harmony. While you should always leave the diagnosis to a qualified professional, recognising the symptoms can help you communicate the issue clearly. Our network of tradespeople has the expertise to resolve all common (and uncommon) fridge faults.
Fridge Not Getting Cold Enough
This is perhaps the most critical fridge failure. If your milk is lukewarm and food is spoiling, the cause could range from a simple issue like blocked condenser coils to a more serious problem with the thermostat, evaporator fan, or even the compressor. An experienced engineer will be able to quickly identify the root cause, distinguishing between a component that needs cleaning and one that requires a full replacement, saving you from a costly misdiagnosis.
Leaking Water Inside or Outside
Discovering a puddle of water by your fridge is an immediate concern. This is often caused by a blocked or frozen defrost drain, which is a relatively straightforward fix for a professional. However, it can also indicate a more complex issue, such as a cracked drain pan or a faulty water supply line for your ice maker or water dispenser. Ignoring a leak can lead to significant damage to your flooring and kitchen units, so a swift professional response is essential.
Excessive Frost or Ice Build-Up
While a little frost in the freezer is normal, a sudden and excessive build-up of ice in either the fridge or freezer compartment points to a problem. This is often a sign that the defrost system—comprising a heater, timer, and thermostat—has failed. It could also be caused by a faulty door seal (gasket) that is allowing warm, moist air to enter the appliance, forcing it to work overtime. A specialist can test each component to pinpoint the exact fault.
Strange Noises: Buzzing, Clicking, or Gurgling
Your fridge should operate with a gentle hum. If it starts making new, loud, or alarming noises, it's telling you something is wrong. A buzzing or vibrating sound could be the compressor, while a loud clicking might indicate a problem with the start relay. Gurgling or bubbling noises can sometimes be normal, but if they are constant or unusually loud, they may signal an issue with the refrigerant system. A qualified engineer can interpret these sounds to diagnose the underlying issue accurately.
Repairing All Types and Brands of Refrigerators
The modern kitchen is home to a diverse range of refrigeration appliances, each with its own specific design and potential faults. The tradespeople on ServiceTasker have the skills and experience to work on virtually any type or brand of fridge you might have, ensuring you receive a knowledgeable and effective service, no matter your model.
Freestanding and Integrated Fridge Repairs
Whether you have a standard freestanding unit or a sleek integrated fridge hidden behind your kitchen cabinetry, a professional repair is crucial. Integrated models, in particular, require specialist care. A skilled engineer will know how to carefully remove the appliance without damaging your kitchen units, carry out the repair, and reinstall it perfectly, preserving the seamless look of your kitchen.
American-Style and French Door Fridge Freezers
These large, feature-rich appliances are the centrepiece of many kitchens, but their complexity means more can go wrong. Issues with ice makers, chilled water dispensers, intricate electronic control panels, and dual-cooling systems require a technician with specific experience in American-style models. They carry the right tools and have the diagnostic knowledge to handle these advanced systems correctly.
Larder Fridges, Undercounter Models, and Wine Coolers
Our network of experts isn’t limited to standard kitchen fridges. We can connect you with specialists who repair tall larder fridges, compact undercounter models popular in smaller flats or utility rooms, and sophisticated wine coolers. Each requires a unique approach, and a professional ensures the specific temperature and humidity controls of these specialised units are restored perfectly.
Expertise Across All Major Brands
Finding a tradesperson familiar with your specific brand of fridge is key to a successful repair. The engineers available through ServiceTasker have extensive experience with a wide array of manufacturers, from household names to high-end European brands. This familiarity ensures they can source the correct parts quickly and understand the common quirks and engineering of each make.
- Samsung
- LG
- Bosch
- Siemens
- Neff
- Beko
- Hotpoint
- Indesit
- Miele
- AEG
- Zanussi
- Smeg
