It is an essential household task to repair a refrigerator if it gets faulty. A refrigerator is a critical appliance in every household, especially in Singapore’s warm and humid climate. You need a refrigerator to keep food fresh and water to get colder. When your fridge stops working properly, it can disrupt your daily life.

While some refrigerator problems require professional help, others can be resolved with basic troubleshooting and repair skills. In this guide, we’ll walk you through common refrigerator issues and how to address them step by step.

Common Problems to Know Before Repairing a Refrigerator in Singapore

Refrigerator repairing is an essential task that needs special attention and some basic tools. However, before you jump to fix a refrigerator, it’s critical to know the common problems. Refrigerators can face several common issues; here are some of the most common issues:

The fridge is not cooling properly.
The freezer is icing up excessively.
Water is leaking from the refrigerator.
Strange noises are coming from the unit.
The fridge light is not working.

Therefore, the crux is to find the problem before you start the rectification.

How to Repair a Refrigerator in Singapore?

PS Home Maintenance Singapore explains the process to repair a refrigerator in detail. Moreover, their water heater installation, false ceiling repair, and exhaust fan repair services are unmatched in Singapore.

Step 1: Check the Power Supply

The first step to repair a refrigerator is to ensure it’s connected to the electrical power supply and get the right current and voltages. You should check if the fridge is connected to the power supply. Afterward, you should check if the circuit has an electrical current and if the voltages are within permissible limits.

Moreover, if the circuit breaker is tripped, reset it. However, if the breaker trips again, it indicates a fault in the circuit. If these checks confirm that the refrigerator is getting power, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Inspect the Temperature Settings

Sometimes, a fridge does not cool properly due to incorrect temperature settings. Open the refrigerator and locate the thermostat. Usually, you will find a dial or digital control inside the unit.

Ensure it’s set to the recommended temperatures. The recommended temperature for the fridge is 2–4°C, and it is -18°C for the freezer. Adjust the settings and wait a few hours to see if the cooling improves.

Step 3: Clean the Condenser Coils

In Singapore’s humid climate, dust and dirt can accumulate quickly on the condenser coils. This reduces the fridge’s efficiency. These coils are typically located at the back or bottom of the fridge. To clean them:

Unplug the refrigerator for safety.
Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and debris from the coils.
Wipe the area with a damp cloth to ensure thorough cleaning.

Step 4: Check the Door Seals

A faulty door seal can let warm air into the fridge. This causes the fridge to work harder and cool less effectively. Check the rubber gaskets around the fridge door for cracks or gaps. You can test the seal by closing the door on paper.

If the paper slides out quickly, you will need to replace the seal. You can easily replace a gasket because it is simple and affordable. Purchase a compatible replacement from a hardware store or online retailer in Singapore and follow the installation instructions.

Step 5: Defrost the Freezer

Excessive frost buildup in the freezer can block airflow and affect the fridge’s cooling. If this is the case, just turn off the refrigerator and remove all the food items. Afterward, open the freezer door to allow the ice to melt naturally.

Moreover, place towels around the base to soak up the melting water when the ice has melted. Clean and dry the freezer thoroughly before restarting the fridge.

Step 6: Inspect the Thermostat and Fans

If the refrigerator isn’t cooling, the thermostat or fans might be faulty. Use a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity. If it’s not working, replace it with a new one. Ensure the fan inside the fridge is running smoothly.

It might need cleaning or replacement if it’s noisy or not spinning. If you’re unsure about these components, consult a professional repair technician to solve the problem.

Step 7: Address Water Leakage

Water leaking from the fridge is often due to a clogged or frozen defrost drain. Find the drain hole and clear the blockages with warm water or a pipe cleaner. This simple fix can prevent further leaks.

When to Call a Professional?

Although many refrigerator problems can be resolved at home, some require professional expertise. If your fridge has a refrigerant leak, compressor issue, or electrical malfunction, it’s best to hire a licensed technician like PS Home Maintenance Singapore. They have the expertise to deal with electrical appliances like fridges, ceiling fans, exhaust fans, etc.

Conclusion

If you want to repair a refrigerator in Singapore, it does not always have to be a professional’s job. With basic tools and this guide, you can troubleshoot and fix many common issues yourself.

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your refrigerator running efficiently in Singapore’s challenging climate. However, if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common repair on a refrigerator?

The most common issues in refrigerators are related to the temperature settings and door lock issues. Moreover, too much frosting within the fridge can also affect its cooling performance.

Can you fix a fridge by yourself?

Some fundamental issues, like defrosting the refrigerator and cleaning the debris from inside and around the coils, can be done by yourself. However, in the case of more complicated issues, like refrigerant leaks, you need to hire a professional to ensure better results.

How often do refrigerators need repair?

The exact life of refrigerators depends on their build quality and usage style. However, they generally last between 10 and 20 years. If you take care of their maintenance, they can also last longer than this.