A freezer not cooling properly can be a major source of stress for any homeowner. The first reaction might be to assume the worst, such as a complete compressor failure. A common and often less expensive culprit, however, is a faulty thermostat. This small but vital component is the brain of your freezer’s cooling system, and when it fails, it can cause a range of performance issues, from insufficient cooling to excessive ice buildup. Understanding the role of the thermostat and the signs of its malfunction can help you diagnose the problem and decide on the next steps for a repair.
Signs Your Freezer Thermostat Is Malfunctioning
A faulty thermostat will give you several clear warning signs. The most obvious is an inconsistent temperature inside the freezer; you may find that the temperature fluctuates between being too warm and being excessively cold. Another tell-tale sign is the compressor. The compressor should cycle on and off periodically to maintain a set temperature. If your compressor is running continuously without ever shutting off, it could be a sign that the thermostat is not telling it when to stop.
If your freezer not cooling is the main issue, it could be that the thermostat is failing to signal the compressor to turn on. For freezers with a mechanical dial, you might also hear a distinct click when you turn the temperature dial. If you no longer hear this sound, it could indicate a mechanical failure within the thermostat.
How a Faulty Thermostat Affects Freezer Not Cooling Issue and Energy Use
The thermostat’s primary job is to monitor the temperature inside the freezer and signal the compressor to turn on when it’s too warm and turn off when it reaches the set temperature. When this function fails, it can lead to two main problems.
If the thermostat is stuck in the “off” position or is not sensing the correct temperature, it won’t activate the compressor, resulting in a freezer not cooling and your food thawing. This is a clear and immediate problem.
If the thermostat is also stuck in the “on” position, it will cause the compressor to run continuously. While this might keep your food frozen, it will also overcool the freezer, leading to excessive frost and ice buildup. More importantly, a continuously running compressor uses a tremendous amount of energy, which will be reflected in a significant and sudden spike in your electricity bill. This makes a malfunctioning thermostat not only a performance issue but also an expensive energy waste.
A thermostat can be the key to solving a freezer not cooling problem. While it’s a common cause, diagnosing it correctly requires professional expertise. For a fast and accurate diagnosis and repair, book an appointment with All Area Appliance today. Our technicians can pinpoint the problem and get your freezer running efficiently again.