What to Do if Your Refrigerator Stops Working in Mesquite, Nevada

A broken refrigerator is a major inconvenience, especially in the warm climate of Mesquite, Nevada, where keeping your food fresh is essential. If you find that your fridge has suddenly stopped working, don’t panic! There are steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue before calling a repair service.

Limit Door Openings

When your refrigerator stops working, the cold air inside will only last for so long. To preserve the temperature and keep your food fresh for as long as possible, try to open the fridge and freezer doors as little as possible. Plan ahead by deciding what you need before opening the door, and keep it closed tightly after each use.

Tip: The more you can keep the cold air inside, the longer your food will stay cool, potentially buying you more time until the issue is resolved by you or an appliance repair specialist.

Check the Power Source

The first thing to do is check if your refrigerator is receiving power. Look at the outlet and ensure the plug is fully inserted. Sometimes, a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse can cut power to your fridge. If that’s the case, resetting the breaker or replacing the fuse should restore power. Breakers are usually found in garages, utility rooms, and sometimes hallways.

Tip: Ensure that the outlet is working by plugging in another appliance or using a voltage tester.

Inspect the Temperature Settings

It's possible the temperature settings were accidentally changed. Ensure that the fridge and freezer compartments are set to the correct temperatures. Typically, your refrigerator should be set to around 37°F (3°C), while the freezer should be set to 0°F (-18°C). Sometimes, a quick adjustment can resolve cooling issues.

Examine the Door Seals

In the dry climate of Mesquite, rubber seals on your fridge door can crack or lose their effectiveness over time, allowing warm air to enter and prevent proper cooling. Check the seals around the door for any visible signs of wear or damage. If they are loose, consider replacing them to maintain a proper seal.

Tip: Place a piece of paper between the door and the fridge then close the paper in the door; if it slides out easily, the seal may need to be repaired or replaced.

Clean the Condenser Coils

Dust and debris can accumulate on the condenser coils at the back or bottom of your refrigerator, causing it to overheat and shut down. Unplug the fridge and carefully clean the coils with a vacuum or brush. This simple maintenance step can often improve the efficiency of your refrigerator. Cleaning behind and under a fridge twice a year can greatly reduce the possibility of this happening, and it increases the appliance’s life span as it doesn’t have to work as hard when it’s coils are clean.

Listen for Unusual Noises

If your fridge is making strange noises, it could indicate a problem with the motor, compressor, or fan. A constant buzzing or clicking sound may mean a component is malfunctioning. Pay attention to the type of noise and the frequency, as this information can be helpful if you need to call a professional appliance repair service.

Check for Ice Buildup

If you notice ice buildup in your freezer, this could be a sign of a blocked defrost drain or an issue with the defrost system. A clogged drain can prevent proper airflow, reducing the fridge's ability to cool. Defrosting the freezer and cleaning the drain may solve the problem temporarily.

Look for Water Leaks

A puddle of water under your fridge can indicate a defrost drain blockage or a broken water supply line. While this doesn’t immediately affect the cooling function, it’s a sign that your fridge requires attention.

Call a Professional

If you've gone through the above steps and your refrigerator is still not working, it may be time to call a professional in refrigerator repair. Mesquite has several experienced appliance repair services that can quickly diagnose and fix the issue. Look for local repair technicians who can provide same-day or emergency service to prevent food spoilage.

When to Consider a Replacement

If your refrigerator is over 10-15 years old and frequently requires repairs, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a new one. Energy-efficient models can also help save on your electricity bills, a benefit especially important during the hot summers in Mesquite, when refrigerators work harder to maintain cool temperatures.

Final Thoughts

A malfunctioning refrigerator can disrupt your household, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can often solve the problem yourself or determine when to call a local refrigerator repair technician. If you live in Mesquite, Nevada, where temperatures can soar, it’s especially important to address refrigerator issues promptly to prevent food spoilage and ensure your appliance stays in good working condition.