If your GE side-by-side refrigerator is not cooling or working properly, it can be a frustrating and stressful experience. Fortunately, you can take a few steps to troubleshoot and fix the problem yourself.
In this guide, we’ll go over some common issues that can cause a GE side-by-side refrigerator to stop working or not cool properly, and how to fix them.
Materials Needed
- Flashlight
- Screwdriver
- Clean, dry cloth
- Condenser coil brush (optional)
Safety Precautions:
Before attempting to troubleshoot or repair your GE side-by-side refrigerator, it’s important to take the following safety precautions:
- Unplug the refrigerator before performing any maintenance or repairs.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and dirty or contaminated surfaces.
- Be careful not to let any food or liquid spill or drip inside the refrigerator while you’re working on it.
Check the Power Supply
One of the first things to check if your GE side-by-side refrigerator is not cooling or working properly is the power supply. Follow these steps to ensure that the refrigerator is properly plugged in and receiving power:
- Unplug the refrigerator and check the power cord for any visible damage or fraying.
- Check the outlet where the refrigerator is plugged in to make sure it’s receiving power. You can do this by plugging in a different appliance or using a voltage tester.
- If the outlet is working properly and the power cord is undamaged, plug the refrigerator back in and see if it starts working properly.
Check the Temperature Settings
If the power supply is not the issue, the next thing to check is the temperature settings on the refrigerator. Follow these steps to check and adjust the temperature settings:
- Locate the temperature control panel on the inside of the refrigerator.
- Check the current temperature settings to ensure they are set to the correct levels. The recommended temperature for the refrigerator compartment is 37°F (3°C) and for the freezer compartment is 0°F (-18°C).
- If the temperature settings are not correct, adjust them to the recommended levels and see if the refrigerator starts cooling properly.
Check the Condenser Coils
If the power supply and temperature settings are not the issue, the next thing to check is the condenser coils. The condenser coils are responsible for releasing heat from the refrigerator, and if they are dirty or clogged, it can cause the refrigerator to stop cooling or working properly. Follow these steps to clean and inspect the condenser coils:
- Locate the condenser coils on the back or bottom of the refrigerator.
- Use a flashlight to inspect the coils for any visible dirt or debris.
- If the coils are dirty, use a condenser coil brush or a clean, dry cloth to gently brush away any dirt or debris. Be careful not to bend or damage the coils.
- After cleaning the coils, plug the refrigerator back in and see if it starts working properly.
Check the Door Gasket
If the power supply, temperature settings, and condenser coils are not the issue, the next thing to check is the door gasket.
The door gasket is a rubber seal that helps keep the cold air inside the refrigerator, and if it’s damaged or not sealing properly, it can cause the refrigerator to stop cooling or working properly.
Follow these steps to inspect and replace the door gasket if necessary:
- Locate the door gasket on the door of the refrigerator.
- Inspect the gasket for any visible damage or wear, such as cracks, holes, or tears.
- If the gasket is damaged, you’ll need to replace it. To do this, you’ll need to remove the old gasket by gently pulling it away from the door.
- Once the old gasket is removed, you’ll need to clean the door and gasket channel to remove any dirt or debris. You can do this with a mild detergent and a clean, dry cloth.
- Once the door and gasket channel are clean, you’ll need to install the new gasket. To do this, align the gasket with the gasket channel and gently push it into place. Make sure the gasket is properly seated and not twisted or pinched.
- Once the new gasket is installed, close the door and check for any gaps or leaks. If the gasket is sealing properly, the refrigerator should start working properly.
Conclusion
If your GE side-by-side refrigerator is not cooling or working properly, these are the few steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the problem yourself. If none of these steps fix the problem, you may need to contact a professional repair service or seek further assistance from the manufacturer.
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