Numerous factors could be at play if your refrigerator suddenly stopped cooling and freezing food after unplugging. So this post explains, “Why the fridge won’t turn on when plugged in?”
You shouldn’t instantly be concerned if something had happened to the refrigerator as long as it was operating normally before you disconnected it and is not operating properly now that you have plugged it back in. The likelihood of an electrical outlet change is substantially higher.
Given the size and complexity of these devices, a thorough diagnosis is necessary. The power source should be your primary concern if your refrigerator won’t turn on. Check if the plug is correctly placed and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If the power supply appears to be functioning correctly, your attention should be directed elsewhere, such as at any damaged wiring, capacitors, thermostats, coolant shortages, compressors, or motors.
We’ll examine a few causes of your fridge acting up in this post and provide some fixes. To help you fix your fridge like an expert, We will also clarify some of the concerns many of you might have!
Ready? Do this now!
Reasons for your fridge not working when plugged in?
We would advise taking the time to identify the precise issue with your fridge to receive a customized solution to your problem. As a general rule, if a refrigerator won’t switch on, it’s either not receiving power or a technical issue. Let’s examine the leading causes.
Overloaded Circuit Breakers
The circuit breaker may be to blame if your refrigerator suddenly stops working and won’t turn on. Make sure it’s not tripping, then reset it. Replace it if it continues to trip.
Malfunctioning Compressor
The compressor, which powers the refrigerator’s continuous refrigeration cycle, is a vital component. Your compressor can be broken if your refrigerator isn’t functioning. Through the condenser and evaporator coils, it compresses liquid refrigerant or coolant. The compressor can stop the refrigerator from starting if it is not adequately maintained or cleaned.
Minimal Current
It’s possible that your refrigerator isn’t receiving enough power or current. Check the current with a multimeter and a voltage tester to rule out inadequate voltage.
Difficulty with the Motor
Another frequent issue that results in the fridge breaking down or failing to start is a malfunctioning motor. The system won’t even turn when the motor is broken. The refrigerator would promptly shut off if it were on. Motors that are damaged must be replaced right away. Call your technician, who will return your motor if it is broken.
Contaminated Condenser Coils
Your refrigerator’s condenser coils play a crucial part in its operation. They are nearly exposed directly to the heat, dust, and humidity because they are at the back of the unit. High-pressure temperature gas is changed into a high-pressure liquid using condenser coils. During this process, a significant amount of heat is removed from the back. As a result, they are vulnerable to mud and other environmental issues. The condensation coils may not function well if they are covered with dirt, which frequently results in a sudden failure of the appliance.
The start capacitor is the first mechanical action that happens every time you power on your appliance. The thermostat signals the starter capacitor to activate the compressor and start the refrigeration cycle when the device is turned on. There won’t be a refrigeration cycle if the capacitor fails, and the refrigerator won’t usually turn on either. You can ask your expert for assistance in deciding whether to fix or exchange the capacitor.
Defective Thermostat
A faulty thermostat results in several issues with the fridge’s overall operation. If the thermostat is not broken, it will only communicate with the start capacitor, preventing the device from starting.
Although these are the typical causes of a fridge not switching on, there may be others. Remember that refrigerators are intricate devices that cost a lot to replace. Therefore, I don’t suggest opening every unit portion, especially if it’s your first time. When evaluating it for the first time, it is best to have an expert with you to explain how things are done.
How to Repair a Fridge that won’t turn on
Switch it off, then back on
It is imperative to always check the power before starting anything else while using electrical appliances. Turn off and on again to see if your device has an issue. A tiny switch will be located inside your refrigerator to manage this. Some companies, though, lack one. If yours lacks one, you can re-plug it after unplugging it. Try inserting the cord straight into the socket if you have attached it to an extension. If nothing occurs, it’s time to advance to the following phase.
Ensure that the power cord is plugged in completely and accurately
It’s possible that you won’t give it much thought until you’re experiencing a bad migraine. The device does not receive electricity whenever the faulty cable prevents the refrigerator from turning on when you turn it on.
The cable also endures regular wear and strain or damage based on how you maintain it. The wiring within the insulation may bend wrongly and entirely stop electrical transmission if it is not folded neatly behind the appliance. It’s possible that you won’t realize this unless you closely inspect the cord. Where the damaged wires are, the cable may smell burning and appear swollen if it is defective.
Unplug the refrigerator and turn it off to check for a damaged power cord. Look closely for any indications of scratches. You may have to split open the insulator and repair the damaged wire, if there are any. Insulate the repaired area before plugging the cable back into the socket. Verify that the cord is placed correctly. Replace it if it is too damaged.
A circuit breaker check will rule out overloading
Your refrigerator is a sizable appliance that can trip the circuit breaker designated to it. To avoid overloading, you should rule it out before you start opening things up. Older homes might have the refrigerator on the primary kitchen circuit, but most residences have a dedicated 20-amp breaker for the fridge alone.
Locate the breaker box and lift the lid. Verify that no breakers are in the “OFF” position. It might be overloaded if it tripped and switched to the OFF position. To be specific, unplug and unhook everything connected to the tripped breaker, then switch from OFF to ON.
If it fails, either the refrigerator or the switch causes the overload to be broken. If it doesn’t trip, the overload is caused by another factor. Unplug anything else that may be plugged in and contribute to the overload. Even though it could take some time, it’s worthwhile.
Check the relay for overload
The overload relay is the safety mechanism that starts the wrapping before the compressor ramps up to the desired speed. It is comparable to the presidential escort, who always walks before the president when he travels. They include a capacitor that provides the strong starting voltage the compressor winding needs.
On the compressor, side is where you’ll find the overload relay. Using your multimeter, you may examine the overload relay.
Inspect the cold control for issues
The cold power system can be broken if the unit won’t turn on and the fans aren’t spinning. Remember that all its components must be in working order for the refrigerator to operate correctly and cool your food. The thermostat adjustment knob is linked to the cold control. Open your fridge door and look for the cold control to solve this. It’s in an area with fresh foods.
Take the control out of the refrigerator, then check it with a multimeter.
Check the electronic control board of the refrigerator
The electronic control board, the single authority controlling all functions in the new refrigerator models, is used. This is now the priciest, most challenging, and most complicated system. Therefore, I advise leaving this in the hands of experts.
Switch off the devices and open your fridge to remove the board attached to the control box if you are accustomed to working with it. Typically, it is fastened to the top or either side of the apparatus. Examine the area for any indications of arcing, broken foil, burned connections, wear, or other damage. The electronically controlled board needs to be replaced immediately if there are any.
By the end of this article, we hope you will be able to identify some potential reasons why your fridge won’t turn on when plugged in. Whatever the issue is with your fridge, you can fix it to keep your food from deteriorating or thawing. Just do your best to avoid letting the cold in as much as possible. If possible, avoid opening the refrigerator. If the above tricks fail to work, you should seek professional help.
Robert Smith is a technology lover and loves to write about laptops, monitors, printers, tablets, Apple products and anything that's related to computers and games. He is passionate enough that he maintains this blog regarding tech updates on a daily basis.
Robert Smith is a technology lover and loves to write about laptops, monitors, printers, tablets, Apple products and anything that's related to computers and games. He is passionate enough that he maintains this blog regarding tech updates on a daily basis.
