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Why REF198ESZ Isn’t Performing Well? 8 Common Reasons for Poor Function

Why REF198ESZ Isn’t Performing Well? 8 Common Reasons for Poor Function

If your REF198ESZ refrigerator is not performing as expected, it can be quite frustrating. However, don’t worry! Here are the eight most common reasons why it might be malfunctioning and what you can do to solve each issue, step-by-step.

1. Improper Temperature Settings

Cause: If the temperature setting is not correct, your fridge might not cool efficiently or overcool. The REF198ESZ model typically has a thermostat that controls temperature levels. If the settings are too high or low, it can affect performance. Solution:

Check the temperature settings on the fridge. The ideal temperature is around 37°F (3°C) for the refrigerator and 0°F (-18°C) for the freezer. Adjust the thermostat if necessary, and wait a few hours to see if cooling improves. 2. Dirty Condenser Coils

Cause: Over time, the condenser coils (usually at the back or beneath the fridge) can get clogged with dust, dirt, and grease. This blocks airflow and reduces cooling efficiency, causing the fridge to work harder. Solution:

Turn off the refrigerator and unplug it. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a coil cleaning brush to gently clean the condenser coils. Make sure the area around the fridge has good airflow for better cooling. 3. Faulty Door Seal

Cause: A broken or worn-out door seal allows cold air to escape, making the fridge work harder to maintain a cool temperature. Solution:

Check the door seal for cracks or tears by closing the door on a piece of paper. If you can pull the paper out easily, the seal is compromised. Replace the seal if needed. You can buy a replacement seal from the manufacturer or a local appliance store. 4. Overstuffed Refrigerator

Cause: If your fridge is too full, the air inside cannot circulate properly, leading to poor cooling performance. Solution:

Ensure that there is enough space inside the fridge for air to circulate around items. Remove unnecessary items or re-organize food to create better airflow. 5. Malfunctioning Evaporator Fan

Cause: The evaporator fan inside your refrigerator circulates cold air throughout the appliance. If the fan isn’t working, cooling efficiency will drop. Solution:

Listen carefully to check if the fan is running. If it's not, check if there’s any obstruction preventing it from spinning. If there’s no sound or movement from the fan, it may need to be replaced. Contact a professional repair service for this. 6. Defective Thermistor

Cause: The thermistor is responsible for detecting the internal temperature of your fridge and signaling the control board to adjust cooling. If it's faulty, the fridge might not cool as needed. Solution:

Use a multimeter to test the thermistor for continuity. If it’s broken, you’ll need to replace it. A professional technician can help if you're not familiar with electrical components. 7. Low Refrigerant Levels

Cause: Refrigerant is crucial for cooling. If there's a leak or the refrigerant is low, the refrigerator cannot maintain the proper temperature. Solution:

Unfortunately, you can't check refrigerant levels yourself without the proper tools. Call a certified technician to inspect the refrigerant levels and repair any leaks. They can recharge the refrigerant if necessary. 8. Damaged Compressor

Cause: The compressor is the heart of your refrigerator’s cooling system. If it’s malfunctioning, your fridge may not cool at all. Solution:

If your fridge is not cooling and you hear a strange noise coming from the compressor or no sound at all, the compressor might be at fault. Replacing a compressor is a complex job and should be done by a professional technician, as it involves electrical and refrigerant handling.

Conclusion

There are many potential reasons why your REF198ESZ refrigerator isn’t performing well, but these eight issues are the most common. By carefully troubleshooting the appliance step-by-step, you can often identify and fix the problem yourself, saving you time and money. However, for more complex issues like refrigerant leaks or compressor failure, it’s best to call a professional.

By ensuring that you maintain a clean environment, check seals regularly, and ensure proper settings, your refrigerator should work smoothly for years to come.