The Top 5 Refrigerator Repair Mistakes You Should Avoid

Person unscrewing the back panel of a refrigerator.
It's no secret that fridge malfunctions can be a major hassle. Not only are they inconvenient and uncomfortable, but they can also cause costly water damage to your kitchen and home if not taken care of quickly. Every repair situation is different, but there are some common refrigerator repair mistakes that homeowners often make that can slow down the process or speed up needing a replacement!

To save you time and money and ensure the most important appliance in your kitchen is functioning flawlessly, Mr. Appliance of Memphis has compiled a list of the top five repair mistakes you should avoid:

1. Skipping Troubleshooting & Rushing Repair

If your fridge stops working, it's natural to want to rush into fixing it as soon as possible — but this can often lead to more problems. Not taking the time to troubleshoot your fridge can cause the repair to take longer, be more difficult and expensive, and even cause a misdiagnosis of things entirely.

Here are some things to attempt or inspect before you rush into repairing your fridge:

  • Consult your owner's manual for troubleshooting guidelines
  • Check the circuit breaker or fuse box
  • Make sure your fridge is plugged in and receiving power
  • Ensure the door is closing properly and not leaving a gap
  • Inspect the condenser coils for dirt buildup

If these things don’t solve your problem, consulting with a professional appliance repair company, like Mr. Appliance of Memphis may be best. We offer flexible and convenient appointments with quick turnaround times to get your fridge fixed as soon as possible.

2. Trying to Fix Electrical Problems Yourself

Disconnecting the refrigerator is a great way to safeguard yourself during any repair, but this alone will not guarantee that your family and home remain protected. It's essential to know that electrical problems should always be handled by knowledgeable professionals certified in dealing with complex wiring. If not, you risk electrocution, fire damage, and costly repairs.

Electrical problems in your fridge may be the cause of:

  • Fridge not cooling down enough
  • Fridge continues to cycle
  • Fridge is making a loud buzzing noise
  • Fridge lights aren't working
  • Fridge keeps tripping the circuit breaker

Don't delay fixing your fridge, either. If you ignore the signs of a potential electrical malfunction, you could be limiting your chance of a successful repair.

3. Using the Wrong Tools or Parts

No matter what type of refrigerator you have, using the right tools and parts during a repair is important. The wrong part or the use of faulty equipment can damage your appliance and result in costly repairs down the road.

It is also essential that any replacement parts used are compatible with your fridge model; otherwise, they may not fit properly, preventing you from completing the repair. Not sticking with manufacturer-approved parts may also void your warranty entirely.

Working with a trusted appliance repair company like Mr. Appliance of Memphis ensures that your refrigerator parts are genuine, compatible with your model, and come with a warranty to offer you peace of mind beyond your repair.

4. Trying to Repair a Fridge that Needs to Be Replaced

It's understandable that homeowners may want to repair their refrigerators as much as possible, but sometimes it just isn't in the cards. Don't waste time and money trying to repair an appliance that's beyond help.

The following are signs that you need to replace your fridge instead of trying to repair it:

  • It's more than 10 years old (most fridges last between 10-15 years)
  • It's no longer cooling properly, despite frequent repairs and maintenance
  • The interior is leaking water or has rust spots throughout the bottom of the unit

Replacing your fridge is a large investment, but to help you decide whether to repair or replace your fridge, you can contact Mr. Appliance of Memphis and have a certified technician take a look and let you know what the best course of action is.

5. Ignoring Manufacturer Instructions

When it comes repairing your fridge, you should always take your time and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Not only to keep your unit running properly but to keep your manufacturer warranty in tack.

Failure to follow the manufacturer's instructions when making a repair can void your warranty and leave you with an even larger repair bill. One of the most common reasons homeowners void their warranty is because they try to make a repair with parts not supplied by the original manufacturer.

If you're ever unsure about how to properly fix your fridge, consult with a qualified technician from Mr. Appliance of Memphis. Our technicians ensure that all repairs are done correctly and safely for both your family and your appliance!

How Can I Avoid Mistakes During My Fridge Repair?

To give your fridge the best chance of long-term success, avoid these mistakes and contact Mr. Appliance of Memphis! Our fridge repair technicians will walk you through the entire repair process, answer any questions you may have, and provide quality repairs that are backed by some of the best guarantees and warranties in the industry — thanks to being a Neighborly company.

For a reliable refrigerator repair in Memphis, Tennessee, reach out to Mr. Appliance of Memphis today!