Signs and Symptoms of Condenser Failure in Refrigerators

Warmer Interior

• As the condenser coil stops functioning properly, it loses its ability to effectively pull warmer air from inside the refrigerator. As a result, warm air starts building up inside the fridge and the temperature increases. This may be subtle at first as the condenser continues working partially, but the problem will get worse over time if the condenser is not cleaned, fixed or replaced. Turning down the thermostat in response only makes the problem worse because a system that already isn't working properly is then placed under more pressure as it runs more frequently. Sometimes a simple cleaning is enough to get the condenser working properly again.

Fridge Stops Running

• If the condenser fails, the evaporator fan works overtime and will quickly burn out if the problem isn't fixed. Most fridges normally produce a low hum when the fan is running and the condenser is working properly. If the system burns out from a bad condenser, you won't hear any noise from the fridge anymore. A shutdown indicates that multiple components of the cooling system may be damaged, but the condenser is likely one of them since each cooling component affects the performance of the others.

Unusual Noises

• If the fridge hasn't shut down entirely, you may hear louder noises coming from the fridge that the appliance doesn't normally make. If the condenser fails and the fan is on more than usual to compensate, fan noise may get your attention as it gets louder and as the fan starts to break down. Banging or hissing noises are possible as well because the system is registering that the inside of the fridge is too warm and is straining to compensate for the increase. Because the condenser and other systems aren't working, the added effort is an exercise in futility, and the fridge will continue making noise until it dies completely or is fixed.

Leaking Refrigerant

• The condenser coils can leak refrigerant if they are breached or corroded. A loose connection in the condensing system can also lead to leaks. If this happens, you will likely hear a loud hissing sound as the gas escapes the normally closed system inside the fridge. You may see a foggy gas spraying out from either the back or the underside of the appliance, depending on where the condenser is located in your model. Refrigerant is unhealthy to breathe in, so unplug the fridge and leave the room if you discover a leak. Have the unit professionally repaired as soon as possible.