My Freezer Will Not Shut Off

Temperature Controls

• Find the freezer temperature control, which is sometimes in the refrigerator compartment, sometimes in the freezer or on the freezer door if the refrigerator has an electronic control panel. Check the set temperature point for the freezer. The recommended temperature for most freezers is around 0 degrees Fahrenheit. If the freezer temperature is set much lower than this, the unit will run constantly to try to maintain that cold temperature. Adjust the controls to a warmer setting.

Freezer Door

• When the freezer door is ajar, even slightly, warm air enters the freezer constantly, making the compressor work harder to reach and maintain the set temperature. Check the gasket on the door and clean away dirt or debris with a damp cloth. If the gasket is very dry and brittle, add a thin layer of petroleum jelly for better lubrication and an improved seal. Contact the manufacturer if the gasket seems to be broken. In addition, check the food packages in the freezer to ensure nothing is preventing the door from closing.

Cleaning

• The condenser coils and fan are partially responsible for freezer cooling, and if these components are clogged with dust or dirt, the cooling ability is reduced. Disconnect power to the unit and remove the front lower grille, then use a soft brush to clean the condenser coils under the refrigerator/freezer. Set the grille back in place, and then clean the condenser coils on the rear of the appliance, as well as the fan, which is situated above the coils. Restore power once cleaning is complete.

Repair

• If the freezer still does not stop running after turning up the temperature, and other troubleshooting efforts have failed, the freezer thermostat may need to be replaced. Contact the refrigerator manufacturer or another service technician for assistance. Other potential problems include the compressor or defrost timer, and these elements also require professional attention.