How to Bypass a Refrigerator Thermostat

The temperature inside a refrigerator is controlled by an internal thermostat. While these thermostats are adjustable on many models, the temperature range tends to be rather small. This can cause a problem if you need your refrigerator to be warmer or cooler than its built-in thermostat will allow it to get. Although it is possible to bypass the original thermostat by rewiring the refrigerator, it is much simpler and safer to use a device known as a temperature controller. This method will work on all refrigerators, regardless of make or model.

Temperature controller (external thermostat)
Tape

Instructions

- 1
  Buy a temperature controller unit (sometimes known as an external thermostat). These units can be bought from most hardware stores and at several places online. Make sure the temperature controller you buy has a wide enough temperature range to meet your specific cooling needs.
- 2
  Unplug your refrigerator. If you have perishable items inside your refrigerator, do the next steps quickly.
- 3
  Plug your temperature controller into the outlet that your refrigerator was plugged into.
- 4
  Plug the refrigerator into the outlet on the back of the temperature controller plug.
- 5
  Secure the temperature probe inside the refrigerator. If the probe you have purchased doesn't come with some type of adhesive, you can securely attach the probe to the interior of the refrigerator with some kind of a strong tape, such as duct tape. The temperature probe should be connected to the controller unit via a thin cord. Your refrigerator door should be able to close tightly around this cord without any problems.
- 6
  Set the required temperature on the controller unit. The internal thermostat will now be completely bypassed, and the external thermostat will now control the cooling unit inside the refrigerator.

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