Can Frost Short My Refrigerator?

Frost

• Frost occurs when cool air and moisture come together in a refrigerator as a result of a cooling problem that restricts air flow in some way. Frost basically looks like snow, but can be as hard as ice, especially if it builds up. It can collect on doors, shelves, walls and products that you keep in the refrigerator.

Cooling System

• The compressor is the main cooling component on a refrigerator. It’s responsible for supplying and circulating cool air inside the refrigerator to keep air temperature relatively constant, so food stays cool and doesn’t spoil. The compressor should run regularly while the refrigerator is plugged in to cool it. If the component stops functioning properly, air circulation will be limited and the refrigerator’s temperature will rise.

Compressor Failure

• Frost can cause a compressor to wear faster. If warm air from outside the refrigerator is constantly getting into the refrigerator, the compressor must work to combat the temperature change by supplying more cool air. Over time, the added strain of having to always maintain a certain air temperature in spite of ever-changing temperature conditions places added stress on the component and can cause it to short. When this happens, the compressor usually must be replaced.

Mitigate Frost and Guard against Refrigerator Shorts

• You can take action to limit frost from forming in your refrigerator and prolong the lifespan of its compressor. For example, don’t open the refrigerator door unless it’s necessary; this helps prevent cool air from escaping. Regularly check the door to make sure that it seals properly. Replace the door seal if it’s hard or cracking. Inspect the refrigerator drain if you find water pooling in the refrigerator. If the drain clogs, frost is more likely to develop. Contact a refrigerator repair technician to verify that the automatic defrost cycle is working right and have it repaired if necessary. Defrost cycle thermometers tend to fail often, according to Appliance 411, and might cause frost to accumulate faster. That can place strain a compressor.