Home Garden

Troubleshooting an Intermittent GE Refrigerator

Refrigerators, such as GE refrigerators, are designed to run constantly. So, if your refrigerator is only running intermittently, it is a sure sign of a problem. A GE refrigerator is made up of many components, like the compressor and fan. If you troubleshoot these internal components, you will likely be able to diagnose the problem that is causing your fridge to turn on and off.

Things You'll Need

  • Phillips screwdriver
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Check the power cable to ensure it isn't frayed. If it is, there is likely a short in the cable, which could be the reason your fridge turns on and off. If the cable isn't the problem, proceed to the next step.

    • 2

      Pull the refrigerator slightly away form the wall, so that you have access to the rear panel.

    • 3

      Remove the screws on the back refrigerator panel and remove the panel. This will expose the compressor and fan.

    • 4

      Check the fan to ensure it is running continuously. The fan cools the compressor as it draws heat out of the fridge, if it is only running sporadically, then it could lead to the compressor shutting on and off, which will shut the refrigerator down. If the fan isn't running constantly, it will likely need to be replaced.

    • 5

      Check the lines running to the compressor. If there are holes in the lines, it could cause a freon leak, which could be the reason your refrigerator is shutting on and off. You will need to call a technician to come out and repair the compressor.