How to Install & Adjust a Refrigerator Thermostat

Installation

• 1

  Determine the model of thermostat required for your refrigerator. Thermostats are either clamped to the tubing from the evaporator, clipped into the thermostat housing or screwed into place. Ensure you have the right kind of thermostat for your refrigerator's coupling type before you begin to install it. Consult your refrigerator manual if you are unsure of the type of thermostat you need.

• 2

  Consult your refrigerator's manual to find the location of the thermostat. It will usually be in the back or floor of the unit. Turn off the refrigerator and remove all the contents, including the shelves, from the main body. Unscrew or unclip the retainers holding the back or floor panel in place, depending on which the thermostat is behind, using a screwdriver or pliers depending on the type of retainer.

• 3

  Remove the back or floor panel. Unscrew, unclip or remove the clamps holding the existing thermostat in place, using a screwdriver or pliers as necessary. Gently pull on the terminal wires to remove the terminal connectors from the thermostat. Remove the thermostat. Place the new thermostat in position. Push the terminal connectors into the connector sockets on the new thermostat.

• 4

  Screw, clamp or clip the thermostat in place. Replace the floor or back panel in the refrigerator. Screw or clamp the panel in place again. Slide the shelves back into the refrigerator. Place the food back in the refrigerator. Turn the refrigerator back on.

Adjustment

• 5

  Open the refrigerator. Find the dial for the temperature control on a standard analogue system, or the buttons to control the temperature on a digital display. If the refrigerator feels too warm or food is spoiling too quickly, turn the temperature down to a lower setting on the dial, or 2 degrees lower on a digital system. Close the refrigerator door.

• 6

  Turn the temperature up if the refrigerator is constantly running or food is freezing, milk is separating or everything feels icy to the touch. On an analogue dial system, turn the dial to a slightly higher setting than it was on before. On a digital display system, turn the temperature up 2 degrees. Close the refrigerator door.

• 7

  Wait 24 hours. Check the temperature in the refrigerator and the quality of the food. If there is less ice, the food is cool rather than too hot or too cold, and the refrigerator is not constantly running, leave the thermostat at the current setting. If there are still temperature problems, adjust the thermostat up or down as required.