What's in here?
Over time, and thousands of openings of the freezer, we expect that that the freezer light will pop on whenever we open the door. When it doesn't, we're thrown for a quick loop. But, be honest: how many of you really fix that freezer light the moment you notice that it's not working? Some people put it off. Well, if you're reading this article, there's a chance you didn't put it off, so kudos! Let's teach you how to fix a freezer light with as little stress as possible.
The first thing you'll want to do is to check the bulb itself. Oftentimes you simply will have to replace the freezer bulb in order to get the light working again. Be sure that you have the right kind of freezer bulb.
When you do replace a freezer bulb, be sure that you unplug it from the electricity running into it. Safety first! You'll want to avoid electricity whenever possible, even if you've replaced a light bulb before. As mentioned in the previous paragraph, be sure that you have the right bulb for your freezer model to ensure that the bulb works correctly and safely. Note that some freezer light bulbs might require that you remove a cover in order to get to the bulb.
If replacing the bulb didn't help things, it's time to check your freezer's door switch. This switch is what triggers the light bulb, and if it's not working effectively, it might not be the bulb that's causing the lack of light! The switch often works by using the door being closed as a way to keep it off, meaning that whenever the door is open, the light bulb will be on.
Again, be sure that your freezer is disconnected from electrical power. Once you're sure this is the case, you can go into the switch by removing its casing - if it's not screwed in, be careful in removing it, or have someone who's experienced in this sort of thing remove it.
Once you've exposed the switch and its wires, you'll want to consult these directions for further instructions on what to do, and what to replace once you've found that there is any error with your freezer light switch.
When in doubt, call a repairman to handle these things for you, as you don't want to compromise your safety.
Photo Credits: Robert Couse-Baker
Originally posted 2009-11-12 03:12:55.
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Posted by Fix Handyman on July 13, 2010 in
Handyman, How to Fix, appliances, kitchen
Replace that broken fridge handle quickly and easily.
Around the house, the refrigerator is probably one of the appliances we take most for granted. It keeps our food fresh for days, keeps liquids cool, and the freezer can store foods for months. If you have a broken refrigerator handle, you've already experienced what it's like when this appliance doesn't work like it usually does. You probably have one thought: "I need to get this fixed immediately!" Though the handle breaking can be a minor inconvenience, it's something you'll want to taken care of. Here's how to fix it yourself.
Fortunately, repairing a refrigerator handle is an easy thing. Why's that? Because the simplest way to do it is simply to replace the door handle itself. And in order to accomplish this, you'll follow a few, simple steps.
First, you'll want to get rid of the old door handle. Presumably, you've left this handle on. Identify the areas on the handle that are attached to the refrigerator via screws, and then loosen the screws. Make sure to keep those screws in case you need to use them with your new refrigerator handle. Even if you buy the exact model of refrigerator handle from the manufacturer, there's no guarantee that they'll include the right screws you need. Rather than go through the trouble of finding new ones, simply save the old ones! (This is unless, of course, the screws were the problem in the first place).
Next, it's time to install the new handle. Line it up with the matching holes and twist in the top screw - this will allow the refrigerator handle to hang. Don't necessarily tighten this screw right away, as you'll want some flexibility for later. Next, twist in the bottom screw to near tightness with some flexibility. Now, use the flexibility of the new handle's position to align it correctly with the refrigerator. Tighten the top screw and then the bottom one. Voila!
Often times, repairs like this can be as simple as going online and ordering the right parts. Some manufacturers will even replace broken parts for free - some will do this while requiring that you send them the old part. In either case, make sure to explore your options and take care of this right away: don't let your house deteriorate. You never know when a guest might show up unexpectedly and try to open your refrigerator.
Photo Credits: Avoir Chaud
Originally posted 2009-08-10 03:13:33.
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Posted by Fix Handyman on May 25, 2010 in
Handyman, How to Fix, appliances, kitchen
Frosted Fridge?
We all love refrigerators because they keep our food cool and fresh, but when we want our food cold, we put it in the freezer, not the "fridge." So what happens when your refrigerator is running too cold? Instead of freezing all of your food and drinks, you can try a couple of simple steps to fix the temperature.
When a refrigerator is running cold, it means that the temperature settings or control are out of whack: much of the work you do to fix your refrigerator will include "diagnosis" work in which you try to figure out the source of the problem.
The Refrigerator Temperature Setting
The first thing to do is check the refrigerator temperature setting itself - is it set to cold? You may not have a problem with a refrigerator; instead, you may have a prankster on your hands. You can adjust the refrigerator temperature setting simply by adjusting the setting manually. You'll want your refrigerator to run at about thirty-eight degrees Fahrenheit.
You can confirm the temperature of the refrigerator by placing a simple cooking thermometer in there and letting it sit for a good amount of time - give it a couple of hours just to be sure. If your refrigerator temperature setting does not seem to be the problem, it's time to test the temperature control itself. This will entail some more involved electrical work, so if you're not up to the task, simply be ready to call a repairman. They'll be able to help you, and be sure to tell them whether or not the refrigerator is powered.
Testing the Temperature Control
Note: Before you begin testing the temperature control, be sure that you unplug the refrigerator, disconnecting it from any power source. This will help you avoid electric shock.
In many refrigerator/freezers, the cooling system for the freezer is simply a vent that regularly lets in cool air from the freezer. To get started testing the temperatur control, remove the temperature setting controls, often by unscrewing them.
Once you've made it that far, you'll be able to find that the control within is connected to two wires - make a written note to remember where the wires are originally. For the next steps, consult these instructions which give you pictures explaining in greater detail.
If your refrigerator is still having problems, try and check with a professional and think about buying replacement parts - or even a replacement refrigerator.
Photo Credits: tranchis
Originally posted 2009-11-19 03:19:56.
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Posted by Fix Handyman on April 26, 2010 in
Handyman, How to Fix, appliances, kitchen
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