Refrigerator not turning on

Common reasons your refrigerator not turning on

The most common reasons your refrigerator is not turning on are a defective electronic control board, locked compressor or an inoperative user interface.

56% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board

20% of the time it's the
Compressor

10% of the time it's the
User Interface Control

14% of the time it's the
Something else

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Common refrigerator repair parts you may need

Replacing one of these refrigerator parts may fix your problem.

Electronic Control Board Replacement

A malfunctioning electronic control board can result in various failures in a refrigerator, such as power loss, cooling deficiencies, and water leakage. This is because the board serves as the central control system of the refrigerator, overseeing critical functions such as temperature regulation, fan operation, defrost cycles, icemaker control, and dispenser operations. When the board malfunctions, it can disrupt communication among different components, including automatic door mechanisms if they are installed. A defective board may exhibit clicking or chattering noises and emit a burning odor. Considering its potential impact on multiple components, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests on the board to determine if replacement is necessary.

How to replace the electronic control board in a refrigerator

Compressor Replacement

A refrigerator compressor that is locked might display various symptoms suggestive of a malfunction. The most noticeable indication is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, which can lead to increased temperatures and the potential spoilage of food items. The freezer may also struggle to maintain the desired freezing temperatures, resulting in no ice production from the icemaker or dispenser. Additionally, you may observe that the compressor is unusually quiet or fails to emit its typical humming sound during operation. Sometimes, the compressor may attempt to start but fail, resulting in repeated clicking noises. The compressor's inability to circulate refrigerant properly can disrupt the defrosting process, leading to ice accumulation in the freezer. Moreover, a defective compressor could cause a sudden influx of melting frost into the drain line, leading to blockages, inadequate drainage, and potential water leaks.

Troubleshooting compressor problems in refrigerators

User Interface Control Replacement

When a refrigerator user interface control stops, it loses the ability to communicate with the main control board, affecting settings like temperature or icemaker status. The interface will cease to display, creating the impression of a powerless refrigerator. In some cases, it may only display an error code. If the user interface solely controls drawer temperature settings, a crack in the shelf housing the interface can prevent it from responding to the selected settings.

How to replace the user interface control on a refrigerator

What to expect when you experience a refrigerator not turning on issue

What is the solution to a not turning on problem?

Resolving not turning on problems usually involves replacing the electronic control board, compressor or user interface control. However, there are many potential causes. A complete and thorough diagnosis is key to understanding the extent of repairs and fixing the problem.

Tips from Sears Home Services for a refrigerator that is not turning on

When a refrigerator is not turning on it can be for many reasons. Avoid replacing unneeded parts by having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures.

What to consider with a refrigerator not turning on diagnosis

Successfully diagnosing malfunctions in modern appliances can be a formidable task for individuals lacking comprehensive knowledge and training. Attempting to address refrigerator issues without employing precise diagnostic techniques may lead to ineffective repairs reliant on guesswork. The past decade has witnessed significant advancements in appliance technology, resulting in the integration of complex electronic components that pose considerable challenges for troubleshooting. As a result, do-it-yourself repairs on contemporary appliance models have become increasingly complex.

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