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  1. Repair

Refrigerator door not closing

Common reasons your refrigerator door not closing

The most common reasons your refrigerator door is not closing are a damaged door, defective electronic control board or a dead power supply board.

  • 35%

    35% of the time it's the
    Door

  • 21%

    21% of the time it's the
    Electronic Control Board

  • 12%

    12% of the time it's the
    Power Supply Board

  • 32%

    32% 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.

    Door Replacement

    When a refrigerator or freezer door is damaged, it may hinder proper door closure and sealing. This could manifest as difficulty in smoothly opening or closing the freezer drawer, requiring excessive force or encountering resistance. Furthermore, it may lead to a misalignment of the drawer, resulting in an imperfect fit with the freezer door. Moreover, a damaged door may emit scraping or grinding noises during operation, indicating friction or misalignment problems. Additionally, the door gasket will be unable to maintain an effective seal, allowing warm, humid air to enter the refrigerator. Consequently, this can cause condensation and water leaks inside the refrigerator that cannot be properly drained.


    Electronic Control Board Replacement

    If the electronic control board in a refrigerator is faulty, it can cause a variety of issues, such as power loss, cooling irregularities, and water leakage. This is because the board functions as the central control unit of the refrigerator, overseeing critical functions like temperature regulation, fan operation, defrost cycles, icemaker control, and dispenser functions. When the board malfunctions, it can disrupt communication among different components, including automatic door mechanisms if applicable. A defective board may produce clicking or chattering sounds and emit a burning smell. Given its potential impact on multiple components, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional inspect the board using diagnostic tests to determine if replacement is warranted.

    Power Supply Board Replacement

    When the refrigerator's power supply board is defective, it can cause a total loss of power, resulting in no lights, cooling, or operational sounds. The display panel, if present, might be blank or unresponsive. In refrigerators with automatic doors, a malfunctioning power supply board may cause the doors to no longer open or close automatically. Sometimes, there may be sporadic power issues, causing the refrigerator to work inconsistently. Moreover, the failure of the power supply board can result in the absence of any typical humming or clicking sounds associated with the refrigerator's normal operation.

    What to expect when you experience a refrigerator door not closing issue

    How is the door not closing problem rectified?

    Fixing most door not closing problems usually involves replacing the door, electronic control board or power supply. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is essential for understanding the extent of the repair needed and effectively resolving the issue.

    Recommendations for a refrigerator door that is not closing

    If a refrigerator door is not closing it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional inspect the refrigerator and repair the issue. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures.

    Things to look out for with a refrigerator door not closing diagnosis

    Diagnosing issues with modern appliances can pose significant challenges for individuals lacking adequate knowledge and training. Without employing proper diagnostic techniques, rectifying refrigerator problems may involve merely replacing parts based on guesswork. In the past decade, appliances have undergone substantial advancements, incorporating intricate electronic components that are increasingly difficult to troubleshoot. As a result, do-it-yourself repairs on contemporary appliance models have become progressively difficult.

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    Glossary Terms

    Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems and refrigerators to absorb heat from the environment by cycling through states of evaporation and condensation, enabling the cooling process through its cycle of evaporation and condensation.

    R-12 refrigerant, also known as Freon-12, is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compound that was once widely used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and aerosol propellants before its phase-out due to environmental concerns.

    CFC certification refers to the credentialing process that qualifies HVAC technicians to handle chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other refrigerants in a manner that complies with environmental regulations. It is essential for professionals who install, maintain, or repair HVAC systems and refrigeration equipment.

    A refrigerator thermostat is a device within a refrigerator that regulates its temperature by turning the cooling system on and off based on the interior temperature compared to the set desired temperature.

    Common refrigerator symptoms to look out for