Amana Freezer Troubleshooting

Published: 
April 16, 2023
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Diagnose the Problem and Maybe Even Fix it Yourself!

If you own an Amana freezer (or an Amana Fridge - Freezer combo), you know how important it is to keep your freezer running smoothly. Troubleshooting your Amana freezer can be complex. Fortunately, in many cases, you can identify and fix common issues, saving you time and money.

Before you start troubleshooting, it's important to understand the basics of your Amana freezer. Amana freezers come in various sizes and styles, from upright to chest freezers. You can also have your freezer compartment (with icemaker) as part of a combined unit with a refrigerator.

Freezers use advanced cooling technology to freeze your food at the perfect temperature. However, like any appliance, your Amana freezer may experience issues from time to time. By learning how to troubleshoot your freezer, you can keep it running smoothly for years.

Common Amana Freezer Problems

If you own an Amana freezer, it's important to be aware of the common problems that may arise. Here are some of the most common issues you might encounter:

Is Your Freezer Too Full?

If your freezer is too full, it may not be able to circulate air properly, which can cause it to stop cooling effectively. Make sure you're not overloading your freezer and that there's enough space for air to circulate around your frozen items.

Freezer Not Cooling

If your freezer isn't cooling, there could be several reasons. One possibility is that the evaporator coils are frosted over, which can happen if the freezer door is left open for too long. Try defrosting the freezer and see if that solves the problem. If not, it could be an issue with the compressor, which may need to be replaced.

Freezer Making Strange Noises

If your freezer is making strange noises, it could be a sign that there's something wrong with it. One possibility is that the fan blades are hitting an obstruction. This can cause a loud banging or scraping noise. Another possibility is that the compressor is failing, which can cause a buzzing or clicking noise. If you're not sure what's causing the noise, it's best to call a professional to take a look.

Door Seal Issues: Freezer Door Not Closing Properly

If your freezer door isn't closing properly, it presents a major issue. Warm air will enter the freezer, leading to frost buildup and other issues. Ensure the door is aligned properly and that nothing is blocking it from closing all the way. If the door still doesn't close properly, it could be an issue with the door gasket, which may need to be replaced.

Amana Freezer Troubleshooting Steps

Amana Appliance Troubleshooting: Amana Refrigerator - Freezer

Check the Power Supply

If your Amana freezer is not working, you first need to check the power supply. Make sure the freezer is properly plugged in and the outlet is functioning. If the outlet is not working, try plugging the freezer into a different outlet. If the freezer still does not turn on, check the circuit breaker to see if it has tripped. Reset the breaker if necessary.

Clean the Condenser Coils

The condenser coils in your freezer are crucial in maintaining the temperature of your freezer. These condenser coils release heat captured from within your freezer to the air outside your freezer. Unfortunately, these coils are prone to collecting dust.

Dirty condenser coils, can cause your freezer to stop working. To clean the coils, unplug the freezer and remove the rear panel. Use a soft-bristle brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or debris from the coils. Replace the panel and plug the freezer back in.

Inspect the Door Gasket

The door gasket is the rubber seal that runs around the edge of the freezer door. If the gasket is damaged or dirty, it can cause the freezer to lose cold air, making it less efficient. Inspect the gasket and clean it with warm, soapy water if necessary. If the gasket is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Check the Temperature Control

The temperature control thermostat in your freezer regulates the temperature inside the unit. If the thermostat is not working properly, it can cause the freezer to stop working. Check the temperature control and make sure it is set to the correct temperature. If the temperature control is faulty, it will need to be replaced.

Inspect the Evaporator Fan Motor

The evaporator fan motor circulates the cold air inside the freezer. If the motor is not working, the freezer will not cool properly. Check the fan blades for any damage and make sure they are not obstructed. If the motor is not working, it will need to be replaced.

Frost Buildup? Check the Defrost System

If you notice frost buildup in your freezer, it could be a sign of a problem with the defrost system. The defrost system includes the defrost thermostat, defrost heater, and defrost timer. Check these components to make sure they are functioning properly. If any of the components are faulty, they will need to be replaced.

Inspect the Compressor

The compressor is the heart of your freezer. It compresses the refrigerant and circulates it through the system. If the compressor is not working, the freezer will not cool properly. Check the compressor for any signs of damage or wear. If the compressor is faulty, it will need to be replaced.

Official Amana Resources

To help you with Amana Freezer Troubleshooting, you should check out the official Amana Product Manual website. Here, you can enter the model number of your amana appliance for troubleshooting help. You can also download product manuals here.

When to Call a Professional Appliance Repair Person

Many common problems with your Amana freezer can be solved with some troubleshooting and DIY repairs. Other times it may be best to call in a professional. Here are a few situations where you should consider hiring a technician:

  • If you hear strange noises coming from your freezer or notice a burning smell
  • If your freezer is leaking water
  • Frost is accumulating in copious amounts on the sides and bottom of your freezer
  • If your freezer is not cooling properly or is not freezing food
  • If you have tried troubleshooting and repairing your freezer but the problem persists

Attempting to fix these issues on your own can be dangerous and may cause further damage to your appliance. A professional technician will have the tools, knowledge, and experience to diagnose and repair the problem quickly and safely.

When choosing a technician, make sure to look for someone who is licensed, insured, and experienced in repairing Amana freezers. You can also check online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends and family to find a reputable technician.

While calling a professional may cost more than attempting to fix the problem yourself, it can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Don't hesitate to call in a professional if you're unsure about how to fix a problem with your Amana freezer.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your Amana freezer is essential to ensure its longevity and efficient performance. Here are some preventative maintenance tips that you can follow:

  • Clean the interior of your freezer regularly with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or sharp objects that can damage the interior.
  • Defrost your freezer regularly to prevent ice build-up. You can do this by turning off your freezer and letting the ice melt naturally. If you’re in a pinch, you can use a hair dryer, but they tend to overheat. A hair dryer also creates a bit of a hazard - be sure to use extreme caution when using electrical devices around water and ice.
  • Check the door gasket for any signs of wear or tear. A damaged door gasket allows warm air to enter and displaces cold air. The result is higher energy consumption and reduction in the efficiency of your freezer. If you notice any damage, replace the gasket immediately.
  • Keep your Amana refrigerator freezer away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as radiators, ovens, or dishwashers. Heat sources can cause your freezer to work harder, leading to higher energy consumption and reduced efficiency.
  • Ensure that your freezer is level and stable. You can stabilize your freezer by If it's not, adjusting the leveling feet until it's level from side to side and front to back. A freezer that isn’t properly leveled can lead to problems with the freezer door shutting properly.
  • Clean the condenser coils at the back of your freezer regularly to remove any dust or debris that can accumulate and reduce the efficiency of your freezer. Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to clean the coils. You’ll want to do this every few months. If you have pets, you may want to check the coils even more regularly as dust and pet hair inevitably work their way into the coils.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my side by side refrigerator freezer not freezing?

Start by checking your temperature and control settings on your to make sure you have the right temperature locked in to ensure your food stays frozen.

Next, make sure that your freezer door closes properly and is maintaining a proper seal to keep out warm air and preserve your frozen food.

You’ll then want to make sure that your condenser coils are free of dust and debris as these can prevent your freezer from working properly.

Next make sure your evaporator fan is working properly and and it isn’t making any noise.

Finally, make sure that you don’t have excess frost buildup in your freezer that could indicate you’re having problems with your automatic defrost system.

Frank Salvatore

Hey there - I'm Frank Salvatore. I created this site as a comprehensive kitchen resource. You'll find everything you need to know about everything in your kitchen. From appliances to utensils and layout - it is covered on this site!

About Me
Frank Salvatore
I created this site as a comprehensive kitchen resource. You'll find everything you need to know about everything in your kitchen. From appliances to utensils and layout - it is covered on this site!
Learn More About Me
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