Admiral Refrigerator Leaking Water in Crisper Drawers:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The refrigerator's Main Control Unit (MCU) manages the defrost cycle, energizing the defrost heater based on temperature sensors and timers. Voltage is supplied to the defrost heater through relays and safety components like the defrost thermostat. Water produced during defrosting should flow through the drain system and into a pan beneath the unit for evaporation. Blockages, heater failures, or thermostat malfunctions disrupt this process.

Symptoms:

The customer reports water leaking inside the crisper drawers from the top of their Admiral refrigerator. The leak appears to be originating from the upper section of the fridge, accumulating inside the crisper drawers.

Possible Causes:

Defrost drain blockage.
Defrost heater malfunction.
Defrost thermostat failure.
Icemaker water line leak (if equipped).
Damaged or improperly sealed door gaskets.

Solution:

1

Unplug the refrigerator from the 120V AC outlet.
2

Locate the defrost drain, typically at the back of the freezer compartment, often behind a panel. You may need a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the panel screws.
3

Use a hair dryer or carefully pour hot water down the drain to melt any ice blockage. Avoid using sharp objects that could damage the drain.
4

Check the defrost heater element for continuity using a multimeter. Should read approximately 20-50 ohms. Replace if open circuit.
5

Inspect the defrost thermostat (bi-metal switch) attached to the evaporator coil. It should be closed (continuity) when cold (below 40 degrees Fahrenheit) and open when warm. Replace if faulty.
6

If equipped with an icemaker, inspect the water line connections for leaks. Tighten fittings or replace the water line if necessary.
7

Inspect the door gaskets for damage or improper sealing. Clean or replace as necessary.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect the power supply before performing any repairs. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Refrigerant circuits should only be serviced by EPA-certified technicians. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures must be followed.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the refrigerator's interior and exterior. Periodically check the defrost drain for any signs of blockage and flush it with warm water. Inspect door gaskets for proper sealing and replace them if damaged.

Expert Tip:

Many Admiral refrigerators have a service mode accessible through a specific button sequence (refer to the service manual for details, often involving holding two buttons simultaneously for 5-10 seconds). This allows for manual activation of the defrost cycle and diagnostic testing of components.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How often should the defrost cycle run?

Typically, the defrost cycle runs several times a day, approximately every 6-12 hours, depending on the model and usage. Some models also have adaptive defrost that varies based on door openings.

•What is the typical operating voltage of the defrost heater?

The defrost heater usually operates on 120V AC. Always verify the voltage marked on the heater itself and in the wiring diagram.

•What if I can't find the defrost drain?

Consult the refrigerator's service manual or online resources specific to your Admiral model. The defrost drain's location can vary, but it's generally in the freezer section near the evaporator coils. If it is hidden behind a back panel, you may need a 5/16-inch socket.

Admiral Refrigerator Leaking Water in Crisper Drawers: Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How often should the defrost cycle run?

•What is the typical operating voltage of the defrost heater?

•What if I can't find the defrost drain?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: