Admiral Refrigerator Freezing Food: Troubleshooting... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The Main Control Unit (MCU) uses thermistors to monitor temperatures in the freezer and fresh food sections. Based on these readings, it controls the damper door, compressor, and fans to maintain set temperatures. Voltage paths include 120V AC to the MCU, and 5-12V DC signals to the damper motor and thermistors.

Symptoms:

US homeowner observations of fresh food in the Admiral refrigerator freezing, ice crystals forming on vegetables, and milk or other liquids becoming partially frozen.

Possible Causes:

Thermistor failure
Damper door malfunction
Main Control Board (MCU) issue
Airflow obstruction
Incorrect temperature settings

Solution:

1

Check the temperature settings. Ensure the refrigerator is set to the recommended temperature (typically 37-40°F) and the freezer is set to 0°F.
2

Inspect the damper door. Locate the damper, typically in the upper rear of the fresh food section. Manually open and close it to check for smooth operation. If it's stuck, replace it.
3

Examine the thermistor. Use a multimeter to test the thermistor's resistance. A faulty thermistor won't accurately read temperature and must be replaced. Resistance values vary, refer to the service manual.
4

Check for airflow obstructions. Ensure items are not blocking vents in the fresh food section or the return air vents.
5

Test the Main Control Board (MCU). Disconnect power. Locate the MCU and visually inspect for burned components. Reconnect power and carefully test voltage outputs to the damper motor and thermistor circuit. Use a multimeter set to DC voltage. Refer to the wiring diagram for specific test points. If voltages are incorrect, replace the MCU.
6

Calibrate Thermistors: Some models have an adjustment for thermistor readings. Consult the service manual for calibration procedure.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the refrigerator at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Use proper Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) procedures to prevent accidental energization. Be aware of high voltage components within the control panel.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the refrigerator, ensuring vents are not blocked. Check the door seals for proper sealing to prevent warm air from entering. Clean the condenser coils every 6 months to improve efficiency. Replace the water filter every six months.

Expert Tip:

Many Admiral refrigerators have a diagnostic mode. Press and hold the 'Freezer' and 'Power Freeze' buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds to enter diagnostic mode. This will display error codes that can help pinpoint the problem. Refer to the service manual for error code definitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I locate the thermistor in my Admiral refrigerator?

The thermistor is typically located in the fresh food section, near the top, often behind a small cover or within the air duct. It may also be near the evaporator coil. Consult your refrigerator's parts diagram for the exact location.

•What resistance should the thermistor read at room temperature?

The resistance value of the thermistor varies depending on the model. However, at room temperature (approximately 77°F), a typical thermistor might read between 5k to 10k ohms. Refer to the service manual for the specific resistance chart for your model.

•Where can I find a replacement damper door for my Admiral refrigerator?

You can find replacement damper doors at most online appliance parts retailers such as AppliancePartsPros.com, RepairClinic.com, or searspartsdirect.com. You will need the model number of your refrigerator to ensure you order the correct part.

Admiral Refrigerator Freezing Food: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I locate the thermistor in my Admiral refrigerator?

•What resistance should the thermistor read at room temperature?

•Where can I find a replacement damper door for my Admiral refrigerator?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: