Amana Refrigerator: Freezer Cold, Fridge Warm -... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The Main Control Unit (MCU) regulates cooling in both compartments. The damper controls the amount of cold air flowing from the freezer to the refrigerator. The evaporator fan circulates air across the evaporator coils to cool the air. Defrost cycles are necessary to prevent ice buildup on the evaporator. Thermistors provide temperature feedback to the MCU, influencing cooling cycles. Voltage paths include 120V AC to the compressor, fans, and defrost heater, stepped down or rectified as needed for the control board and sensors.

Symptoms:

The homeowner observes that the freezer section of their Amana refrigerator is cooling properly, maintaining a temperature near 0 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the refrigerator section is too warm, typically above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, causing food spoilage concerns.

Possible Causes:

Faulty damper control assembly.
Defrost system malfunction.
Evaporator fan motor failure.
Airflow obstruction inside the refrigerator.
Thermistor failure.
Sealed system issue (less likely but possible).

Solution:

1

Unplug the refrigerator from the outlet or turn off the breaker.
2

Locate and inspect the damper control assembly. Check for physical damage or if it is stuck closed. Use a multimeter to test the damper motor for continuity (should read a few ohms, specific to model).
3

Examine the evaporator fan motor (usually in the freezer section). Ensure it's not blocked by ice or debris. Test the fan motor windings with a multimeter for continuity.
4

Check the defrost system. Inspect the defrost heater for continuity with a multimeter (typically 20-40 ohms). Test the defrost thermostat for continuity when cold (should be closed). If either is faulty, replace them.
5

Check thermistors using a multimeter. Refer to the service manual for the correct resistance values at different temperatures.
6

Clear any obstructions blocking airflow, such as over-packed shelves or items blocking vents.
7

Plug the refrigerator back in or turn the breaker on. Monitor the temperatures in both compartments.

Safety Warning:

Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) the refrigerator before performing any repairs. High voltage (120V AC) is present in the appliance. Use extreme caution when testing electrical components.

Prevention:

Regularly clean condenser coils (every 6 months). Avoid overpacking the refrigerator. Ensure proper door seals. Check door alignment. Replace the water filter per the manufacturer's recommendation.

Expert Tip:

Many Amana refrigerators have a service mode. Access it by pressing and holding specific button combinations (refer to the service manual for your model). This allows you to manually activate components like the defrost heater or fan motors for testing purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

•Where is the damper control assembly located in my Amana refrigerator?

The damper control assembly is typically located in the upper back section of the refrigerator compartment, where the air duct from the freezer enters.

•How do I test the thermistor in my Amana refrigerator using a multimeter?

Unplug the refrigerator. Locate the thermistor (usually near the evaporator or in the refrigerator compartment). Disconnect the thermistor. Set your multimeter to measure resistance (ohms). Place the probes on the thermistor's terminals. Compare the resistance reading to the chart in the service manual for the current temperature. Significant deviation indicates a faulty thermistor.

•How do I manually defrost my Amana refrigerator if the defrost system is suspected to be failing?

Unplug the refrigerator. Remove all food items. Leave the doors open for 24-48 hours to allow the ice to melt. Place towels inside to absorb water. Alternatively, use a hair dryer on a low setting (with extreme caution) to melt the ice, keeping it moving and far away from electrical components. Never use sharp objects to chip away ice, as this can damage the evaporator coils.

Amana Refrigerator: Freezer Cold, Fridge Warm - Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•Where is the damper control assembly located in my Amana refrigerator?

•How do I test the thermistor in my Amana refrigerator using a multimeter?

•How do I manually defrost my Amana refrigerator if the defrost system is suspected to be failing?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: