Amana Refrigerator Freezing Food: Troubleshooting Guide... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The Main Control Unit (MCU) controls the refrigerator's cooling cycle based on input from thermistors (temperature sensors). The MCU regulates the compressor, fans, and damper door. The damper door controls the amount of cold air flowing from the freezer to the fresh food section. Voltage paths to the damper motor and fan need to be verified. A failure in any of these components can cause overcooling in the fresh food section.

Symptoms:

US homeowners report fresh food items are freezing despite the refrigerator being set at a normal temperature. Vegetables become ice crystals, and liquids freeze solid.

Possible Causes:

Damper door is stuck open, allowing too much cold air into the fresh food section.
Thermistor is malfunctioning, providing incorrect temperature readings to the MCU.
Airflow is obstructed, causing uneven cooling and localized freezing.
The MCU itself is faulty, misinterpreting sensor data or improperly controlling components.
Temperature setting is inadvertently set too low.
Defrost system malfunction causing ice buildup and disrupted airflow.

Solution:

1

Unplug the Amana refrigerator from the outlet or turn off the breaker in the breaker panel. This ensures electrical safety.
2

Locate and inspect the damper door mechanism. Remove the crisper drawers and shelving to gain access. Check for any physical obstructions or damage. Manually operate the damper door. It should move freely.
3

Using a multimeter, test the resistance of the fresh food section thermistor. Disconnect the thermistor and measure its resistance. Compare the reading with the Amana service manual or a temperature resistance chart. A common thermistor value is around 5k to 10k ohms at 77°F. Replace the thermistor if the reading is significantly off.
4

Inspect the vents between the freezer and fresh food compartments for ice buildup or obstructions. Clear any blockages. A hair dryer can be used to melt ice, but be cautious not to damage plastic components.
5

If the damper and thermistor check out, the MCU might be the problem. Before replacing the MCU, check the wiring harness for any loose connections or damaged wires. If the wiring is good, replace the MCU.
6

After replacing any components, plug the refrigerator back in or turn the breaker back on. Monitor the temperature in the fresh food section. Adjust the temperature setting as needed to maintain 37°F.
7

Use a refrigerator thermometer to verify the temperature is correct after 24 hours.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the appliance before performing any repairs. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures should be followed to prevent accidental re-energizing of the circuit. High voltage components are present; exercise caution.

Prevention:

Regularly check the temperature settings and ensure vents are clear of obstructions. Clean up spills promptly to prevent ice buildup. Check door seals for proper sealing.

Expert Tip:

Many Amana refrigerators have a diagnostic mode that can be accessed by pressing a specific sequence of buttons on the control panel. Refer to the service manual to learn about the diagnostic mode and run self-tests to identify faulty components.

Follow-up Questions:

Frequently Asked Questions

•Where is the thermistor located in the fresh food section?

The fresh food section thermistor is typically located near the top, often behind a small plastic cover. Consult the appliance's service manual for the exact location.

•What voltage should I expect at the damper motor?

The damper motor typically operates on 12V DC. Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the motor terminals when the refrigerator is calling for cooling.

•How do I access the diagnostic mode on my Amana refrigerator?

Accessing the diagnostic mode varies by model. Look up the service manual specific to your Amana refrigerator model. Usually, it involves pressing a sequence of buttons on the control panel within a specific timeframe. Example: Press and hold 'Freezer Temp Down' and 'Refrigerator Temp Up' buttons for 5 seconds.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•Where is the thermistor located in the fresh food section?

•What voltage should I expect at the damper motor?

•How do I access the diagnostic mode on my Amana refrigerator?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: