If you have a GE freezer that is not freezing properly, one of the possible causes is a faulty fan motor. The fan motor is responsible for circulating cold air inside the freezer and maintaining a consistent temperature. If the fan motor is not working, your freezer will not cool efficiently and your food will spoil. But how do you know if your fan motor is the problem and how do you fix it? In this post, we will show you how to test your GE freezer fan motor and how to troubleshoot some common issues.
The GE freezer fan motor can be tested with a multimeter to see if it is receiving power and if it is spinning. The fan motor is usually located in the back of the freezer near the coils.
To access it, you will need to unplug your freezer and remove any food items and shelves from the freezer. Then you will need to remove the rear panel that covers the fan motor.
How to Test the Fan Motor
- To test the fan motor, follow these steps:
- Set your multimeter to voltage mode and touch the probes to the terminals of the fan motor. You should get a reading of 120 volts AC. If you get no reading or a very low reading, the fan motor is not getting power and you need to check the wiring or the main board for any defects.
- If the fan motor is getting power, set your multimeter to resistance mode and touch the probes to the terminals of the fan motor again. You should get a reading between 10 and 20 ohms. If you get no reading or a very high reading, the fan motor is bad and needs to be replaced.
- If the fan motor is good, check the fan blades for any signs of damage or obstruction. If you find any, clear them or replace the fan blades.
How to Replace the Fan Motor
- If you need to replace the fan motor, you can order a new one online or from a local appliance parts store. Make sure you get the right model for your freezer.
- To install the new fan motor, follow the same steps as above but in reverse order. Disconnect the wires from the old fan motor and connect them to the new one. Secure the new fan motor with screws and snap on the fan blades. Replace the rear panel and plug in your freezer.
Other Possible Causes of a Freezer Not Freezing
If testing and replacing the fan motor does not solve your problem, there may be other issues that are affecting your freezer’s performance. Here are some other possible causes and solutions:
- Dirty condenser coils: The condenser coils are located on the back or bottom of your freezer and they help dissipate heat from the refrigerant. If they are covered in dust or dirt, they can reduce the cooling efficiency of your freezer and cause it to run longer and louder. To clean them, unplug your freezer and use a vacuum cleaner or a coil brush to remove any debris. You should do this at least once every six months to keep your freezer running smoothly.
- Faulty thermostat: The thermostat is a device that regulates the temperature inside your freezer. If it is defective, it can cause your freezer to run too cold or too warm. To check it, use a thermometer to measure the temperature inside your freezer. It should be around 0°F or lower. If it is too high or too low, you need to replace your thermostat.
- Low refrigerant level: The refrigerant is a fluid that circulates through your freezer’s system and absorbs heat from your food. If it is low or leaking, it can cause your freezer to lose cooling power and stop freezing. To check it, look for any signs of oil or frost on your coils or tubing. If you find any, you have a refrigerant leak and you need to call a professional technician to fix it.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if my GE freezer is working properly?
A: You can tell if your GE freezer is working properly by checking its temperature, noise level, and power consumption. Your freezer should maintain a temperature of 0°F or lower, run quietly without any unusual sounds, and use energy efficiently.
Q: How often should I defrost my GE freezer?
A: You should defrost your GE freezer whenever there is more than 1/4 inch of frost on its walls or food. Excess frost can reduce your freezer’s efficiency and performance. To defrost your GE freezer, unplug it and let it sit for several hours until all the frost melts. Then wipe it dry with a cloth and plug it back in.
Q: How can I save energy with my GE freezer?
A: You can save energy with your GE freezer by keeping it clean, organized, and well-stocked. A clean freezer will run more smoothly and efficiently than a dirty one. An organized freezer will help you find what you need faster and reduce the number of times you open and close the door. A well-stocked freezer will retain cold air better than an empty one.
