When a refrigerator stops keeping your food cold, it can lead to spoiled food and wasted money. One possible cause of this issue is a faulty thermostat. The good news is that this part can often be replaced at home with just a few basic tools and a bit of patience.
Below is a clear explanation of how to identify thermostat problems and how to replace the part if needed.
Signs of a Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat inside your refrigerator controls the internal temperature. When it fails, the appliance may become too warm or too cold. This can happen when internal parts such as electrical contacts or the capillary tube inside the thermostat become damaged. These parts cannot be repaired individually, so replacing the entire thermostat is usually the only option.
Here are some signs that may point to a faulty thermostat:
- The refrigerator does not get cold enough
- The refrigerator is too cold and may freeze food in the fresh food compartment
- The compressor seems to run all the time
- The compressor does not run at all
- Temperature inside the fridge is not consistent or does not respond to changes made at the control panel
If you notice any of these symptoms and have ruled out other causes, like a dirty condenser coil or a faulty door seal, the thermostat may be the reason.
Where the Thermostat Is Located
Thermostat placement can vary by brand and model, but it is usually found in one of the following locations:
- Inside the refrigerator compartment, often near the top or side wall
- Behind the temperature control dial or knob
- Attached to the evaporator coil or housing
- Near or integrated into the control housing with light and fan switches
You may need to remove a plastic cover to access the thermostat. Use your model number to look up diagrams if you’re unsure where to start.
What You Will Need
Before beginning the replacement, gather the tools and supplies listed below. Having everything ready will make the process easier and safer:
- A replacement thermostat compatible with your refrigerator model
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- ¼ inch nut driver
- Work gloves for protection
Once you have these tools, you can begin the replacement.
How to Replace a Refrigerator Thermostat
Here are the steps to help you safely remove the old thermostat and install a new one in your refrigerator.
Access the Thermostat and Damper Assembly
- Open the refrigerator door and locate the damper assembly and thermostat at the back of the fridge compartment.
- Remove the visible Phillips head screw on the first plastic cover.
- Take off the first cover to expose a second screw.
- Remove the second screw and take off the second cover.
Remove the Temperature Control Panel
- Use a ¼-inch nut driver to remove the four screws holding the control panel to the ceiling of the fridge.
- Pry off the temperature control knobs using a flathead screwdriver.
- Use the flathead screwdriver to carefully remove the front trim by wedging it between the trim and the fridge frame.
- Remove the two mounting screws at the front of the control panel using the nut driver.
- Gently lower the control panel, being careful not to pull on the wires.
Disconnect the Old Thermostat
- Take a photo of the wiring connections for reference.
- Remove the screws securing the thermostat bracket from the underside of the control panel.
- Disconnect the two wire sets from the terminals.
- Pull off the ground wire from the opposite side.
- Lift the bracket and remove the two screws holding the thermostat in place.
Remove the Capillary Tube
- Trace the capillary tube from the thermostat to the damper assembly.
- Release the tube from the clips along the path.
- Pop the tube out of the final set of clips to fully remove it from the fridge.
Prepare the New Thermostat
- Straighten the old capillary wire and remove its plastic sleeve.
- Carefully unwind the new capillary wire without bending or kinking it.
- Slide the plastic sleeve over the new capillary wire until it reaches the tip.
- Trim the sleeve if it extends too far beyond the end of the wire.
Install the New Thermostat
- Place the new thermostat into the bracket.
- Reinstall the screws to attach the thermostat to the bracket.
- Mount the bracket back onto the control panel, aligning the cam switch with the lever notch.
Reconnect the Wiring
- Reconnect the ground wire first.
- Reconnect the two sets of wires to the appropriate terminals.
Reinstall the Capillary Tube
- Push the control panel back up into place to allow space to route the capillary tube.
- Thread the capillary tube through the original path and the clips.
- Wrap the tube around the damper assembly and snap it securely into position.
Reassemble the Refrigerator
- Secure the control panel to the ceiling with the four screws.
- Reinstall the covers for the damper assembly and capillary tube using the screws.
- Snap the trim back into place along the front of the control panel.
- Press the temperature control knobs into place, aligning them properly with the shaft.
Final Checks
- Turn both knobs to check that they move smoothly in both directions.
- Set the temperature controls to appropriate cooling levels.
- Plug the refrigerator back in and make sure it powers on.
- Monitor the temperature for the next few hours to confirm that cooling returns to normal.
Also Read: Refrigerator Temperature Control Thermostat Replacement Guide
How to Prevent Future Thermostat Problems
While thermostat failure cannot always be avoided, there are simple practices that may help prolong its lifespan and reduce the risk of another breakdown:
- Keep the refrigerator clean, especially the air vents and internal components
- Avoid frequently changing the temperature setting, which can stress the thermostat
- Place food items in the correct zones so air circulates properly
- Check and maintain door seals to prevent warm air from entering
- Unplug the refrigerator during long absences or electrical work to avoid power damage
Next Steps
A working thermostat is one of the most important parts of your refrigerator. When it stops doing its job, cooling problems usually follow. The good thing is that replacing a thermostat is something you can handle on your own if you follow the right steps and take your time.
Watching for early signs and knowing where the thermostat is can make the fix easier and quicker. Once you get through the replacement and see your fridge cooling properly again, you’ll know it was worth the effort. Keep up with regular cleaning and careful use, and your new thermostat should keep things running smoothly for years to come.