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Your refrigerator is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. It runs 24/7, keeping your food fresh and safe to consume. But like any machine, it’s prone to wear and tear. Over time, certain components can malfunction or fail entirely, causing your fridge to underperform or stop working altogether. When that happens, you may need to call a professional technician, and in some cases, you’ll need to replace specific parts.

In this article, we’ll walk you through six essential fridge components that may need replacement when you call for fridge repairs. Understanding these parts can help you better identify problems early and potentially avoid more costly issues down the line.

1.   Compressor 

Think of the compressor as the heart of your fridge. It circulates refrigerant throughout the appliance, helping to maintain a consistent internal temperature. When your compressor starts failing, you may notice strange noises, warm temperatures, or the fridge not running at all. A malfunctioning compressor often causes total cooling failure, making it one of the most urgent repairs to address quickly.

Compressor issues are common in older refrigerators or units that haven’t been serviced regularly. Unfortunately, a failed compressor usually requires complete replacement and professional installation. 

2.   Evaporator Fan Motor 

The evaporator fan motor helps circulate cold air throughout your fridge and freezer compartments. When this part malfunctions, you might find that one section of your fridge is colder than the other, or worse, the entire unit stops cooling effectively.

Signs of a faulty evaporator fan motor include:

• Unusual noises coming from the back of the fridge
• Frost buildup on food items
• An unusually warm fridge compartment

If left unresolved, this problem can lead to uneven food storage conditions and potential food spoilage.

Replacing this component is typically straightforward for a technician, and catching the issue early can prevent compressor overload or other damage.

3.   Thermostat 

The thermostat controls the temperature inside your fridge by regulating when the compressor turns on and off. If it stops working, your fridge may either become too warm or freeze everything inside.

Common symptoms of thermostat issues include:

• Temperature fluctuations
• The fridge is not cooling at all
• The compressor is running constantly

Replacing a broken thermostat is usually a quick and affordable fix. It’s a small part but plays a critical role in the efficiency of your refrigerator.

If you’re repairing a high-end model, it’s essential to use manufacturer-approved components. For example, when servicing Bosch refrigerators, many technicians recommend using Bosch spare parts to ensure proper function, durability, and compatibility. Genuine parts not only extend your appliance’s lifespan but also reduce the risk of further mechanical failures.

Off-brand parts may save you a little money upfront, but can lead to long-term performance issues and even void warranties. 

4.   Condenser Coils

The condenser coils are located at the back or bottom of the fridge and are responsible for releasing heat that’s been removed from inside the unit. If these coils get too dirty or damaged, your fridge has to work harder to stay cool, which can lead to overheating or compressor failure.

You may notice:

• The fridge is running louder than usual
• Higher electricity  bills
• The exterior of the fridge feels hot

Regular coil cleaning is a simple maintenance task that can improve efficiency and lower energy consumption. While cleaning the coils regularly can prevent many issues, there are instances where damaged coils need to be replaced. A technician can inspect and advise whether a replacement is necessary. 

5.   Door Seals (Gaskets) 

This one might seem minor, but door seals are vital for maintaining energy efficiency. A worn-out or broken door gasket allows cold air to escape, forcing your fridge to work overtime. This not only raises your energy consumption but also shortens the lifespan of internal components.

Check for:

• Gaps or cracks in the rubber lining
• Mold or mildew buildup
• Doors are not sealing properly

Even a small tear in the gasket can compromise the appliance’s ability to retain cool air, leading to temperature instability. Replacing the door gasket is relatively easy and inexpensive, but it’s important to use the correct part, especially with high-end models. Always opt for parts that match your refrigerator model precisely.

6.   Defrost Heater 

The defrost heater is essential in frost-free refrigerators. It melts any accumulated ice on the evaporator coils, allowing the fridge to function efficiently. If this part fails, ice will build up and block airflow, making the fridge too warm and the freezer too icy.

Indicators of defrost heater failure:

• Frost buildup in the freezer
• Water leaks in the fridge
• Warm air in the fridge despite a cold freezer

Ignoring this issue can cause long-term damage to the evaporator and dramatically reduce your fridge’s cooling efficiency. This component typically needs to be replaced by a technician, especially since it often requires disassembling internal parts to access the heater. 

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Final Thoughts

Fridge issues can escalate quickly if not addressed promptly. Knowing what parts commonly need replacement can help you spot problems early and make informed decisions when you call in a repair technician.