Whether it is an upright freezer or a chest (deep) freezer, the idea is the same: the gas pulls heat out of the cabinet and releases it at the back. If air isn’t moving, ice has covered the evaporator, or the compressor isn’t working well, food starts to thaw. In a hot Kuwaiti summer the problem shows faster.
The usual causes
The door doesn’t close tight
A torn or stiff door seal lets in warm, humid air, causing heavy ice and weak cooling. Close the door on a sheet of paper: if it slides out easily, the seal needs replacing.
Ice built up on the evaporator
In no-frost freezers, if the defrost system fails, ice covers the evaporator and blocks the cold air. You see thick ice behind the back panel and the freezer slowly weakens.
Thermostat or sensor
If the setting is right and the freezer runs non-stop or stops too early, the thermostat or sensor may be faulty.
Dirty condenser or poor airflow
The coils behind or under the freezer release the heat. Dust on them, or a freezer pushed against the wall, traps the heat and strains the compressor.
Low gas or a compressor fault
If the compressor runs but the freezer never gets cold, or the compressor doesn’t run at all, it is a technician’s job: a leak check, a gas recharge or a compressor test.
What you can safely check
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1
Check the settingMake sure the temperature dial hasn’t been moved by accident.
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2
Test the door sealWith the paper test, on every side.
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3
Leave space behind itAt least 10 cm from the wall.
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4
Clean the coilsUnplug it first, then brush the dust off gently.
When to call a freezer technician
- Ice comes back quickly after defrosting
- The compressor runs non-stop and the freezer doesn’t freeze
- The compressor doesn’t run at all
- Water under the freezer or an unusual loud noise
Questions people ask
What temperature should a freezer be?
Usually around minus 18°C. If it stays warmer than that, food doesn’t keep well.
Do you repair chest freezers at home?
Yes. We repair upright and chest freezers where they stand, and the technician comes the same day.
Can I defrost it myself?
Yes: unplug it and leave the door open with towels underneath. Don’t use sharp tools. If the ice comes back quickly, there is a fault for a technician.
