Amana Freezer: not working

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Amana freezer powered but not functioning? If it's not cooling, running, or producing any cold air, several issues could be at play. Common causes include power supply interruptions, evaporator fan motor failures, and more. Understanding these issues can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Amana Models

  • Official Amana guidance emphasizes checking power, proper location, door seals, and basic operation steps first. (

Possible Causes

Power supply interruption or inadequate power

How to Identify: Freezer shows no signs of operation (lights off, no compressor hum. Test outlet with another device and check circuit breaker.

Part: Power cord / outlet / breaker

Evaporator fan motor failure

How to Identify: No airflow or sound from freezer interior fans when door closed and system should be running; fan blades won’t spin freely.

Part: Evaporator fan motor

Condenser fan motor failure

How to Identify: No fan noise at back of unit, freezer not cooling, possible overheating sounds from compressor.

Part: Condenser fan motor

Start relay or start device failure

How to Identify: Compressor fails to start, clicking noises from compressor area, freezer not cooling.

Part: Compressor start relay/start device

Faulty thermostat or thermistor

How to Identify: Freezer doesn’t call for cooling (no compressor or fan operation despite temperature set, inconsistent temperature regulation.

Part: Temperature control thermostat / thermistor

Control board malfunction

How to Identify: No compressor/fan response despite functioning power and other components; diagnostics may require multimeter.

Part: Electronic control board

Compressor failure

How to Identify: No cooling and compressor silent or hard start attempts; sounds abnormal; requires professional testing.

Part: Compressor

DIY Solutions

Verify power supply and outlet

Easy 5-10 minutes
Tools Needed: voltage tester
  1. Unplug freezer and check power cord for damage.
  2. Plug freezer into a known working outlet or test outlet with another device.
  3. Check circuit breaker or fuse for tripped state and reset if needed.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected before inspecting cord.

Clean condenser coils

Moderate 20-30 minutes
Tools Needed: coil cleaning brush, vacuum
  1. Unplug freezer and move it away from wall.
  2. Brush and vacuum dust off condenser coils.
  3. Push freezer back and restore power.
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before cleaning.

Professional Repairs

Replace evaporator or condenser fan motor

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

Replace start relay or start device

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200

Control board / compressor service

Estimated Cost: $250 - $800+

When to Call a Professional

Freezer shows abnormal noises, burning smell, or compressor not running after basic checks
Fan motors or start relay replacements are beyond DIY skills
Control board or sealed system issues suspected

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean condenser coils: Improves airflow and cooling efficiency
    Frequency: annually
  • Inspect door seal: Cold air loss due to damaged gasket
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Freezer not working?
Common causes include power supply issues, evaporator fan motor failure, and faulty thermostats.
How do I fix Amana Freezer not working myself?
Check the power supply, clean condenser coils, and ensure the outlet is functioning.
How much does it cost to fix not working?
Professional repairs can range from $80 to $800+, depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not working?
Call a technician if DIY fixes don't work or for complex repairs like compressor issues.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty start relay causing electrical shorts
  • Damaged capacitor leading to electrical malfunctions
  • Wiring issues or loose connections within the freezer

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Unplug the freezer, inspect the start relay for burn marks or damage, and replace if necessary. Ensure all connections are secure.

  2. Check the capacitor for signs of swelling or leakage. If damaged, replace the capacitor with a compatible part.

  3. Inspect all wiring for frays or loose connections. Tighten or replace any damaged wires to restore proper electrical flow.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Our 20 year old Amana upright freezer sparked/popped when to...

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