Electrolux Refrigerator: fans not turning on

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Electrolux refrigerator fans aren't spinning, it may lead to inadequate cooling and warm food compartments. Common causes include faulty fan motors, obstructions, or electrical issues. Act quickly to prevent food spoilage.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Electrolux Models

  • Electrolux manuals and repair resources specifically list condenser and evaporator fan motors as common components to check when cooling or fan operation fails.

Possible Causes

Faulty condenser fan motor

How to Identify: Fan does not spin when compressor runs, manually attempt to spin blade — if stuck or no continuity on multimeter test, motor likely failed.

Part: Condenser fan motor

Faulty evaporator fan motor

How to Identify: Freezer stays cold but fridge section is warm; evaporator fan does not spin when compressor runs even with power present.

Part: Evaporator fan motor

Obstructions/ice buildup blocking fan

How to Identify: Ice or food blocking around the fan area, fan unable to spin freely when nudged manually.

Part: Fan blades/airflow path

Electrical issue (wiring or control board)

How to Identify: No voltage reaching fan motor, damaged or disconnected wiring, intermittent operation.

Part: Wiring or main control board

Faulty temperature control thermostat

How to Identify: Thermostat does not click or send power to fan circuits when temperature demand exists.

Part: Temperature control thermostat

DIY Solutions

Inspect and Remove Obstructions

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: flashlight, gloves
  1. Unplug refrigerator.
  2. Open freezer/refrigerator compartments to locate fan(s).
  3. Move food items away from fan vents and check for ice buildup or debris.
  4. If ice obstructs the fan, perform a controlled defrost by leaving doors open (ensure safe placement of food).
  5. Plug in refrigerator and check if fans now run.
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug before accessing interior components.

Clean Condenser Coils and Fan Area

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum with brush attachment, condenser coil brush
  1. Unplug refrigerator.
  2. Pull unit away from wall.
  3. Remove access panel to condenser coil area.
  4. Use vacuum/brush to clean dust off coils and condenser fan blades.
  5. Reassemble and restore power.
  6. Observe if fan starts during compressor operation.
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before working near electrical components.

Professional Repairs

Replace Condenser or Evaporator Fan Motor

Estimated Cost: $80 - $250 per motor

Diagnose and Repair Electrical Wiring or Control Board

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400+

When to Call a Professional

Fan does not spin after obstruction removal and cleaning
Wiring appears damaged or electrical testing is required
Fan motors fail continuity tests
Control board suspected faulty

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean condenser coils: Dust buildup that can cause fan or compressor strain
    Frequency: every 6-12 months
  • Check interior airflow paths: Food or ice blocking fan vents
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Electrolux Refrigerator fans not turning on?
Common causes include a faulty condenser or evaporator fan motor, obstructions, or electrical issues.
How do I fix Electrolux Refrigerator fans not turning on myself?
Unplug the fridge, check for obstructions or ice buildup around the fans, and clean the condenser coils.
How much does it cost to fix fans not turning on?
Professional repairs range from $80 to $250 per motor, with electrical issues costing $150 to $400+.
When should I call a technician for fans not turning on?
If DIY solutions don't work or if you suspect electrical issues, it's best to call a technician.

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: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty fan motor
  • Defective temperature control board
  • Blocked air vents or ducts

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Test the fan motor by checking for voltage at the motor connector. If no voltage is present, inspect the temperature control board for faults. Replace the fan motor if it does not spin when powered directly.

  2. Inspect and clean any blocked air vents or ducts to ensure proper airflow. Use a vacuum to remove debris and ensure that nothing is obstructing the fans.

  3. Replace the temperature control board if it is found to be defective. This may require accessing the control panel and disconnecting the old board before installing the new one.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Electrolux Icon Refrigerator Drawers - Evaporator fans won't...

Community Discussions

Evaporator fans won't turn on

Test voltage at J2 going out to the fans and check motor ohms.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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