Frigidaire Refrigerator: thermostat malfunction

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Frigidaire refrigerator failing to maintain proper temperatures? A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to inconsistent cooling, resulting in food spoilage or excessive cold. If your appliance isn't responding to the set temperatures, it's crucial to diagnose and address the thermostat issue promptly.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Frigidaire Models

Frigidaire refrigerators often use discrete thermistors and temperature control thermostats; failure of these sensors frequently contributes to thermostat malfunction
Electronic control board failures in some Frigidaire units can mimic thermostat malfunction

Possible Causes

Faulty temperature control thermostat

How to Identify: Inconsistent refrigerator temperatures, failure to cool or freeze compartments, thermostat fails continuity test on multimeter

Part: Temperature control thermostat

DIY Solutions

Test thermostat continuity

Moderate 30-60 minutes

Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers

Unplug refrigerator from power
Locate thermostat control (behind panel or near control knob)
Disconnect thermostat and use multimeter to test continuity
If continuity is absent when expected, thermostat is likely faulty

⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before opening fridge panels

Check airflow and thermostat settings

Easy 10-20 minutes

Ensure thermostat is set to correct temperature
Remove food blocking internal air vents to improve airflow
Allow fridge to stabilize for 24 hours and monitor temperature changes

Professional Repairs

Replace temperature control thermostat

Estimated Cost: $50 - $200 for part, $100 - $300 labor

Replace faulty thermistor/temperature sensor

Estimated Cost: $30 - $120 for part, $100 - $250 labor

Diagnose and replace control board

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400 for part, $150 - $400 labor

When to Call a Professional

Thermostat/digital control unresponsive after continuity testing

Complex electrical component diagnosis required

Thermostat replacement beyond comfort level or tools available

Preventive Maintenance

Clean condenser coils: Improves cooling efficiency and prevents thermostat overwork
Frequency: every 6 months
Ensure proper airflow inside fridge: False thermostat triggers due to blocked vents
Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Frigidaire Refrigerator thermostat malfunction?

A common cause is a faulty temperature control thermostat, which fails to maintain set temperatures.

How do I fix Frigidaire Refrigerator thermostat malfunction myself?

You can test thermostat continuity or check airflow and settings to troubleshoot the issue.

How much does it cost to fix thermostat malfunction?

Professional repair costs range from $50 to $400 depending on the parts and labor required.

When should I call a technician for thermostat malfunction?

If DIY solutions don't work or if you're unsure, it's best to contact a technician for reliable repairs.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

Faulty thermostat sensor leading to inaccurate temperature readings
Worn-out or damaged thermostat contacts causing intermittent operation
Capillary tube blockage affecting the thermostat's ability to sense temperature

User Suggested Solutions

Replace the thermostat: Unplug the refrigerator, remove the thermostat cover, disconnect the old thermostat, carefully handle the capillary tube, and install the new thermostat. Reassemble and plug the refrigerator back in.
Check and clean the capillary tube: Locate the capillary tube, inspect for kinks or blockages, and clean if necessary. Ensure it is properly positioned.
Test thermostat functionality: Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the thermostat. If it shows no continuity, it needs replacement.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

Replacing thermostat on Frigidaire FFTR1814WW

Community Discussions

thermostat replacement needed

Replace the thermostat by removing the old one and installing the new one, ensuring to handle the capillary tube carefully.