Why Does My Fridge Freeze Food? Troubleshooting Guide

Are you finding your groceries turning into ice blocks in the refrigerator? Your search ends here at FOODS.EDU.VN, where we unravel the mystery of why your fridge is freezing food and provide practical solutions to prevent it. This comprehensive guide will walk you through common causes, from simple thermostat adjustments to more complex component malfunctions, ensuring your food stays fresh and your fridge functions optimally. Discover expert tips and actionable advice to maintain the perfect temperature and keep your groceries in prime condition. For more in-depth information on food preservation and appliance maintenance, explore our extensive resources on refrigeration tips and appliance troubleshooting.

1. Understanding Why Your Fridge Freezes Food

A refrigerator freezing food can be a frustrating and wasteful problem. Several factors can cause this issue, ranging from incorrect temperature settings to malfunctioning components. Let’s explore the common reasons why your fridge might be turning into a freezer.

1.1. Incorrect Temperature Settings

One of the most common culprits behind a refrigerator freezing food is an improperly set temperature. It’s easy to accidentally adjust the thermostat while loading groceries or reaching for items.

Solution:

• Check the Thermostat: Ensure the thermostat is set to the ideal temperature, which is typically between 36°F and 38°F (2°C and 3°C).
• Avoid Overcrowding: Overcrowding the refrigerator can block air vents and cause uneven cooling, leading to some areas freezing.

1.2. Faulty Temperature Sensor

If the temperature setting is correct but your food is still freezing, the temperature sensor might be faulty. This sensor is responsible for monitoring the fridge’s internal temperature and signaling the compressor to adjust accordingly.

Solution:

• Manual Temperature Check: Place a glass of water on the top shelf and let it sit for 24 hours. Use a cooking thermometer to measure the water’s temperature. If it deviates more than 2°F (1°C) from the set temperature, the sensor may need replacement.
• Professional Inspection: Contact a qualified appliance repair technician to inspect and replace the temperature sensor if necessary.

1.3. Blocked Air Vents

Air vents play a crucial role in circulating cold air throughout the refrigerator, ensuring consistent temperatures. When these vents are blocked by food items, it can disrupt airflow and cause localized freezing.

Solution:

• Rearrange Food Items: Ensure that food items are not blocking the air vents. Leave some space around the vents to allow for proper air circulation.
• Even Distribution: Distribute food items evenly throughout the refrigerator to promote consistent cooling.

1.4. Leaky Door Seals/Gaskets

The door seals, or gaskets, are designed to create an airtight barrier, preventing warm air from entering the refrigerator. Over time, these seals can deteriorate, leading to leaks and temperature fluctuations.

Solution:

• Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the door seals for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, tears, or warping.
• Cleaning: Clean the door seals regularly with a mild detergent and warm water to remove any debris that may be affecting the seal.
• Replacement: If the door seals are damaged or worn out, replace them to maintain a proper seal and prevent temperature fluctuations.

1.5. Malfunctioning Damper

The damper controls the amount of cold air that flows from the freezer into the refrigerator compartment. If the damper malfunctions and allows too much cold air to enter, it can cause the refrigerator to freeze food.

Solution:

• Locate the Damper: The damper is typically located near the top of a side-by-side refrigerator or in the middle of a top-mount unit.
• Visual Inspection: Check if the damper is stuck open. If it appears to be stuck, the damper may be defective or the control sensor may have failed.
• Professional Repair: Contact a qualified appliance repair technician to diagnose and repair or replace the damper.

1.6. Dirty Condenser Coils

Condenser coils are responsible for dissipating heat from the refrigerant. When these coils become dirty or dusty, the refrigerator has to work harder to maintain the set temperature, which can lead to over-cooling and freezing.

Solution:

• Locate the Coils: The condenser coils are typically located on the back or bottom of the refrigerator.
• Cleaning: Clean the coils regularly using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. This will remove dust and debris, allowing the refrigerator to operate more efficiently.
• Frequency: Clean the condenser coils at least twice a year, or more frequently if you have pets or live in a dusty environment.

1.7. Defective Control Board

The control board is the brain of the refrigerator, responsible for regulating various functions, including temperature control. If the control board malfunctions, it can send incorrect signals to the compressor and fan motors, causing the refrigerator to over-cool.

Solution:

• Professional Diagnosis: Control board issues can be complex and require professional diagnosis.
• Component Testing: A qualified appliance repair technician can test the control board and other components to determine if the control board is the root cause of the problem.
• Replacement: If the control board is found to be defective, it will need to be replaced by a qualified technician.

1.8. Disconnected Ice Maker

If the ice maker is disconnected from the water supply but left on, it can cause the refrigerator compartment to cool to below freezing as it continuously tries to make ice.

Solution:

• Turn Off the Ice Maker: If you are not using the ice maker, turn it off using the on/off switch, metal feeler arm, or touchscreen menu.
• Reconnect Water Supply: If you want to use the ice maker, ensure it is properly connected to the water supply.

2. Detailed Explanation of Each Cause

To fully understand why your fridge is freezing food, let’s dive deeper into each potential cause.

2.1. The Impact of Incorrect Temperature Settings

Incorrect temperature settings are a common and easily overlooked cause of food freezing in the refrigerator. According to a study by the University of California, Davis, maintaining the correct refrigerator temperature is crucial for food safety and preservation. Setting the temperature too low can lead to freezing, while setting it too high can promote bacterial growth. The ideal temperature range is between 36°F and 38°F (2°C and 3°C).

Why This Happens:

• Accidental Adjustment: The thermostat can be accidentally adjusted while loading or unloading groceries.
• Worn Markings: The markings on the temperature control knob may wear off over time, making it difficult to set the correct temperature.

How to Fix It:

1. Locate the Thermostat: The thermostat is usually located inside the refrigerator compartment, either on the top or side wall.
2. Adjust the Temperature: Use the control knob or digital display to set the temperature to the recommended range of 36°F to 38°F (2°C to 3°C).
3. Monitor the Temperature: Use a refrigerator thermometer to monitor the temperature over the next 24 hours to ensure it stays within the ideal range.

2.2. Diagnosing and Resolving Faulty Temperature Sensors

A faulty temperature sensor can lead to inaccurate temperature readings, causing the refrigerator to over-cool and freeze food.

How This Works:

The temperature sensor, typically a thermistor, measures the internal temperature of the refrigerator and sends this information to the control board. The control board then adjusts the compressor and fan speeds to maintain the set temperature. If the sensor is faulty, it may provide inaccurate readings, causing the control board to overcompensate and freeze food.

How to Diagnose:

1. Manual Temperature Check: As described earlier, place a glass of water on the top shelf and let it sit for 24 hours. Use a cooking thermometer to measure the water’s temperature.
2. Compare Readings: Compare the measured temperature with the set temperature. If the difference is more than 2°F (1°C), the sensor may be faulty.
3. Multimeter Test: A qualified technician can use a multimeter to test the resistance of the temperature sensor. An abnormal resistance reading indicates a faulty sensor.

How to Resolve:

1. Locate the Sensor: The temperature sensor is usually located near the top of the refrigerator compartment.
2. Replace the Sensor: Replace the faulty sensor with a new one. Ensure the new sensor is compatible with your refrigerator model.
3. Professional Assistance: If you are not comfortable performing the replacement yourself, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

2.3. Maintaining Airflow by Addressing Blocked Air Vents

Blocked air vents disrupt the circulation of cold air, leading to uneven cooling and localized freezing.

Why This Happens:

• Overcrowding: Overfilling the refrigerator can block the air vents, preventing cold air from reaching all areas.
• Improper Placement: Placing food items directly in front of the air vents can obstruct airflow.

How to Fix It:

1. Identify Air Vents: Locate the air vents in your refrigerator. They are usually located on the back or side walls.
2. Rearrange Food: Rearrange food items to ensure they are not blocking the air vents.
3. Distribute Evenly: Distribute food items evenly throughout the refrigerator to promote consistent cooling.
4. Avoid Overfilling: Avoid overfilling the refrigerator. Remove any unnecessary items to improve airflow.

2.4. Ensuring Airtight Seals with Gasket Maintenance and Replacement

Leaky door seals, or gaskets, allow warm air to enter the refrigerator, causing temperature fluctuations and potential freezing.

Why This Happens:

• Wear and Tear: Over time, the door seals can become worn, cracked, or torn due to normal use.
• Debris Accumulation: Debris, such as food particles and dust, can accumulate on the door seals, preventing them from forming a proper seal.

How to Maintain and Replace:

1. Regular Inspection: Inspect the door seals regularly for signs of wear and tear.
2. Cleaning: Clean the door seals regularly with a mild detergent and warm water.
3. Testing the Seal: Close the refrigerator door on a piece of paper. If you can easily pull the paper out, the seal may be compromised.
4. Replacement: If the door seals are damaged or worn out, replace them. You can purchase replacement seals online or from an appliance parts store.

2.5. Understanding Damper Functionality and Troubleshooting

A malfunctioning damper can allow too much cold air to flow from the freezer into the refrigerator compartment, causing food to freeze.

How This Works:

The damper is a mechanical device that controls the flow of cold air from the freezer to the refrigerator. It opens and closes based on the temperature settings of both compartments. If the damper is stuck open or malfunctioning, it can allow a continuous flow of cold air into the refrigerator, leading to freezing.

How to Troubleshoot:

1. Locate the Damper: The damper is usually located near the top of a side-by-side refrigerator or in the middle of a top-mount unit.
2. Visual Inspection: Check if the damper is stuck open or closed.
3. Manual Test: If possible, manually open and close the damper to see if it moves freely.
4. Professional Diagnosis: If the damper appears to be malfunctioning, contact a qualified appliance repair technician for diagnosis and repair.

2.6. Maximizing Efficiency by Cleaning Condenser Coils

Dirty condenser coils reduce the refrigerator’s ability to dissipate heat, causing it to work harder and potentially over-cool.

Why This Happens:

• Dust and Debris: Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on the condenser coils over time, insulating them and reducing their ability to release heat.

How to Clean:

1. Locate the Coils: The condenser coils are typically located on the back or bottom of the refrigerator.
2. Unplug the Refrigerator: Unplug the refrigerator to prevent electrical shock.
3. Vacuum the Coils: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the coils.
4. Clean with a Brush: For stubborn dirt, use a brush to gently scrub the coils.
5. Plug in the Refrigerator: Plug the refrigerator back in and allow it to run.

2.7. Addressing Complex Issues with the Control Board

A defective control board can cause a variety of issues, including over-cooling and freezing.

How This Works:

The control board is the central processing unit of the refrigerator, responsible for controlling various functions, including temperature regulation, defrost cycles, and fan speeds. If the control board malfunctions, it can send incorrect signals to these components, leading to various problems.

How to Address:

1. Professional Diagnosis: Control board issues are complex and require professional diagnosis.
2. Component Testing: A qualified appliance repair technician can test the control board and other components to determine if the control board is the root cause of the problem.
3. Replacement: If the control board is found to be defective, it will need to be replaced by a qualified technician.

2.8. Managing Ice Maker Settings to Prevent Freezing

A disconnected ice maker that is left on can cause the refrigerator compartment to cool to below freezing.

Why This Happens:

If the ice maker is disconnected from the water supply but left on, it will continuously try to make ice, causing the refrigerator compartment to cool to below freezing.

How to Manage:

1. Turn Off the Ice Maker: If you are not using the ice maker, turn it off using the on/off switch, metal feeler arm, or touchscreen menu.
2. Reconnect Water Supply: If you want to use the ice maker, ensure it is properly connected to the water supply.

3. Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Follow this step-by-step guide to troubleshoot why your fridge is freezing food:

1. Check the Temperature Setting:
   • Ensure the thermostat is set to the ideal temperature, between 36°F and 38°F (2°C and 3°C).
2. Inspect Air Vents:
   • Make sure air vents are not blocked by food items. Rearrange food to allow for proper air circulation.
3. Examine Door Seals:
   • Check door seals for any signs of damage or wear. Clean the seals to ensure a proper airtight seal.
4. Clean Condenser Coils:
   • Clean the condenser coils located on the back or bottom of the fridge.
5. Test Temperature Sensor:
   • Place a glass of water in the fridge and check its temperature after 24 hours to ensure the sensor is working correctly.
6. Check Damper:
   • Inspect the damper to ensure it’s functioning correctly and not stuck open.
7. Evaluate Ice Maker:
   • If the ice maker is not in use, turn it off. If in use, ensure it’s properly connected to the water supply.
8. Monitor Performance:
   • After making adjustments, monitor the fridge’s performance over the next 24-48 hours to see if the issue resolves.
9. Seek Professional Help:
   • If the problem persists, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

4. The Role of Humidity and Food Placement

Humidity levels and food placement significantly impact how well your refrigerator functions and whether food freezes.

4.1. Understanding Humidity

Humidity can affect the temperature inside your refrigerator. High humidity levels can lead to condensation, which can then freeze.

How to Manage Humidity:

• Control Moisture: Store foods in airtight containers to reduce moisture release.
• Check Door Seals: Ensure door seals are airtight to prevent humid air from entering.
• Use Moisture Absorbers: Consider using moisture absorbers to reduce humidity inside the fridge.

4.2. Optimizing Food Placement

Proper food placement can prevent certain items from freezing while keeping the overall temperature consistent.

Best Practices for Food Placement:

• Top Shelf: Store items that don’t require very cold temperatures, such as leftovers and drinks.
• Middle Shelf: Place dairy products and items that need consistent temperatures.
• Bottom Shelf: Store raw meats and seafood in sealed containers to prevent contamination and keep them coldest.
• Door: Use the door for condiments and items that can tolerate temperature fluctuations.
• Crisper Drawers: Store fruits and vegetables in crisper drawers to maintain proper humidity levels.

5. How to Prevent Food from Freezing in the Fridge

Preventing food from freezing in the refrigerator involves a combination of proper maintenance, temperature management, and smart food storage practices.

5.1. Regular Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance can prevent many of the common issues that lead to food freezing.

Maintenance Checklist:

• Clean Condenser Coils: Clean the condenser coils at least twice a year.
• Inspect Door Seals: Regularly inspect and clean the door seals.
• Check Temperature: Monitor the refrigerator temperature regularly using a thermometer.
• Defrost Regularly: If you have a manual defrost refrigerator, defrost it regularly to prevent ice buildup.
• Professional Check-ups: Schedule professional check-ups for your refrigerator to identify and address potential issues early.

5.2. Smart Food Storage Practices

How you store your food can significantly impact its likelihood of freezing.

Storage Tips:

• Airtight Containers: Store food in airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and maintain freshness.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Avoid overcrowding the refrigerator to ensure proper air circulation.
• Proper Placement: Place food in the appropriate areas of the refrigerator to maintain optimal temperatures.
• Don’t Store Hot Foods: Allow hot foods to cool before placing them in the refrigerator to prevent temperature fluctuations.

6. Understanding Refrigerator Types and Their Freezing Tendencies

Different types of refrigerators have varying tendencies to freeze food based on their design and features.

6.1. Top-Freezer Refrigerators

Top-freezer refrigerators are among the most common types. They typically have a simpler design, which can sometimes lead to temperature inconsistencies.

Freezing Tendencies:

• Proximity to Freezer: Items placed close to the top freezer compartment are more likely to freeze due to the direct cold air exposure.
• Airflow Issues: Poor airflow can cause cold spots, leading to localized freezing.

Tips to Prevent Freezing:

• Strategic Placement: Avoid placing easily frozen items like leafy greens or soft fruits near the top of the fridge.
• Regular Defrosting: Manual defrost models require regular defrosting to prevent ice buildup that can affect temperature regulation.

6.2. Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators

Bottom-freezer refrigerators have the freezer compartment at the bottom, which can provide more consistent temperatures in the refrigerator section.

Freezing Tendencies:

• More Consistent Temperatures: Generally, bottom-freezer models offer more consistent temperatures in the refrigerator section compared to top-freezer models.
• Potential Issues: Issues such as a faulty damper can still cause food to freeze.

Tips to Prevent Freezing:

• Monitor Damper Function: Regularly check the damper to ensure it is working correctly and not allowing excessive cold air into the refrigerator section.
• Proper Sealing: Ensure the door seals are intact to maintain a stable temperature.

6.3. Side-by-Side Refrigerators

Side-by-side refrigerators have the refrigerator and freezer compartments next to each other, offering convenient access to both.

Freezing Tendencies:

• Temperature Fluctuations: These models can sometimes experience temperature fluctuations due to the frequent opening and closing of both compartments.
• Air Circulation: Proper air circulation is crucial to prevent freezing in certain areas.

Tips to Prevent Freezing:

• Balanced Loading: Avoid overloading either compartment to ensure adequate airflow.
• Temperature Monitoring: Regularly monitor the temperature in both compartments to ensure they are within the recommended ranges.

6.4. French Door Refrigerators

French door refrigerators feature two refrigerator doors on top and a freezer drawer below, combining the benefits of bottom-freezer models with wider refrigerator space.

Freezing Tendencies:

• Consistent Cooling: Known for their consistent cooling, but issues can arise from blocked vents or malfunctioning components.
• Advanced Features: Often equipped with advanced temperature management features.

Tips to Prevent Freezing:

• Optimal Settings: Ensure the temperature settings are optimized for both the refrigerator and freezer sections.
• Professional Maintenance: Consider periodic professional maintenance to keep advanced components functioning correctly.

7. Understanding the Science Behind Freezing

To fully grasp why your fridge might be freezing food, it’s helpful to understand the science behind freezing and how it affects different types of food.

7.1. The Freezing Point of Water

Water freezes at 32°F (0°C). Since most foods contain water, they are susceptible to freezing if the refrigerator temperature drops too low.

Key Concepts:

• Cell Damage: When water freezes inside food cells, it forms ice crystals that can rupture the cell walls. This can lead to changes in texture, taste, and nutritional value.
• Food Spoilage: Freezing can also slow down or stop the growth of microorganisms, but it doesn’t kill them. Once the food thaws, these microorganisms can become active again, leading to spoilage.

7.2. How Different Foods React to Freezing

Different types of food react differently to freezing, depending on their water content, composition, and structure.

Examples:

• Leafy Greens: High in water content, leafy greens like lettuce and spinach can become limp and soggy after freezing due to cell damage.
• Fruits: Fruits with high water content, such as berries and melons, can also become mushy after freezing.
• Dairy Products: Dairy products like milk and yogurt can separate and become grainy after freezing.
• Meats: Meats can generally tolerate freezing well, but it’s important to wrap them properly to prevent freezer burn, which occurs when the surface of the meat dries out due to sublimation.

7.3. The Impact of Freezing on Food Quality

Freezing can impact the quality of food in several ways:

• Texture Changes: As mentioned earlier, freezing can cause cell damage, leading to changes in texture.
• Taste Alterations: Freezing can alter the taste of some foods due to changes in their chemical composition.
• Nutritional Losses: While freezing can help preserve nutrients, some nutrients can be lost during the freezing and thawing process.

8. Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques

If you’ve tried the basic troubleshooting steps and your fridge is still freezing food, it may be time to explore some advanced techniques.

8.1. Using a Multimeter

A multimeter can be used to test various electrical components in your refrigerator, such as the temperature sensor, thermostat, and control board.

How to Use a Multimeter:

1. Safety First: Always unplug the refrigerator before working on any electrical components.
2. Set the Multimeter: Set the multimeter to the appropriate setting for testing resistance or voltage.
3. Test Components: Use the multimeter to test the components according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Interpret Results: Compare the readings with the expected values. If the readings are outside the normal range, the component may be faulty.

8.2. Checking the Thermostat and Defrost System

The thermostat and defrost system play a crucial role in regulating the temperature of your refrigerator.

Checking the Thermostat:

1. Visual Inspection: Inspect the thermostat for any signs of damage or wear.
2. Continuity Test: Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the thermostat. If there is no continuity, the thermostat may need to be replaced.

Checking the Defrost System:

1. Defrost Timer: Check the defrost timer to ensure it is functioning correctly.
2. Defrost Heater: Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the defrost heater. If there is no continuity, the heater may need to be replaced.
3. Defrost Thermostat: Check the defrost thermostat to ensure it is opening and closing properly.

8.3. Inspecting the Compressor

The compressor is the heart of the refrigeration system, responsible for circulating the refrigerant.

How to Inspect:

1. Listen for Unusual Noises: Listen for any unusual noises coming from the compressor.
2. Check for Overheating: Check if the compressor is overheating.
3. Professional Assessment: If you suspect the compressor is malfunctioning, contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assessment and repair.

9. The Importance of Professional Maintenance

While many refrigerator issues can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting, professional maintenance is crucial for ensuring the long-term performance and efficiency of your appliance.

9.1. Benefits of Professional Maintenance

Professional maintenance offers several benefits:

• Early Detection: Technicians can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems.
• Thorough Inspection: Technicians can perform a thorough inspection of all components, ensuring they are functioning correctly.
• Expert Repairs: Technicians have the expertise and tools to perform complex repairs.
• Extended Lifespan: Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your refrigerator.
• Energy Efficiency: Proper maintenance can improve the energy efficiency of your refrigerator, saving you money on your energy bill.

9.2. When to Call a Professional

Consider calling a professional if:

• You are not comfortable performing DIY repairs.
• You have tried the basic troubleshooting steps and the problem persists.
• You suspect a major component, such as the compressor or control board, is malfunctioning.
• Your refrigerator is old and has not been professionally serviced in a long time.

10. Advanced Features and Technologies in Modern Refrigerators

Modern refrigerators come equipped with advanced features and technologies designed to enhance performance, efficiency, and convenience. Understanding these features can help you optimize your refrigerator’s operation and prevent food from freezing.

10.1. Smart Temperature Controls

Smart temperature controls use sensors and algorithms to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the refrigerator.

Benefits:

• Precise Temperature Management: These systems can maintain temperatures within a narrow range, preventing food from freezing.
• Adaptive Cooling: Some systems can adjust cooling based on usage patterns, such as when the door is frequently opened and closed.

10.2. Advanced Airflow Systems

Advanced airflow systems ensure proper air circulation throughout the refrigerator, preventing cold spots and localized freezing.

Features:

• Multi-Airflow: Multiple vents strategically placed throughout the refrigerator ensure even distribution of cold air.
• Air Purification: Some systems include air purification filters that remove odors and contaminants, improving food preservation.

10.3. Humidity-Controlled Drawers

Humidity-controlled drawers allow you to adjust the humidity levels to suit different types of food, such as fruits and vegetables.

Benefits:

• Optimal Storage: These drawers help maintain the ideal humidity levels for different types of food, preventing them from drying out or becoming too moist.
• Extended Freshness: By maintaining proper humidity levels, these drawers can extend the freshness and shelf life of your food.

Navigating the complexities of refrigerator maintenance and food preservation can be challenging, but FOODS.EDU.VN is here to help. Our comprehensive resources offer detailed guides, expert tips, and practical solutions to ensure your kitchen appliances function optimally and your food stays fresh. Whether you’re troubleshooting a malfunctioning fridge or seeking innovative storage ideas, we have you covered. Visit FOODS.EDU.VN today to explore our extensive collection of articles and enhance your culinary knowledge. For more information, visit us at 1946 Campus Dr, Hyde Park, NY 12538, United States, contact us via Whatsapp at +1 845-452-9600, or explore our website at FOODS.EDU.VN. Let foods.edu.vn be your trusted partner in creating a well-managed and efficient kitchen.

FAQ: Why Does My Fridge Freeze Food?

• Why is my refrigerator freezing food in the vegetable drawer?
  The vegetable drawer may be freezing food due to its proximity to the cooling vents or a temperature setting that’s too cold. Adjust the temperature and ensure vents aren’t blocked.

• How do I stop my fridge from freezing food at the back?
  To prevent food from freezing at the back of your fridge, ensure that items aren’t placed directly against the rear wall where cooling elements are located. Also, check the temperature setting.

• Can a dirty condenser coil cause my fridge to freeze food?
  Yes, dirty condenser coils can cause your fridge to work harder, leading to overcooling and food freezing. Clean the coils regularly to maintain efficiency.

• What should the temperature be set at to prevent freezing?
  The ideal refrigerator temperature to prevent freezing is between 36°F and 38°F (2°C and 3°C).

• Why is my new refrigerator freezing food?
  A new refrigerator freezing food could be due to incorrect initial settings or a faulty temperature sensor. Consult the user manual for setup instructions or contact a technician.

• Is it normal for some foods to freeze in the fridge?
  It’s not normal for foods to routinely freeze in the fridge. This indicates a problem with temperature regulation or air circulation.

• How do I test the temperature sensor in my fridge?
  To test the temperature sensor, place a glass of water in the fridge and check its temperature after 24 hours. Compare this with the set temperature. If there’s a significant difference, the sensor may be faulty.

• What does a malfunctioning damper do to cause freezing?
  A malfunctioning damper can cause too much cold air to flow from the freezer into the refrigerator, leading to freezing.

• Why is my mini fridge freezing food?
  Mini fridges may freeze food due to their small size and less sophisticated temperature controls. Ensure the thermostat isn’t set too low.

• How often should I defrost my fridge to prevent freezing?
  If you have a manual defrost refrigerator, defrost it whenever you notice ice buildup exceeding 1/4 inch. Frost-free models should not require manual defrosting.