[Michael Douglas]

Refrigerator/Freezer is failing to cool on occasion. The jolt from opening and closing the door appears to start it up and it will operate OK for several hours.....until it doesn't.

I figure if a jolt starts the compressor....it must be some sort of relay or switch that is causing the problem.

Overload Relay?

Thermostat?

Thanks for the help.

[Simon / APP Team]

Hi.

You are on the right track. Check two controls: freezer cold control Part number: 5303300027

And defrost timer Part number: 215846602

They are #21 and #23 on the diagram Controls parts for Frigidaire FRS20QRCD0 - AppliancePartsPros.com

To check which one is it use the flat screwdriver to slowly turn CW the defrost timer's shaft when the fridge is dead. If it'll kick on - replace the timer, if not use the same screwdriver's butt to knock slightly at the freezer control knob.

Post the results.

Simon.

[Michael Douglas]

I've exposed the defrost timer and am ready to try that option when the refer stops cycling.

When I got home this afternoon the frig was not operating until I opened the freezer door......it has continued running since then. While it was still running I did try tapping the temp control knob in the freezer and the compressor seemed to stutter.......this makes me think it is probably the temperature control assembly that is malfunctioning.

I'll still try the defrost timer when it stops working next time.....or maybe I should just order the freezer cold control. Looks easy enough to replace.

Thanks,
Michael

[Simon / APP Team]

When checking the defrost timer remember that it takes up to 30min for the defrost cycle.Don't rush.

Simon.

[Michael Douglas]

How far should I turn the defrost timer? Clockwise or counter?

So far, after tapping on the freezer cold control knob, everything is working perfectly. I still haven't turned the defrost timer shaft.

[Simon / APP Team]

Hi.

Less then 1/2 turn CW.

Simon.

[Michael Douglas]

Thanks for all your help.
I replaced the freezer cold control and it appears to be working.
It ended up being slightly harder than it could have been, because the ground connection was in a slightly different place and it interfered with sliding the cold control into place.

Now, I just have to go through the freezer and sort out what was damaged by the multiple thawings.

[Simon / APP Team]

You are welcome.

Simon.