The fridge has been cooling ok (both freezer and fridge side). Today, I noticed that the fan that cools the compressor was running continuously and also switching off and then back on right away - not normal.
I pulled off the back cover and vacuumed out all the dust and pet hair. It was pretty dusty/hairy.
I plugged in the fridge in again and the compressor started right away, then there was a repeated click and beep sound. I looked into the freezer and heard a repeated vibration sound. I took off the freezer inner covers and saw that the freezer fan was trying to start but would not complete 1 full revolution. I gave it a spin and then it started.
When the compressor cooling fan clicked off (as it has been doing in the on/off cycle it’s going through) the freezer fan also turned off. When the compressor cooling fan clicked on, the freezer fan tried to start up again. I helped the freezer fan start again and it started. It shut off again when the compressor cooling fan shut off again. Eventually the freezer fan was able to start on it’s own and keep running, during the off cycles when the fans shut off and turn on again. And, ever though the freezer fan stays running, both the freezer and compressor fans shut off every few seconds, and restart again. All the while, the compressor keeps running solid.
The freezer coils get cold, but they are not plugged with frost or ice.
The compressor is hot, but not too hot to touch it.
What is wrong? Some temperature sensor needs replacing?
Freezer fan needs replacing?
I can’t think of reasons why the computer would stop the fans.
I could start buying parts and replace them, but it would be better to act on a more educated guess.
Advice appreciated!