Freezer quit cooling about 2 weeks ago. Emptied and unplugged it at that time. Plugged back in and started working on it today. Sounds like a fan running continuously, interior light comes on. Checked the defrost timer…I think the compressor clicked on, but it makes a very quiet humming noise and became very hot to the touch within an hour. I made marks with a sharpie on the defrost timer dial and verified that it is moving on its own and not stuck in one position. The fan is still running, but there is no coolness to the interior air. It is pulled far away from the wall, so it has plenty of free space around it and the coils are not accessible. Any suggestions? Thanks.
Here are your parts
Parts for GE FUF20DMERWH Freezer - AppliancePartsPros.com
If the fan is running then it is not a defrost timer problem as the timer shuts the fan and the compressor off during defrost.
Since the compressor is running and you are not getting any cooling I would say that you have a sealed system problem. This will be an expensive repair as you need a pro. Often it makes more sense to put the dollars towards a new unit.
It is important that you know whether it is no cooling or some cooling. Some cooling may not be a sealed system problem.
Since you describe the compressor as just humming I am not sure that it is actually running. You should be able to feel it vibrating when it is running.
Perhaps check it and it’s start device see below.
How To Fix a Refrigerator - Appliance Repair Guide - ACME HOW TO.com
The compressor test will tell you if the compressor is bad. It does not tell you that the compressor is good as it may have internal mechanical problems.
There is no good test for the PTC starter.
Thanks for your help. The freezer has been plugged in for 48 hours (and set on 7) and the internal temp is 84 degrees. I am unable to tell if the compressor is vibrating (by touch) because I can not keep my hand on it for longer than a second due to it being so hot. It does not appear to be vibrating though.
I have not tested the compressor’s continuity because I do not have a multimeter. If you still feel this a sealed system problem, then I will proceed with looking for a new freezer.
Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
I cannot say that it is the compressor.
You have to test it.
Try holding a screwdriver etc. on it so you do not burn yourself.
The compressor is vibrating…I unplugged the freezer and allowed the compressor to cool, then plugged it back in…could definitely feel it then.
Yes, I would look for a new freezer.
Thank you so much for your guidance!
You are welcome.
I just wish it had a better result.