Where is the freezer thermostat located?

Author: Jade Terry  |  Last update: Sunday, May 10, 2026

In freezer-on-top models, it may be located under the floor of the unit, or it could be found at the back of the freezer. If you have a side-by-side refrigerator, the defrost thermostat is found at the back of the freezer side.

How do you reset a freezer thermostat?

Unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet, wait for a few minutes, and then plug it back in. This can help reset the system and potentially resolve any temporary issues. Check for obstructions: Ensure that there are no items blocking the vents in the freezer compartment.

Where is my freezer temperature control?

On newer Chest Freezer models, the temperature control is usually located on the exterior front in the lower, right-hand corner as you face the front of the Freezer. On older Upright Freezer models, the temperature control is usually located in the middle of the rear wall of the interior cabinet liner.

How do I know if my freezer thermostat is broken?

If a thermostat is faulty it will show one of the following symptoms:
  1. The thermostat does not switch on, the light inside (if fitted and the bulb has not failed) will light up but the motor will not try to start.
  2. The fridge will not switch off, the motor runs continuously and everything is freezing solid inside.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a freezer?

When the cost of repairs exceeds the value of the freezer, replacing it becomes the more cost-effective option. Consider the appliance's age, current condition, and estimated repair cost in comparison to the price of a new freezer. If repairs are too costly, investing in a new freezer makes more sense.

How to Replace a Thermostat on a Fridge Freezer

Should I replace my thermostat myself?

While replacing a thermostat is a manageable DIY project for many, there are situations where professional help is invaluable.

Why is the refrigerator working but the freezer not freezing?

WHY IS MY REFRIGERATOR WORKING, BUT MY FREEZER IS NOT FREEZING? Dirty condenser coils can reduce your freezer's cooling capacity and may be the reason why your refrigerator is working but your freezer is struggling. You can vacuum the coils with a crevice attachment to help remove dust and clean condenser coils.

Can a freezer thermostat be replaced?

If the food inside your freezer spoils too early, you might have to replace the thermostat. A freezer thermostat maintains desired temperature, by switching the cooling device on and off. Keep your freezer at the correct temperature with this replacement.

How do I reset a freezer compressor?

4 steps to reset a refrigerator compressor
  1. Unplug your refrigerator. ...
  2. Turn off the refrigerator and freezer from the control panel. ...
  3. Reset your freezer and fridge temperature settings. ...
  4. Wait for the refrigerator temperature to stabilize.

Where is the thermometer in a freezer?

Most freezer thermometers should be installed in the center of the freezer without touching anything other than the freezer wall or rack. You should move around frozen food or ice so there's an open space for the thermometer.

Do fridge and freezer have separate thermostats?

Yes, they do have independent temperature controls. You can adjust the freezer to be colder than the refrigerator side without affecting it.

What is the normal temperature for a freezer?

The temperature of a freezer should be set at 0 degrees Fahrenheit so everything stays very cold. A freezer should be cold enough to keep food frozen and preserve it until they are ready to be cooked or reheated.

How many thermostats does a freezer have?

There are two thermostats, one for the refrigerator, one for the freezer. Both are pressure bulbs (older units) and/or temperature sensors (newer units). Here's how it works.

How do you diagnose a freezer that is not cooling?

If the compressor or the compressor start relay stops working, the freezer won't freeze. If you listen to the freezer for about 30 minutes but don't hear the familiar hum when it operations, it's possible the compressor is the problem. A certified refrigeration technician is required if the compressor fails.

How do I reboot my thermostat?

Turn your thermostat “off”, then flip the related circuit breaker “off”. Wait 30 seconds, then turn the breaker back “on,” then the thermostat. Set the thermostat to hot or cold, whichever you prefer, and your desired temperature. This should effectively reset it.

How do I know if my freezer thermostat is bad?

Frost build-up. Normally, the switch in the thermostat will turn off if the fridge has reached too low a temperature. This helps to prevent frost build-up. If frost is accumulating in the freezer, it means that the unit is getting too cold for too long, which points towards a thermostat malfunction.

Where is a freezer thermostat?

The phial is normally attached to the back wall of the fridge or fridge section in a fridge freezer directly onto or where the evaporator (the bit that cools) is mounted on the wall or behind it.

How do I fix my freezer temperature control?

  1. Step 1: Check temperature settings. If your freezer is too cold, you may need to adjust the temperature control to a warmer setting. ...
  2. Step 2: Reset freezer. Use the following steps to reset your freezer: ...
  3. Step 3: Clear blocked air vents. ...
  4. Step 4: Clean air vents. ...
  5. Step 5: Check ice maker. ...
  6. Step 6: Defrost freezer.

How long to unplug a freezer to reset?

Reset your refrigerator: First, unplug it (or turn off the power at the circuit breaker), and then wait about five minutes for the electrical charge to clear out of it. Then, power it back on again.

How do I get my freezer to freeze again?

  1. Step 1: Check the setting controls. To be sure your appliance is set to the appropriate temperature, check your appliance's control settings. ...
  2. Step 2: Clear out the freezer shelves. ...
  3. Step 3: Clean the condenser coils. ...
  4. Step 4: Eliminate excess frost buildup.

How do I know if my freezer compressor is working?

You Hear Unusual Noises

A hum or a slight buzz is typical, but if your refrigerator starts making strange or loud noises, the compressor might be struggling. Professional Repair Required: Compressors have numerous components, and diagnosing the source of the noise can be complicated.

How do I know if my thermostat is bad?

7 Ways to Tell Your Thermostat Is Broken
  1. The Thermostat Has No Power. ...
  2. The AC or Furnace Won't Turn On. ...
  3. The Heater or AC Won't Turn Off. ...
  4. The Thermostat Reading Doesn't Match the Room Temperature. ...
  5. The Thermostat Doesn't Respond. ...
  6. The HVAC System Is Short Cycling. ...
  7. The Thermostat Forgets Programmed Settings.

Can you just buy a new thermostat?

The first thing you need to do before disconnecting your old thermostat—before even buying your new one—is to check your wiring set-up for compatibility. Your wiring may need to be altered or added to in order to fit a new thermostat. It is also essential that you understand the voltage supplying your old thermostat.

How expensive is replacing a thermostat?

The cost to install a thermostat is $182 on average, but you could pay between $113 and $264. Thermostats play an important role in our daily lives, cooling us down during the sweltering summer heat and keeping us warm and cozy during winter. While the average cost to install a thermostat is $182, pricing can vary.

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