Monthly Archives: November 2007

The Complete DIY Refrigerator Repair Reference

Now, at long last, it’s the complete do-it-yourself refrigerator repair reference that you’ve been clamoring for. This post links you to resources for any type of problem you’re having with your refrigerator, from simple control problems to advanced sealed system work. Awwite, grab ‘hold of those two large lumps at the base of your spine and let’s romp. Giddyup…

If you’re in an emergency because your refrigerator isn’t running and all your beer is getting warm, start with the warm refrigerator fire drill. In particular, if you’re hearing an occasional hum-CLICK and the refrigerator is warming up, start with this page.

Now we move on to more general diagnostics in the Portable Refrigerator Repair Manual.

OK, so you’ve worked through the diagnostics and you’re suspecting that your refrigerator has a Freon leak. How can you be sure? Like ahso.

If you’ve confirmed a Freon leak and you think you have the huevos to do the sealed system work yourself, you absolutely need this refrigeration service training DVD from Electrolux. (The compressor, its associated tubing, the evaporator, the condenser, and the Freon charge in the tubing are collectively referred to as the “sealed system.”) It takes you through all the procedures you’ll need to master in order to do your own sealed system work. If you have an older refrigerator, you may need to convert from R-12 to R134a.

“But, Samurai, shouldn’t we get an EPA license to buy the Freon so that we can be obedient to the gubmint and do everything they tell us to do?”

Ahh, Grasshoppah, your bootlicking question reminds me of a story… what was it?… ah yes, The Story of O.

For written sealed system service procedures and a list of tools you’ll need, download this reference.

And this topic in the Kitchen Appliance Repair Forum has a good discussion about recharging tips.

Naturals, by gawd, every last one of you, naturals! Now go and make an old salt proud!

To learn more about your refrigerator, or to order parts, click here.

Electrical Outlets for Electric Ovens, Ranges, and Stoves

Bought a new range or planning to? Planning an addition to your house? Building a new house? These are just a few of the ways you could run into converting from a 3- to 4-wire range outlet. Whatever your situation, this illustrated anatomy of electrical outlets for ranges, ovens, and stove should help you see what’s going on.

Three-Prong Range OutletHere’s the older style, but very commonly seen 3-wire range outlet. All the terminals are identified here. Click the pic for the larger view.


Four-Prong Range OutletThis the the 4-wire outlet required by the newer editions of the National Electrical Code (NEC). Click the pic for the larger view.


More help, including parts for all brands and models, ratcheer. If you’re still confoosed, come start a new topic in the Kitchen Appliance Repair Forum.

To learn more about your range/stove/oven, or to order parts, click here.