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    What to Do If Your Refrigerator Stops Working

    by Appliance Center

    When a washer or an oven stops working, it’s inconvenient. When the refrigerator doesn’t function properly, it’s an emergency. Food only lasts so long and you could be out hundreds of dollars if you don’t act quickly.

    Check the refrigerator’s temperature controls to make sure they’re set correctly. Sometimes those controls can be changed accidentally.

    Woman leaning over fridge and shrugging.

    If the light isn’t on, check to make sure the refrigerator is plugged into the wall outlet. Additionally, check to make sure the breaker for that outlet hasn’t popped.

    If none of these steps solve the problem, it’s time to contact a service professional. A reputable repair service like Appliance Center Service may offer additional troubleshooting advice over the phone before scheduling a repair call.

    If the refrigerator is still under warranty, you must contact the warranty provider first to get approval for any repairs. (Click here to learn about those steps.)

    Save Your Food

    You’ll also want to do everything you can to keep the food cool for as long as possible. Don’t open the door unless you have to. Keep that cold air inside as long as possible.

    Some items, like fresh fruits and vegetables, peanut butter, condiments, and bread don’t require refrigeration. But meats, leftovers, dairy, eggs, and other perishable items should be kept at below 40 degrees.

    Obviously, if you have another refrigerator available at home, move perishable items to it.

    Portable cooler filled with fruits and other foods.

    If you have a cooler, pack it with frozen items and put other perishable items on top to keep them cool until you can buy ice.  If you have a good friend or family member with some refrigerator or freezer space to spare, you can use the cooler to transport perishables to their home.

    You could also use bags of ice to turn your freezer into a makeshift cooler until other arrangements can be made. Add ice and make sure you provide containers to catch the drip from any melting ice.

    Place a thermometer inside the freezer or cooler to monitor the temperature of the food. The ideal temp for food is between 35 and 38 and it shouldn’t go over 40.

    If you need help with your refrigerator, contact the professionals at Appliance Center Service. Call 419-PAY-LESS or click here to reach out online.