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The following is a symptom/solution chart.
 

SymptomSolution
Refrigerator will not run
  1. Check power at wall socket.
  2. Check power cord to refrigerator.
  3. Check thermostat. (Cold control)
  4. Check defrost timer - make sure it's not in "defrost" mode.
  5. Check to see if compressor is running.
  6. Check for low voltage condition. Low voltage conditions can be caused by extension cords. Remove and plug in direct if possible.
  7. If fridge has condenser fan motor, make sure it's running. Compressor could have over-heated and has shut down on overload.
   
Refrigerator compressor runs, but will not get cold
  1. Check for lint in condensor coils.
  2. Evaporator coils (inside freezer wall/floor) could be iced up. This indicates a "defrost" problem, which includes def. timer, limiter, and def. heater.
  3. Compressor may not be pumping.
  4. Defrost heater may be stuck on. Check defrost timer.
   
Compressor runs for just a few seconds, then clicks off
  1. Check for low voltage conditions. (Extension cord, etc...)
  2. Check for lint in condenser coils.
  3. Check condenser fan, make sure compressor is not over heated.
  4. Check protective overload.
  5. Check freezer fan.
  6. Make sure back cover is in place.
   
Compressor runs all the time
  1. If everything is freezing in refer side, check thermostat. (Cold control)
  2. If nothing is staying cool, could be "defrost" problem - timer, heater, or limiter.
  3. Make sure refrigerator is not located in extreme heat.
  4. Check door gaskets for air leaks.
  5. Check door switch - interior light may be staying on.
   
Freezer is too warm
  1. Check settings on controls.
  2. Check thermostat. (Cold control)
  3. Check freezer door gasket.
  4. Check freezer compartment fan.
  5. Check for iced up evaporator coils.
  6. Several non-frozen items have recently been to freezer.
  7. Check for air vents inside freezer for restrictions.
   
Evaporator coil blocked with ice ("Defrost" problem)
  1. Check to see if defrost timer is advancing/switching.
  2. Check defrost heater.
  3. Check defrost thermostat. (Limiter)
  4. Check for clogged drain hole in defrost pan.
  5. Check door seals for air leaks.
  6. Remember - once you determine and fix problem, coils must still be de-iced before unit will operate properly.