Quick Answer
The five most common refrigerator problems — not cooling, making noise, leaking water, icing up, and running constantly — account for over 80% of all Melbourne fridge call-outs, and each has a distinct, identifiable cause.
Several of these problems can occur together — a fridge that's icing up, for instance, often also runs constantly as it struggles to compensate.
These five fridge problems make up the vast majority of repair call-outs across Melbourne. Here's what causes each one.
1. Not Cooling
Usually dirty condenser coils, a faulty fan, or — less commonly — a refrigerant leak or failed compressor.
2. Making Noise
Rattling points to a loose drip tray, squealing to a worn fan motor, and repetitive clicking to a failing compressor start relay.
3. Leaking Water
Most often a blocked defrost drain, though a damaged water line or cracked drip pan are also common.
4. Icing Up
Usually caused by a door seal not sealing fully, letting humid air in that freezes inside the freezer compartment.
5. Running Constantly
Often a thermostat fault, dirty condenser coils restricting heat exchange, or a door seal letting cold air escape continuously.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the single most common fridge problem in Melbourne?▼
Not cooling properly is the most frequent issue, usually caused by dirty condenser coils or a faulty fan motor.
Can I fix a noisy fridge myself?▼
A loose drip tray is a simple DIY fix, but fan motor or compressor relay noises need a licensed technician to diagnose and repair.
Why does my fridge ice up at the back?▼
This usually points to a door seal that isn't sealing fully, letting humid air in that freezes inside the unit.
Is a fridge that runs constantly using more energy?▼
Yes — a fridge that never cycles off is working harder than it should, usually due to a thermostat fault or restricted airflow over the coils.
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Dishank Patel
Lead Technician & Founder · DP Electric Melbourne
Dishank Patel has over 10 years of hands-on experience repairing household appliances across Melbourne's eastern suburbs. He holds all required Victorian electrical and gas licensing and has personally repaired thousands of appliances across brands including Bosch, Miele, LG, Samsung, and Fisher & Paykel.