Expert Refrigerator Repair in Boston, MA

Appliance Repair for Homes & Businesses in Boston, Massachusetts and Nearby Areas

Refrigerator Repair in Boston Massachusetts, Appliance Repair Pros

Welcome to Appliance Repair Pros. We provide expert refrigerator repair in Boston Massachusetts and the surrounding neighborhoods, ensuring your food stays safe and your kitchen runs smoothly. A broken refrigerator is an immediate crisis for any household, whether you are stocking up for a family in West Roxbury or managing a compact kitchen in a Back Bay apartment. When the temperature rises, time is critical. We service all major refrigeration systems, including standard top freezers, spacious French door models, built in columns, and under counter units. We address urgent issues like cooling failures, water leaks, noisy compressors, and ice makers that refuse to work.

Boston architecture presents specific challenges for appliance service. We are experienced in navigating the narrow stairwells of the North End and working within the tight cabinetry of South End brownstones. We understand that moving a heavy refrigerator to access the rear components requires skill and care to protect your floors and woodwork. Our technicians focus on precise diagnostics, checking the sealed system and electrical controls to find the root cause. We prioritize respectful service and technical accuracy to get your unit running efficiently again. If your fridge is losing its cool, we are here to help.

Refrigerator Repair Services in Boston

We offer comprehensive repair services for a wide variety of refrigeration appliances. From high end built in units that blend seamlessly with your cabinets to robust garage freezers, we have the knowledge to fix them all. Modern refrigerators are complex machines with dual evaporators, variable speed compressors, and digital sensors. We understand the science of thermodynamics required to keep your fresh food at 37 degrees and your freezer at zero. We work on both freestanding and integrated models.

Refrigeration systems we work on:

French door refrigerators with bottom freezers
Side by side refrigerator freezers
Top mount freezer models
Built in and column refrigerators
Counter depth units
Wine coolers and beverage centers
Chest and upright freezers
Under counter ice makers

What makes refrigerator repair tricky:

Diagnosing sealed system leaks (freon/refrigerant)
Troubleshooting variable speed inverter compressors
Accessing evaporator coils frozen behind panels
Calibrating complex defrost control boards
Clearing clogged defrost drain lines buried in the walls
Repairing through the door ice and water dispensers
Working with flammable refrigerants (R600a) in newer units
Managing airflow systems with damper doors and fans

Common Refrigerator Problems We Fix

Refrigerator is not cooling, but lights are on

This is the most common and urgent call we receive. You open the door, the light comes on, but the air feels warm. This indicates that the cooling system is failing while the power supply is intact. In Boston summers, this can lead to rapid food spoilage. It could be a simple airflow issue or a major compressor failure.

Condenser coils clogged with dust and pet hair
Evaporator fan motor failure
Start relay or capacitor failure
Defrost system failure causing ice blockage
Temperature control thermostat broken
Compressor failure

How we diagnose it
We check the compressor to see if it is running or clicking. We inspect the evaporator coils in the freezer; a solid block of ice indicates a defrost problem, while a partial frost pattern suggests a refrigerant leak. We also test the fans to ensure air is circulating.

What you can do right now
Check the thermostat settings to ensure they haven’t been bumped. Pull the fridge away from the wall and vacuum the coils if they are accessible. Ensure there are no boxes blocking the vents inside the fridge.

Freezer is cold, but fresh food section is warm

It is frustrating when your ice cream is frozen solid but your milk is spoiling. This usually means the cold air produced in the freezer is not making its way to the fridge compartment. This relies on a system of fans and dampers (air doors).

Evaporator fan motor not spinning
Damper control assembly stuck closed
Return air vent blocked by food items
Defrost problem blocking airflow with ice
Thermistor (sensor) reading incorrectly

How we diagnose it
We listen for the fan motor in the freezer. We test the damper door to see if it opens and closes when the fridge calls for cooling. We use a multimeter to check the resistance of the temperature sensors to ensure the board is getting the right data.

What you can do right now
Rearrange the food in the freezer. If bags of frozen vegetables are blocking the vents on the back wall, air cannot travel to the fridge. Look for frost buildup on the back panel of the freezer.

Water is leaking onto the floor

Finding a puddle of water in front of your fridge is a slip hazard and a threat to your kitchen flooring. This is often caused by a blocked drain or a leak in the water supply line. In older Boston homes with copper water lines, pinhole leaks can also occur.

Clogged defrost drain tube
Cracked drain pan
Leaking water inlet valve
Loose or cracked water supply line
Water filter housing cracked
Ice maker overfilling

How we diagnose it
We check the drain pan underneath for cracks. We inspect the back of the unit for dripping valves. Inside, we look for a sheet of ice on the floor of the freezer, which confirms a clogged drain. We also check the filter connection points.

What you can do right now
If the leak is coming from the back, turn off the water supply valve immediately. If the leak is from the front, check if the drip tray under the water dispenser is full. Wipe up water quickly to prevent wood warping.

Ice maker is not working

Whether you have a party in the Seaport or just need a cold drink, a broken ice maker is an annoyance. It might stop making ice entirely, produce hollow cubes, or become a solid block of ice.

Frozen water fill tube
Failed ice maker module motor
Water inlet valve failure
Bail arm or paddle stuck in off position
Freezer temperature is too high (must be below 10°F)
Water filter is clogged reducing pressure

How we diagnose it
We verify the freezer temperature first. We check the water supply pressure. We test the ice maker module to see if it cycles. We look for ice bridges forming in the mold or obstructions in the chute.

What you can do right now
Ensure the metal arm or plastic paddle is in the “down” or “on” position. Check if the ice bin is full. Replace your water filter if it has been more than 6 months, as low pressure can cause ice maker jams.

Refrigerator is making loud noises

Modern refrigerators should be quiet. If you hear loud humming, buzzing, rattling, or knocking, something is wrong. These noises can be disruptive in open concept living spaces found in many renovated Boston apartments.

Condenser fan blade hitting debris
Evaporator fan motor bearings worn out
Compressor internal springs broken
Drain pan rattling against the frame
Ice maker motor grinding
Refrigerant gurgling (sometimes normal, but excessive is not)

How we diagnose it
We identify where the sound is coming from—the back bottom (compressor/condenser fan) or inside the freezer (evaporator fan). We stop the fans manually to see if the noise quits. This isolates the failing component.

What you can do right now
Pull the fridge out and see if the noise stops; it might just be vibrating against the wall or cabinets. Check if the condenser fan is hitting a piece of paper or dust bunny.

Frost buildup inside the freezer

It is normal to see a light frost on food packages, but thick snow or ice buildup on the walls indicates a problem. This reduces efficiency and can eventually stop the unit from cooling altogether.

Door gasket not sealing (warm air entering)
Defrost heater failure
Defrost termination thermostat failure
Defrost timer or control board failure
Leaving the door ajar

How we diagnose it
We check the frost pattern on the evaporator coils. A uniform heavy coat of frost means the defrost system is broken. We test the heater and thermostat for continuity. We also inspect the door seal for rips using a dollar bill test.

What you can do right now
Check the door seal. Clean it with warm soapy water to remove sticky residue. Ensure no food items are preventing the drawer or door from closing completely.

Water dispenser is not working

If you press the lever and hear a hum but get no water, or if the water stream is very slow, you have a supply or control issue. This defeats the purpose of having a filtered water fridge.

Frozen water reservoir tank
Clogged water filter
Failed water inlet valve solenoid
Broken dispenser switch
Air in the water line
Control board failure

How we diagnose it
We check the water pressure at the inlet. We inspect the door hinge wiring harness, which is a common failure point in some brands. We test the dispenser switch to ensure it sends power to the valve.

What you can do right now
Try replacing the water filter. If you recently changed it, remove it and reinstall it to ensure it is seated correctly. Check if the “Child Lock” feature is enabled on the display panel.

Unit runs constantly and never shuts off

If your refrigerator sounds like it is running a marathon 24/7, it is wasting electricity and likely struggling to reach temperature. This puts immense strain on the compressor.

Dirty condenser coils restricting heat release
Temperature set too cold
Defrost system failure
Door gasket leak
Sealed system leak (low refrigerant)
Weak compressor valves

How we diagnose it
We clean the coils and check airflow. We measure the amperage draw of the compressor. We check the internal temperatures. If the unit is running constantly but not getting cold enough, it often points to a sealed system issue.

What you can do right now
Vacuum the coils underneath or behind the fridge. Adjust the temperature setting to the recommended midpoint (usually 37°F for fridge, 0°F for freezer). Ensure the fridge is not empty; a full fridge retains cold better.

Safety Notes for Refrigerator Repair

Refrigerators are unique because they contain chemical refrigerants and run on electricity. Improper handling can cause leaks, fire hazards, or personal injury. We follow strict safety protocols to protect your home and family.

Immediate safety steps:

If you smell a chemical odor: This could be a refrigerant leak. Ventilate the room by opening windows. While modern R600a refrigerant is flammable, the amount is small, but ventilation is still key.
If you hear a loud pop and the unit stops: This might be the start relay exploding or a capacitor failure. Unplug the unit to prevent electrical damage.
If water is leaking near electrical outlets: Do not touch the plug. Turn off the circuit breaker at the panel before attempting to clean up the water.
If the compressor is extremely hot: A compressor that burns to the touch is overheating. Unplug the fridge to let it cool down and prevent internal damage.
Food safety: If the temperature has been above 40°F for more than 4 hours, perishable food like meat and dairy may not be safe to eat. When in doubt, throw it out.

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Brands We Service for Refrigerator Repair in Boston

We work on every major brand found in Boston homes, from the standard apartment models to the luxury built ins. Each brand uses different technologies for cooling and defrosting, and we are trained on them all.

Whirlpool family and similar designs (Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Amana)

These are the most common units we see. They are generally reliable but often suffer from defrost control board failures and ice maker issues. KitchenAid French door models specifically have a known issue with the wiring harness in the door hinge.

Ice maker module failure
Defrost control board relay sticking
Door hinge wiring breakage
Start relay failure on compressor
Water inlet valve leaking

We carry the specific “Jazz” control boards and start relays that these models frequently require.

Samsung and LG

These brands are popular for their features and design. They use linear compressors and dual evaporators. Repairing them requires specific knowledge of inverter technology and digital error codes. LG’s linear compressors and Samsung’s “ice master” ice makers have specific failure patterns we know well.

Linear compressor failure (cooling stops)
Ice maker freezing up solid
Defrost drain freezing due to clip design
Fan motor error codes
Main PCB board failure

We are equipped with the software update tools and service bulletins needed to address the ice maker freezing issues common in these units.

GE family (GE, Hotpoint, Monogram)

GE refrigerators are found in many rentals and high end homes (Monogram). They often use a main control board on the back of the unit that controls everything. Fan motor failures are common, which can take out the main board if not caught early.

Main control board burnout
Evaporator fan motor noise
Dispenser water tube heater failure
Inverter board failure on Profile models
Door gasket tearing

We check the DC voltage on the fan motors to ensure they haven’t damaged the expensive main board.

Sub-Zero, Thermador, Bosch (Premium Brands)

In neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and Back Bay, built in refrigeration is the standard. These units have dual compressors and advanced vacuum seals. They require a higher level of expertise to service without damaging the custom panels or cabinetry.

Vacuum condenser light flashing
Ice maker solenoid valve failure
Door seal vacuum leaks
Evaporator leak in fresh food section
Control board display dimming

We treat these premium appliances with the care they deserve, ensuring precise diagnostics for these significant investments.

Frigidaire and Electrolux

These units are common in many starter homes and renovations. They are known for their ice makers and specific damper control designs. We often see issues with the variable speed fans and the user interface boards.

Ice maker auger motor failure
Damper assembly breaking
SY CE or SY EF error codes
Gasket failure causing frost
Control board communication errors

We know how to interpret the digital fault codes on the door display to pinpoint the issue quickly.

Understanding Common Refrigerator Error Codes

Modern fridges use digital displays to tell you when something is wrong. These codes can save time in diagnosis, but they must be verified with testing.

SY CE / CE (Communication Error): The main board cannot talk to the user interface. Common in Frigidaire.
SY EF / Er FF (Evaporator Fan): The fan in the freezer is not spinning or is blocked by ice.
22E, 22C (Fan Error): Specific to Samsung, indicating a fan failure or ice blockage.
Er dh / dS (Defrost Error): The defrost heater or sensor is open. The fridge will stop cooling soon due to frost buildup.
Er IF / ICE (Ice Fan): The fan cooling the ice compartment is blocked.
E1, E2 (Sensor Error): A temperature sensor (thermistor) is reading open or short.
OFF / OF (Showroom Mode): The cooling is turned off for display purposes. Needs a button combination to reset.

Maintenance Tips for Refrigerator Owners in Boston

A refrigerator runs 24 hours a day, making it the hardest working appliance in your home. Regular maintenance helps it run efficiently and prevents breakdowns, which is especially important during humid Boston summers.

Clean the condenser coils. This is the most important task. Dust and pet hair build up on the coils (usually at the bottom or back), trapping heat. This forces the compressor to work harder and can lead to failure. Vacuum them every 6 to 12 months.

Check the door seals. A loose gasket lets warm air in and cold air out. Clean the seals with warm soapy water to keep them pliable. If they are torn, replace them to prevent frost buildup.

Change the water filter. Do not ignore the filter light. A clogged filter reduces water pressure, which can cause the ice maker to jam or the water valve to leak.

Keep it full (but not stuffed). A full fridge retains cold better than an empty one. However, do not block the air vents with food, as this stops air circulation.

Clean the drain hole. If you have a bottom freezer, check for debris in the drain trough. A turkey baster with warm water can help clear a slow drain before it freezes over.

Level the unit. If the fridge is not level, the doors may not close automatically, leading to energy waste. Adjust the front feet so the unit tilts slightly backward.

Clear the top. Storing cereal boxes or grocery bags on top of the fridge can block heat dissipation on some models, causing the unit to overheat.

Vacation mode. If you are leaving your Boston apartment for an extended time, empty the ice bin and turn off the ice maker to prevent the cubes from absorbing odors or melting if power flickers.

Service Area for Refrigerator Repair in and Around Boston Massachusetts

We are proud to be a local service provider for the Boston area. From the historic row houses of the South End to the single family homes in Hyde Park, we are familiar with the city’s diverse neighborhoods. We travel to you, bringing the tools and parts needed to save your groceries.

Back Bay
Beacon Hill
South End
Dorchester
Jamaica Plain
Charlestown
South Boston
East Boston
Roxbury
Fenway Kenmore
West Roxbury
Hyde Park

Zip codes we serve: 02108, 02109, 02110, 02111, 02113, 02114, 02115, 02116, 02118, 02119, 02120, 02121, 02122, 02124, 02125, 02127, 02128, 02129, 02130, 02131, 02132, 02134, 02135, 02136.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my refrigerator running but not cooling?
This usually indicates dirty condenser coils, a failed evaporator fan, or a defrost issue. In more serious cases, it could be a failed compressor or a refrigerant leak. Check if the coils are clean first.

Is it worth repairing a 15 year old refrigerator?
Standard top freezer models can last a long time, but 15 years is pushing the limit. If the repair is simple like a fan or relay, it is worth it. If the compressor has failed or there is a refrigerant leak, it is usually better to replace the unit.

How long should a refrigerator stay cold without power?
If you keep the doors closed, a refrigerator will keep food safe for about 4 hours. A full freezer will hold temperature for about 48 hours. Do not open the door to check, as this lets the cold air escape immediately.

Why is there water on the bottom of my fridge?
This is almost always a clogged defrost drain. During the defrost cycle, melted ice drips into a trough and down a tube. If the tube is blocked by ice or debris, the water overflows into the fridge compartment.

Can you re-gas or recharge a refrigerator?
Refrigerators are sealed systems and do not consume refrigerant. If it is low, there is a leak. We can sometimes repair leaks and recharge the system, but this is a major repair. We diagnose the leak first to see if it is repairable.

Why is my ice maker making hollow cubes?
Hollow cubes mean the ice maker is not getting enough water. This can be caused by a clogged water filter, low water pressure in the house, or a failing water inlet valve that is not opening fully.

Is there a refrigerator repair technician near me?
Yes, we have technicians located throughout Boston and the nearby neighborhoods listed on this page. We prioritize refrigerator calls because we know food safety is at risk.

What is the normal temperature for a refrigerator?
The fresh food section should be between 35°F and 38°F. The freezer should be at 0°F. Anything above 40°F in the fridge is the danger zone for bacteria growth.

Why is my fridge making a clicking sound?
A loud click followed by silence (and the compressor not running) usually means the start relay has failed. The relay is trying to start the compressor but failing. This is a common and repairable issue.

Do you fix wine coolers and beverage fridges?
Yes, we repair under counter wine coolers and beverage centers. These units often have specific airflow requirements and can suffer from compressor overheating if installed in cabinetry without proper ventilation.

Why is the divider between the fridge and freezer hot?
This is often normal. The “mullion” strip contains a heater or a loop of hot gas tubing to prevent condensation from forming on the outside of the cabinet. However, if it is extremely hot to the touch, it indicates the condenser coils are dirty.

Conclusion

At Appliance Repair Pros, we understand that a broken refrigerator is more than just an inconvenience; it disrupts your entire home. We are dedicated to providing fast, effective refrigerator repair to residents across Boston, from the busy streets of Downtown to the quiet avenues of West Roxbury. Our team combines deep technical knowledge with local service you can trust. Whether you have a leaking French door unit or a warm freezer, we have the skills to fix it. Do not let your food go to waste.

Reach out to us for assistance.