GE 18, 17, 16 Before you call for service…, Problem, Possible Causes, What To Do

Before you call for service…

Troubleshooting Tips

Problem Possible Causes What To Do

Motor operates for long periods or cycles on and off frequently. (Modern refrigerators with more storage space and a larger space and a larger freezer require more operating time. They start and stop often to maintain even temperatures.)

Normal when refrigerator	• Wait 24 hours for the refrigerator to completely
is first plugged in.	cool down.
Often occurs when large	• This is normal.
amounts of food are
placed in refrigerator.
Door left open.	• Check to see if package is holding door open.
Hot weather or frequent	• This is normal.
door openings.
Temperature control dial	• See About the temperature control dial.
set at the coldest setting.

Grille and condenser	• See Care and cleaning.
need cleaning.

Frost or ice crystals on frozen food (frost within package is normal)

Door left open.	• Check to see if package is holding door open.
Too frequent or too long
door openings.

Automatic icemaker does not work

(on some models)

Icemaker is not on.	• Move the feeler arm to the ON (down) position.
Water supply turned off or	• See Installing the water line.
not connected.

	Freezer compartment	• Wait 24 hours for the refrigerator to completely
	too warm.	cool down.
	Piled up cubes in the storage	• Level cubes by hand.
	bin cause the icemaker
	to shut off.
Frequent “buzzing” sound	Icemaker is on but the water	• Move the feeler arm to the STOP (up) position. Keeping it
	supply to the refrigerator has	on will damage the water valve.
	not been connected.
Cubes too small	Water shutoff valve connecting	• Call the plumber to clear the valve.
	refrigerator to water line may
	be clogged.
Slow ice cube freezing	Door left open.	• Check to see if package is holding door open.
	Temperature control dial	• See About the temperature control dial.
	not set cold enough.
Ice cubes have	Ice storage bin needs cleaning.	• Empty and wash bin. Discard old cubes.
odor/taste
	Food transmitting odor/taste	• Wrap foods well.
	to ice cubes.
	Interior of refrigerator	• See Care and cleaning.
	needs cleaning.
Moisture forms on	Not unusual during	• Wipe surface dry and reset temperature control dial
cabinet surface	periods of high humidity.	one setting colder.
between the doors
Moisture collects inside	Too frequent or too
(in humid weather, air	long door openings.
carries moisture into
refrigerator when doors
are opened)
Refrigerator has odor	Foods transmitting	• Foods with strong odors should be tightly wrapped.
	odor to refrigerator.	• Keep an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator;
		replace every three months.
	Interior needs cleaning.	• See Care and cleaning.

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