A homeowner in Alliance called us when their Frigidaire refrigerator stopped cooling entirely — both the fresh food and freezer compartments were warming up fast. We found a failed defrost thermostat that had locked the system in permanent defrost mode, preventing normal cooling cycles.
The Problem
The customer reported that their FRS26RLECS0 refrigerator was making unusual noises but not cooling in either compartment. The freezer fan was still running, but temperatures were rising throughout the unit. Food spoilage was becoming a serious concern.
Diagnosis
Testing revealed the defrost thermostat had failed in the closed position, keeping the defrost heater continuously energized. This prevented the evaporator from reaching proper cooling temperatures. The compressor was running normally, but the system couldn’t complete its refrigeration cycle due to the faulty thermostat disrupting the defrost sequence.
The Repair
- Parts replaced: 5303918214 — defrost thermostat kit
- Work performed: Removed old thermostat assembly, installed new unit with proper mounting and electrical connections
- Result: Cooling restored to both compartments within 2 hours, normal defrost cycling resumed
Is It Worth Repairing?
This Frigidaire side-by-side model is built for durability, and the defrost thermostat is a relatively minor component failure. At around 10-12 years old, these units typically have several more years of reliable service when properly maintained. The repair extends the refrigerator’s life significantly.
Maintenance Tips for Frigidaire Refrigerators
- Clean the condenser coils beneath the unit every 6 months — Frigidaire side-by-sides are particularly sensitive to airflow restrictions
- Check door seals regularly and clean with mild soap solution — the FRS26R series is prone to seal wear at the hinge areas
- Replace water filter every 6 months if equipped — old filters can reduce cooling efficiency in these models
Appliance Repair in Alliance, OH
Alliance is in Stark County — an area we cover regularly from our base in Louisville, OH. We also serve Canton, North Canton, and Hartville. Louisville Appliance Repair is owned and operated by Samuel Willhite, a master-certified technician with Bosch and Speed Queen factory authorizations. If your appliance needs service, schedule online or call (330) 693-9163. You can also find us on Google and read verified reviews from customers across Stark County and surrounding areas.
Louisville Appliance Repair serves Stark County and surrounding areas.
Schedule your repair online,
call (330) 693-9163,
or see our reviews on Google.