“How Much Frost Should Be On The Freezer Coils?” This question is frequently asked by our readers. The frost on their refrigerator coils makes them wonder if it is a sign of any malfunctioning. Well, it highly depends upon the thickness of the frosting and the specific freezer.
A light layer of ice on coils is optimal and helps in the functioning of the freezer. But when frost becomes superfluous, it becomes alarming for the refrigerator. It can be due to faults in the temperature control sensor or a clogged ventilation system.
No matter what the reason is, this issue of excessive frost on coils should be resolved. This article will guide you on how much frost on coils is normal. Moreover, we will elaborate on some reasons that need to be identified and fixed.
How Much Frost On The Freezer Coils Is Normal?
It is a common misconception that the formation of frost on freezer coils is not normal. It is a natural outcome of the refrigerator’s cooling process. Moreover, it aids in maintaining low temperatures inside the freezer. But, the amount of ice on the coils depends on the specific model and company.
Therefore, it is better to check the instructions manual provided by the manufacturer. However, in general, we can say that a thin layer of frosting on the coils of the freezer is normal. But when the freezer starts forming thick layers on coils, it becomes alarming.
5 Reasons Why Your Refrigerator Produces Frost on the Freezer Coils
The major cause of frost on the freezer coils is irregular defrosting. In this abnormal condition, the coils become frozen drastically. Regular defrosting is essential for a proper working freezer but, defrosting in high amounts is abnormal.
The following are the issues in the components of the refrigerator that cause can defrosting:
Defective Defrosting Heater
A defrosting heater is responsible for maintaining cooling efficiency in the refrigerator. It does this function by defrosting ice that builds up in the evaporating coil. On the other hand, a defective frost-melting heater fails to produce sufficient heat. Hence, frost continues to build up and forms thick layers.
To check whether a defective heater is causing frosting, use a multimeter to do a continuity test. If it shows infinity on reading, it is alright. However, a zero reading on the multimeter will let you know that there is some electrical issue in the heater. Hence, replace this defective heater with the new one.
Faulty Defrost Thermostat
A defrost thermostat in a freezer is a crucial component of a defrosting system. It is also known as a defrost-limiting device. The defrost thermostat is responsible for monitoring the temperature of evaporating coils. Multiple cooling periods form frost layers on coils causing their temperature to decrease.
As a result, the thermostat detects the low temperature of the coils and shuts off the cooling of the freezer. However, when the thermostat becomes faulty, it fails to detect the temperature coils. Consequently, it stops initiating the defrost period. Just like you used a multimeter for a continuity test heater, perform the test on a defrost thermostat. Replace it if it is faulty.
Broken Door Gasket
A refrigerator’s door gasket functions as a seal. It prevents outer hot air from coming inside and inner cold air from moving outside. This function helps the freezer maintain internal temperature and avoid the formation of frost in the internal system.
However, when the door seal is broken, it allows the hot and humid air to enter the freezer. The moisture in this humid air condenses and forms frost on the evaporator coils. Therefore, it is necessary to replace the broken seal to prevent this issue and maintain the freezer’s optimal performance. You can do it yourself or take the help of a technician.
Malfunctioning Defrosting Timer
A defrosting timer in a refrigerator regulates the duration of cooling and defrosting. In other words, it automatically starts defrosting for optimal efficiency. When the cooling period of the freezer causes the ice to be on its coils, this timer switches the freezer from cooling to defrosting mode.
This prevents excessive frost formation on freezer coils and promotes smooth cooling. Hence, if you want to see if there is any issue, check the defrosting timer. You can perform a continuity test or do a visual inspection. Replace the malfunctioning defrost timer to prevent further issues. For this purpose, follow the instructions in the manual guide for the freezer.
Blocked Ventilation System
A freezer requires a smooth airflow for optimal functioning especially cooling. This crucial airflow is also essential to prevent excessive frosting. If there is no other problem that causing frosting in coils, then the freezer’s ventilation system is clogged. When this condition happens, the refrigerator fails to do proper cooling and shifts to uneven cooling periods.
This frosting and defrosting can cause excessive layers of frost on the freezer coils. Thus, if the ventilation system is blocked, carefully inspect each part. After inspection, clean the system from debris and dust. Also, check for faulty connections in the ventilation system.
In short, frost can build up on freezer coils in thin layers. This light frosting is a normal condition. However, when too much frosting starts on the coils, it becomes necessary to check and diagnose the reason causing it. Therefore, we have explained all the common possible causes that force the frost building on the freezer coils. We hope you find it helpful!
