How to Force Defrost Your GE Side by Side Refrigerator: A Step-by-Step Guide
A refrigerator is an essential appliance in any household. It keeps our food fresh and our drinks cold. However, sometimes our refrigerators can have issues that need fixing. One common problem that many GE side by side refrigerator owners face is a build-up of ice in the freezer. This can cause the freezer to not cool properly and can also affect the performance of the refrigerator section. In order to solve this issue, a forced defrost may be necessary. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to force defrost your GE side by side refrigerator.
Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you start the defrosting process, it is important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. You will need a hairdryer, towels, a thermometer, and a large container to hold any water that drips during the defrosting process. Make sure you have these items readily available before you begin.
Unplug Your Refrigerator
The first step is to unplug your GE side by side refrigerator from the power source. This is an important safety precaution that will prevent any electrical mishaps while you are working on the appliance. Locate the power cord at the back of the refrigerator and gently pull it out from the wall socket.
Remove Food and Shelves from the Freezer
Next, you will need to remove all the food and shelves from the freezer. Place them in a cooler or another refrigerator to keep them cold while you work on defrosting. This step is crucial as it will allow you access to the entire freezer compartment and prevent any damage to your food during the defrosting process.
Locate the Defrost Timer
Once all the food and shelves are removed, you will need to locate the defrost timer. In most GE side by side refrigerators, the defrost timer is located at the back of the refrigerator behind a plastic cover. Look for a small round part with a screw slot in the center. This is the defrost timer.
Force the Defrost Mode
Using a flathead screwdriver, turn the defrost timer clockwise until you hear a click. This will force the refrigerator into defrost mode. The defrost timer might be stiff and difficult to turn, so use a firm grip and apply a bit of pressure if necessary. Once you hear the click, the refrigerator will stop cooling and start defrosting.
Use the Hairdryer to Melt the Ice Build-Up
Now, it’s time to melt the ice build-up in the freezer. Take the hairdryer and set it to the highest heat setting. Hold the hairdryer at a safe distance from the ice, aiming it at one section at a time. Move the hairdryer in a slow and steady motion to evenly distribute the heat. As the ice melts, use towels to soak up any water that drips into the freezer or refrigerator compartments.
Monitor the Temperature
While you are defrosting the freezer, it is essential to monitor the temperature. The ideal temperature range for a refrigerator is between 34 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit (1 to 4 degrees Celsius). Use a thermometer to check the temperature periodically to ensure it stays within this range. If the temperature rises above this range, you may need to speed up the defrosting process or seek professional help.
Clean and Dry the Freezer
Once all the ice has melted and the freezer has reached the desired temperature, it is time to clean and dry the interior. Take a clean towel or sponge and wipe down the walls and shelves of the freezer to remove any remaining moisture. This step will prevent any mold or mildew growth and ensure a clean environment for your food.
Reassemble Your Refrigerator
After the freezer is clean and dry, you can start reassembling your GE side by side refrigerator. Put back all the shelves and food items that you had previously removed. Make sure everything is in its proper place to ensure optimal cooling and organization.
Plug In Your Refrigerator
The final step is to plug your refrigerator back into the power source. Gently insert the power cord into the wall socket and ensure it is plugged in securely. Once plugged in, your refrigerator will start cooling again, and you can enjoy its refreshed performance.
In conclusion, a forced defrost can be an effective solution to address ice build-up in a GE side by side refrigerator. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can safely and successfully defrost your refrigerator and restore its optimal performance. Remember to gather all the necessary tools and materials, unplug the refrigerator, remove food and shelves from the freezer, locate the defrost timer, force the defrost mode, use a hairdryer to melt the ice build-up, monitor the temperature, clean and dry the freezer, reassemble the refrigerator, and finally, plug it back in. With these simple steps, you can keep your GE side by side refrigerator in top-notch condition for years to come.