this post was submitted on 23 Apr 2024
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fixing

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Celebrating/talking about repairing stuff, the right to repair stuff, and the intersection of tech and solarpunk ideals.

What does it mean to use what we have, including technology, to try to build a better, more environmentally just world?

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Refrigerator is a Frigidaire LTFR1832TF0.

Leak came from the front-right side.

I did not notice any temperature fluctuations, but I also don't notice much of anything. It still seemed cold when I unplugged it, though!

Checked the drain pan & it seems dry? Not overflowing or anything.

No water on inside of refrigerator.

Anyone have any idea what might be going on? I'd really appreciate it, as no one can take a look for another 3 days.

I don't want my food to spoil, as I don't have a lot of money. I just want to know if it'd be safe to plug it back in!

Thank you.

EDIT: had my BIL stop by to take a look. More than likely it's refrigerant. The compressor was fine, but one of the lines on it would not get cold, so that's that. Probably a leak in the line, more than likely from a failed seal.

The cost to refill the refrigerant / repair the line / seal would cost waaaaay more than a new fridge, unfortunately.

Thanks, y'all. Appreciate the help and advice.

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[–] Death_Equity@lemmy.world 28 points 7 months ago (1 children)

Unfortunately it is probably a bad seal in the refrigeration loop if it is oily. I would recommend keeping windows open and animals in a separate room just in case the refrigerant leaks. You can risk running it until repair is possible, but there is a small chance of fire if the compressor overheats and you may make the repair more expensive.

It will be a pain but you can throw ice in it to help keep the food good while you wait for repair.

[–] SharkEatingBreakfast@sopuli.xyz 13 points 7 months ago (2 children)

It seems to have more of an ink-like consistency more than it does oil.

Didn't seem to stain, either. Comes up just fine with water + paper towel.

[–] Death_Equity@lemmy.world 20 points 7 months ago (1 children)

The oil used in refrigeration systems is like mineral oil, so it isn't thick or stain like most engine oil.

[–] SharkEatingBreakfast@sopuli.xyz 9 points 7 months ago

Oh dear..

Good to know, though. Thank you.

[–] CoolMatt@lemmy.ca 4 points 7 months ago

It's okay, the refrigerant in your fridge is low toxicity, and if it loses the 6 oz of charge in its system, no people or pets are at any kind of risk.