How to fix Frigidaire refrigerator GLRT180SAW0 from leaking water under crispers?

If your Frigidaire refrigerator GLRT180SAW0 is leaking water under the crispers, it's essential to address the issue promptly to prevent water damage and maintain the appliance's proper functioning. The most common causes of such leaks are related to drainage problems within the refrigerator's freezer and fresh food compartments. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to diagnose and fix this issue:

Tools and Materials You Will Need:
* Towels or rags
* Phillips-head screwdriver
* Wrench or pliers
* Turkey baster or syringe
* A small container for water drainage


Safety Precautions:
Before starting any repair work, unplug the refrigerator from the electrical outlet to ensure your safety.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Remove Food Items:
Empty the refrigerator's fresh food and freezer compartments and place the perishable items in a cooler with ice packs to keep them cold during the repair.
2. Locate the Drain Pan:
The first step is to find the drain pan. It's typically located beneath the refrigerator, behind a grille at the front or back. Remove the grille to access the drain pan.
3. Inspect the Drain Pan:
Check the drain pan for any cracks or damage. If you find any, it may be the source of the leak, and you'll need to replace it.
4. Clean the Drain Pan:
If the drain pan is dirty or has debris in it, clean it thoroughly. Use warm, soapy water and a sponge or cloth to remove any buildup or residue.
5. Clear the Drain Tube (Freezer Compartment):
The most common cause of water leakage in the fresh food compartment of a refrigerator is a clogged or frozen drain tube in the freezer. To clear it:
a. Open the freezer compartment and remove any items from the freezer shelves and the back panel if necessary.
b. Locate the drain hole at the rear of the freezer, usually under the evaporator coils. It may be covered with ice or debris.
c. Use a hairdryer on a low heat setting to carefully melt any ice obstructing the drain hole.
d. Clear the drain hole with a turkey baster or a syringe filled with hot water. The water should flow freely through the drain tube and into the drain pan underneath the refrigerator. Repeat this process until the drain is completely clear.
6. Clear the Fresh Food Compartment Drain:
Some refrigerators have a drain in the fresh food compartment as well. If your model has one, locate it, and ensure it is clear of debris. Use a pipe cleaner or a small brush to clean it if necessary.
7. Check the Evaporator Coils (Freezer Compartment):
While you have access to the freezer compartment, inspect the evaporator coils. If they are covered in frost or ice, it may indicate a problem with the defrost system. This issue can lead to excess water buildup. If you notice frost or ice buildup, you may need to troubleshoot and repair the defrost system.
8. Reassemble and Test:
Once you've cleared the drain tubes and checked the drain pan, reassemble the refrigerator. Plug it back into the electrical outlet and set the temperature controls to your desired settings.
9. Monitor for Leaks:
Place some towels or rags in the bottom of the fresh food compartment under the crispers and in the freezer to detect any new leaks. Monitor the refrigerator for a day or two to ensure the issue has been resolved.
10. Regular Maintenance:
To prevent future drainage problems, it's a good practice to periodically clean the drain tubes and check for ice or debris buildup. This routine maintenance can help keep your refrigerator operating efficiently.

If you've followed these steps and your Frigidaire refrigerator GLRT180SAW0 continues to leak water under the crispers, or if you encounter more complex issues like a malfunctioning defrost system, it's advisable to contact a qualified appliance technician for professional diagnosis and repair. They can identify and address the root cause of the problem and ensure that your refrigerator operates properly.

Need help with your refrigerator? Book refrigerator repair with Home Alliance's appliance technicians.