Refrigerator not running

If your refrigerator is not running and the display or dispenser controls are completely dead, the most likely culprits are a failed dispenser control board or an incoming power problem. Start by visually inspecting the dispenser control and display boards for burn marks and loose connectors, then confirm the fridge is getting power: make sure the plug is fully seated, the outlet is live and no breakers or fuses have tripped, and avoid using a GFCI outlet for a fridge. If the display still shows nothing, the user control and display board may need replacement, or a damaged wire harness between the panel and board could be the issue. A simple power reset after a surge sometimes restores operation, while the main refrigerator control board is a less common cause after you rule out the more likely parts. If you need a replacement, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact refrigerator control panel parts, refrigerator control board parts, or other components that fit your model and get the repair done right.

01 - Refrigerator Dispenser Control Board

If the refrigerator display appears completely dead, it's possible the dispenser control board has failed. You should inspect the board for any burn marks and replace it if it appears damaged.

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Highly Likely

02 - Incoming Power Problem

Ensure plug is tightly pushed into a regular electrical outlet and the outlet is supplying power. Using a ground fault outlet for a refrigerator is not recommended. Confirm that no circuit breakers have tripped or fuses have blown.

Highly Likely

03 - Refrigerator User Control and Display Board

If the refrigerator display appears completely dead, it's possible the user control and display board has failed. You should inspect the board for any burn marks and replace it if it appears damaged.

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Common

04 - Disconnected or Damaged Wire Harness

The wires from the control panel to the control board may be loose or have become disconnected. Make sure the wire harness connectors are tight. A damaged wire harness will need to be replaced.

Common

05 - Power reset

After a power surge or power outage, refrigerator operation could be temporarily affected. Full operation can sometimes be restored through a power reset by either unplugging the appliance's power cord for a few minutes and then plugging it back in or switching off the circuit breaker for the refrigerator then switching it back on.

Common

06 - Refrigerator Control Board

If nothing is working on the refrigerator, it's likely the control board is defective. However, this is almost never the cause. Before replacing the main control board, test all of more commonly defective parts. If none of the other components are defective, consider replacing the control board.

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Less Common

07 - Refrigerator Main Control Board

If nothing is working on the refrigerator, it's likely the main control board is defective. However, this is almost never the cause. Before replacing the main control board, test all of more commonly defective parts. If none of the other components are defective, consider replacing the main control board.

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Less Common