Fridge Thermostat Failing? 7 Warning Signs & When to Replace It

Fridge Thermostat Failing? 7 Warning Signs & When to Replace It

Sep 30, 2025 | Blog NJ

Your refrigerator’s thermostat is like the brain of your cooling system – when it starts failing, everything goes wrong. From spoiled groceries to sky-high energy bills, a faulty thermostat can cost you hundreds of dollars if you don’t catch it in time.

The good news? Most homeowners can spot the warning signs early and even replace the thermostat themselves with the right guidance.

What Does Your Fridge Thermostat Actually Do?

Your refrigerator thermostat monitors the internal temperature and tells the compressor when to turn on and off. Think of it as a smart switch that keeps your food at the perfect temperature – not too cold, not too warm.

When it works properly, you don’t even notice it. When it fails, you’ll know immediately.

Early Warning Signs: Don’t Ignore These Red Flags

Temperature Inconsistencies

Your milk is sometimes ice-cold, sometimes lukewarm? That’s your thermostat struggling to maintain consistent readings. It might still be functional, but it’s definitely on its way out.

Occasional Food Freezing

If your lettuce occasionally turns into ice cubes or your sodas freeze randomly, your thermostat is sending mixed signals to the cooling system. This is one of the earliest signs most people notice.

Irregular Cycling Patterns

A healthy fridge runs in predictable cycles. If you notice your compressor running constantly for hours, then completely silent for extended periods, your thermostat isn’t regulating properly.

Compressor Struggles

Strange clicking sounds, followed by the compressor struggling to start, often indicate the thermostat isn’t sending clear signals to the cooling system.

Critical Symptoms: Time to Replace NOW

When you see these symptoms, don’t wait – your thermostat has moved from «failing» to «failed»:

Zero Response to Temperature Adjustments

You turn the dial from 3 to 5, and… nothing changes. The internal temperature remains exactly the same regardless of your settings. This is a clear sign of complete thermostat failure.

Compressor Never Stops (or Never Starts)

Never stops: Your compressor runs 24/7, creating ice buildup and astronomical energy bills. The thermostat can’t tell when enough is enough.

Never starts: Your fridge is completely warm, and the compressor never kicks in, no matter how high you set the temperature.

Extreme Temperature Swings

Your freezer section is fine, but your fresh food section swings wildly from 45°F to 28°F throughout the day, ruining everything inside.

DIY Testing: Confirm It’s Really the Thermostat

Before ordering a replacement (you can order here), here’s how to verify the thermostat is actually the problem:

Visual Inspection

  1. Unplug your refrigerator (safety first!)
  2. Remove the thermostat housing (usually inside the fresh food section)
  3. Look for:
    • Burned or corroded wires
    • Cracked plastic housing
    • Loose connections

Multimeter Test (Basic)

If you have a basic multimeter:

  1. Disconnect the thermostat wires
  2. Set your multimeter to continuity mode
  3. Touch the probes to the thermostat terminals
  4. Turn the temperature dial – you should hear clicks and see continuity changes

No clicks or continuity changes = Replace the thermostat

The «Professional Diagnosis» Method

Not comfortable with electrical testing? Here’s a simple approach:

  • Note your symptoms
  • Check if the compressor responds to thermostat adjustments

If 3+ critical symptoms match your situation, replacement is likely needed

Step-by-Step Thermostat Replacement

Tools You’ll Need:

Screwdriver set

Camera (to photograph wire connections)

New thermostat

Basic Process:

Safety First: Unplug the refrigerator and wait 24 hours

Document: Take photos of all wire connections before disconnecting

Remove: Unscrew the old thermostat from its housing

Install: Connect the new thermostat exactly as photographed

Test: Plug in and wait 2 hours to verify proper operation

Important: Different refrigerator models use different thermostat types. Always match the part number exactly.

When NOT to DIY

Call a professional if you encounter:

  • Multiple electrical components that seem damaged
  • Refrigerant leaks (ice buildup on coils)
  • Compressor problems beyond thermostat control
  • You’re uncomfortable working with electrical connections

The Cost of Waiting vs. Acting Now

Your refrigerator’s thermostat is like the brain of your cooling system – when it starts failing, everything goes wrong.

If you wait:

  • Spoiled food: $50-200 monthly
  • Higher energy bills: $30-80 monthly
  • Potential compressor damage: $800-1,500 repair

If you replace now:

  • New thermostat: $25-75
  • Installation time: 30-60 minutes
  • Peace of mind: Priceless

Ready to Fix Your Thermostat Problem?

Don’t let a failing thermostat turn your fresh groceries into expensive waste. We stock thermostats for most major refrigerator brands and can walk you through the installation process.

Need the right thermostat for your model?

📞 NY: (718) 560-3131
📞 NJ: (551) 355-5869

We’ll help you identify the exact part number and get it to you quickly — or, if you prefer, we can install it for you. Your food (and your wallet) will thank you.

The AC Cleaning Plan: Your 3-Month Checklist to Avoid Costly Repairs

The AC Cleaning Plan: Your 3-Month Checklist to Avoid Costly Repairs

Sep 15, 2025 | Blog NY

Did you know that regular maintenance can extend your AC’s lifespan by up to 5 extra years? Most costly breakdowns can be avoided with simple 15–30 minutes checkups each month. 

As LG Pro Dealers certified by LG and Klima NY in the HVAC industry, Triple A Plaza has been trained in the latest maintenance protocols and best practices. That’s why we created this easy-to-follow seasonal cleaning calendar to help you keep your AC running smoothly — without needing to be a technician. 

📌 Download this calendar and keep it near your AC. 
 It’s a small habit with big results. 

Your 3-Month AC Cleaning Checklist

Month 1 – Filter & Vents Check

Clean or replace the air filter 
 – Rinse it with warm water, let it dry, or replace it if needed 
 – Do this more often if you have pets or allergies 

Dust indoor vents and grilles 
 – Wipe them down with a dry cloth or vacuum to remove buildup 

Bonus Tip: Mark your calendar so you don’t skip it next month. 

Month 2 – Drain & Remote Check

Check for leaks or moisture 
 – Look for water near the unit or a musty smell 
 – Clean the drain tray (if accessible) and make sure the line isn’t clogged 

Test your remote control 
 – Replace batteries 
 – Check the sensor connection 
 – Try resetting the unit if it’s unresponsive 

Bonus Tip: A dripping AC may just need a simple drain line flush. 

Month 3 – Outdoor Unit Cleaning

Clear debris around the condenser unit
 – Remove leaves, dirt, or trash blocking airflow
 – Keep 2 feet of clearance around the unit 

Gently clean the coils and fins
 – Use a soft brush or vacuum
 – Don’t use high-pressure water 

Bonus Tip: Do this before the hottest months begin (late spring or early summer). 

Keep it consistent = Keep it cool

Doing these simple steps once every 3 months helps you: 

✅ Save energy 
✅ Prevent breakdowns 
✅ Improve air quality 
✅ Extend the life of your AC 

Prefer a professional to handle it?

At Triple A Plaza, we bring factory-authorized expertise from our recognition as LG Pro Dealers to homeowners throughout NY and NJ. When DIY isn’t enough, our technicians provide reliable repairs and comprehensive system evaluations. Call us: 

📍 NY: (718) 560-3131 
📍 NJ: (551) 355-5869 

And follow us

Instagram:
www.instagram.com/tripleaplazaappliance  

Facebook:
www.facebook.com/TripleA.ApplianceServices

LinkedIn:
www.linkedin.com/company/triple-a-plaza-appliance

The AC Cleaning Plan: Your 3-Month Checklist to Avoid Costly Repairs

The AC Cleaning Plan: Your 3-Month Checklist to Avoid Costly Repairs

Sep 15, 2025 | Blog NJ

Did you know that regular maintenance can extend your AC’s lifespan by up to 5 extra years? Most costly breakdowns can be avoided with simple 15–30 minutes checkups each month. 

As LG Pro Dealers certified by LG and Klima NY in the HVAC industry, Triple A Plaza has been trained in the latest maintenance protocols and best practices. That’s why we created this easy-to-follow seasonal cleaning calendar to help you keep your AC running smoothly — without needing to be a technician. 

📌 Download this calendar and keep it near your AC. 
 It’s a small habit with big results. 

Your 3-Month AC Cleaning Checklist

Month 1 – Filter & Vents Check

Clean or replace the air filter 
 – Rinse it with warm water, let it dry, or replace it if needed 
 – Do this more often if you have pets or allergies 

Dust indoor vents and grilles 
 – Wipe them down with a dry cloth or vacuum to remove buildup 

Bonus Tip: Mark your calendar so you don’t skip it next month. 

Month 2 – Drain & Remote Check

Check for leaks or moisture 
 – Look for water near the unit or a musty smell 
 – Clean the drain tray (if accessible) and make sure the line isn’t clogged 

Test your remote control 
 – Replace batteries 
 – Check the sensor connection 
 – Try resetting the unit if it’s unresponsive 

Bonus Tip: A dripping AC may just need a simple drain line flush. 

Month 3 – Outdoor Unit Cleaning

Clear debris around the condenser unit
 – Remove leaves, dirt, or trash blocking airflow
 – Keep 2 feet of clearance around the unit 

Gently clean the coils and fins
 – Use a soft brush or vacuum
 – Don’t use high-pressure water 

Bonus Tip: Do this before the hottest months begin (late spring or early summer). 

Keep it consistent = Keep it cool

Doing these simple steps once every 3 months helps you: 

✅ Save energy 
✅ Prevent breakdowns 
✅ Improve air quality 
✅ Extend the life of your AC 

Prefer a professional to handle it?

At Triple A Plaza, we bring factory-authorized expertise from our recognition as LG Pro Dealers to homeowners throughout NY and NJ. When DIY isn’t enough, our technicians provide reliable repairs and comprehensive system evaluations. Call us: 

📍 NY: (718) 560-3131 
📍 NJ: (551) 355-5869 

And follow us

Instagram:
www.instagram.com/tripleaplazaappliance  

Facebook:
www.facebook.com/TripleA.ApplianceServices

LinkedIn:
www.linkedin.com/company/triple-a-plaza-appliance

Best AC Setting for Summer? It Won’t Matter Without This First Step

Best AC Setting for Summer? It Won’t Matter Without This First Step

Ago 27, 2025 | Blog NY

Searching for the ideal AC setting for summer?

You’re not alone. In Summer, Google trends spike with homeowners wondering if 72°F is too low, if 78°F is too high, or if they should be adjusting by day and night. But here’s what most blogs don’t tell you:

The best AC setting doesn’t matter… if your system hasn’t been maintained.

Before we talk numbers, let’s make sure your air conditioner is actually ready to perform the way it should — because if it’s dirty, clogged, or leaking, it doesn’t matter what you set it to.

1. Your AC can’t do its job if you don’t do yours

Before summer hits, your system should go through a basic maintenance check — whether it’s central air, a mini-split, or a window unit.

Why? Because dust, mold, or blocked airflow can reduce performance by up to 30%.

Here’s what should be checked or cleaned:

✅ Air filters (replace or wash)

✅ Vents and grilles (wipe down and unblock)

✅ Drain lines (clear out to prevent leaks)

✅ Coils and fins (remove dust buildup)

✅ Exterior units (clear any leaves or obstructions)A clean AC doesn’t just cool better — it saves energy and lasts longer.

 

 2. So… what’s the ideal AC setting for summer?

Now that your system is ready, here’s the number everyone wants:

78°F (25.5°C) is considered the best AC setting for energy efficiency and comfort when you’re home and awake.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy and Energy Star guidelines:

  • • When you’re home but asleep → Raise it to 82°F (28°C)
  • When you’re away from home → Set it to 85°F (29.5°C)

If that feels a bit warm, use fans to help circulate cool air and reduce the load on your AC. 

3. What about in New York & New Jersey?

In regions like NY and NJ, where humidity plays a big role, comfort often depends not just on temperature, but also on moisture control. So if your AC is struggling to make 78°F feel fresh, the issue might be:

  • Poor insulation
  • Dirty filters
  • Humidity above 60%
  • Or… it just hasn’t had maintenance in over a year

In that case, lowering the temperature won’t solve the problem — but a technician can.

 

4. When to call someone

If your AC:

  • • Feels weak or uneven
  • Smells musty when turned on
  • Leaks or drips
  • Runs constantly but cools poorly

… it’s time to get it checked. You could be losing comfort and money at the same time.

Set your AC to 78°F — but only after giving it what it needs to perform. Because the best setting isn’t a number — it’s a clean, maintained system that responds when you need it most.

 

Need help ASAP?

We help homeowners across NY & NJ keep their AC clean, efficient, and summer-ready — before the heat becomes a headache.

 

We’re always sharing real, practical tips to protect your appliances.

Come hang with us on Instagram

👉@tripleaappliances

Or just give us a call. We’re here to help:

📍 NY: (718) 560-3131 📍 NJ: (551) 355-5869

 

Best AC Setting for Summer? It Won’t Matter Without This First Step

Best AC Setting for Summer? It Won’t Matter Without This First Step

Ago 27, 2025 | Blog NJ

Searching for the ideal AC setting for summer?

You’re not alone. In Summer, Google trends spike with homeowners wondering if 72°F is too low, if 78°F is too high, or if they should be adjusting by day and night. But here’s what most blogs don’t tell you:

The best AC setting doesn’t matter… if your system hasn’t been maintained.

Before we talk numbers, let’s make sure your air conditioner is actually ready to perform the way it should — because if it’s dirty, clogged, or leaking, it doesn’t matter what you set it to.

1. Your AC can’t do its job if you don’t do yours

Before summer hits, your system should go through a basic maintenance check — whether it’s central air, a mini-split, or a window unit.

Why? Because dust, mold, or blocked airflow can reduce performance by up to 30%.

Here’s what should be checked or cleaned:

✅ Air filters (replace or wash)

✅ Vents and grilles (wipe down and unblock)

✅ Drain lines (clear out to prevent leaks)

✅ Coils and fins (remove dust buildup)

✅ Exterior units (clear any leaves or obstructions)A clean AC doesn’t just cool better — it saves energy and lasts longer.

 

 2. So… what’s the ideal AC setting for summer?

Now that your system is ready, here’s the number everyone wants:

78°F (25.5°C) is considered the best AC setting for energy efficiency and comfort when you’re home and awake.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy and Energy Star guidelines:

  • • When you’re home but asleep → Raise it to 82°F (28°C)
  • When you’re away from home → Set it to 85°F (29.5°C)

If that feels a bit warm, use fans to help circulate cool air and reduce the load on your AC. 

3. What about in New York & New Jersey?

In regions like NY and NJ, where humidity plays a big role, comfort often depends not just on temperature, but also on moisture control. So if your AC is struggling to make 78°F feel fresh, the issue might be:

  • Poor insulation
  • Dirty filters
  • Humidity above 60%
  • Or… it just hasn’t had maintenance in over a year

In that case, lowering the temperature won’t solve the problem — but a technician can.

 

4. When to call someone

If your AC:

  • • Feels weak or uneven
  • Smells musty when turned on
  • Leaks or drips
  • Runs constantly but cools poorly

… it’s time to get it checked. You could be losing comfort and money at the same time.

Set your AC to 78°F — but only after giving it what it needs to perform. Because the best setting isn’t a number — it’s a clean, maintained system that responds when you need it most.

 

Need help ASAP?

We help homeowners across NY & NJ keep their AC clean, efficient, and summer-ready — before the heat becomes a headache.

 

We’re always sharing real, practical tips to protect your appliances.

Come hang with us on Instagram

👉@tripleaappliances

Or just give us a call. We’re here to help:

📍 NY: (718) 560-3131 📍 NJ: (551) 355-5869