In general, a freezer should not stop working simply because it is too full. However, there are a few factors to consider that might affect its performance when it's densely packed:
Air Circulation: Freezers require proper air circulation to maintain consistent temperatures. If a freezer is overly packed, the airflow can be restricted, making it harder for the cooling system to remove heat effectively. This could potentially result in uneven cooling or increased energy consumption.
Temperature Fluctuations: When you open the freezer door, warm air enters, and the freezer works to cool it down. If the freezer is tightly packed, it can take longer for the warm air to dissipate, causing temperature fluctuations. However, modern freezers are designed to handle brief temperature changes without significant issues.
Frost Build-up: When a freezer is packed tightly, it can impede proper sealing of the door, leading to increased moisture infiltration. This moisture can result in frost build-up, which could affect the freezer's performance over time if it's not defrosted regularly.
It's worth noting that these factors are more likely to affect the efficiency of the freezer rather than causing it to stop working completely. However, if the freezer is old, has a malfunctioning thermostat, or other mechanical issues, the added strain from being too full could potentially exacerbate the problem.