If water is collecting at the bottom of your upright freezer when it's not running, there are a few possible causes and solutions you can explore before resorting to throwing away your food:
Clogged or blocked drain line: The freezer is equipped with a drain line that allows water from defrost cycles to flow into a drip pan located at the bottom. If the drain line becomes clogged or blocked, the water may overflow and pool at the bottom of the freezer. To address this, you can try to locate the drain line and gently unclog it using a pipe cleaner or a small, flexible brush.
Improper door seal: A faulty door seal can lead to warm air entering the freezer, causing frost to form. When the freezer goes through a defrost cycle, the frost melts, and the water may not drain properly due to the seal issue. Check the door seal for any damage or debris and replace it if necessary.
Evaporator fan malfunction: The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating air inside the freezer. If it's not functioning correctly, it can cause frost to build up, leading to water accumulation. Inspect the fan to ensure it's running correctly or have it replaced if needed.
Excessive frost buildup: If the freezer hasn't been defrosted regularly, it can develop an excessive amount of frost on the evaporator coils. This can eventually lead to water pooling at the bottom when the frost melts during defrost cycles. In this case, manually defrosting the freezer can help. Turn off the freezer, remove all the food, and let the ice melt. You can expedite the process by placing bowls of hot water inside the freezer or using a hairdryer to gently melt the ice. Remember to dry the interior thoroughly before turning the freezer back on.
Faulty defrost timer or heater: If the defrost timer or defrost heater is not functioning correctly, the freezer might not go through the defrost cycle as it should, resulting in excessive frost buildup and subsequent water pooling. Consult the user manual or seek the assistance of a professional technician to diagnose and fix the issue.
Before attempting any repairs or troubleshooting, ensure the freezer is unplugged to avoid electrical hazards. If you're uncertain about the cause of the problem or unsure about how to proceed, it's best to contact a qualified appliance repair technician who can diagnose and fix the issue for you.