If your fridge is making a dripping sound like a waterfall and is not freezing properly, there might be several possible causes for this issue. Here are some common reasons:
Defective or clogged defrost drain: The dripping sound could be due to a blocked or malfunctioning defrost drain. When the defrost system operates, it melts the ice buildup on the evaporator coils, and the resulting water should drain through the defrost drain into a drip tray at the bottom of the fridge. If the defrost drain is clogged or damaged, the water may overflow and create the dripping sound. Additionally, a blocked defrost drain can lead to ice accumulation in the freezer, affecting its ability to freeze properly.
Faulty defrost timer or control board: The defrost system relies on a timer or control board to regulate the defrost cycles. If either of these components malfunctions, the defrosting process may not occur as intended, leading to excessive ice buildup and water leakage in the freezer.
Door gasket issues: If the door gaskets (rubber seals around the fridge and freezer doors) are damaged, worn out, or not sealing properly, warm air from outside can enter the refrigerator, causing condensation to form. The dripping sound could be the result of melting ice due to this condensation.
Evaporator fan malfunction: The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating cold air throughout the fridge and freezer compartments. If it is not functioning correctly, the cold air may not be distributed evenly, leading to improper cooling in the freezer.
Refrigerant leak: A refrigerant leak can lead to a decrease in cooling performance. If the fridge is low on refrigerant, it may struggle to maintain the desired temperature in the freezer.
Faulty temperature control or thermistor: The temperature control or thermistor (temperature sensor) in the refrigerator could be faulty, resulting in inaccurate temperature readings and improper cooling.
To address these issues and troubleshoot the problem effectively, it's best to have a qualified appliance repair technician inspect and diagnose your refrigerator. They will be able to identify the exact cause of the dripping sound and cooling problem and perform the necessary repairs or replacements to get your fridge working properly again.