PFSS6PKXASS GE refrigerator not working after power outage

[bob916]

Model Number

PFSS6PKXASS

Brand

GE

Age

More than 10 years

Last night we had a power outage, but instead of a full outage, our lights dimmed for about an hour. When I took a meter to an outlet the voltage was 60V! I should have shutoff all our appliances, but didn't think to do so. So somewhere the utility lost a leg. This afternoon we realized the refrigerator is not working, the freezer side is at around 34 degrees and food side about 58. I suspect our compressor burned out from the low voltage? Putting it into diagnostic mode shows four 8s though with nothing indicating a failed component, or would that diagnostic not catch a failed compressor. Contemplating replacing it entirely since it is 12 years old and has other issues. I'm tempted to call the utility (SMUD) and ask if they have a fund to replace appliances!

-Bob

 

[Jake]

I suspect our compressor burned out from the low voltage?

Yes, I agree Bob.

Contemplating replacing it entirely since it is 12 years old and has other issues.

Yes, that would make more sense than having a new compressor installed at 12 years old.

I'm tempted to call the utility (SMUD) and ask if they have a fund to replace appliances!

Yes, that would be a good idea.

 

[bob916]

New unit bought. Somewhat disappointed comparing it to our 12 year old unit. It's a lot nosier then the old one. And the ice/water dispenser leaks, a problem with the old one too. You'd think GE would have this solved, except a leaking dispenser on this new model is not good since there's no catch basin. Why why why.

Model #GFE28GYNFS

 

[bigbuck]

Last night we had a power outage, but instead of a full outage, our lights dimmed for about an hour. When I took a meter to an outlet the voltage was 60V! I should have shutoff all our appliances, but didn't think to do so. So somewhere the utility lost a leg. This afternoon we realized the refrigerator is not working, the freezer side is at around 34 degrees and food side about 58. I suspect our compressor burned out from the low voltage? Putting it into diagnostic mode shows four 8s though with nothing indicating a failed component, or would that diagnostic not catch a failed compressor. Contemplating replacing it entirely since it is 12 years old and has other issues. I'm tempted to call the utility (SMUD) and ask if they have a fund to replace appliances!

-Bob

This was made by Samsung for GE

 

[bob916]

Yep, I knew that already. When the ice maker quit dispensing (the heating element/fuse) I was able to replace it with a simple $5 part instead of purchasing the Samsung part number. I'd guess the new GE we bought is still Samsung too. It leaks water like the Samsung!

 

[Jake]

No, your new GE is a GE, Haier from China, bought out GE appliances in 2016.

Did you draw 10 full glasses of water from the water dispenser to get the air out of the lines on this new GE?

If so and its still leaking, its best to contact GE at 1-800-432-2737 to have GE come out and see, especially since its still under the 1 year warranty.

 

[bob916]

Yep, I filled up probably more than 10 glasses worth. It still leaked. When I switch to Ice, the leaking wasn't as bad, but it's a few drips every 30-40 mins. There were so many other issues with this unit that I was not confidant it would last. Returned it to Lowes under the 48 hour appliance return policy, glad I did, the supervisor I talked to at first saw I purchased on Saturday and started to say it was over 48 hours (thinking I took it home myself) until I told him it was delivered on Sunday!

 

[Jake]

Ok good, did you buy the Whirlpool instead?

 

[bob916]

Ok good, did you buy the Whirlpool instead?

I went with this Frigidaire model:

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Frigidaire-27-8-Cu-Ft-French-Door-Refrigerator/5013049899

 

[Jake]

Ok, sounds good.

 

[bob916]

Seems like this is going to be a never ending story. Is the quality of stuff lately so bad that it's hit or miss? After 30 hours the Frigidaire replacement is reading about 44 degrees on top, I have it set to 38 on the panel. The freezer is at 20 degrees, set to -2 on panel. I've checked it a few times and the temp isn't going down and the panel display goes out as if it's reached those temps. It's at least producing ice and the water dispenser doesn't drip like the GE!

 

[Jake]

Oh my goodness, you are having a completely different issue on this Frigidaire.

It should be about -2F in the freezer and about 38F in the refrigerator section after 30 hours.

Sounds like you may have a sealed system problem.

You can contact Frigidaire support UNDER WARRANTY at 1-800-374-4432 and they will locate a Frigidaire tech near you or click here: https://www.frigidaire.com/Owner-Center/Service--Repair/Certified-Frigidaire-Service--Repair/

Or return it to the store for an exchange.

 

[bob916]

Yeah, 48 hours and Lowes takes them back. I was at about 32 hours when they processed another pickup/drop-off of the same model. So we'll see. If this one fails I'm done with Lowes and purchasing appliances from them. Will go to an appliance store and try another model/brand in the $3,000 range.

 

[Jake]

Ok, thanks for the update! Let us know how the new Frigidaire does.

We techs here all recommend Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Amana, Jenn-Air for the best reliability and longevity.

 

[bob916]

Thanks, hopefully I won't have to go to a 4th, but if I do it'll be one of those.

 

[Jake]

Ok, sounds good.