WRX988SIBM00 Whirlpool Refrigerator Not Cooling

[dj_001]

Model Number

WRX988SIBM00

Brand

Whirlpool

Age

6-10 years

My Whirlpool dual evaporator fridge stopped cooling in both compartments

When I plug it in, it starts by attempting to cool the fridge section. I've confirmed that the compressor and compressor fan are working. The compressor gets hot as does one of the lines coming out of it. I can feel the fridge evaporator fan blowing. The system will cool to about upper 40s and then switch to the freezer. I can't figure out how to get the crisper floor removed so I haven't looked at the fridge evaporator yet.

Once switched to the freezer the system runs for about 4 hours and eventually get to about 15F. Then the temp starts to ramp up. The compressor, compressor fan, and freezer evaporator fan are working through out this phase. As the temperature starts to rise I pulled the evaporator cover and took the attached photo. There's a little ice forming on the top right tube, but I don't see any frost building on the evaporator itself. The evaporator does have moisture build up.

I have not checked thermistors, or anything related to heating elements (which I think only exist in the freezer compartment). The appliance is about 10 years old

Can anyone suggest how I should proceed?

Thank you

 

[Jake]

Unfortunately, you have a sealed system problem, all the coils should have a thin layer of frost on them from top to bottom.

Look at the very bottom photo below where it says NORMAL FROST PATTERN.

 

[dj_001]

Jake,

Thanks for the response. I kind of figured that might be the case, but I'd hoped someone more knowledgeable might point me in another (less complicated resolution) direction...

Based on my reading here is looks like a 'sealed' system fix will be somewhere between $500-$1000. Is that worth pursuing on a 10 year old system? Or is spending that money on a new unit a better 'investment'?

I realize answers to this question are subjective, but I'd appreciate any insight people might have

 

[Jake]

Based on my reading here is looks like a 'sealed' system fix will be somewhere between $500-$1000. Is that worth pursuing on a 10 year old system? Or is spending that money on a new unit a better 'investment'?

Yes, usually its closer to $1000 to repair it.

Usually at 10 years old it would cost more to fix than its worth, as other parts are naturally wearing as well with usage.

So, you may want to consider saving the repair money for a new refrigerator.

 

[dj_001]

Thanks so much for taking the time and providing your insight...

 

[Jake]

Glad to help!