Electrolux
Electrical Short or Ground Fault
Freezer trips the household circuit breaker or GFCI outlet.
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Shorted compressor windings, Shorted defrost heater, Damaged power cord, Moisture in electrical connections
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Do not repeatedly reset a breaker that trips immediately; this indicates a potentially dangerous fault.
- 1. Try a different outlet: Plug the freezer into a non-GFCI outlet on a dedicated circuit if possible, to rule out nuisance trips.
- 2. Inspect power cord: Look for cuts, crushed sections, or burn marks. Replace the cord if damaged.
- 3. Check defrost heater: With the unit unplugged, disconnect the defrost heater and test its resistance to ground. Replace if shorted.
- 4. Test compressor to ground: Measure resistance from each compressor terminal to the metal shell. Any continuity indicates a shorted compressor requiring professional replacement.
- 5. Moisture inspection: Look for water in junction boxes or on the control board. Dry thoroughly and correct any leaks.
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Repair Difficulty
Professional Required
5/5
Required Part
Defrost Heater Assembly
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