Freezer emits a persistent musty or moldy odor even after cleaning.

Safety first: Unplug the freezer before deep cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage plastic surfaces.

Step-by-step checks:

• 1. Empty and defrost: Remove all food and shelves. Allow any ice to melt.
• 2. Clean interior: Wash all interior surfaces with a solution of mild detergent and warm water, followed by a wipe-down with a baking soda solution (about 2 tablespoons per liter of water).
• 3. Clean gasket: Gently pull back the door gasket folds and clean thoroughly with soapy water, then dry.
• 4. Drain pan: From the rear, remove and clean the drain pan above the compressor if accessible. Rinse and dry before reinstalling.
• 5. Air out: Leave the door open for several hours to allow the cabinet to dry and odors to dissipate before restarting.

When to call a technician: If odors persist and you suspect contamination in inaccessible insulation areas, professional assessment may be needed, though replacement is sometimes more economical.