Appliance Repair in 19066 · Lower Merion & Narberth

Built-in refrigerators sit flush with the cabinets and are often covered with custom panels that match the kitchen. They are designed for long service, and when something goes wrong, the repair is usually worth doing. Their design is different from a freestanding refrigerator in an important way: most built-ins move air through a top-mounted or bottom grille rather than a coil in the back, and that grille and its condenser must stay clean.

Dust and lint buildup on the condenser is one of the most common causes of a built-in that runs warm, runs constantly or makes more noise than it used to. Many owners do not realize the condenser needs periodic cleaning. Other typical repairs include door gaskets that no longer seal tightly, evaporator fans, ice maker assemblies, water valves and electronic controls.

Built-in units are heavy and installed in tight openings, so pulling one out for service takes care, and some repairs must be done in place. Panel-ready models may require removing a custom panel without damaging the cabinetry. As an independent company we are not a manufacturer's authorized servicer, so a unit still under the manufacturer's warranty may need to go through them, but outside warranty we can diagnose the unit, explain what failed and provide a written estimate. Because these units often run for many years, a cleaning schedule for the condenser grille, a couple of times a year in most homes, is one of the simplest ways to protect the compressor.

Have the brand, model and serial number ready; on many built-ins the label is inside the fresh-food section near the top. Clear items from the top grille area and the floor in front. Tell us whether the unit has custom panels and whether the installation paperwork is available.