If your water cooler is not cooling, it can be a frustrating and inconvenient issue. However, with the right troubleshooting steps and technical knowledge, you can often resolve the problem and restore your cooler’s cooling function. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the various causes of a non-cooling water cooler and provide you with a step-by-step playbook to fix it.
Checking the Power Supply
The first step in troubleshooting a non-cooling water cooler is to ensure that the power supply is functioning correctly. Start by verifying that the cooler is plugged in and the power switch is turned on. If the cooler is still not working, try resetting it by unplugging it from the power source, waiting for a few seconds, and then plugging it back in.
If the power supply appears to be working, but the cooler is still not cooling, you may need to check the internal electrical components, such as the relay and overload protector. These components play a crucial role in the cooler’s operation and can be the source of the problem if they are faulty.
Inspecting the Water Supply
For mains-fed water coolers, it’s essential to check the water supply. Make sure the blue water isolation tap on the water connection pipe at the back of the unit is turned to the ‘ON’ position. If your model has a reset button, slide it to clear any errors that may be preventing the water from flowing properly.
For bottled water coolers, an airlock can sometimes prevent the cooler from dispensing water. To fix this, remove the bottle from the unit and drain all the water from the inside chamber using the taps. Replace the bottle and wait for the unit to refill.
Adjusting the Thermostat
If the water cooler is not cooling properly, the thermostat may be set too high. Try lowering the thermostat to see if it resolves the issue. The optimal temperature range for a water cooler is typically between 40°F (4°C) and 50°F (10°C). Adjust the thermostat accordingly and monitor the cooling performance.
Checking the Compressor
If the water cooler is still not cooling, the compressor may be faulty. The compressor is the heart of the cooling system, and a malfunctioning compressor can prevent the cooler from effectively lowering the water temperature.
To check the compressor, you’ll need to access the back of the cooler and inspect the compressor for any visible signs of damage or wear. If the compressor appears to be the issue, you may need to replace it or the entire cooler, depending on the severity of the problem.
Replacing the Relay and Overload Protector
As mentioned earlier, the relay and overload protector are critical electrical components that can cause a water cooler to stop cooling if they are faulty. Let’s take a closer look at these components and the steps to replace them.
Relay
The relay is an electrical component that switches electrical circuits on and off. If the relay is malfunctioning, it can prevent the cooler’s compressor from starting or running properly, leading to a lack of cooling.
To replace the relay, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the water cooler and unplug it from the power source for safety.
2. Remove the grill on the back of the cooler to access the relay.
3. Locate the relay and disconnect the wires connected to it.
4. Remove the relay by unscrewing it from the cooler.
5. Install the new relay by screwing it into place and reconnecting the wires.
6. Reassemble the cooler and test the cooling function.
Overload Protector
The overload protector is a safety device that protects the cooler’s compressor from overheating. If the overload protector is faulty, it can cause the compressor to shut down, preventing the cooler from cooling effectively.
To replace the overload protector, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the water cooler and unplug it from the power source for safety.
2. Remove the grill on the back of the cooler to access the overload protector.
3. Locate the overload protector and disconnect the wires connected to it.
4. Remove the overload protector by unscrewing it from the cooler.
5. Install the new overload protector by screwing it into place and reconnecting the wires.
6. Reassemble the cooler and test the cooling function.
Remember to always handle electrical components with caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific water cooler model.
Conclusion
Fixing a water cooler that is not cooling can be a straightforward process if you follow the right troubleshooting steps and have the necessary technical knowledge. By checking the power supply, water supply, thermostat, compressor, and replacing faulty electrical components like the relay and overload protector, you can often resolve the issue and restore your water cooler’s cooling function.
Remember to always prioritize safety when working on any electrical appliance, and consider seeking professional assistance if you’re unsure about the repair process or encounter any complex issues. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle a non-cooling water cooler and enjoy the refreshing benefits of a properly functioning water cooler.
References:
– Why Isn’t My Water Cooler Working? Quick and Easy Troubleshooting Tips
– My water cooler is working but not cooling
– How to Fix a Hamilton Beach Water Cooler That Stopped Cooling