Magic Chef Freezer runs all the time: Common Causes & How to Fix

Repair Instructions:

Condenser coils located inside the Magic Chef freezer's walls do not need cleaning. However, externally accessed coils behind or below the cabinet should be cleaned every 6-12 months. Dirty condenser coils cannot dissipate heat properly, harming cooling performance. Dust and debris act as insulation that inhibits airflow through the condenser. This forces the compressor to work harder reducing cooling capacity. If the accessible condenser coils are visibly dirty or have not been cleaned in over a year, they should be cleaned.

Repair Instructions:

The temperature control thermostat regulates electrical power to the compressor, evaporator fan, and condenser fan. A malfunctioning thermostat can cause continuous Magic Chef freezer operation. To check it, turn the temperature dial from the coldest to warmest setting. If you hear a "click" sound, the thermostat is likely functional. If it does not click, use a multimeter to test for continuity. If the thermostat contacts remain closed at all settings, it is defective and needs replacing. A faulty thermostat fails to properly control voltage to the components. Replacing the defective thermostat will restore normal on/off cycling based on temperature settings.

How to Replace Magic Chef Freezer Temperature Control Thermostat

1. Unplug Magic Chef freezer - Unplug the Magic Chef freezer before starting to avoid electric shock.

2. Remove control knob - Carefully pry off the temperature control knob to access the mounting screws.

3. Unscrew thermostat - Unscrew and remove the mounting screws to detach the old thermostat from the Magic Chef freezer wall.

4. Disconnect wires - Disconnect the wiring harness from the old thermostat terminals.

5. Install new thermostat - Attach the wiring harness to the terminals on the new thermostat. Position it on the wall and secure with the mounting screws.

6. Replace knob - Line up the knob correctly and snap it back onto the new thermostat shaft.

7. Plug in Magic Chef freezer - Plug the power cord back in once the new thermostat is fully installed.

8. Set temperature - Turn the control knob to set the Magic Chef freezer to the desired temperature.

9. Allow time to cool - Let the Magic Chef freezer run for a few hours to reach the set temperature before returning food.

10. Test operation - Monitor the temperature and adjust as needed to confirm the new thermostat maintains the proper Magic Chef freezer temperature.

Repair Instructions:

The evaporator fan pulls air over the cooling coils and circulates it in the Magic Chef freezer. Typically these motors shut off when the door opens. First, ensure the door is fully closed to engage the door switch. If the switch is on but the fan still won't run, the evaporator motor needs replacing. The sealed fan motor may have internal failure or locked rotor. Check for obstructions like ice buildup as well. Replacing a burned out or malfunctioning evaporator fan motor will reestablish proper airflow when the door switch activates.

How to Replace Magic Chef Freezer Evaporator Fan Motor:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Begin by unplugging the Magic Chef freezer or disconnecting it from the power source to ensure your safety during the replacement.

2. Prepare the Workspace:

   • Empty the Magic Chef freezer and remove any items from inside to access the evaporator fan motor easily.

3. Locate the Evaporator Fan Motor:

   • The evaporator fan motor is typically located in the back of the Magic Chef freezer compartment, often behind a panel or cover.

4. Remove the Cover Panel:

   • To access the fan motor, you'll need to remove the panel or cover that protects it. This panel is usually held in place with screws. Remove these screws and carefully take off the cover.

5. Identify the Fan Motor:

   • Locate the evaporator fan motor, which is a small, cylindrical motor with fan blades attached.

6. Disconnect Wiring:

   • Carefully note how the wires are connected to the fan motor. Unplug or disconnect the wires, remembering their positions.

7. Release the Old Fan Motor:

   • The fan motor is often held in place by brackets or clips. Carefully detach it from these securing mechanisms.

8. Replace with a New Fan Motor:

   • Position the new evaporator fan motor in the same location as the old one, ensuring it's properly aligned and secured.

9. Reconnect Wiring:

   • Reattach the wires to the new fan motor, making sure they are connected in the same way as on the old motor.

10. Replace the Cover Panel:

    • Reattach the cover panel and secure it in place with the screws you removed earlier.

11. Plug the Magic Chef Freezer Back In:

    • Reconnect the Magic Chef freezer to the power source, making sure it's properly plugged in.

12. Test the Magic Chef Freezer:

    • Power on the Magic Chef freezer and listen for the sound of the new evaporator fan motor running. This indicates that it's functioning correctly and circulating cold air.

13. Final Checks:

    • Monitor the Magic Chef freezer for a while to verify that it maintains the desired temperature and that the new fan motor operates without any issues.

Repair Instructions:

The condenser fan pulls air through the condenser coils to remove heat. If this fan stops running, first inspect the blades for blockages and ensure they spin freely. If the blades do not rotate smoothly, the fan motor bearings are worn out requiring replacement. If no obstructions are present and blades move freely, use a multimeter to check continuity in the windings. If testing shows the sealed motor is electrically open, it needs replacing. Replacing a burned out condenser fan motor or one with bad bearings will reestablish proper airflow through the condenser for heat dissipation.

How to Replace Magic Chef Freezer Condenser Fan Motor:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Begin by unplugging the Magic Chef freezer from the power source to ensure safety during the replacement process.

2. Prepare the Workspace:

   • Empty the Magic Chef freezer and remove any items from inside to access the condenser fan motor easily.

3. Locate the Condenser Fan Motor:

   • The condenser fan motor is usually situated at the back or bottom of the Magic Chef freezer, near the condenser coils.

4. Identify Wiring Connections:

   • Carefully note how the wires are connected to the condenser fan motor. Take a photo or make a diagram to remember the connections.

5. Release the Old Fan Motor:

   • The fan motor is typically held in place with screws, brackets, or clips. Remove these fasteners to release the old motor from its mounting location.

6. Replace with a New Fan Motor:

   • Position the new condenser fan motor in the same location as the old one, making sure it's properly aligned with any mounting holes or brackets.

7. Reconnect Wiring:

   • Reattach the wires to the new fan motor, ensuring they are connected in the same way as on the old motor.

8. Secure the New Fan Motor:

   • Fasten the new condenser fan motor in place with the same screws, brackets, or clips that held the old one.

9. Plug the Magic Chef Freezer Back In:

   • Reconnect the Magic Chef freezer to the power source, making sure it's properly plugged in.

10. Test the Magic Chef Freezer:

    • Power on the Magic Chef freezer and listen for the sound of the new condenser fan motor running. It should effectively circulate air over the condenser coils.

11. Final Checks:

    • Monitor the Magic Chef freezer for a while to ensure it maintains the desired temperature and that the new fan motor operates without any issues.

Repair Instructions:

The defrost timer periodically turns on the defrost heater to clear frost accumulating on the evaporator coils. If the heater fails to activate, ice will continue building up and eventually block airflow. For the timer to initiate defrost mode, its internal motor must advance into the defrost cycle position. If the timer motor stalls, the heater won't turn on. To test, manually rotate the timer until it clicks off the compressor/fans. If the defrost heater then activates properly, the timer is faulty and requires replacement. A stalled timer will prevent defrost cycles from running.

How to Replace Magic Chef Freezer Defrost Timer:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Prioritize safety by unplugging the Magic Chef freezer from the power source to prevent electrical accidents.

2. Prepare the Workspace:

   • Empty the Magic Chef freezer and remove any items from inside to access the defrost timer easily.

3. Locate the Defrost Timer:

   • The defrost timer is typically situated on the rear exterior of the Magic Chef freezer, often behind a protective cover or panel.

4. Identify Wiring Connections:

   • Carefully note how the wires are connected to the defrost timer. Take a photo or make a diagram to remember the connections.

5. Release the Old Defrost Timer:

   • The timer is usually secured with screws or clips. Remove these fasteners to release the old timer from its mounting location.

6. Replace with a New Defrost Timer:

   • Position the new defrost timer in the same location as the old one, making sure it's properly aligned with any mounting holes or brackets.

7. Reconnect Wiring:

   • Reattach the wires to the new defrost timer, ensuring they are connected in the same way as on the old timer.

8. Secure the New Timer:

   • Fasten the new defrost timer in place with screws or clips.

9. Plug the Magic Chef Freezer Back In:

   • Reconnect the Magic Chef freezer to the power source, making sure it's properly plugged in.

10. Test the Magic Chef Freezer:

    • Power on the Magic Chef freezer and monitor the defrost cycle. Check that the new timer functions correctly, initiating defrost cycles as intended.

11. Final Checks:

    • Confirm that the Magic Chef freezer maintains the desired temperature and that the defrost timer performs its function without any issues.

Repair Instructions:

The Magic Chef freezer thermistor is a temperature sensor located inside the Magic Chef freezer compartment. It measures the air temperature and provides input to the control board. The control board uses this input to determine when to turn the cooling system on and off. If the thermistor fails, the control board will not receive accurate temperature readings. A damaged thermistor may improperly sense very high temperatures even when the Magic Chef freezer has reached the set point. The control board then falsely believes the Magic Chef freezer needs cooling and keeps the compressor and evaporator fan running nonstop. Replacing the faulty thermistor with a new one restores accurate temperature data to the control board.

How to Replace Magic Chef Freezer User Control and Display Board:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Prioritize safety by unplugging the Magic Chef freezer from the power source to prevent electrical accidents.

2. Prepare the Workspace:

   • Empty the Magic Chef freezer and remove any items from inside to access the control and display board easily.

3. Locate the User Control and Display Board:

   • The control and display board is typically situated on the Magic Chef freezer door or inside the Magic Chef freezer compartment, depending on the Magic Chef freezer model.

4. Disconnect Wiring:

   • Carefully take note of how the wires are connected to the control board. Unplug or disconnect the wires from the board, remembering their positions.

5. Remove the Old Control and Display Board:

   • The control and display board is usually secured with screws, clips, or brackets. Remove these fasteners to release the old board from its mounting location.

6. Replace with a New User Control and Display Board:

   • Position the new control and display board in the same location as the old one, making sure it's properly aligned with any mounting holes or brackets.

7. Reconnect Wiring:

   • Reattach the wires to the new control board, making sure they are connected in the same way as on the old board.

8. Secure the New Board:

   • Fasten the new user control and display board in place with screws, clips, or brackets.

9. Plug the Magic Chef Freezer Back In:

   • Reconnect the Magic Chef freezer to the power source, ensuring it's properly plugged in.

10. Test the Magic Chef Freezer:

    • Power on the Magic Chef freezer and check that the control board functions correctly. Verify that the Magic Chef freezer maintains the desired temperature and that the display board responds to user input.

11. Final Checks:

    • Monitor the Magic Chef freezer for a while to verify that the control and display board performs its functions without any issues.

Repair Instructions:

The Magic Chef freezer door gasket is a rubber seal that runs around the perimeter of the Magic Chef freezer door. Its purpose is to form an airtight seal between the Magic Chef freezer door and the Magic Chef freezer cabinet when the door is closed. If the gasket becomes damaged or worn out, it can lose its ability to seal properly. Air gaps and leaks will then form around the Magic Chef freezer door. This allows cold air to escape from the Magic Chef freezer and warmer ambient air to seep in. To compensate for the heat gain, the Magic Chef freezer will run its cooling system continuously in an attempt to maintain the set Magic Chef freezer temperature. Replacing the worn or damaged Magic Chef freezer door gasket will re-establish the proper seal and allow the Magic Chef freezer to operate normally.

How to Replace Magic Chef Freezer Door Gasket

1. Unplug Magic Chef freezer - Unplug the Magic Chef freezer to avoid electric shock while working on it.

2. Remove old gasket - Use a flathead screwdriver to pry up the old gasket from the door frame. Remove any remaining adhesive residue.

3. Clean surface - Wipe down the Magic Chef freezer door frame thoroughly to remove dirt and debris. Ensure the surface is dry.

4. Apply adhesive - Run a bead of gasket adhesive along the door frame where the new gasket will be installed.

5. Install new gasket - Starting at the corner, press the new gasket firmly into place along the adhesive on the frame.

6. Trim excess - Use scissors to trim off any excess gasket material around the door.

7. Allow adhesive to dry - Let the adhesive cure fully before using the Magic Chef freezer, usually 24-48 hours.

8. Plug in Magic Chef freezer - Plug the Magic Chef freezer back in and make sure the door seals properly when closed.

9. Test seal - Place a piece of paper between the gasket and frame and close the door. The paper should be held firmly in place and difficult to pull out, indicating a good seal.

Repair Instructions:

The main control board is often misdiagnosed as faulty when other parts are the real culprit. Prior to replacing the control board, first verify proper operation of common failure points like the compressor, fans, thermostat, and timers. Only replace the board once other components are confirmed to be working correctly. The control board relies on proper inputs to direct operation of the various electrical components. Faulty parts can provide incorrect signals to the board and mimic a control defect. Therefore, rule out malfunctioning parts first before assuming control board failure.

How to Replace Magic Chef Freezer Main Control Board:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Prioritize safety by unplugging the Magic Chef freezer from the power source to prevent electrical accidents.

2. Prepare the Workspace:

   • Empty the Magic Chef freezer and remove any items from inside to access the control board easily.

3. Locate the Main Control Board:

   • The main control board is typically situated on the rear exterior of the Magic Chef freezer, often behind a protective cover or panel.

4. Identify Wiring Connections:

   • Carefully note how the wires are connected to the control board. Take a photo or make a diagram to remember the connections.

5. Release the Old Main Control Board:

   • The control board is usually secured with screws or clips. Remove these fasteners to release the old board from its mounting location.

6. Replace with a New Main Control Board:

   • Position the new main control board in the same location as the old one, making sure it's properly aligned with any mounting holes or brackets.

7. Reconnect Wiring:

   • Reattach the wires to the new control board, making sure they are connected in the same way as on the old board.

8. Secure the New Board:

   • Fasten the new main control board in place with screws or clips.

9. Plug the Magic Chef Freezer Back In:

   • Reconnect the Magic Chef freezer to the power source, making sure it's properly plugged in.

10. Test the Magic Chef Freezer:

    • Power on the Magic Chef freezer and check that the control board functions correctly. Verify that the Magic Chef freezer maintains the desired temperature and operates as intended.

11. Final Checks:

    • Monitor the Magic Chef freezer for a while to verify that the control board performs its functions without any issues.

Repair Instructions:

Magic Chef Freezers have a door closing cam that holds doors open and draws them shut. If this cam is damaged, the door may not fully close on its own. Gaps left by improper closure let warm air enter the Magic Chef freezer interior. This causes the compressor to run excessively trying to cool the warmer air. Inspect the closing cam for any broken parts, wear, or defects preventing proper function. Check that the door is closing completely when shut. If the cam is damaged and unable to close the door, replace it.

How to Replace Magic Chef Freezer Closing Cam

1. Unplug Magic Chef freezer - Unplug the power cord before starting to avoid electric shock.

2. Remove food and shelves - Take out removable shelves and food items to clear the work area.

3. Locate closing cam - The closing cam is attached to the bottom hinge. Consult the Magic Chef freezer manual if you can't find it.

4. Detach cam - Remove the screw or clip securing the closing cam to detach it from the hinge.

5. Install new cam - Align and attach the replacement closing cam to the bottom hinge with the mounting screw or clip.

6. Adjust cam - Turn the hex nut on the back of the cam to adjust it in or out as needed.

7. Test door closing - Open and close the door multiple times to ensure it seals properly.

8. Replace food and shelves - Return the removable shelves and food items to the Magic Chef freezer.

9. Plug in Magic Chef freezer - Plug the power cord back in once the closing cam is replaced.

10. Fine tune adjustment - Monitor door closing and adjust cam as needed to achieve proper seal.

Repair Instructions:

The Magic Chef freezer thermistor is a temperature sensor located inside the Magic Chef freezer compartment. It measures the air temperature and provides feedback to the control board. The control board uses this temperature reading to regulate the compressor and refrigerant flow to maintain the target Magic Chef freezer temperature. If the thermistor is defective, it may fail to provide an accurate temperature reading to the control board. As a result, the Magic Chef freezer will be unable to maintain freezing temperatures. To test the thermistor, use a multimeter to check its resistance at various temperatures and compare to the resistance values listed on the tech sheet. If the resistance readings do not align with the spec, the thermistor is defective and needs to be replaced.

How to Replace Magic Chef Freezer Thermistor

1. Unplug Magic Chef freezer - Unplug the power cord before starting to avoid electric shock.

2. Locate thermistor - The thermistor is usually mounted to the side wall inside the Magic Chef freezer compartment. Consult the Magic Chef freezer manual if unsure.

3. Disconnect wiring - Remove the thermistor wiring harness connector by gently pulling it off the thermistor pins.

4. Remove mounting screws - Unscrew and remove any mounting screws securing the thermistor bracket to the Magic Chef freezer wall.

5. Install new thermistor - Secure the new thermistor to the wall using the mounting screws. Reconnect the wiring harness to the thermistor pins.

6. Check connections - Make sure the wiring connections are fully secured and any loose wires are tucked away neatly.

7. Plug in Magic Chef freezer - Plug the electrical cord back into the outlet once the new thermistor is installed.

8. Allow Magic Chef freezer to cool - Let the Magic Chef freezer reach its set temperature before returning any food items.

9. Test operation - Monitor the temperature over time to confirm the new thermistor is giving accurate readings.

10. Contact support - If temperature issues persist, unplug the Magic Chef freezer and contact support for troubleshooting.

Repair Instructions:

The Magic Chef freezer control board is the main electronic control center that regulates the operation of the Magic Chef freezer. It controls when the compressor turns on and off based on input from the thermostat temperature sensor. A malfunctioning Magic Chef freezer control board can incorrectly command the compressor to run continuously, even when the set temperature has been reached. This causes the Magic Chef freezer to run excessively as it tries to cool to a temperature lower than what is set. A defective control board may fail to send the signal to turn the compressor off, or inaccurately sense that the Magic Chef freezer temperature is higher than it actually is. Replacing the faulty control board with a properly working one will restore the proper on/off compressor cycling needed to maintain the set Magic Chef freezer temperature without continuous operation.

How to Replace Magic Chef Freezer Control Board:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Make sure your safety by unplugging the Magic Chef freezer or disconnecting it from the power source to prevent electrical accidents.

2. Prepare the Workspace:

   • Empty the Magic Chef freezer and remove any items from inside to access the control board easily.

3. Locate the Control Board:

   • The control board is typically located on the rear interior wall of the Magic Chef freezer or inside the control panel on the exterior of the appliance.

4. Disconnect Wiring:

   • Carefully take note of how the wires are connected to the control board. Unplug or disconnect the wires from the board, remembering their positions.

5. Remove the Old Control Board:

   • The control board may be secured with screws or clips. Remove these fasteners to release the old board from its mounting location.

6. Replace with a New Control Board:

   • Position the new control board in the same location as the old one, ensuring it's properly aligned with any mounting holes or brackets.

7. Reconnect Wiring:

   • Reattach the wires to the new control board, making sure they are connected in the same way as on the old board.

8. Secure the New Board:

   • Fasten the new control board in place with screws or clips.

9. Restore Power:

   • Plug the Magic Chef freezer back in or reconnect it to the power source.

10. Test the Magic Chef Freezer:

    • Make sure the Magic Chef freezer is running and cooling as expected. Adjust the temperature settings on the control board to the desired level.

11. Final Checks:

    • Monitor the Magic Chef freezer for a while to verify that it maintains the set temperature and functions properly.

Repair Instructions:

The defrost heater periodically activates to melt frost on the evaporator coils. First, the defrost thermostat must sense the coils are sufficiently cold before allowing heater operation. Typically the coils must be below 30°F for the thermostat to close its contacts. If defective, the thermostat won't activate the heater even when cold enough. This allows frost accumulation on the coils over time. Use a multimeter to check the thermostat switch contacts for electrical continuity. If testing shows the thermostat remains open regardless of temperature, replace it.

How to Replace Magic Chef Freezer Defrost Thermostat

1. Unplug the Magic Chef freezer - Unplug the Magic Chef freezer from the electrical outlet to avoid electric shock.

2. Remove food and shelves - Take out all food items and removable shelves from the Magic Chef freezer to provide easy access.

3. Locate thermostat - The defrost thermostat is usually located behind the back Magic Chef freezer wall. Consult the Magic Chef freezer's user manual if you can't find it.

4. Disconnect thermostat wires - Remove the thermostat cover and disconnect the wiring harness by pulling it off the thermostat terminals.

5. Unscrew thermostat - Unscrew and remove the old thermostat from the Magic Chef freezer wall.

6. Install new thermostat - Screw in the new thermostat and snap the wiring harness onto the terminals. Ensure the connections are tight.

7. Replace cover and shelves - Put the thermostat cover back on and return the shelves and food items to the Magic Chef freezer.

8. Plug in Magic Chef freezer - Plug the Magic Chef freezer back into the electrical outlet and check that it starts up normally.

9. Test operation - Allow the Magic Chef freezer to cool down completely, then confirm the new thermostat cycles on and off as expected during defrost cycles.

Repair Instructions:

Ensure the Magic Chef freezer doors are closing completely and sealing properly. A door prevented from full closure can prevent proper cooling. Check that storage bins or food packages are not obstructing the door. Any gap caused by an obstruction can allow warm air into the Magic Chef freezer interior. This makes the compressor run constantly in an attempt to maintain temperature. Blocked doors also disrupt air circulation needed for even cooling.

Repair Instructions:

Magic Chef Freezers are designed to operate optimally in 60°F to 95°F room temperatures. Performance suffers as ambient air becomes hotter and more humid. Warmer conditions force the compressor to run more to maintain freezing temperatures. For best efficiency, keep the surrounding air within the 60°-95°F range.

Repair Instructions:

Chest Magic Chef freezers contain evaporator coils concealed in the insulating walls. Upright models may use shelves as the cooling coils. If only one shelf or section frosts up during operation, there may be a refrigerant leak. Leaks in the sealed cooling system are typically uneconomical to repair. Loss of refrigerant indicates the sealed components have failed. Magic Chef Freezers cannot operate properly without an intact, pressurized refrigeration circuit. So a leaking sealed system usually requires total Magic Chef freezer replacement.