This investigation involves consumer complaints regarding bottom mounted freezer leaks in a range of refrigerator models sold by several leading manufacturers.
Overview of Bottom Freezer Leaks Investigation
A multitude of complaints have been reported to refrigerator manufacturers over an extended period that allege similar bottom mounted freezer product failure. Freezers commonly have a heating element that turns on several times a day to melt any frost that has collected on the evaporator. The water that is melted off the evaporator then drains through a line and is collected in a pan on the bottom of the freezer. If the drainage line clogs, the water can back up inside the drain tube line and freeze, which blocks the water from draining. The excess water then flows over the accumulated water in the bottom of the freezer, resulting in water leaking onto the floor. A layer of ice at the bottom of the freezer can also indicate a blocked drainage tube.
Many bottom freezer refrigerator model owners have posted complaints detailing their product failure issues, such as:
“Recently water was dripping from the door.” 10/2/15
“ About 2 month age water was forming and freezing on the bottom of the freezer compartment and leaking on the floor. It appears that this is a common design flaw recognized by Maytag with an updated part available that is intended to correct this problem.” 7/21/15
“Like so many other people reviewing Maytag refrigerators with bottom freezers, I am dealing with water on the floor.” 6/25/15
“We have had nothing but problems. First it was the water leaking all over the floor.” 6/10/15
“I have had this refrigerator for less than 3 years. It recently started leaking water on the floor and all over the bottom of the freezer.” 6/7/15
Refrigerator Brands Included in Investigation
Refrigerator manufacturers that are currently being investigated for faulty bottom freezer design include:
- Amana
- Kenmore (several leading brands sold under this name)
- Jenn-Air
- KitchenAid
- Maytag
- Whirlpool
Owners of bottom freezer design refrigerators who have experienced water leaks from their freezer that required product repair may have a claim against the manufacturer.
Article Type: Investigation
Topic: Consumer
