Component Failure

• A freezer can short out due to the failure of one or more components in the freezer's electrical system. Any time the plastic insulation around wires becomes worn through, whether due to age or accidental damage, wires are at risk of touching one another or metal surfaces and short circuiting. If a freezer's capacitor fails, it may allow wires to become too hot, melting through their insulation and contacting one another with the same results.
  
  

Problems With Water

• Water can also cause a freezer to short out. This typically occurs when water leaks out of the freezer around its door. For example, if the freezer's drain tube becomes blocked with ice or debris, water can pool up inside and run out around the door seal. A faulty door seal can speed up the process. Once water reaches the freezer's electrical system, it causes a short circuit by coming into contact with exposed wiring.
  
  

Repair Options

• The proper procedure for repairing a freezer that's experienced a short circuit depends on the cause of the problem. Clearing the drain tube and replacing the rubber or silicone gasket around the door will prevent water from leaking out. In many cases a short circuit will cause a fuse in the freezer to blow, which will need replacement before the freezer will run again. Shorted relays require replacement, as do any wires that are stripped of their insulation.
  
  

Consequences

• In some cases a freezer that shorts out will simply stop running. With this scenario the worst that can happen is the food inside thaws and needs to be disposed of. However, freezers that short out can also cause fires. This is a risk when failed capacitors allow wiring to heat up or when short circuits result in sparks that ignite nearby flammable material. Keep the area around your freezer clear and inspect the wiring when you install or move it to keep your home and family safe.