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Can I replace fridge parts myself?
Yes. On an Admiral AS20M7W side-by-side refrigerator, we recommend DIY replacement for many non-sealed-system items (bins, shelves, light covers, some switches, and door gaskets). For sealed cooling system or complex electrical repairs, use a qualified technician for safe, reliable results.
Good DIY repairs vs. repairs to leave to a pro
Typically DIY-friendly (basic tools, low risk):
- Door bins, shelves, and drawer hardware
- Door gasket (seal) cleaning, reshaping, or replacement
- Interior light bulb or light cover (if accessible)
- Water filter changes and dispenser air purging
- Ice maker troubleshooting steps (clogs, fill issues, basic checks)
Typically pro-level (higher shock, fire, or refrigerant risk):
- Compressor, evaporator, condenser, or any sealed refrigerant lines
- Control board diagnostics and wiring harness repairs
- Defrost heater circuit troubleshooting when testing live voltage is required
Before you start (safe, fast checklist)
- Unplug the refrigerator or switch off the breaker.
- Turn off the water supply if you are working on the dispenser, filter, or ice maker.
- Protect floors; use towels for meltwater and a shallow pan for drips.
- Take photos of wire connections and screw locations as you disassemble.
- Confirm the full model number is AS20M7W before ordering parts.
Quick decision table
| What you’re fixing | Skill level | Typical tools | Best next step |
|---|---|---|---|
| Door not sealing, warm spots, condensation | DIY | Warm soapy water, hair dryer (low), putty knife | Follow how to fix a fridge door seal |
| Water tastes/flows poorly | DIY | None to basic | Follow how to replace the water filter in an Admiral refrigerator |
| Noisy or warm fridge section, fan sound changes | Intermediate | Screwdriver, vacuum, multimeter (optional) | Use how to fix your evaporator cooling fan |
| Not cooling at all, clicking, burning smell | Pro | Specialized | Stop and schedule service |
Why it matters
Choosing the right repair level protects the compressor and food temperatures, prevents water damage from dispenser lines, and reduces the chance of repeat failures from misdiagnosed cooling or defrost problems.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most commonly replaced parts in a refrigerator?
In an Admiral side-by-side refrigerator like model AS20M7W, the most commonly replaced parts are the ones that handle water flow, door sealing, airflow, and defrosting. These parts wear out from normal use, mineral buildup, and temperature cycling long before major sealed-system components do.
Most commonly replaced refrigerator parts
- Refrigerator water filter (clogging and reduced flow over time)
- Door gasket (door seal) (tears, warping, or loss of magnet strength)
- Evaporator fan motor (noisy fan, warm fridge, poor airflow)
- Defrost heater and defrost thermostat (frost buildup, warm temperatures)
- Water inlet valve (no ice, slow dispenser flow, valve not opening)
- Thermistor or temperature control (temperature swings, short cycling)
- Electronic control board (intermittent cooling or fan/defrost control issues)
Quick symptom-to-part guide
| Symptom you notice | Most likely part area | What typically happens |
|---|---|---|
| Water tastes bad or flow is weak | Water filter | Filter media plugs with sediment |
| Condensation or warm air leaks at door | Door gasket | Seal no longer closes tightly |
| Fridge warm but freezer cold (or vice versa) | Evaporator fan/airflow | Cold air is not circulating |
| Heavy frost on freezer back wall | Defrost system | Ice blocks airflow across evaporator |
| Ice maker slow or not filling | Water inlet valve/water supply | Valve sticks or screen clogs |
Why it matters
Replacing the right “wear” part early helps protect food temperatures, reduces compressor run time, and prevents secondary problems like frost blockage, water leaks, and ice maker failures.
Helpful DIY guidance we recommend
- For routine maintenance and flow issues: how to replace the water filter in an Admiral refrigerator
- For airflow and noise troubleshooting: how to fix your evaporator cooling fan
Last updated: February 2026
What causes a side-by-side refrigerator to stop cooling?
For an Admiral AS20M7W side-by-side refrigerator, a sudden loss of cooling is usually caused by a power or control setting issue, blocked airflow, dirty condenser coils, or a failed cooling-air component (like the evaporator fan). Start with the quick checks before testing parts.
Quick checks (fastest fixes first)
- Confirm the refrigerator has power (interior lights on, display on, or you hear the compressor/fan running).
- Make sure the temperature controls were not bumped warmer or set to “off.”
- Check that air vents inside both compartments are not blocked by food packages.
- Verify both doors close fully; a poor seal can quickly raise temperatures.
- Look for heavy frost on the freezer back wall (often points to a defrost problem).
- Clean condenser coils (dust buildup reduces heat removal and stops cooling performance).
Most common causes and what you typically notice
| Likely cause | What you’ll notice | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Blocked vents or overpacked shelves | Warm spots, weak airflow | Clear vents; reorganize for airflow |
| Dirty condenser coils | Gradual warming, long run times | Clean coils; recheck temps after 24 hours |
| Evaporator fan not running | Freezer warms, fridge warms, little airflow | Inspect fan area for ice; diagnose fan |
| Defrost system issue | Frost blanket on freezer panel | Defrost manually, then troubleshoot defrost |
| Compressor/start device issue | Clicking, no steady running sound | Electrical diagnosis; service often needed |
Why airflow matters in a side-by-side
Side-by-side refrigerators cool the fresh food section by moving cold air from the freezer through ducts. If vents are blocked, the evaporator fan is weak, or frost chokes the evaporator, the refrigerator side often warms first even if the freezer still feels “kind of cold.”
When to use a step-by-step guide
If you suspect a fan or airflow problem (warm temps plus weak airflow), follow how to fix your evaporator cooling fan to narrow it down safely.
Last updated: February 2026
