Introduction
The Frigidaire 5303918301 Garage Kit is designed to enable your Frigidaire refrigerator to operate effectively in cold environments, such as garages or basements, where ambient temperatures can drop below 50°F (10°C). In such conditions, standard refrigerators may not cycle correctly, leading to issues like the freezer defrosting. This kit addresses this by ensuring the refrigerator's compressor engages as needed to maintain proper temperatures in both the fresh food and freezer compartments.
Safety Information
- Always disconnect power to the refrigerator before attempting any installation or maintenance.
- If you are not comfortable working with electrical components or disassembling parts of your appliance, seek assistance from a qualified technician.
- Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated to prevent electrical hazards.
- Keep the work area clean and well-lit.
Product Overview
The Frigidaire 5303918301 Garage Kit is a heating element designed to be installed near the refrigerator's thermostat. This heating element gently warms the thermostat, signaling the compressor to run even when the ambient temperature is low. This action prevents the freezer from warming up and ensures the refrigerator maintains its set temperature.
Image: Overview of the Frigidaire 5303918301 Garage Kit, showing the heating pad and wiring connections.
This kit is compatible with various Frigidaire refrigerator models, including but not limited to: FFH1767GW, FRS3HR5HW, FRS3R5EMB, FRS6HR5HW, FRS6R5EMB, FRT17B3AW, and FRT18IS6CB.
Setup and Installation
Installation of the garage kit involves accessing the refrigerator's thermostat housing, typically located within the fresh food compartment. The kit consists of a foil-backed heating pad with an adhesive backing and electrical connectors.
- Disconnect Power: Unplug the refrigerator from the electrical outlet before beginning.
- Locate Thermostat Housing: Identify the plastic housing that contains the refrigerator's thermostat. This usually requires removing shelves or panels inside the fresh food section.
- Access Thermostat: Carefully remove the screws securing the thermostat housing.
- Prepare Heating Pad: The garage kit includes a heating pad. Gently bend the foil-backed heater wire into a shape that fits within the thermostat housing, ensuring it does not obstruct any moving parts or air vents.
- Attach Heating Pad: Peel the protective layer from the adhesive backing of the heating pad and firmly attach it inside the thermostat housing, positioned to warm the thermostat bulb or sensor.
- Connect Wiring: Connect the wires from the heating pad to the appropriate terminals as indicated in the specific installation instructions provided with your kit or by consulting official Frigidaire service manuals. Ensure connections are secure.
- Reassemble: Reattach the thermostat housing and any panels or shelves removed during the process.
- Restore Power: Plug the refrigerator back into the electrical outlet.
Image: Close-up of the garage kit's heating pad, showing the adhesive backing being peeled for installation.
Image: Detailed view of the wire connections on the Frigidaire Garage Kit, showing the clear protective sleeves.
Image: Close-up of the spade terminals on the Frigidaire Garage Kit wiring, ready for connection.
Note: While general steps are provided, always refer to the specific installation guide that came with your kit or consult official Frigidaire resources for detailed, model-specific instructions. Professional installation is recommended if you are unfamiliar with appliance repair.
Operating Instructions
Once installed, the Frigidaire 5303918301 Garage Kit operates automatically. It provides a small amount of heat to the refrigerator's thermostat, which tricks the thermostat into sensing a warmer temperature than the actual ambient temperature. This ensures the compressor runs for sufficient periods to maintain the desired coldness in both the fresh food and freezer sections, even when the garage temperature is low.
- The kit is designed for use in environments where temperatures may drop to approximately 35°F (1.7°C) or slightly lower. Operation below this temperature may still affect performance.
- It is normal for the refrigerator's compressor to run more frequently or for longer durations with the kit installed, especially in very cold conditions, as it is actively working to counteract the low ambient temperature.
- Monitor your refrigerator and freezer temperatures periodically to ensure they are within safe operating ranges.
Maintenance
The Frigidaire 5303918301 Garage Kit itself requires no specific maintenance. However, regular maintenance of your refrigerator is recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity:
- Clean Condenser Coils: Periodically clean the condenser coils, usually located at the back or underneath the refrigerator, to ensure efficient cooling.
- Check Door Gaskets: Inspect door gaskets for tears or gaps that could allow cold air to escape.
- Defrost (if applicable): If your refrigerator is a manual defrost model, defrost it regularly to prevent excessive ice buildup.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate airflow around the refrigerator, especially in a garage setting, to prevent overheating of components.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer is defrosting or not cold enough in cold ambient temperatures. | Garage kit not installed correctly or not functioning. Ambient temperature too low for kit's effective range. | Verify the kit is installed according to instructions. Ensure all electrical connections are secure. Check if the ambient temperature is consistently below 35°F (1.7°C). |
| Refrigerator runs constantly or too frequently. | This is a normal operational characteristic of the garage kit in cold environments. | The kit intentionally causes the compressor to run more to maintain temperatures. This is expected behavior. Ensure door seals are intact and coils are clean to maximize efficiency. |
| Refrigerator section is too cold. | Thermostat setting too low. | Adjust the refrigerator's thermostat to a warmer setting. |
Specifications
- Brand: Frigidaire
- Model Number: 5303918301
- Part Number: 5303918301
- Item Weight: Approximately 3.04 ounces (86 grams)
- Product Dimensions: Approximately 7 x 7 x 7 inches (packaging dimensions)
- ASIN: B005B9EABU
- First Available: August 2, 2008
Warranty Information
Specific warranty details for the Frigidaire 5303918301 Garage Kit are typically provided at the point of purchase or within the product packaging. For comprehensive warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your kit or visit the official Frigidaire website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Support
For technical assistance, installation guidance, or any other inquiries regarding your Frigidaire 5303918301 Garage Kit, please contact Frigidaire customer support. You can typically find contact information on the official Frigidaire website or in your refrigerator's main instruction manual.
- Frigidaire Official Website: www.frigidaire.com
- Customer Service: Refer to the Frigidaire website for current contact numbers and support options.