Features
A deep freezer has very few component parts within the unit itself. It is typically made up of evaporator coils, a compressor, condenser coils and a thermostat. Between them, these components move water around the appliance and reduce the temperature of the water to freezing point. Any deep freezer leak is usually due to a problem with one of these components.
Preparation
Unplug the chest freezer before examining the source of the leak. Any frozen food should also be removed from the deep freezer before attempting to identify or repair the leak. Removing the food makes moving the appliance easier and allows you to view the interior components without obstruction. Store the food in a separate freezer or in the refrigerator until the leak has been identified.
Causes
Locate the source of the freezer leak by establishing where the water is emerging from. A defective thermostat can cause the temperature inside the freezer to remain too high, leading to water leaking out of the appliance. The leak could also be emerging from the freezing unit situated at the rear of the deep freezer.
Drain Line
The drain line siphons out excess water and recycles it to sustain low temperatures in deep freezers. The drain line can become blocked with food debris or ice, resulting in excess water or ice coagulating in the freezer. This congestion eventually can lead to the freezer leaking water. Check that the line is free of ice, kinks and debris before refitting.
Compressor
The compressor in a deep freezer works by defrosting excess ice, causing the water to run down to a base pan and eventually to evaporate. A malfunctioning compressor can result in the water not evaporating and ending up on the kitchen floor. Compressors are sensitive devices, however, so only a qualified repairman should work on them.