Puncture Freezer in mini fridge, fixable?

Question

Put a whole in the freezer of the mini fridge at work while trying to chip ice away, hissed and got a mouth full of i guess freon and I rolled up a paper towel shoved it in the hole and put a wet paper towel over it so it would freeze the hole shut. we have an welding shop and a refrigeration shop where I work, would it work to weld the hole shut and fill it back up with freon?

Answer 1

Yes, that would work. Often those lines are an aluminum alloy so silver soldier is usually used for filling holes. There is even an epoxy made for it. I have seen JB-Weld used too. Has to be dry and allowed to cure.

But charging means welding on a shrader valve (they self puncture) and recharging. You need a license for freon. And a charging cylinder and gauges to check and so on. Not so easy or cheap.

Theoretically anytime a newer unit with 134A, not freon, is punctured you are supposed to replace the compressor which retail cost is more than twice what a mini dorm style can be bought for. Unless it is stainless or has some extras.

But I have seen them just patched, recharged, and they worked. Suppose to replace the dryer too if air gets in there. More welding.

Basically not worth it unless you have charging equipment and a knowledgeable  person handy, and free.

Answer 2

Sounds like you hit a line. For what it would cost to fix, most likely it's trashed, A new one might be cheaper,Sorry , l use a hardwood stick that l sharpened like a chisel. l went through the plastic on mine but got lucky and didn't hit a line. l made the stick and finished the job. good luck