On Sun, 31 Dec 2017 16:11:48 +0000, Stephen
wrote:


What is likely to have failed or could it just be anything? Are they
DIY-repairable or is it time to buy a new one?

Failure could be thermostat, compressor (inc leaks) or current relay.

Compressor is fairly easy - if it isn't making any running noises and
compressor body is too hot to touch its probably the compressor. No
repair sensible unless you can find a one man band refrigerator repair
man who may do it at £100. Leaks will leave compressor running and
hot but no cooling worth talking about. Not repairable.

Start/current relay plugs into side of compressor and has a few wires
going to it. They are pretty generic Generally fairly cheap for
example http://www.ebay.co.uk/bhp/fridge-freezer-relay. If they fail
you may see signs of black soot/arcing around it. Repair is simply
swapping wires like for like. Might be worth a try if you think the
freezer is otherwise good.

Thermostat can usually be tested by shorting out thermostat contacts
and seeing if it comes back to life.