Yesterday I noticed a strange pungent smell when I opening my fridge door, then I noticed that it had permiated into my food. Today it is just as bad, if not worse.

The Smell: It is a chemical, plastic/metal smell is the only way I can discribe it. Very different from any food smell.

The Fridge/Freezer: Daewoo No-Frost Fridge/Freezer (approx. 5-8 years old)

Before you ask, I have removed all the food from the fridge and freezer and there was nothing rotten, I have cleaned out the inside and the smell persists. I have checked the drip tray at the base of the unit at the back and this is not where the smell is coming from and there is nothing behind or under the unit that could cause the smell.

I am a little worried that as the smell has already got into my food (most of which I have thrown away) that it could be harmful. PLEASE could you give me a clue as to what it might be?

Richard, May 2008

Many years ago I encountered this at my parents house. After much research I found the answer on one of the major appliance websites. It seemed to have something to do with card board containers in the freezer. Maybe it was freezer burn or maybe it wasn't. In either case it permeated into the refrig too. Contrary to what many write, cleaning and baking soda (alone) will not fix this problem. You must throw everything away. Seriously everything. That smell gets into everything and soon the food will have this taste too. Unfortunately I have had this problem about four times in my life. I just can't believe more people don't have this issue. I don't think everyone can smell this as my wife could not smell it but I am all to familar with it. Good luck and don't experiment with removing just some of the items. They must all go.

joe, April 2009

Sounds like the coolant may be leaking....might be expensive to fix unless your fridge is still under warranty. Be prepared with ice and a cooler because your food will defrost pretty soon most likely :(

Jennifer, July 2008

I have the same problem. I just moved into a rental and whenever the fridge kicks on there is a horrible chemical smell. Please please someone help!

Amy, July 2008