Chest Freezer went out... Help!

Ok so here are my symptoms:

The setup is a chest freezer with a temp controller. I noticed it running a lot yesterday, and not getting as cold as it should. When I touch the inside where the coils are it's only "cool" on the highest setting. It doesn't sound as loud as it did previously when it was running. The model is a Fridgidaire AFFC1526DW3

This is the best website I have found on it:

http://www.searspartsdirect.com/par.../Freezer-Parts/Model-AFFC1526DW3/1428/0141000

Here's a link to the manual:

http://www.managemylife.com/mmh/pd_download/lis_pdf/OWNM/L0405198.pdf

Anyone know what might be up? Do I just need more refrigerant?

I'd really appreciate any help!

 

How old is this thing?

 

Not really sure, probably about 15 Years?

 

It could be low freon, or the expansion valve, or the thermocouple is toast. If the problem started "out of nowhere" that doesn't sound like low freon as the problem would have been noticed by now. Anything that old probably uses R12, and R12 is not only scarce, really expensive, and hard to find. If it were me, I'd start hunting Craig's list, and the local classifieds.

 

Thanks. That's actually where I got it. I took a look and it was actually manufactured in 10/2005.

 

Why I asked. It's probably cheaper to get a new one.

 

sorry bro, she's gone....