A refrigerator is one of the most essential appliances in any household, preserving food, drinks, and medication. When it stops cooling properly, it quickly becomes more than just an inconvenience—it can lead to food spoilage and increased utility bills. Understanding the most common reasons why a refrigerator fails to maintain the proper temperature can help you identify issues early and avoid costly breakdowns.
Below are seven possible causes for a refrigerator that isn’t cooling as it should.
Condenser coils are responsible for releasing heat from inside the refrigerator. If these coils are covered in dust, dirt, or pet hair, they can’t efficiently release heat, causing the appliance to work harder and cool less effectively.
Solution:
Unplug the refrigerator and clean the coils using a coil brush or vacuum. For most models, the coils are located either on the back or underneath the appliance.
The evaporator fan circulates cold air throughout the refrigerator and freezer compartments. If this fan fails, you might notice the freezer is still cold while the fridge section becomes warm.
Symptoms of a bad evaporator fan:
- Unusual noises coming from the freezer
- Frost buildup around the fan area
- Uneven cooling between compartments
Solution:
Replacing the evaporator fan typically requires removing the back panel of the freezer and should be handled by a professional technician.
The thermostat regulates the temperature inside the refrigerator by signaling the compressor when to turn on and off. A malfunctioning thermostat may fail to trigger the compressor, resulting in rising internal temperatures.
How to tell:
Try turning the thermostat knob from the lowest to the highest setting. If you don’t hear a click or the compressor doesn’t start, the thermostat might be defective.
Solution:
A technician can test the thermostat with a multimeter and replace it if necessary.
The start relay is a small device that helps the compressor kick into action. If the relay fails, the compressor may not run at all, leading to a total loss of cooling.
Common signs of failure:
- Fridge is warm
- You hear a clicking sound every few minutes
- The compressor is hot to the touch but not running
Solution:
Replacing a faulty start relay is a relatively simple and affordable repair for most professionals.
Refrigerant is the chemical responsible for absorbing and releasing heat inside the refrigerator. If there’s a leak, the cooling process becomes less efficient or stops altogether.
Indicators of low refrigerant:
- Fridge feels warmer than usual
- Compressor runs continuously
- Frost builds up in unusual places
Important:
Handling refrigerant requires EPA certification. Only licensed technicians should check or refill refrigerant.
The temperature control board governs various functions in the refrigerator, including regulating power to the compressor and fan motors. A defective board may cause the fridge to stop cooling even if all other components are functional.
How it fails:
- Fridge is unresponsive to temperature changes
- Intermittent cooling
- Complete power loss to cooling components
Solution:
Since the control board is expensive and complex, it should be tested only after eliminating simpler causes.
A damaged or loose door gasket (seal) can allow warm air to enter the refrigerator, forcing it to work harder and sometimes preventing it from cooling properly.
Signs of a faulty door seal:
- Moisture or condensation around the door
- Fridge feels warmer than the set temperature
- The door doesn’t close tightly
Solution:
Inspect the seal for cracks or tears. If needed, replace the gasket to restore an airtight closure.
A refrigerator that isn't cooling properly can stem from a wide range of issues—from minor problems like dirty coils to more complex ones such as a malfunctioning compressor or control board. While some issues can be addressed with simple maintenance, others require expert attention.
Timely diagnosis and repair can prevent food spoilage, save energy, and extend the life of your appliance.
Call Lex Appliance Repair for Expert Refrigerator Service
If your refrigerator is not cooling as it should, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Contact Lex Appliance Repair for professional diagnosis and repair. Our certified technicians are experienced with all major brands and models and offer same-day service in your area.
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