Refrigerator Not Cooling — Troubleshooting Guide
Fix a fridge that's not cold. Check temperature settings, coils, and airflow before calling for service.
Time Estimate
⏱️ 30 minutes - 2 hours
DIY Cost
💰 $0-50 DIY / $200-500+ repair
Tools Needed
🧰 Vacuum, Coil brush, Thermometer
Food spoiling, ice cream melting — a warm fridge is an emergency. Before calling for service, try these checks.
Quick Fixes First
1. Temperature Setting
Someone might have bumped the dial. Check that it’s set properly (usually middle setting, around 37°F for fridge, 0°F for freezer).
2. Vents and Airflow
Overpacking blocks cold air circulation. Make sure:
- Vents inside aren’t blocked by food
- There’s space for air to circulate
- The fridge isn’t stuffed to maximum
3. Door Seal
A worn seal lets cold air escape. Test by closing the door on a dollar bill — if it slides out easily, the seal needs replacing.
Most Likely Causes
Dirty Condenser Coils
Dust-clogged coils can’t release heat, making the compressor work harder and cooling suffer.
Location: Usually on the back or underneath (behind kick plate)
The Fix:
- Unplug the fridge
- Locate the coils
- Vacuum and brush away dust and debris
- Plug back in
Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free.
Do this every 6-12 months as maintenance.
Evaporator Fan Not Running
The fan circulates cold air from the freezer to the fridge. If it fails, the freezer stays cold but the fridge warms up.
Check: Open the freezer and listen for the fan. Press the door switch — the fan should run when the door is “closed.”
Fix: Fan replacement ($50-150 part, moderate DIY).
Frosted Evaporator Coils
Ice buildup on the coils blocks airflow. This often indicates a defrost system problem.
Check: Is there ice buildup visible inside the freezer walls?
Quick Fix: Unplug for 24-48 hours to fully defrost. If it happens again, the defrost heater, timer, or thermostat may need replacing.
Compressor Issues
If the compressor isn’t running, you’ll have no cooling at all. Listen for humming.
Signs:
- Complete silence from the fridge
- Compressor runs constantly but nothing cools
- Clicking sounds
Fix: Compressor replacement is expensive ($500+). On older fridges, replacement often makes more sense.
When to Call a Pro
- Compressor not running
- Defrost system problems
- Refrigerant leak (oily residue, complete failure)
- Problem persists after cleaning coils
Cost: $200-500+ for most refrigerator repairs.
The Bottom Line
Check temperature settings, clean the coils, and make sure airflow isn’t blocked. These DIY steps fix many cooling problems. If the compressor or sealed system is failing, you’ll need a technician — or a new fridge.