Reasons Why Fridge Not Cold Enough
When your fridge and freezer are not cold, it can quickly turn disastrous. Before you call in a service repair company to find out why your fridge is not cooling, there are many easy-to-fix reasons to look at first. Troubleshooting your refrigerator not working can often solve your problem quickly without calling in a professional service technician.
Is it Plugged In?
If your fridge freezer is not cooling, it could be because the plug has partially or completely come out of the outlet. Check your cord to make sure it is plugged in and there is no fraying or other damage to the cord. Once you confirm your appliance is plugged in, also check the power source. If you have a blown breaker or other electrical issues, your refrigerator will not get very cool.
Thermostat Set Too Low or Off
After checking the plug-in, check the thermostat setting in your fridge. If the thermostat is turned too low or off your fridge won’t cool. Turn your thermostat to the desired setting so your fridge can cool once again to the desired temperature.
Check the Air Circulation Vents
A freezer packed full of food can block the vents in the freezer area, preventing the air from circulating properly throughout your whole appliance. If your vents are blocked, the air cannot circulate so there will be no cooling in the refrigerator. Clean out and reorganize your refrigerator so the vent is not blocked from circulating the air.
Clean Coils Behind or Under Fridge
Dirty, clogged coils behind or under the fridge will block air from circulating properly throughout the interior. Pet hair, dust, and other dirt can clog the coils making it more difficult for air to move through so your fridge won’t cool.
After inspecting these possible solutions if your refrigerator is still not getting very cold, it could be caused by a mechanical issue.
Evaporator Fan Not Working
If the evaporator fan is not working, your refrigerator will not get very cold. The evaporator fan is located at the back of the freezer or fridge compartment depending on your appliance is designed. It removes the warm air from inside your appliance and releases cold air into your fridge.
To check if your evaporator fan is working, open the door of the fridge or freezer to see if the light comes on. To test the fan, compress and hold the door switch with your finger to indicate the door is closed. The evaporator fan should turn on within seconds after the switch is compressed. If it does not go on, you will have no cooling in your refrigerator.
Replacing the Evaporator Fan
Evaporator fans can be replaced by homeowners, or a certified repair technician. Always unplug your appliance first before doing any DIY refrigerator repair on parts on cooling. If you are replacing the fan yourself, remove the food and shelves from your freezer or fridge first so you can access the back panel. Once the area is clear, remove the panel covering the fan. Disconnect the wiring from the fan to the fridge, then remove the old fan. Install the new evaporator fan as shown in the instructions. Once installed, replace the panel. Plug in your fridge and test the fan to see if you have fixed the refrigerator not cooling issue by compressing the door switch. Once you have finished troubleshooting your refrigerator not working, you can install the shelves and food back in your appliance.
Condenser Fan
Another reason your fridge and freezer are not cold could be due to a faulty condenser fan. This fan outside of the appliance and draws external air into the fridge as cold air. If your condenser fan is not working, your fridge won’t cool. The condenser fan is located at the back of the appliance so you will have to move the fridge away from the wall. Unplug your appliance then inspect the condenser fan to make sure there is nothing stuck on the blades or other issues that would make our fridge and freezer not cool.
You can fix the refrigerator not cooling by replacing the condenser fan. Remove the back panel of the fridge after you have unplugged it. Disconnect the wiring of the fan, then replace the old unit with a new one. Reattach the back and plug your fridge back in before moving it back in place.
You can also contact us at Appliance Handyman to troubleshoot your refrigerator not cooling. At we have several years experience in refrigerator maintenance and repair.
