Why is My Fridge Not Cooling & How to Fix

Figure 1: KONOR Compressor.

A refrigerator is one of the most important appliances in any home. It keeps your food fresh and prevents spoilage. However, if your fridge is not cooling, it can be a cause for concern. In this article, we will explore the common reasons why your fridge may not be cooling and provide you with troubleshooting and maintenance methods.

1. What Would Cause a Refrigerator to Stop Getting Cold?

The following are 5 reasons for a refrigerator not cooling:
● Overcrowding the Fridge
● Dirty or Clogged Air Filter
● Faulty Temperature Control Board
● Power Outage
● Age of the Fridge

1.1 Overcrowding the Fridge

Sometimes, the fridge may stop cooling because there is too much food inside. Overcrowding the fridge can block the air vents, preventing cold air from circulating properly. Make sure that there is enough space between items and that the air vents are not blocked.

1.2 Dirty or Clogged Air Filter

If your fridge has an air filter, it may become dirty or clogged over time, reducing the airflow and causing the fridge to stop cooling. Check the user manual to see if your fridge has an air filter and if it does, clean or replace it regularly to ensure optimal cooling performance.

Figure 2: Refrigerator air filter.

1.3 Faulty Temperature Control Board

The temperature control board is responsible for regulating the temperature inside the fridge. If it is faulty, it can cause the fridge to stop cooling. A professional technician can diagnose and replace the faulty temperature control board.

1.4 Power Outage

If there has been a power outage, the fridge may stop cooling temporarily. Once the power is restored, it may take several hours for the fridge to reach the desired temperature again. If the fridge does not start cooling again after the power is restored, check the power supply and thermostat.

1.5 Age of the Fridge

As a fridge ages, its components may wear out and cause it to stop cooling. If your fridge is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it with a new one. A new fridge will be more energy-efficient and come with a warranty, providing you with peace of mind.

Figure 3: Working principle diagram of refrigerator.

2. 7 Troubleshooting Methods for Fridge Not Cooling

The following are 7 methods to troubleshoot a refrigerator not cooling:
● Check the Power Supply
● Inspect the Thermostat
● Clean the Condenser Coils
● Check the Evaporator Fan
● Inspect the Door Seals
● Check the Compressor
● Check the Refrigerant Levels

2.1 Check the Power Supply

The first thing you should do is check the power supply. Make sure that the fridge is plugged in and that the outlet is working. If the outlet is not working, try plugging the fridge into another outlet. Also, check the circuit breaker to see if it has tripped. If it has, reset it and see if the fridge starts cooling.

2.2 Inspect the Thermostat

The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature inside the fridge. If it is not working properly, it can cause the fridge to stop cooling. Check the thermostat and make sure that it is set to the correct temperature. If it is set too high or too low, adjust it accordingly. You can also try cleaning the thermostat with a soft cloth to remove any dust or debris that may be affecting its performance.

Figure 4: Refrigerator thermostat.

2.3 Clean the Condenser Coils

The condenser coils are responsible for releasing heat from the fridge. If they are dirty or clogged, they can cause the fridge to stop cooling. To clean the condenser coils, unplug the fridge and locate the coils at the back or bottom of the fridge. Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated on the coils. Make sure to clean them thoroughly to ensure optimal cooling performance.

2.4 Check the Evaporator Fan

The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer to the fridge. If it is not working properly, the fridge may not cool properly. To check the evaporator fan, open the freezer and listen for the sound of the fan. If you don't hear it, it may be faulty and need to be replaced. You can also try cleaning the blades of the fan with a soft cloth to remove any dust or debris that may be affecting its performance.

Figure 5: Refrigerator fans.

2.5 Inspect the Door Seals

The door seals are responsible for keeping the cold air inside the fridge. If they are damaged or worn out, they can cause the fridge to stop cooling. Inspect the door seals and make sure that they are clean and free from any debris. If they are damaged, replace them with new ones to ensure optimal cooling performance.

2.6 Check the Compressor

The compressor is responsible for compressing and circulating the refrigerant in the fridge. If it is not working properly, the fridge may not cool properly. To check the compressor, unplug the fridge and locate the compressor at the back of the fridge. Check for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If you notice anything unusual, such as leaks or strange noises, it may be time to replace the compressor.

Figure 6: LG refrigerator compressor.

2.7 Check the Refrigerant Levels

The refrigerant is responsible for absorbing heat from the fridge and releasing it outside. If the refrigerant levels are low, the fridge may not cool properly. To check the refrigerant levels, you will need to call a professional technician as it requires specialized equipment. A technician can diagnose the problem and add more refrigerant if necessary.

3. 4 Ways to Prevent Your Fridge from Cooling Issues

Here's some additional information about maintaining your fridge to prevent cooling issues:
● Regular Cleaning
● Proper Storage
● Temperature Control
● Regular Maintenance

3.1 Regular Cleaning

Regularly cleaning your fridge can help prevent cooling issues.
Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth to remove any spills or debris.
Clean the door seals with a mild detergent and warm water to remove any dirt or grime that may prevent them from sealing properly.
Clean the condenser coils at least once a year to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated on them.

3.2 Proper Storage

Properly storing your food inside the fridge can help prevent cooling issues.
Make sure that your food is properly wrapped and sealed to prevent moisture from escaping.
Keep raw meat and fish on the bottom shelf to prevent any drips from contaminating other food items.
Do not overfill the fridge as it can block the air vents and prevent cold air from circulating properly.

3.3 Temperature Control

Proper temperature control is essential for maintaining the cooling performance of your fridge.
Set the thermostat to the recommended temperature range, usually between 35-38°F (1-3°C).
Avoid opening the fridge door frequently as it can cause the temperature to fluctuate, making it harder for the fridge to maintain a consistent temperature.

3.4 Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is important for preventing cooling issues.
Check the door seals regularly to ensure that they are sealing properly.
Replace any damaged or worn-out door seals as soon as possible.
Check the condenser coils and evaporator fan for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
Schedule regular maintenance with a professional technician to ensure that your fridge is running efficiently.

Figure 7: Check the refrigerator.

4. In conclusion

If you find your refrigerator not cooling (LG refrigerator not cooling, Samsung fridge not cooling, or Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling), you can try some of the troubleshooting methods mentioned above before calling a professional. If you are unsure about any of the steps, it is always best to call a professional technician to diagnose and fix the problem.

Maintaining your fridge is essential for preventing cooling issues. Regular cleaning, proper storage, temperature control, and regular maintenance can help ensure optimal cooling performance. By taking care of your fridge, you can extend its lifespan and ensure that it keeps your food fresh and safe to eat.

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