What to Do When Your Refrigerator Stops Cooling: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Last Updated, Mar 28, 2025, 11:43 AM

A refrigerator is one of the most essential appliances in any home, quietly keeping your food fresh around the clock. But when it abruptly stops cooling, it can quickly turn into a major headache. Before you panic or call in a technician, there are several steps you may take to troubleshoot the problem. In many cases, a easy fix could be all that’s needed to get your fridge back in working order. Right here’s a step-by-step guide that can assist you diagnose and presumably clear up the difficulty yourself.

Step 1: Check the Power Supply

It might sound obvious, however the first thing you need to do is make certain the refrigerator is plugged in and receiving power. Check the outlet by plugging in one other equipment to confirm that it’s working. Also, inspect the facility cord for any signs of damage. In case your fridge is plugged right into a GFCI outlet, it may have tripped—reset it if needed.

Step 2: Inspect the Thermostat Settings

Generally, the cooling concern is as simple as an by accident adjusted thermostat. Make certain the temperature setting hasn’t been bumped or changed. Most fridges needs to be set between 35°F and 38°F (1.6°C to 3.three°C) for optimum cooling. If the dial is turned too low or set to “Off,” the compressor won’t engage, and the fridge won’t cool.

Step 3: Look for Obstructions to Airflow

Fridges depend on proper airflow inside and across the equipment to operate efficiently. Check to ensure there’s enough space behind the refrigerator for air to circulate, particularly close to the condenser coils. Inside the fridge, keep away from overpacking it, as blocked vents can forestall cool air from circulating properly.

Step four: Clean the Condenser Coils

Dirty condenser coils are probably the most widespread reasons for a fridge losing its cooling power. Situated either behind or beneath the equipment, these coils release heat from inside the unit. If they are covered in dust and dirt, they can’t perform properly. Use a coil brush or vacuum to clean them no less than twice a yr—or more typically in case you have pets.

Step 5: Check the Door Seals

A damaged or loose door gasket can let cold air escape, inflicting the fridge to work harder or not cool at all. Run your hand along the sting of the door to feel for drafts. Visually inspect the seal for cracks, warping, or mold buildup. You can too do the “dollar bill test”: shut the door on a bill and try to pull it out. If it slides out easily, the gasket may have replacing.

Step 6: Listen for the Compressor and Fan

When a refrigerator is operating properly, you’ll hear the compressor hum and the fan whirring. If it’s fully silent, it might mean the compressor or start relay is malfunctioning. On the other hand, if you hear clicking but the compressor isn’t starting, that’s a sign the start relay may must be replaced—a relatively inexpensive part.

Step 7: Defrost the Freezer

In some cases, a buildup of ice within the freezer can block airflow to the fridge compartment. In case you notice frost on the back wall or within the vents, unplug the fridge and let it absolutely defrost for a number of hours. Then plug it back in and monitor the cooling performance. If the difficulty repeats, it may point out a defective defrost timer or heater.

Step 8: Call a Professional

If you happen to’ve tried all the above and your refrigerator is still not cooling, it could also be time to call in a professional technician. Inner parts like the evaporator fan motor, thermostat control board, or compressor may require skilled repair or replacement.

A non-cooling refrigerator doesn’t always imply a costly repair or replacement. With a little investigation and a few fundamental maintenance, you may be able to resolve the problem yourself. Acting quickly may also forestall food spoilage and more severe damage, so don’t ignore the warning signs. Regular cleaning and inspection can keep your fridge running efficiently for years to come.

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