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

A fridge is one of the most essential appliances in any home, quietly keeping your food fresh around the clock. However when it out of the blue stops cooling, it can quickly turn right into a major headache. Before you panic or call in a technician, there are a number of steps you’ll be able to take to troubleshoot the problem. In lots of cases, a simple fix is perhaps all that’s needed to get your fridge back in working order. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you diagnose and probably solve the issue yourself.

Step 1: Check the Power Supply

It could sound apparent, but the first thing you need to do is make positive the refrigerator is plugged in and receiving power. Check the outlet by plugging in another equipment to confirm that it’s working. Also, inspect the power cord for any signs of damage. If your fridge is plugged into a GFCI outlet, it might have tripped—reset it if needed.

Step 2: Examine the Thermostat Settings

Typically, the cooling concern is as simple as an by accident adjusted thermostat. Make certain the temperature setting hasn’t been bumped or changed. Most refrigerators needs to be set between 35°F and 38°F (1.6°C to 3.three°C) for optimal 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 around the appliance to perform efficiently. Check to ensure there’s sufficient space behind the fridge for air to flow into, especially close to the condenser coils. Inside the fridge, avoid overpacking it, as blocked vents can forestall cool air from circulating properly.

Step four: Clean the Condenser Coils

Dirty condenser coils are one of the vital common reasons for a fridge losing its cooling power. Positioned either behind or beneath the appliance, these coils release heat from inside the unit. If they’re covered in mud and grime, they’ll’t perform properly. Use a coil brush or vacuum to clean them no less than twice a 12 months—or more typically when you have pets.

Step 5: Check the Door Seals

A damaged or loose door gasket can let cold air escape, causing the fridge to work harder or not cool at all. Run your hand along the sting of the door to really 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 attempt to pull it out. If it slides out easily, the gasket may have replacing.

Step 6: Listen for the Compressor and Fan

When a fridge is working properly, you’ll hear the compressor hum and the fan whirring. If it’s fully silent, it might imply the compressor or start relay is malfunctioning. On the other hand, should you hear clicking however the compressor isn’t starting, that’s a sign the start relay might must be replaced—a comparatively cheap part.

Step 7: Defrost the Freezer

In some cases, a buildup of ice in the freezer can block airflow to the fridge compartment. When you notice frost on the back wall or in the vents, unplug the fridge and let it totally defrost for several hours. Then plug it back in and monitor the cooling performance. If the problem repeats, it may indicate a defective defrost timer or heater.

Step 8: Call a Professional

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

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

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