Refrigerator Not Cooling: Troubleshooting Guide
Diagnose why your fridge isn't keeping food cold. Covers condenser coils, fans, thermostats, and more.
Refrigerator Not Cooling: Troubleshooting Guide? Most fridge issues come down to a few common causes. Start by verify the fridge is plugged in, the temperature is set correctly (37°f / 3°c), and the door seals are intact.… Total fix takes 30–60 min.
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Time required | 30–60 min |
| Tools needed | 4 |
Video Tutorial
Tools Needed
Check the basics
Verify the fridge is plugged in, the temperature is set correctly (37°F / 3°C), and the door seals are intact.
Listen for the compressor
Put your ear near the back bottom. You should hear a low humming. No sound may indicate a compressor or relay issue.
Clean condenser coils
Pull the fridge out and vacuum the coils on the back or bottom. Dirty coils are the #1 cause of cooling problems.
Check the evaporator fan
Open the freezer and listen for the fan. If it's not running when the compressor is on, it may need replacement.
Inspect the door gaskets
Close the door on a dollar bill. If it slides out easily, the gasket needs replacement. Check all around the door.
Test the thermostat
Turn the thermostat from lowest to highest. You should hear a click. No click may mean a faulty thermostat.
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Vacuum with brush attachment
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Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to refrigerator not cooling: troubleshooting guide?
Most DIYers complete this repair in 30–60 min. Difficulty: Medium.
What tools do I need?
You'll need: Vacuum with brush attachment, Multimeter, Screwdriver, Flashlight.
Is this safe to do myself?
Do not attempt to open or service the sealed refrigeration system.
When should I call a professional instead?
Call a pro if the problem persists after following all steps, if the repair involves gas, sealed refrigeration, or high-voltage components, or if your appliance is still under warranty.