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

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

Step 1: Check the Power Supply

It might sound apparent, but the first thing you need to do is make sure the fridge is plugged in and receiving power. Check the outlet by plugging in one other appliance to confirm that it’s working. Also, examine the facility 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: Inspect the Thermostat Settings

Generally, the cooling problem is so simple as an by chance adjusted thermostat. Make positive the temperature setting hasn’t been bumped or changed. Most fridges should 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 interact, and the fridge won’t cool.

Step 3: Look for Obstructions to Airflow

Refrigerators depend on proper airflow inside and across the appliance to operate efficiently. Check to ensure there’s sufficient space behind the refrigerator for air to flow into, particularly close to the condenser coils. Inside the fridge, keep away from overpacking it, as blocked vents can prevent cool air from circulating properly.

Step four: Clean the Condenser Coils

Dirty condenser coils are some of the widespread reasons for a fridge losing its cooling power. Located either behind or beneath the equipment, these coils release heat from inside the unit. If they are covered in dust and grime, they’ll’t perform properly. Use a coil brush or vacuum to clean them a minimum of twice a yr—or more often if 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 feel for drafts. Visually inspect the seal for cracks, warping, or mold buildup. You may also do the “dollar bill test”: close the door on a bill and try to pull it out. If it slides out simply, the gasket may need replacing.

Step 6: Listen for the Compressor and Fan

When a fridge is operating properly, you’ll hear the compressor hum and the fan whirring. If it’s fully silent, it may imply the compressor or start relay is malfunctioning. Alternatively, if you happen to hear clicking however the compressor isn’t starting, that’s a sign the start relay might have to be replaced—a relatively cheap part.

Step 7: Defrost the Freezer

In some cases, a buildup of ice in the freezer can block airflow to the fridge compartment. For those who discover frost on the back wall or within the vents, unplug the fridge and let it absolutely defrost for several hours. Then plug it back in and monitor the cooling performance. If the difficulty repeats, it might indicate a defective defrost timer or heater.

Step 8: Call a Professional

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

A non-cooling fridge doesn’t always mean a costly repair or replacement. With a little investigation and some basic upkeep, chances are you’ll be able to resolve the problem yourself. Performing quickly may also stop food spoilage and more critical 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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