Why Is My Refrigerator Not Cooling? 5 Common Causes and What to Do
Your refrigerator is one of the hardest working appliances in your home. So when it stops cooling, panic often sets in, especially when there’s a holiday meal or week’s worth of groceries on the line.
Here are 5 common reasons your fridge might not be cooling properly, and what you can do about it.
1. Clogged Condenser Coils
If your fridge’s coils (typically at the back or underneath) are dusty or dirty, it can’t release heat properly, causing it to overheat and undercool.
Fix: Unplug and vacuum the coils gently every 6 months.
2. Broken Evaporator Fan Motor
This fan circulates cold air throughout your fridge. If it’s not working, things get warm fast.
Fix: Listen for strange noises or no airflow. You’ll likely need a technician for this.
3. Faulty Thermostat or Temperature Sensor
If your fridge can’t read the temperature correctly, it may not cool when needed.
Fix: Check settings first. If the compressor doesn’t kick in at cooler temps, this could be the culprit.
4. Blocked Vents (Especially in Freezer)
Stacked frozen food can block airflow between compartments.
Fix: Rearrange items and make sure vents aren’t iced over.
5. Door Seal Leaks
A worn or torn door gasket lets warm air in, making your fridge work overtime.
Fix: Close the door on a dollar bill. If it slides out easily, you may need a new seal.
When to Call Prompt Appliance Services
If you’ve checked the basics and your fridge still won’t cool, don’t risk spoiled food or costly damage. Our expert technicians can diagnose and fix the issue fast, and we service all major brands.
Call today to schedule your refrigerator repair and get back to chill.