Your fridge not cooling is no laughing matter, but before you go call a repairman, you may want to take a few simple steps to troubleshoot the issue. This guide will help walk you through some potential problems and solutions.
You may be able to solve the problem without ever having to pick up the phone. So before you call a repairman, there are a few things you can try to fix the problem yourself. Here are four tips to help get your fridge back up and running.
Is hot air entering the fridge?
One potential issue could be that hot air is entering the fridge. If your fridge is located next to an oven or dishwasher, the heat from these appliances can cause the fridge to work harder to stay cool. You may want to try moving the fridge away from these appliances, or if possible, relocate them altogether.
The best way to keep your fridge running smoothly is by making sure there are no gaps in its door seals. These small holes allow hot air into the appliance, which can lead not only ruin its temperature control but also cause other problems.
Fridges need regular care and attention – check for any gaps in the seals at least once a month and replace them if necessary.
Is the condenser coils dirty?
Another potential issue could be dirty condenser coils. The coils are located on the back of the fridge and help to release heat. If they are covered in dust or lint, they may not be able to function properly. Use a vacuum with a long hose attachment to clean the coils. You should do this every few months to keep them clean and dust-free.
Have you put hot food in the fridge?
If you’ve just put hot food in the fridge, it can also cause the fridge to work harder to stay cool. Hot food will cause the fridge to cycle on more frequently in order to maintain a cool temperature. Try to let hot food cool down before putting it in the fridge.
Is the fridge over-packed?
An overpacked fridge can also make it harder for the fridge to stay cool. When the fridge is full, there is less air circulation and the fridge has to work harder to maintain a cool temperature.
So when packing your fridge, be sure to leave some room for air circulation. If you fill it up too much and prevent cold spots from forming in the container then foods will not stay as well preserved since the fridge will be working harder and longer to maintain the set temperature.
Have you used Incorrect temperature settings?
If you have the fridge set too cold, it will have to work harder to maintain that temperature. The recommended setting for most fridges is between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit.
The easiest way to check the temperature of your fridge is with an accurate thermometer. Place this inside a glass filled with water and leave it in between shelves for 12 hours or overnight; then take note of the water’s temperature. If it is different than the recommended setting, make sure to readjust your fridge’s thermostat.
While some models feature external temperature displays on the door, this is not an accurate way of measuring what’s inside. A better bet would be using a thermometer to measure how cold it feels in there and then checking back every so often to see if the fridge is cooling down to your desired temperature.
Fixing a refrigerator that’s not getting cold
By troubleshooting why your fridge may not be cooling properly, you may be able to save time and money by avoiding a service call.
Let’s now look at some easy solutions to the problem.
- Check for clogged coils
The condenser coils are located on the back of your fridge and help to release heat. If they are clogged with dust or lint, they may not be able to function properly. Use a vacuum with a long hose attachment to clean the coils. You should do this every few months to keep them clean and dust-free.
- Check for Power
Is the fridge plugged in? It seems like a silly question, but it’s one of the most common reasons a fridge stops cooling. Check the power outlet the fridge is plugged into to make sure there’s power running to it. You can also check the circuit breaker to see if it’s been tripped.
- Check the Temperature Settings
If your fridge has an electronic control panel, make sure the temperature settings are correct. If it’s set too low, the fridge won’t get cold enough. If it’s set too high, the fridge will start to freeze food.
- Check for Gaps in Seal
The best way to keep your fridge running smoothly is by making sure there are no gaps in its door seals. These small holes allow hot air into the appliance, which makes it work harder to cool down. Use a flashlight to check for any gaps.
- Check for Obstructions
Is the airflow to your fridge obstructed in any way? If there are items blocking the vents, they won’t be able to circulate air properly and cool down evenly.
- Check if your fridge is on level ground
If your fridge is not on level ground, the compressor may have to work harder to circulate the coolant. This can lead to premature wear and tear on the appliance. Use a level to see if your fridge is balanced.
- Check the air vents
Another common reason why a fridge isn’t cooling properly is that the air vents are obstructed. Check to see if there are any items blocking the vents and remove them if necessary.
The vents on your fridge could be anywhere, but they’re usually located along either the inside back wall or one side. Look for them in the owner’s manual if you can’t find them.
Final Thoughts
Food safety is the most important thing to keep in mind when it comes time for your or your family’s groceries. This includes making sure that any food item remains at a suitable temperature, which can be difficult if there isn’t enough cooling capacity from one refrigerator unit alone.
A little troubleshooting will help determine why your fridge has stopped working and what needs to be done in order to fix it. By following the simple steps above, you’ll be on your way to having a fridge that keeps everything nice and cool.
Don’t forget that hiring professionals who specialize in these types of repairs might actually save you time and money in the long run.
