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

A refrigerator is likely one of the most essential appliances in any home, quietly keeping your food fresh across the clock. But when it all of the sudden stops cooling, it can quickly turn into a major headache. Before you panic or call in a technician, there are several steps you possibly can take to troubleshoot the problem. In many cases, a easy fix could be all that’s wanted to get your fridge back in working order. Right here’s a step-by-step guide to help you diagnose and probably solve the problem yourself.

Step 1: Check the Power Supply

It might sound obvious, but the first thing you must do is make positive 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 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: Inspect the Thermostat Settings

Typically, the cooling situation is as simple as an unintentionally adjusted thermostat. Make sure the temperature setting hasn’t been bumped or changed. Most fridges needs to be set between 35°F and 38°F (1.6°C to 3.3°C) for optimal cooling. If the dial is turned too low or set to “Off,” the compressor won’t interact, and the fridge won’t cool.

Step three: Look for Obstructions to Airflow

Fridges depend on proper airflow inside and around the appliance to function efficiently. Check to ensure there’s enough space behind the refrigerator for air to flow into, especially near 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 some of the widespread reasons for a fridge losing its cooling power. Located either behind or beneath the appliance, these coils launch heat from inside the unit. If they are covered in mud and grime, they can’t function properly. Use a coil brush or vacuum to clean them no less than twice a yr—or more usually if in case you have pets.

Step 5: Check the Door Seals

A damaged or loose door gasket can let cold air escape, inflicting the fridge to work harder or not cool at all. Run your hand along the sting of the door to feel for drafts. Visually examine the seal for cracks, warping, or mold buildup. You may as well 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 have 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 completely silent, it might mean the compressor or start relay is malfunctioning. On the other hand, in case you hear clicking but the compressor isn’t starting, that’s a sign the start relay could 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 refrigerator compartment. If you happen to notice 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 problem repeats, it could point out a defective defrost timer or heater.

Step eight: Call a Professional

If you happen to’ve tried all of the above and your fridge is still not cooling, it could also 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 refrigerator doesn’t always mean a costly repair or replacement. With a little investigation and a few fundamental maintenance, you might be able to solve the problem yourself. Acting quickly also can forestall food spoilage and more serious damage, so don’t ignore the warning signs. Regular cleaning and inspection can keep your fridge running efficiently for years to come.

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