How do i fix my fridge not getting cold

A refrigerator that isn’t getting cold can be a major inconvenience, leading to spoiled food and potential health hazards.

However, before you rush out to buy a new one or call a technician, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to potentially fix the issue yourself.

Diagnosing and resolving the common reasons why a fridge might not be cooling properly.

Check the Power Supply

One of the first and most straightforward steps is to ensure that your fridge is receiving power. Sometimes, the issue can be as simple as a loose plug or a tripped circuit breaker.

Steps to Check the Power Supply:

• Verify the Plug: Ensure that the fridge is properly plugged into the wall outlet. A loose plug can prevent the appliance from running.
• Test the Outlet: Plug another device, such as a lamp or phone charger, into the outlet to check if it’s working. If the outlet is dead, you may need to reset the circuit breaker or replace the fuse.
• Inspect the Power Cord: Examine the power cord for any visible damage. If the cord is frayed or cut, it will need to be replaced.

• Adjust the Thermostat :

  The thermostat setting inside your fridge controls the temperature. If it’s set too high, your fridge may not be cooling adequately.

Steps to Adjust the Thermostat:

• Locate the Thermostat: The thermostat dial or digital control is usually inside the fridge, near the top or on the back wall.
• Adjust the Setting: Turn the thermostat to a colder setting. If it’s already on the coldest setting, turn it off and then back on to reset it.
• Wait and Monitor: Allow a few hours for the temperature to adjust. Use a fridge thermometer to ensure it reaches the optimal range of 35-38°F (1.7-3.3°C).
• Inspect the Door Seals

Door seals, or gaskets, keep cold air inside the fridge and warm air out. If the seals are damaged or dirty, they might not be creating a proper seal.

Steps to Inspect and Clean the Door Seals:

• Visual Inspection: Check the door seals for any cracks, tears, or gaps.
• Perform the Dollar Bill Test: Close the fridge door on a dollar bill and try to pull it out. If it slides out easily, the seal might be faulty and need replacement.
• Clean the Seals: Use warm, soapy water to clean the seals, removing any dirt or food particles that might be preventing a proper seal. Dry the seals thoroughly after cleaning.

• Clean the Condenser Coils

Condenser coils dissipate heat from the fridge. If they’re covered in dust or dirt, they can’t release heat effectively, causing the fridge to overheat and fail to cool properly.

Steps to Clean the Condenser Coils:

• Locate the Coils: Depending on your fridge model, the condenser coils may be located on the back or underneath the fridge.
• Unplug the Fridge: For safety, unplug the fridge before cleaning the coils.
• Use a Brush or Vacuum: Clean the coils using a coil cleaning brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment. Be thorough but gentle to avoid damaging the coils.
• Regular Maintenance: Clean the coils every six months to maintain efficiency.
• Ensure Proper Airflow

Proper airflow around and within the fridge is crucial for efficient cooling. Obstructions can hinder airflow and cause the fridge to overheat.

Steps to Ensure Proper Airflow:

• Check External Space: Ensure there is at least a few inches of space between the fridge and the wall for ventilation.
• Organize the Interior: Avoid overpacking the fridge, as this can block air vents inside the fridge and restrict airflow. Leave space around food items for air to circulate.
• Inspect Air Vents: Make sure the air vents inside the fridge and freezer are not blocked by food items.

• Check the Evaporator Fan

The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer to the fridge. If it’s not working, the fridge won’t get cold enough.

Steps to Check the Evaporator Fan:

• Listen for the Fan: When the fridge is running, listen for the sound of the evaporator fan. If you don’t hear it, the fan may be faulty.
• Access the Fan: The fan is usually located behind the back panel in the freezer. You may need to remove shelves and panels to access it.
• Test the Fan Motor: Use a multimeter to check if the fan motor is receiving power. If it’s not, the motor might need to be replaced.

• Examine the Compressor

The compressor is the heart of the cooling system, circulating refrigerant through the coils. If it’s not working, the fridge won’t cool.

Steps to Examine the Compressor:

• Listen for Noise: A working compressor makes a humming sound. If it’s silent or making clicking noises, it might be faulty.
• Feel for Vibration: Place your hand on the compressor (usually located at the back of the fridge). If it’s not vibrating, it might not be running.
• Check the Start Relay: The start relay helps start the compressor. If it’s defective, the compressor won’t run. Test the relay with a multimeter and replace it if necessary.

• Inspect the Defrost System

A malfunctioning defrost system can cause ice buildup on the evaporator coils, restricting airflow and leading to cooling issues.

Steps to Inspect the Defrost System:

• Check for Frost Buildup: Excessive frost in the freezer section is a sign of a defrost issue.
• Test the Defrost Timer: The defrost timer cycles the fridge between cooling and defrosting modes. Locate the timer and manually advance it to see if it starts the defrost cycle.
• Check the Defrost Heater and Thermostat: Use a multimeter to test the defrost heater and thermostat for continuity. Replace any defective components.
• Call a Professional

If you’ve tried all the above steps and your fridge still isn’t cooling, it might be time to call a professional technician. Refrigeration systems can be complex, and certain issues require specialized tools and expertise.

When to Call a Professional:

• Persistent Issues: If the fridge still won’t cool after troubleshooting.
• Refrigerant Leaks: Handling refrigerant requires special certification.
• Electrical Problems: If you suspect wiring or electrical component issues.

Conclusion

A refrigerator that isn’t cooling can be a significant hassle, but many common issues can be resolved with a bit of troubleshooting and maintenance.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can identify and potentially fix the problem yourself, saving time and money.

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning condenser coils and checking door seals, can also help prevent future issues and keep your fridge running efficiently.