A refrigerator that’s not cooling can be a big inconvenience, especially when you have a house full of groceries. However, before you start panicking and rushing to replace your fridge, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem yourself. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some common causes of a refrigerator not cooling and offer solutions to get it back up and running.
What could be causing my refrigerator to not cool at all?
There are several reasons why a refrigerator is not cold enough, and some of the most common causes include the following:
- Dirty condenser coils: At the back or bottom of your fridge, the condenser coils release heat from the unit. However, they can’t release heat efficiently when they get covered in dust and debris, causing the fridge to stop cooling. Unplug your fridge, pull it away from the wall, and vacuum the coils using a brush attachment to fix this.
- Faulty evaporator fan: The fan circulates cool air throughout the fridge. However, the fridge won’t cool properly if it’s not working correctly. To check if the fan is working, open the fridge door and listen for a humming noise. If you don’t hear anything, the fan might need to be replaced.
- Broken thermostat: The thermostat controls the temperature inside the fridge. If it’s not working correctly, the fridge might not cool. To check if the thermostat is the problem, turn the dial to the coldest setting and see if the fridge cools down. If not, you might need to replace the thermostat.
- Clogged air vents: Air vents in the fridge and freezer compartments allow air to circulate and regulate the temperature. The fridge won’t cool properly if these vents get clogged with food or ice. Unplug the fridge, empty the compartments, and clean the vents with a soft-bristle brush to fix this.
Can I fix a refrigerator that is not cooling by myself, or do I need to hire a professional?
While some issues with a refrigerator not cooling can be fixed by yourself, others might require the expertise of a professional technician. If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components or don’t have experience troubleshooting fridge problems, it’s best to call a professional. However, if you’re handy and want to try fixing the problem yourself, here are some things you can do:
- Check the power source: Ensure the fridge is properly plugged in and the outlet works correctly. You can also try plugging in a different device to see if the outlet functions properly. If the outlet is not working, try resetting the circuit breaker or contacting an electrician for assistance.
- Clean the condenser coils: Dirty condenser coils can cause the fridge to stop cooling as they can’t release heat efficiently. To clean them, unplug the fridge and pull it away from the wall. Locate the coils at the back or bottom of the fridge and use a soft-bristle brush or vacuum to remove any dirt or debris. It would be best to clean the coils at least once every six months to keep them functioning properly.
- Replace the evaporator fan: If you suspect it is not working correctly, you can order a replacement fan and install it using basic tools. First, unplug the fridge and locate the fan in the freezer compartment. Remove any covers or panels blocking the fan, disconnect them from the wiring harness, and remove it from the unit. Install the new fan by reversing the steps and connecting it to the wiring harness properly.
- Check the thermostat: If the fridge is not cooling properly, the thermostat might be broken. To check if this is the case, turn the dial to the coldest setting and see if the fridge cools down. If not, you might need to order a replacement online and replace it yourself. First, unplug the fridge and locate the thermostat, usually found in the control panel inside the fridge. Remove any covers or panels blocking the thermostat and disconnect them from the wiring harness. Install the new thermostat by reversing the steps and connecting it to the wiring harness properly.
Remember, attempting to fix a fridge that won’t get cold can be dangerous and may damage the unit further. If you’re uncomfortable working on your fridge, it’s best to call a professional.
Contact Viking Repair Crew for Professional Refrigerator Repair
If you’ve tried all the solutions above and your refrigerator is still not cooling, it’s time to call the professionals. Viking Repair Crew is here to help with all your refrigerator repair needs. Our team of experienced technicians has the knowledge and skills to diagnose and fix any issue your fridge might be experiencing. Contact us today to schedule your Viking Built-In Refrigerator Repair needs! Check also our blog for guaranteed refrigerator troubleshooting tips to learn how to repair a refrigerator!