Is your fridge not cooling but freezer works fine? You are not alone! One of the most common issues faced by homeowners, especially in the Indian summer, is this. The good part? You may not have to rush into calling an expert for refrigerator repair.
Let’s discuss the common causes and things you can check by yourself that will save you all the hassle and money.
Fridge Not Cooling but Freezer Works? Common Reasons Below
#1. Check If the Appliance Is Plugged In Properly
Sometimes, basic things can get missed by our radar. If your refrigerator is warm and the freezer is working, make sure the appliance is plugged into the power source securely and the power source hasn’t been switched off. Accidental unplugging is a more common reason than you’d consider.
#2. Watch Out for Overstuffing the Freezer
Overstuffing the freezer can hinder the cold air from reaching the freezer section. This translates to a warm fridge, as cold air from the freezer is unable to reach the fridge. Always keep some space to let the cool air circulate properly.
#3. Look for Blocked Air Vents or Damper Control Issues
If the vent positioned between the freezer and refrigerator is blocked, the flow of cold air will be blocked. This could happen because of ice buildup or a malfunction of the damper control. Make sure of clear vents; don’t let the food block them.
#4. Dusty or Clogged Condenser Coils That Require Maintenance
Dusty or Clogged Condenser Coils are another common reason why the refrigerator might not get cold. Dust and grime prevent the cooling system from doing its job efficiently. Cleaning the condenser coils located behind or underneath your refrigerator will make it work properly and cool.
#5. Inspect Your Evaporator Fan and Evaporator Coils
A faulty evaporator fan motor will cause air flow problems. The frost on evaporator coils will prevent cold air from entering the fridge. You will notice that the freezer is working fine, but the fridge is not cold. Either allow the appliance to fully defrost or check the fan.
#6. Defrost Mechanism Not Functioning Properly
A defrost problem would cause the ice to accumulate on the evaporator coils, preventing airflow. In cases where the fridge is not cooling but the freezer is cold, this must be considered. Check the defrost timer, thermistor, or other defrost system parts.
#7. Compressor or Temperature Control Board Issues
If the temperatures still have not been brought back to normal, most probably the compressor is not functioning properly. The temperature control board or thermostat is are possible culprit as well. Repairs need to be done by a professional technician for such parts.
#8. Look at the Gasket and Ventilation
A bad or dirty gasket on the refrigerator door will let warm air in, maybe compromising cooling. In the same way, poor ventilation or wrong installation could make the appliance warmer and consequently degrade the performance.
#9. General Tips to Fix a Warm Fridge
- Do not overstuff the refrigerator.
- Unplug your refrigerator for 5 minutes and plug it back in.
- Make sure your fridge is not placed near a heat source.
- Avoid opening the refrigerator door frequently.
Also read: How Long Do Fridges Last?
When to Call a Technician
If you have tried everything and you still experience the situation in which the fridge isn’t cold but the freezer is, then you must consider calling the professional refrigerator repair team to test if they need servicing due to faulty workings of other parts, such as the compressor, thermistor, or temperature sensor.
Also read: How Many Amps Does a Refrigerator Use?
Conclusion
For a fridge not cooling but freezer works is frustrating, but it is not always a serious fault. A couple of checks in quick time, like making sure the appliance is plugged in properly, cleaning dirty condenser coils, and avoiding overstuffing, might solve the problem for you.
But if it continues past your efforts, feel free to call upon a trusted refrigerator repair technician.
Stay cool and happy troubleshooting!
