Refrigerator Not Cooling: Common Causes

A refrigerator that stops cooling puts a clock on everything inside it. Before you panic or call for service, a few quick checks can often find the problem. Here's a walk through the most common causes, from simple fixes to repairs that need a technician.

Start with the simple checks

Some cooling problems have easy answers:

• Thermostat setting. Make sure the temperature control didn't get bumped. Most manufacturers suggest a fridge setting around 37°F to 40°F.
• Power. Confirm the fridge is plugged in and the outlet works. If the light is on, the fridge has power, but the cooling system may not.
• Door seals. Close the door on a dollar bill. If it slides out easily, the gasket may not be sealing.
• Door left ajar. Overpacked shelves or a crooked drawer can keep the door from closing fully.
• Recent loading. A big grocery trip or warm items can make the fridge feel warm for a while.

Dirty coils and blocked vents

The condenser coils release heat from the refrigerator. When they're covered in dust or pet hair, the fridge can't shed heat well and may run constantly without cooling properly.

Coils are usually behind a kick plate at the bottom front or on the back. Unplug the fridge and use a coil brush or vacuum to clean them. Many manufacturers suggest doing this periodically. Check your manual.

Vents matter too. In many refrigerators, cold air is made in the freezer and blown into the fridge section through vents. If food blocks those vents, the fridge side can warm up while the freezer stays cold. Move items away from vents and don't overpack.

Fan problems

Two fans are common culprits:

• Evaporator fan. Circulates cold air from the freezer coils. If it stops, both compartments may warm up. You might hear a squeal or no sound at all when the compressor runs.
• Condenser fan. Cools the compressor and condenser coils. If it fails, the fridge may run hot and cool poorly.

A technician can test and replace fans, and some handy homeowners do it themselves with the right part.

Frost buildup and defrost issues

If the freezer coils ice over, air can't pass through them. Signs include frost on the back wall of the freezer and a fridge section that warms up while the freezer still seems cold. Possible causes:

• A failed defrost heater
• A bad defrost thermostat or sensor
• A faulty defrost control board

Manually defrosting by unplugging the fridge with the doors open can bring temporary relief, but the underlying part usually needs repair.

Bigger repairs

When simpler causes are ruled out, the problem may be:

• Compressor or start relay failure. The fridge may click on and off without running steadily.
• Control board failure. Can affect fans, defrost and compressor operation.
• Refrigerant leak. Requires a technician with proper certification and equipment.

These repairs can be expensive, and on an older refrigerator, replacement may be the better choice. A technician can help you weigh repair costs against the age of the unit.

Protecting your food

While you troubleshoot:

1. Keep the doors closed as much as possible.
2. Move important items to a cooler with ice.
3. Use a thermometer to check temperatures.
4. Follow food safety guidance on how long perishables can stay at unsafe temperatures, and when in doubt, throw it out.

Does a home warranty cover this?

Many home warranty plans include refrigerators, sometimes as part of a kitchen appliance package and sometimes as an add-on. Covered parts often include compressors, fans, defrost components and control boards. Common limits include food spoilage caps or exclusions, ice makers and water dispensers covered only with certain plans, and caps on refrigerant recovery. Our page on refrigerator coverage explains typical terms, and second refrigerator coverage covers garage or basement units. Read the plan carefully before you need it.

How Warranty Wizards can help

We help homeowners compare home warranty plans from independent third-party providers and explain what each plan covers for kitchen appliances before you buy. Request a free quote at get a quote.