What Should I Do If My Refrigerator Stops Cooling? If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of your refrigerator suddenly losing its ability to cool, it can be a cause for concern. After all, a malfunctioning refrigerator can disrupt your daily routine and potentially lead to spoiled food. In this article, we will guide you through the necessary steps to take when faced with a refrigerator that stops cooling, enabling you to quickly troubleshoot the issue and potentially avoid costly repairs or replacements.
Check the Power
Make sure the refrigerator is plugged in
If your refrigerator stops cooling, the first thing you should do is check if it is properly plugged in. While it may seem like a simple oversight, sometimes the plug can get accidentally disconnected, causing the refrigerator to lose power. Take a moment to confirm that the power cord is securely inserted into the electrical outlet.
Check the circuit breaker or fuse box
If the refrigerator is plugged in but still not cooling, the next step is to check the circuit breaker or fuse box. There may have been a power surge or a tripped circuit breaker, which could have interrupted the power supply to the refrigerator. Open the circuit breaker or fuse box panel and look for any switches or fuses that may have been tripped or blown. If you find any, reset the switches or replace the blown fuse.
Test the outlet with another appliance
To further troubleshoot the power issue, you can test the outlet with another appliance. Plug in a different device, such as a lamp or a phone charger, to see if it receives power. If the other appliance does not work either, then the problem lies with the electrical outlet and not the refrigerator. In this case, you may need to contact an electrician to resolve the issue. However, if the other appliance works, then the power supply to your refrigerator is functioning properly.
Adjust the Temperature
Ensure the temperature controls are set correctly
If your refrigerator is still not cooling properly, it is essential to make sure that the temperature controls are set correctly. The controls are usually located inside the refrigerator compartment and they allow you to adjust the temperature according to your preferences. Consult the refrigerator’s manual or look for any labels or markings on the controls to determine the ideal temperature setting. Make any necessary adjustments and wait for some time to see if the refrigerator starts cooling again.
Check for obstructions in the vents and air circulation
Another reason why your refrigerator may not be cooling effectively is due to obstructions in the vents and air circulation. Over time, dust, debris, and even food particles can accumulate in the vents, preventing the proper flow of cold air. Inspect the vents located at the back of the refrigerator and ensure they are clear of any obstructions. Additionally, check if any items inside the refrigerator are blocking the air circulation. Remove any objects that may be hindering the flow of cold air and allow the refrigerator to cool down.
Clean the Condenser Coils
Locate the condenser coils
Condenser coils play a crucial role in the cooling process of the refrigerator. These coils are usually located at the back or underside of the appliance. Carefully move the refrigerator away from the wall or remove the bottom grill to access the coils. You may consult the refrigerator’s manual or conduct an online search specific to your make and model for more detailed instructions on locating the condenser coils.
Vacuum the coils to remove debris and dust
Over time, condenser coils can become dirty and clogged with debris, dust, and pet hair. This buildup can hinder the efficiency of the coils and prevent proper cooling. Once you have located the condenser coils, use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove any debris and dust. Be thorough in your cleaning, ensuring that all sides of the coils are clean and dust-free.
If necessary, use a coil brush for stubborn dirt
In some cases, vacuuming may not be sufficient to remove stubborn dirt or dust from the condenser coils. If you notice any remaining buildup, consider using a coil brush specifically designed for this purpose. This brush has soft bristles that can reach into tight spaces and effectively remove dirt from the coils. Use the coil brush in conjunction with the vacuum cleaner to provide a thorough cleaning and ensure optimal cooling performance.
Clear the Drain Tube
Find the drain tube at the back of the refrigerator
The drain tube of a refrigerator is responsible for removing excess moisture and condensation from the defrost cycle. If this drain tube becomes clogged, it can lead to water buildup and potentially affect the cooling capacity of the refrigerator. Locate the drain tube at the back of the refrigerator, typically near the bottom. It is usually a small, rubber or plastic tube connected to a drip tray or pan.
Use a pipe cleaner or wire to clear any clogs
Once you have located the drain tube, use a pipe cleaner or a length of wire to gently clear any clogs. Insert the wire or pipe cleaner into the tube and carefully maneuver it back and forth to break up any blockages. Be cautious not to damage the tube or cause it to disconnect from the drip tray. Once you are confident that the drain tube is clear, check the drip tray and empty it if necessary.
Check the Door Seal
Inspect the door seal for any signs of damage or gaps
A faulty door seal can lead to cold air escaping from the refrigerator and warm air entering, causing the cooling system to work harder. Inspect the door seal and look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, tears, or gaps. Pay close attention to the areas where the seal meets the refrigerator frame. If you notice any issues with the door seal, it may need to be replaced.
Clean the seal with mild soap and water
Before replacing the door seal, try cleaning it thoroughly with mild soap and water. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the seal, paying attention to any areas with visible dirt or stains. Rinse the seal with a damp cloth, making sure to remove any soap residue. Allow the seal to dry completely before reattaching it to the refrigerator. Cleaning the seal may help improve its effectiveness in creating a proper seal.
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to create a better seal
If the door seal is still not providing a tight seal after cleaning, you can apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to enhance its effectiveness. Take a small amount of petroleum jelly and rub it onto the entire length of the door seal, making sure to cover any damaged areas. The jelly will create a lubricating barrier, helping the seal adhere to the refrigerator frame more securely. Be sure to wipe off any excess jelly to prevent it from transferring onto food or other surfaces.
Defrost the Refrigerator
Unplug the refrigerator
In some cases, a buildup of ice can cause the refrigerator to stop cooling properly. If you notice excessive frost or ice accumulation on the freezer walls or evaporator coils, it may be necessary to defrost the refrigerator. Before starting the defrosting process, unplug the refrigerator from the electrical outlet to ensure your safety. This step is crucial as you will be working with water during the defrosting process.
Place towels or a shallow pan beneath to catch water
During defrosting, the ice will melt and produce water that needs to be collected to prevent any damage to your floors. Place towels or a shallow pan beneath the refrigerator to catch the water that will be released as the ice melts. This precaution will keep your surroundings dry and avoid any unnecessary mess.
Leave the door open and allow the ice to melt naturally
After taking the necessary precautions, leave the refrigerator door open and allow the ice to melt naturally. This process may take several hours, depending on the amount of ice buildup. Avoid using any sharp objects to forcibly remove the ice as this can cause damage to the evaporator coils or other internal components. Once all the ice has melted and the refrigerator is free of frost, clean up any remaining water and plug it back into the electrical outlet.
Inspect the Evaporator Fan
Locate the evaporator fan
The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating the cold air throughout the refrigerator. If this fan is not working correctly, it can result in poor cooling performance. Locate the evaporator fan, which is typically found inside the freezer compartment, behind a panel or in close proximity to the evaporator coils. Consult the refrigerator’s manual for precise instructions on accessing the evaporator fan specific to your model.
Ensure it is running smoothly
Once you have located the evaporator fan, ensure that it is running smoothly. Gently listen for any unusual sounds or vibrations that may indicate a malfunction. If the fan appears to be running but is not circulating cold air, it may be necessary to clean or replace the fan.
Clean or replace the fan if necessary
Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the blades of the evaporator fan, causing it to become less efficient. If you notice any buildup, use a soft brush or cloth to gently clean the fan blades. Be cautious not to apply excessive force or bend the blades during the cleaning process. If cleaning the fan does not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to replace the fan entirely. Consult a professional technician or refer to the refrigerator’s manual for guidance on replacing the evaporator fan.
Check the Defrost Heater
Find the defrost heater
The defrost heater is responsible for melting the ice that accumulates on the evaporator coils during the defrost cycle. If this heater is not functioning correctly, it can lead to excessive ice buildup and hinder the cooling process. Locate the defrost heater, which is typically found near the evaporator coils in the freezer compartment. The exact positioning may vary depending on the refrigerator model, so consult the manual for precise instructions.
Test it for continuity using a multimeter
To determine if the defrost heater is functioning properly, you can use a multimeter to test for continuity. Set the multimeter to the continuity mode and touch the probes to the terminals of the defrost heater. If the multimeter displays a continuous circuit, it means that there is continuity, indicating that the heater is working as intended. If there is no continuity, it suggests that the defrost heater is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Replace the heater if no continuity is detected
If the multimeter test reveals no continuity in the defrost heater, it is necessary to replace the heater. It is important to note that replacing the defrost heater requires technical expertise and is best done by a professional technician. Contact a reputable refrigerator repair service to ensure a proper installation and restore the cooling functionality of your refrigerator.
Inspect the Thermistor
Locate the thermistor
The thermistor is a temperature sensor that plays a crucial role in regulating the cooling cycle of the refrigerator. If this sensor is malfunctioning, it can lead to improper temperature control and affect the cooling performance. Locate the thermistor, which is typically situated near the evaporator coils or in the refrigerator compartment. Refer to the refrigerator’s manual for precise instructions on finding the thermistor specific to your model.
Test it for proper resistance using a multimeter
To determine if the thermistor is functioning correctly, you can test it for proper resistance using a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the resistance mode and touch the probes to the thermistor’s terminals. Compare the resistance reading to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure it falls within the acceptable range. If the resistance reading is outside the expected range, it indicates a faulty thermistor that needs to be replaced.
Replace the thermistor if it is faulty
If the multimeter test indicates a faulty thermistor, it is crucial to replace it to restore the proper cooling functionality of the refrigerator. Replacing the thermistor should be performed by a professional technician who can ensure the accurate installation of the new component. Contact a refrigerator repair service and provide them with the model and make of your refrigerator to obtain the correct thermistor replacement.
Call a Professional
If all else fails, seek assistance from a refrigerator repair expert
If you have followed all the previous steps and your refrigerator still fails to cool properly, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a refrigerator repair expert. Attempting to troubleshoot or repair complex refrigeration issues without the necessary knowledge and expertise can potentially lead to further damage or personal injury. A professional technician will have the experience and equipment required to diagnose the underlying problem accurately.
They can diagnose and fix more complex refrigeration issues
Refrigerators are complex appliances with various internal components and systems working together for optimal performance. If basic troubleshooting methods do not resolve the cooling issue, it is likely that a more complicated problem exists. A refrigerator repair expert has in-depth knowledge and the necessary tools to diagnose and fix these complex refrigeration issues. They can identify any underlying mechanical or electrical faults and ensure the refrigerator is restored to its proper functioning state.
In conclusion, a refrigerator that stops cooling can be a cause for concern. However, by following the outlined steps, you can troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue. Start by checking the power supply, adjusting the temperature controls, and ensuring proper air circulation. Next, clean the condenser coils, clear the drain tube, and inspect the door seal. If applicable, defrost the refrigerator and inspect the evaporator fan, defrost heater, and thermistor. If all else fails, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional refrigerator repair expert who can diagnose and fix more complex refrigeration issues. Remember to prioritize safety and consult the refrigerator’s manual for specific instructions related to your make and model.
