If your fridge is not cooling, the most common cause is a dirty condenser coil. The condenser coil is the part of the fridge that releases heat to the outside. If it is clogged with dust, dirt, or pet hair, it can reduce the efficiency of the fridge and prevent it from cooling properly. To fix this problem, you need to clean the condenser coil regularly with a brush or a vacuum cleaner.
However, a dirty condenser coil is not the only reason why your fridge might not be cooling. There are other possible causes that you need to check and troubleshoot. In this article, we will explain how to diagnose and fix some of the most common fridge problems that can affect its cooling performance. We will also provide some tips on how to maintain your fridge and prevent future issues.
The thermostat is the device that controls the temperature of the fridge. If the thermostat is set too high, the fridge will not cool enough. If the thermostat is set too low, the fridge will run constantly and waste energy. To check the thermostat, you need to use a thermometer and place it inside the fridge for a few minutes. Then, compare the reading with the setting on the thermostat. If there is a significant difference, you need to adjust the thermostat accordingly. You can also try to turn the thermostat off and on to see if it resets the fridge.
The door seal is the rubber gasket that seals the gap between the fridge door and the fridge body. If the door seal is damaged, worn, or dirty, it can allow warm air to enter the fridge and cold air to escape. This can affect the cooling efficiency of the fridge and cause condensation and frost buildup. To check the door seal, you need to inspect it for any cracks, tears, or gaps. You can also perform a paper test by closing the door on a piece of paper and trying to pull it out. If the paper slides out easily, the door seal is not tight enough. To fix the door seal, you need to clean it with a mild soap and water solution and dry it thoroughly. You can also apply some petroleum jelly to the seal to make it more flexible and prevent it from drying out. If the door seal is beyond repair, you need to replace it with a new one.
Check the Evaporator Fan
The evaporator fan is the fan that circulates cold air inside the fridge. If the evaporator fan is not working, the fridge will not cool evenly. To check the evaporator fan, you need to open the freezer compartment and listen for any unusual noises. If you hear a humming or buzzing sound, the fan might be blocked by ice or debris. If you hear a clicking or grinding sound, the fan might be damaged or worn out. To fix the evaporator fan, you need to unplug the fridge and remove the back panel of the freezer. Then, you need to clear any obstructions from the fan blades and check for any signs of damage. If the fan is faulty, you need to replace it with a new one.
The compressor is the heart of the fridge. It is the part that compresses the refrigerant and pumps it through the coils. If the compressor is not working, the fridge will not cool at all. To check the compressor, you need to locate it at the back of the fridge and feel it with your hand. If the compressor is hot, it might be overheating or overloaded. If the compressor is cold, it might be defective or not getting power. To fix the compressor, you need to check the start relay, the overload protector, and the capacitor. These are the components that help the compressor start and run. If any of these components are burned, broken, or loose, you need to replace them with new ones. If the compressor itself is damaged, you need to call a professional technician to repair or replace it.
Conclusion
A fridge that is not cooling can be a frustrating and costly problem. However, by following the steps above, you can diagnose and fix some of the most common causes of this issue. You can also prevent your fridge from malfunctioning by keeping it clean, level, and well-ventilated. By doing so, you can extend the lifespan of your fridge and save money on energy bills and repairs.
