Refrigerator Not Working? 3 DIY Fixes to Try Before Calling in the Pros
When your refrigerator isn’t working right, knowing how to quickly spot the problem can make all the difference in getting it fixed. Whether your fridge has stopped cooling, stopped working, or is getting too cold, these expert tips will help you diagnose and repair it fast, saving you both time and frustration. Plus, learn when it’s best to call in the pros for those tougher issues that need a technician’s touch. Let’s get your fridge working again so your food stays fresh and your daily routine stays on track.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Check basic power issues first, like ensuring the refrigerator is plugged in and the circuit breaker is functioning.
- Regular maintenance, like cleaning condenser coils, can prevent common cooling problems.
- If DIY troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, professional repair may be necessary to avoid further damage.
If your refrigerator isn’t cooling or has stopped working, there are a few simple troubleshooting steps you can try before calling a repair service. These quick fixes can help get your fridge back up and running smoothly, saving you time and the hassle of unnecessary service calls. Here’s how to tackle some of the most common refrigerator problems.
1. Refrigerator Stopped Working
If your refrigerator has stopped working, the sudden risk of spoiled food can be stressful. Acting quickly is the best way to save your groceries. The steps below can help you identify and fix the most common reasons your refrigerator suddenly died.
- Check that the power cord is plugged in securely and that the control settings haven’t been turned off by accident.
- Make sure the fridge is receiving power. If the interior light doesn’t turn on when you open the door, try resetting the circuit breaker for the refrigerator. If your home uses a fuse box, check for a blown fuse and replace it if necessary.
- If there’s still no power after resetting the breaker, test the outlet by plugging in another device to ensure it’s working.
- Check the display to see if the refrigerator is in Demo/Showroom mode. If it is, disable the mode to restore normal operation. Sometimes refrigerators are delivered in this mode by mistake, or it can be accidentally activated during cleaning or when changing settings.
If these steps don’t get your refrigerator running again, it’s time to call in a professional. A Sears Home Services technician can diagnose the issue and get your fridge back in working order.
2. Fridge Stopped Cooling
One of the most common issues with refrigerators is when they stop cooling properly. After all, keeping your food cold and safe is a fridge’s main job. Try these troubleshooting tips that might solve the problem and bring back the chill to your kitchen.
- If you’ve recently adjusted the temperature settings, give it up to 48 hours for the changes to take effect.
- If the problem is in the crisper, meat, or deli drawer, try adjusting its airflow controls. Sliding the controls to a colder setting will allow more air to flow in, keeping the contents colder.
- If you can access the condenser coil from the front of the fridge (usually behind a removable grill near the floor):
- Turn off the refrigerator and unplug it.
- Carefully remove the grill and vacuum any dust underneath or on the grill itself.
- Clean the grill with mild soap and water, then put it back in place.
- Plug the refrigerator back in, turn it on, and reset the controls to the desired temperature.
If your fridge is still not cooling after these steps, it could be a sign of a deeper issue. Regular professional maintenance can help keep your fridge running smoothly and prevent problems like this from happening in the future. If needed, a Sears Home Services technician can diagnose the problem and provide the expert care your fridge needs.
3. Refrigerator Is Too Cold
While it might seem like less of a problem, a refrigerator that’s too cold can be just as damaging to your food as one that isn’t cooling enough. Overly cold temperatures can freeze your produce, spike your energy bills, and put unnecessary strain on your fridge. Here are some simple steps to help you warm things up and keep your fridge running efficiently:
- Check the temperature control setting and adjust it if needed. Remember, it can take up to 48 hours for the temperature change to take effect.
- Make sure air vents aren’t blocked by food containers. Moving items away from the vents allows the fridge to cool properly.
- Turn off the ice maker if you don’t have a water supply connected. This prevents the refrigerator from lowering the temperature to try to make ice.
- If you’ve recently used a lot of ice, the fridge might have lowered the temperature to make more. Give it 24 hours to see if the temperature returns to normal.
If these steps don’t solve the problem, it's time to call in a professional. A Sears Home Services technician can accurately diagnose the issue and get your fridge back to the perfect temperature.
We're Here When You Need Us
Even the most skilled DIYers run into refrigerator problems that are beyond a simple fix. When your troubleshooting efforts aren’t enough, it's time to call in the experts from Sears Home Services. Our technicians have the knowledge, experience, and tools to repair your fridge quickly and efficiently. Don’t let refrigerator troubles disrupt your day—schedule your professional repair service now and get your routine back on track.
Scheduling your refrigerator repair with Sears Home Services is easy. Simply use our online service scheduler to set up your in-home repair appointment. Same-day and next-day availability is offered in many areas.
Sears Home Services is the only nationwide provider of appliance repair in America. With over 2,500 technicians across the country, we’re likely just around the corner. Our highly trained technicians specialize in refrigerator repair and have experience with all major brands, including Kenmore, Frigidaire, GE, Samsung, LG, and Whirlpool. On average, Sears technicians have over 10 years of experience in refrigerator repair.
To keep your refrigerator in top shape, schedule yearly professional maintenance. Our maintenance service includes a comprehensive inspection and cleaning, covering:
- Full electrical system inspection
- Thermostat and air damper check
- Defrost, evaporation, and drain inspection
- Level check
- Condenser coil, drip pan, and door gasket cleaning
Experience the benefits of professional maintenance to help extend the life of your refrigerator.
Sears Home Services is here to help you manage any refrigerator issues quickly and efficiently. Trust us to help you keep your entire home in top shape.
Schedule your refrigerator repair now!
Backed by years of experience, our technicians possess the skills necessary to fix your refrigerator. And because our techs our local, they can fix it for you fast.
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Repair Refrigerator Resources
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Discover how a thermoelectric fridge works and how to maintain it so it works efficiently.
Learn how a propane refrigerator that uses R290 refrigerant works.
Glossary Terms
A French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.
Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems and refrigerators to absorb heat from the environment by cycling through states of evaporation and condensation, enabling the cooling process through its cycle of evaporation and condensation.
R-12 refrigerant, also known as Freon-12, is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compound that was once widely used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and aerosol propellants before its phase-out due to environmental concerns.
CFC certification refers to the credentialing process that qualifies HVAC technicians to handle chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other refrigerants in a manner that complies with environmental regulations. It is essential for professionals who install, maintain, or repair HVAC systems and refrigeration equipment.
Common Repair Refrigerator Symptoms
The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator won't make ice are a locked compressor, old water filter or a malfunctioning dispenser.
The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator water is not cold are a compromised water reservoir, failed door insulation, or a malfunctioning dispenser.
The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator water filter is not working are an old water filter, a defective water valve, or a malfunctioning PCB.
The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator water dispenser is not working are a locked compressor, old water filter or a malfunctioning dispenser.
The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator stopped working are a locked compressor, damaged evaporator or a defective electronic control board.
The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator is not working are a defective electronic control board, bad temperature control thermostat or a locked compressor.