Refrigerator not cooling

Common reasons your refrigerator not cooling

The most common reasons your refrigerator is not cooling are a locked compressor, defective electronic control board or a damaged evaporator.

41% of the time it's the
Compressor

30% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board

8% of the time it's the
Evaporator

21% of the time it's the
Something else

Common refrigerator repair parts you may need

Replacing one of these refrigerator parts may fix your problem.

Compressor Replacement

A locked refrigerator compressor can exhibit several symptoms of malfunction. The most prominent indication is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, leading to higher temperatures and the risk of food spoilage. The freezer may also struggle to maintain the desired freezing temperatures, resulting in no ice production from the icemaker or dispenser. Additionally, you may observe that the compressor is unusually silent or fails to produce its typical humming sound during operation. In certain cases, the compressor may attempt to start but fail, resulting in repeated clicking noises. The compressor's inability to circulate refrigerant properly can impact the defrosting process, leading to ice buildup in the freezer. Moreover, a defective compressor could cause a sudden influx of melting frost into the drain line, leading to blockages, inadequate drainage, and potential water leaks.

Troubleshooting compressor problems in refrigerators

Electronic Control Board Replacement

If the electronic control board in a refrigerator is bad, it can lead to various issues, such as power loss, cooling irregularities, and water leakage. This is because the board functions as the central control unit of the refrigerator, overseeing critical functions like temperature regulation, fan operation, defrost cycles, icemaker control, and dispenser functions. When the board malfunctions, it can disrupt communication among different components, including automatic door mechanisms if applicable. A defective board may produce clicking or chattering sounds and emit a burning smell. Given its potential impact on multiple components, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional inspect the board using diagnostic tests to determine if replacement is warranted.

How to replace the electronic control board in a refrigerator

Evaporator Replacement

When the refrigerator evaporator is damaged, it can diminish overall cooling performance, causing temperatures to rise in both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. These elevated temperatures can lead to food spoilage and inadequate preservation of frozen items. Frost or ice buildup on the evaporator coils may hamper their ability to absorb heat efficiently. Excessive condensation inside the refrigerator can result in leaks. Additionally, a damaged evaporator may generate unusual noises, such as hissing or gurgling sounds, during the refrigeration cycle.

Troubleshooting a refrigerator not cooling

What to expect when you experience a refrigerator not cooling issue

How to resolve a not cooling problem

Fixing most not cooling problems usually involves replacing the compressor, electronic control board or evaporator. However, this isn't always the case, so a thorough diagnosis is key understanding the extent of repairs needed and resolving the issue.

Sears Home Services suggestions for a refrigerator that is not cooling

If your refrigerator is not cooling it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. We provide fridge repair near you, and our technicians are experienced at diagnosing and fixing all types of refrigerator issues.

Things to consider when diagnosing a refrigerator not cooling problem

Diagnosing issues with modern appliances can pose significant challenges for individuals lacking adequate knowledge and training. Without employing proper diagnostic techniques, rectifying refrigerator problems may involve merely replacing parts based on guesswork. In the past decade, appliances have undergone substantial advancements, incorporating intricate electronic components that are increasingly difficult to troubleshoot. As a result, do-it-yourself repairs on contemporary appliance models have become progressively difficult.

Fridge and Freezer Not Cooling but Light Is On

When the fridge and freezer are not cooling but the light is on in the refrigerator, check to see if the compressor is running. If the compressor isn’t running but the condenser fan and evaporator fan are running, a broken compressor start relay could be preventing the compressor motor from starting.

If you’re confident in your DIY appliance repair skills, you may be able to check the start relay yourself. Unplug the refrigerator power cord and remove the machine compartment cover to access the compressor and start relay. Unplug the wire harness from the start relay and remove the start relay from the compressor. A bad start relay may have burn marks and will have rattle loudly when your shake it. If you highly suspect that the start relay is broken, order the replacement part from our Sears PartsDirect website and replace that part. If you’re not completely confident that you can check and replace the start relay on your own, schedule refrigerator repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home services technician to your home to fix the fridge.

Other issues that can cause the problem of the fridge and freezer not cooling but the light is on include:

Failed electronic control board or cold control thermostat.
Locked up compressor.
Wiring failure.

Have a service technician diagnose these types of problems in your refrigerator.

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Refrigerator

Glossary Terms

What is a French-Door Refrigerator?

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.

What is Refrigerant?

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.

What is R-12 Refrigerant?

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.

What is CFC Certification?

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.