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

Schedule your refrigerator repair now!

We can help! Our service technicians have repaired over 42M refrigerators. We can fix yours no matter where you bought it.

Call (646) 440-2692 or schedule online now.

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. Avoid replacing unneeded parts by having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem.

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.

What our customers say about us

With more than 1.3 Million 5 Star Reviews, you don't have to take our word for it

Jake is a great person.

He did a great job, the problem is with the refrigerator.

Nancy V, Meridian, ID

Great job

Robert did a great job and was kind and courteous. He cleaned up everything. I would highly recommend using him.

Karen K, Mount Laurel, NJ

Service appointment

Joe was very professional and knowledgeable technician who quickly found and fixed the problem. I would recommend for service again

Tim R, Schaghticoke, NY

Repair Refrigerator Resources

Ice Maker Not Making Ice? Troubleshoot and Fix It Today

Is your ice maker not producing ice? Follow our guide to fix common issues like jammed dispensers or clogged water filters. Schedule a repair with Sears Home Services if needed.

9 min readApr. 11Refrigerator