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Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling
Common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator is not cooling
The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator is not cooling are a locked compressor, defective electronic control board or a damaged evaporator.
61% of the time it's the Compressor
11% of the time it's the Electronic Control Board
7% of the time it's the Evaporator
21% of the time it's the Something else
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Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool refrigerator
Compressor Replacement
A locked refrigerator compressor can exhibit several symptoms indicative of a malfunction. The most noticeable sign is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, leading to elevated temperatures and the potential for food spoilage. The freezer may also fail to maintain the desired freezing temperatures, resulting in no ice production from the ice maker or dispenser. Additionally, you'll observe that the compressor is unusually silent or fails to produce its typical humming sound during operation. In some cases, the compressor may attempt to start but fail, resulting in repeated clicking noises. The inability of the compressor to circulate refrigerant properly can affect the defrosting process, leading to ice buildup in the freezer. Furthermore, a faulty compressor could send a sudden influx of melting frost to the drain line, causing it to back up, preventing adequate draining, and potentially causing water leaks.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
A defective electronic control board can lead to various failures in a refrigerator, including a lack of power or cooling and water leaking. This is because the board serves as the brain of the refrigerator, controlling crucial operations such as regulating internal temperatures, running fans, managing defrost cycles, overseeing the ice maker, and controlling dispenser functions. If the electronic control board malfunctions, it can disrupt communication between many different components, including automatic doors if equipped. A failing board may cause a chattering or clicking noise from the refrigerator and may emit a burning odor. Due to the potential impact on multiple components, it is advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests on the board to confirm if replacement is necessary.
Evaporator Replacement
A damaged refrigerator evaporator causes a decrease in overall cooling performance, leading to elevated temperatures in both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. These higher temperatures can result in food spoilage and less effective preservation of frozen items. Frost or ice buildup on the evaporator coils may hinder their ability to absorb heat efficiently. Excessive condensation inside the refrigerator can lead to leaks. Additionally, a damaged evaporator may cause unusual noises, such as hissing or gurgling sounds, during the refrigeration cycle.
What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling issue
How is the not cooling problem fixed?
Correcting most not cooling problems usually involves replacing the compressor, electronic control board or evaporator. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.
Sears Home Services recommendations for a refrigerator that is not cooling
When the 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. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures.
What to look out for with a refrigerator not cooling diagnosis
Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your refrigerator problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.
Troubleshooting Your Whirlpool Refrigerator Cooling Issues
If your Whirlpool refrigerator is experiencing cooling problems, it can be due to a variety of issues. Whether your Whirlpool refrigerator is not getting cold, not staying cold, or has stopped cooling altogether, identifying the root cause is essential for effective troubleshooting and repair. Here are some common scenarios and solutions:
Whirlpool Refrigerator Not Getting Cold
When your Whirlpool refrigerator is not getting cold, the first step is to check the temperature settings. Ensure that the thermostat is set to the correct temperature. Inspect the condenser coils located at the back or beneath the refrigerator. Dirty coils can hinder the cooling efficiency, so cleaning them can often resolve the issue.
If these steps don’t solve the problem, it might be due to a malfunctioning evaporator fan motor. This motor circulates air over the evaporator coils and throughout the refrigerator. If it fails, the fridge won’t cool properly. Replacing the evaporator fan motor can restore your refrigerator’s cooling performance.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Not Staying Cold
If your Whirlpool refrigerator is not staying cold, fluctuating temperatures could indicate a problem with the defrost system. A faulty defrost thermostat or defrost heater can cause ice buildup on the evaporator coils, preventing proper airflow and cooling. Regularly checking and replacing these components can help maintain consistent temperatures.
Another possible cause is a malfunctioning door seal. If the door seal is damaged or not sealing properly, cold air can escape, causing the refrigerator to struggle to maintain its temperature. Inspect the door seal for cracks or gaps and replace it if necessary to ensure a tight seal.
Whirlpool Refrigerator Stopped Cooling
A Whirlpool refrigerator that has stopped cooling completely can be a sign of a more serious issue, such as a failed compressor. The compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant through the cooling system. If it fails, the refrigerator won’t cool at all. Symptoms of a failing compressor include unusual noises, such as clicking or humming, and the absence of the typical humming sound of a functioning compressor.
In addition to the compressor, check the refrigerator’s start relay. The start relay helps the compressor start and if it’s defective, the compressor may not run. Replacing a faulty start relay can often get the compressor and refrigerator running again.
General Tips for Whirlpool Refrigerator Cooling Problems
For all cooling issues, regular maintenance is key. Ensure the refrigerator is not overloaded, as overcrowding can block air vents and impede airflow. Keep the fridge and freezer compartments organized to allow for proper air circulation. Additionally, check that the refrigerator is placed in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources, which can affect its cooling efficiency.
By understanding these specific scenarios and performing regular maintenance, you can prevent and address cooling issues in your Whirlpool refrigerator effectively. If problems persist, contacting a professional technician for a thorough inspection and repair is recommended.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Glossary Terms
A compressor is a mechanical device that increases the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume, essential in various systems including refrigerators, air conditioners, and HVAC units for cooling and refrigeration processes.
A condenser is a component of HVAC and refrigeration systems, responsible for releasing absorbed heat from the refrigerant into the outside air or a water line, thus facilitating the cooling process.
A dual ice maker is a feature in some refrigerators that includes two separate ice makers: one in the fridge compartment and another in the freezer section. This setup doubles the appliance's ice-making capacity.
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.