Steps to Take When Your Refrigerator Won’t Cool

If your refrigerator stops cooling, it can cause food spoilage fast. Learn how to take immediate action, troubleshoot the problem, and when to call a professional for repair.

Woman looking confused in front of an open refrigerator, unsure of what to do with an empty fridge.

Written by Olivia Carter

Contributing Writer

Updated September 26, 2024

W

hen your refrigerator stops cooling, it can lead to significant problems, including food spoilage within hours. Here’s a guide for addressing the issue and preventing food loss while awaiting repairs.

Steps to Take When Your Refrigerator Won’t Cool

1. Keep the Doors Closed: Minimize door openings to retain the cold air inside. This is crucial in delaying spoilage.

2. Call for Appliance Repair Immediately: Contact a technician as soon as you notice the issue to secure a spot on their schedule.

3. Use Portable Coolers: If repair service isn’t available for several hours, transfer perishable items to coolers filled with ice.

DIY Checks for a Refrigerator Not Cooling

Before calling a professional, try these troubleshooting steps:

1. Check Internal Temperature Settings

Ensure your fridge is set to the recommended range of 34-40°F. A simple temperature adjustment might solve the problem.

2. Ensure Proper Airflow

A packed fridge can block airflow between the freezer and refrigerator compartments. Remove excess food and make sure the air ducts are clear.

3. Clean Dirty Condenser Coils

Dirty coils can impede the cooling process. Clean them regularly (every 6 months) to maintain efficiency.

4. Inspect Door Seals

Check for cracks, wear, or improper sealing. If your fridge door isn’t sealing properly, cold air can escape. You can test this by placing a dollar bill halfway into the closed door. If it pulls out easily, the seal may need replacement.

If none of these DIY steps work, it’s time to contact a professional appliance repair service. Choose certified technicians to handle more complex issues like compressor failures or faulty thermostats.

For quick, reliable service, schedule a repair with Major at Appliance Repair, your local experts for refrigerator repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What’s the first thing to do if my fridge stops cooling?

    Keep the refrigerator doors closed to maintain internal temperature and call for repair service as soon as possible.

  • How can I troubleshoot my refrigerator?

    Start by checking the internal temperature, inspecting for airflow blockages, cleaning the condenser coils, and examining the door seal.

  • When should I call a professional repair technician?

    If your refrigerator still doesn’t cool after basic troubleshooting, contact an authorized repair technician to diagnose and fix the issue.

Still have questions?

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