Refrigerators use a system that generates cold through a turbine that propels cold air throughout the fridge. However, a fault may occur which prevents the refrigerator from producing cold.
This is why it will be necessary to revise several elements according to the type of symptom to understand the origin of the breakdown of a fridge that is no longer cold.
- If your compressor is not running, it will be necessary to check its power supply, the thermostat, the safety klixon and the starting device of the fridge.
- If your compressor is running normally, you will need to check the evaporator, the fan, the defrost resistance and the thermal safety device.
This can solve the problem of your fridge which is no longer cold, whether it is ventilated cold, Samsung or Whirlpool brand. The way to solve the problem on a refrigerator will be similar with a freezer: it is also a household appliance that makes cold.
A refrigerator is one of the most essential appliances in a modern kitchen, and it’s crucial for it to function properly. It keeps food and beverages at the right temperature to maintain their freshness and prevent spoilage. So, when your refrigerator stops getting cold, it’s a serious concern. In this article, we will explore the reasons why your fridge might not be maintaining its temperature and what you can do to fix it.
1. Incorrect Temperature Settings
Sometimes the problem could be as simple as incorrect temperature settings. The temperature for a fridge should be set between 37-40 degrees Fahrenheit (3-4 degrees Celsius), and the freezer should be at 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius). Check to ensure your settings fall within these ranges. If not, adjust them accordingly.
2. Blocked Vents
The cold air in your fridge comes from a vent between the freezer and fridge. If these vents are blocked, the cold air can’t circulate correctly. Make sure the vents aren’t blocked by food or containers. Organize your food and containers properly to allow air to circulate freely.
3. Faulty Thermostat
A faulty thermostat can lead to cooling problems in your fridge. If the thermostat is not reading the correct temperature, it might not trigger the cooling cycle as it should. You may need to replace the thermostat if it’s faulty.
4. Dirty Condenser Coils
Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the condenser coils at the back or bottom of your fridge. This can interfere with the coils’ ability to dissipate heat, affecting the overall cooling efficiency. Cleaning the condenser coils regularly can help keep your fridge running efficiently.
5. Failed Evaporator Fan
The evaporator fan circulates the cold air from the coils to the fridge. If the fan is not working correctly, the fridge won’t cool down. You might hear a noisy operation, or not hear the fan running at all if it’s failed. In this case, the fan would need to be replaced.
6. Leaky Door Seals
The door seals (or gaskets) of your fridge ensure that the cold air stays in and warm air stays out. If they’re damaged or worn out, they can leak cold air, affecting the refrigerator’s temperature. Inspect the door seals for damage or wear, and replace them if necessary.
7. Broken Compressor
The compressor is the heart of your fridge’s cooling system. If it’s broken, your fridge won’t cool. A broken compressor is a serious issue and typically indicates it might be time for a new refrigerator.
TEST THE BOOT SYSTEM
Your compressor is equipped with a starter. It could be a thermistor, a starter relay, or an electronic board.
Depending on the element you have, you will have to test with the multimeter set to its lowest ohm setting. If a value is displayed, the part is good, otherwise it needs to be replaced.
If you see the electronic control board next to the compressor: you should check the 3 windings (A, P and C in the photo) that are on the side of the compressor:
- Measure the values between reels A and C and then between C and P (orange arrows).
- Add these two values together and you should end up with a number that looks like the value measured between A and P (green arrows).
If your fridge isn’t cooling, and you’ve checked for the common causes, it may be time to call in a professional. Some issues, particularly those involving the compressor or refrigerant, are best handled by a professional repair technician. Remember, proper maintenance like cleaning condenser coils and ensuring good air circulation can go a long way in preventing cooling problems.
