May 13, 2025
Why Is My Refrigerator Not Cooling? Common Causes & Fixes
A warm refrigerator can quickly turn into a food safety nightmare. If your fridge isn’t cooling properly, don’t panic—many issues can be diagnosed and resolved with a little guidance. Below, we break down the most common reasons your refrigerator may not be staying cold, and how to fix them.
1. Faulty Evaporator Fan Motor
The evaporator fan circulates cold air throughout the refrigerator. If it fails, you may notice the freezer is cold but the fridge is warm. Listen for unusual noises or silence coming from the freezer section. Replacing the fan motor can restore cooling performance.
2. Dirty Condenser Coils
Dusty or greasy coils can’t release heat effectively, causing the compressor to overwork or shut down. Clean the coils (usually located on the back or underneath the fridge) with a coil brush or vacuum every 6–12 months.
3. Malfunctioning Thermostat
The thermostat regulates the fridge's internal temperature. If it fails, the unit may not cool at all. Try turning the thermostat dial—if nothing clicks or changes, the thermostat might need replacement.
4. Defective Start Relay
The start relay helps kickstart the compressor. A clicking noise or total silence followed by no cooling can point to a faulty relay. Swapping in a new relay is typically an easy fix for DIYers.
5. Bad Control Board
The control board acts like the brain of your refrigerator. If it’s faulty, it might not signal the compressor or fans to run. For GE models, the WR55X10942 board is a common replacement for this issue.
6. Blocked Air Vents
Overstuffing your fridge can block airflow between the freezer and fresh food sections. Ensure vents aren’t blocked by boxes or bags, which can restrict circulation and cause warm spots.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried the basics and your fridge still isn’t cooling, it might be time to call in a technician. Compressor failures, sealed system leaks, and advanced electrical issues require expert attention.
Need a Replacement Part?
At A-Z Appliance Parts, we carry thousands of thoroughly inspected and guaranteed appliance parts to help get your refrigerator running again. Whether you need a control board, thermostat, or fan motor, we’ve got your fix—fast shipping and expert support included.
Stay cool and shop smart—trust A-Z Appliance Parts for all your appliance repair needs.
