How Do You Fix A Refrigerator That Is Not Cooling?

Having a refrigerator that isn’t cooling can be an incredibly inconvenient experience. From spoiled food to expensive repair costs, it can be a huge hassle. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to troubleshoot the issue and get your fridge back up and running in no time.

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1. Check power

The first step in any appliance repair is to check its power. The easiest way to check a refrigerator’s power is by making sure it’s plugged in correctly and that the outlet has power. If neither of these are an issue, then you’ll need to take a look at the electrical cord leading from the wall outlet to your fridge.

2. Adjust thermostat

Next, check the temperature setting of your fridge to make sure it is set correctly. If it is too low, then adjust it accordingly and wait for the temperature to stabilize before checking again. It’s possible that the thermostat has been unknowingly adjusted when cleaning or moving items in the fridge.

3. Clear cooling vents

Vents keep the airflow circulating and keep the inside of your fridge cool and dry. When vents are blocked, moisture accumulates, there is too much frost, and there are temperature problems like erratic or fluctuating temperatures. Vents are typically located near the top of a refrigerator shelf. Always try to keep the vents clear by removing foods that are in the way. The vents on the back of the freezer compartment should be clear of big items such as boxes of ice cream, etc.

4. Inspect and clean mechanism

There are 3 vital mechanisms that make up your fridge’s underside: the fan, coil, and compressor. If any of these parts are dirty, damaged, or out of position, your fridge will definitely not function properly. Make a visual inspection of the mechanism to check if there’s dust, rust, damage, etc. Use a soft-brush vacuum cleaner to clean the rusted or dirty parts. Make sure you turn off the power first, and avoid using chemicals or abrasive materials for cleaning. Seek professional help to repair or replace any severely damaged electrical and mechanical parts for your safety and to prevent further damage.

5. Clean or replace gasket

Inspect the gasket or rubber seal attached to the door of your fridge that keeps the cold air in. Gaskets can become old, brittle, or moldy over time due to normal wear and tear. To clean gaskets, use a vinegar solution and a wet sponge or soft toothbrush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. You can also purchase a new gasket and learn how to easily install it using a screwdriver.

Lastly, make sure your refrigerator is not always full to the brim! Overfilling your refrigerator will cause it to lose its cool. There are many easy fixes to do with your fridge; you can even learn how to fix your Whirlpool fridge’s broken lights.

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