
When your fridge stops cooling properly, it’s not just an inconvenience—it can also mean spoiled food and unexpected expenses.
Fortunately, many cooling issues can be solved without needing to call in a professional. Let’s go through the common causes of a fridge not cooling, how to address them yourself, and when to seek expert help.
10 Common Reasons Why Your Fridge Isn’t Cooling
1. Power Supply
A refrigerator not cooling may be due to power supply issues. First, ensure that the fridge is turned on. If it appears to be on but is not cooling, check that the power cord is securely plugged into the outlet.
Additionally, inspect your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box to see if the circuit has tripped or a fuse has blown. This could cut power to the fridge even if other appliances are working fine.
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Click To Call: 1300 652 1002. Thermostat Settings
The thermostat controls the temperature settings in your refrigerator. If set incorrectly, it can lead to cooling problems. Ensure that the thermostat is not set too high; the recommended temperature for most refrigerators is between 3°C and 4°C.

If the fridge continues to have cooling issues despite correct settings, the thermostat itself may be faulty and need replacing.
3. Blocked Vents
Cooling issues can also arise from blocked air vents within the fridge and freezer compartments. These vents allow cold air to circulate throughout the unit. If blocked by food containers, packaging, or other items, the airflow can be restricted, leading to uneven cooling.
Rearranging the contents of your fridge and freezer can help ensure that air flows freely, maintaining consistent temperatures throughout.
4. Dirty Condenser Coils
The condenser coils, typically located at the back or bottom of the refrigerator, release heat inside the unit. Over time, these coils can become clogged with dust, pet hair, and other debris, which insulates them and reduces their efficiency.
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Click To Call: 1300 652 100Cleaning these coils regularly can significantly improve your refrigerator’s cooling performance. This can be done using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dust buildup.
5. Damaged Door Seals
The seals around your refrigerator and freezer doors are critical for maintaining the internal temperature. If these seals are worn, torn, or otherwise damaged, they can allow warm air to enter the appliance, making the fridge work harder to maintain cool temperatures.
Inspecting the seals for any signs of damage and replacing them if necessary is crucial to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency.
6. Evaporator Fan Issues
The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating cold air from the coils throughout the unit. If this fan is defective or obstructed, the fridge will not cool properly.
Signs of a problem include unusual noises or a complete lack of air movement. Ice buildup can also obstruct the fan, which can often be resolved by defrosting the refrigerator.
7. Defrost System Malfunction

Modern refrigerators typically include an automatic defrost system that prevents ice from building up on the evaporator coils. If this system malfunctions, ice can accumulate, blocking the flow of air and impairing the refrigerator’s cooling ability.
This issue generally requires a professional to diagnose and repair, as it involves components like the defrost heater, defrost thermostat, or defrost control board.
8. Compressor Problems
The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator’s cooling system, compressing and circulating refrigerant through the coils. If the compressor is not working properly, the entire cooling process is disrupted.
Symptoms of compressor issues include unusual or loud noises, the compressor not starting, or the refrigerator cycling on and off more frequently than normal.
9. Coolant Problem
Adequate levels of coolant (refrigerant) are necessary for the fridge to cool effectively. If your refrigerator has a coolant leak or is low on coolant, it won’t cool properly.
Handling and replacing coolant requires specific skills and tools, as well as adherence to environmental regulations, making it a job for a professional technician.
10. Faulty Temperature Sensor or Control Board
The temperature sensor (thermistor) monitors the internal temperature of the refrigerator and signals the control board to regulate the cooling process.
If this sensor or the control board is faulty, the refrigerator may not cool correctly, over cool, or experience temperature fluctuations. Repairing or replacing these components typically requires technical expertise and should be handled by a professional.
Step-by-step fixes for Common Issues
Cleaning Condenser Coils:
To ensure your refrigerator operates efficiently, regular cleaning of the condenser coils is essential. Here’s how to do it:
- Unplug the Fridge: Safety first—ensure the fridge is unplugged to avoid any electrical hazards.
- Locate the Coils: Find the condenser coils, which are usually located either behind the fridge or underneath it. You may need to remove a protective grille or cover to access them.
- Clean with a Coil Brush: Using a coil cleaning brush—a long, narrow brush specially designed for this purpose—gently brush the length of each coil. Be thorough but gentle to avoid bending or damaging the coils.
- Vacuum Residual Dirt: After loosening the debris with the brush, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove all remaining dirt and dust from around the coils and the area where they are housed.
- Reconnect Power and Monitor: Plug the refrigerator back in and observe its cooling efficiency over the next few hours. You should notice an improvement if dirty coils were impacting the performance.
Replacing Damaged Door Seals:
A proper seal on your refrigerator’s door is crucial for maintaining the internal temperature and ensuring efficient operation. If the seal is damaged, follow these steps to replace it:

- Inspect the Seals: Open the refrigerator and thoroughly examine the seals (or gaskets) around the edges of the door. Look for any signs of wear, tear, cracks, or other damages. Also, feel for any areas where the seal might have hardened or become less pliable.
- Clean the Seals: Before deciding on a replacement, clean the seals with a solution of mild detergent and warm water. This can sometimes improve the seal’s effectiveness if dirt or residue is preventing a tight closure.
- Measure and Purchase a Replacement: If cleaning doesn’t restore the seal, measure it carefully and purchase a replacement that matches your fridge’s model. Seals are model-specific, so ensure the replacement will fit your particular fridge.
- Remove the Old Seal: Gently pull the old seal off. Most refrigerator seals are tucked into a groove on the door. If screws or a retainer strip are holding the seal in place, use a screwdriver to remove them.
- Install the New Seal: Start at one corner and press the new seal into the groove around the door. Work your way around the door, pressing firmly to secure the seal in place. If your model uses screws or a retainer, replace these to secure the new seal.
- Check the Fit: Once installed, check the fit by closing the door. The new seal should be tight and even all around with no gaps. A good test is to try to pull a piece of paper out from the closed door; if the paper pulls out easily, the seal might not be tight enough.
When to Call a Professional

If the problem persists after you’ve performed these checks and fixes, or if the issue involves the compressor, coolant, or electronic controls, it’s time to call a professional technician. Handling these components often requires specialised tools and knowledge.
Tips for Maintaining Your Refrigerator
To keep your fridge running efficiently:
- Clean the interior monthly and wipe spills immediately to prevent odours and stains.
- Vacuum the condenser coils every six months to remove dust buildup.
- Keep the fridge and freezer adequately filled to maintain temperature balance.
- Regularly check and replace the door seals if they start to degrade.
By staying on top of maintenance and addressing issues promptly, you can extend the life of your fridge and ensure it runs efficiently, saving you time, money, and the hassle of unexpected breakdowns.
Conclusion
Addressing issues with a non-cooling refrigerator promptly can save you from the inconvenience of food spoilage and higher energy bills. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can resolve many common fridge problems on your own.
Regular maintenance also plays a crucial role in your refrigerator’s performance and longevity. Remember, while many issues can be DIY, for complex problems involving the fridge’s compressor, coolant system, or electronic controls, it’s safer and more effective to call in a professional.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I clean my refrigerator’s condenser coils?
You should clean the condenser coils at least every six months. If you have pets or if the fridge is in a particularly dusty area, you might need to clean the coils more frequently to ensure optimal performance.
What should I do if my refrigerator is running but not cooling at all?
First, check the most common issues such as power supply, thermostat settings, and blocked air vents. If these aren’t the cause, it might be a more serious issue like a faulty compressor or insufficient coolant. In such cases, it’s best to contact a professional technician.
How can I tell if my fridge door seals need replacing?
Inspect the seals for any visible cracks, tears, or gaps. Another method is to place a piece of paper between the door and the fridge; if the paper slips out easily or there’s little resistance when pulling it, the seals might not be effective anymore and should be replaced to ensure proper cooling.
By keeping these FAQs in mind, you can better understand how to maintain your refrigerator and when to seek professional help. Always ensure that your appliance maintenance aligns with the manufacturer’s recommendations to keep your fridge running efficiently for years to come.
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