Why Is My Refrigerator Not Cooling? 7 Common Reasons (and What to Do)

If your refrigerator is not cooling properly, it can lead to spoiled food and other issues. Here are six common reasons why this might happen and what you can do about it.

1. Dirty Condenser Coils

Over time, dust and debris build up on the coils located at the back or bottom of your fridge. This blocks heat from escaping, making your refrigerator work harder—and sometimes fail to keep things cold.

Fix: Use a vacuum or coil cleaning brush to gently clean the coils. Do this at least twice a year.

2. Faulty Evaporator Fan

The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer to the fridge. If it’s broken, you might notice your freezer is fine but the refrigerator compartment is warm.

Fix: If you don’t hear the fan running when the door is closed, it may need to be replaced. We can help.

3. Malfunctioning Thermostat

The thermostat tells the fridge how cold to get. If it's stuck or inaccurate, your appliance might not cool properly.

Fix: Try adjusting the temperature settings. If nothing changes, the thermostat could be the problem.

4. Blocked Vents

Cold air needs to flow freely between compartments. If vents are blocked by food or ice buildup, cooling suffers.

Fix: Check both freezer and fridge vents. Move large items away and clear any frost buildup.

5. Broken Start Relay or Compressor

These parts power the fridge’s cooling system. If they fail, your fridge won’t run at all—or will run poorly.

Fix: These are technical repairs that require a trained technician. We’ll diagnose and replace what’s needed.

6. Door Seal Leaks

If the door gasket isn’t sealing tightly, warm air gets in and cold air escapes, making your fridge struggle.

Fix: Check for cracks or looseness in the door seal. Try the dollar-bill test: close the door on a dollar and pull—if it slides out easily, the seal is worn.

7. Compressor Issues

The compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant. If it fails, the refrigerator won't cool.

Fix: Listen for unusual noises. If the compressor is not running, consult a professional for repair or replacement.

Need Help? Call Virginia Appliance Repair

If you’ve tried these tips and your fridge still isn’t cooling, give us a call. Our licensed technicians are trusted across the DMV area for fast, honest service. Schedule a diagnostic today—we’ll get your fridge (and your food) back to safe temps in no time.