Fridge Not Cooling? Here Are 6 Likely Reasons and Solutions
Why Is Your Fridge Not Cooling? Causes, Fixes & How to Prevent Costly Repairs
Introduction
A fridge not cooling properly can be a major headache, whether it’s a home refrigerator or a commercial unit. It can lead to spoiled food, increased energy bills, and costly repairs. But before you rush to replace your fridge, there are several reasons why this could be happening—and in many cases, a simple fix can restore proper cooling.
In this guide, we’ll break down the common causes of a fridge not cooling, practical troubleshooting steps, and how regular commercial fridge maintenance can prevent future issues. We’ll also highlight how expert fridge repair can save you money in the long run.
1. 6 Common Reasons for Your Fridge Not Cooling
1.1. Dirty Condenser Coils
Problem: Condenser coils remove heat from the fridge, but when they are covered in dust and dirt, heat cannot dissipate properly.
Solution: Clean the coils using a coil brush or vacuum every 6-12 months.
Impact: A fridge with dirty coils can use 15% more energy, costing an extra £50–£100 per year on your electricity bill.
1.2. Faulty Evaporator Fan
Problem: The evaporator fan circulates cold air inside the fridge. If it stops working, the fridge won’t cool properly.
Solution: Listen for strange noises—if the fan is silent or making a clicking sound, it may need replacing.
Need help? Learn more about fridge fan issues here.
1.3. Blocked or Broken Air Vents
Problem: Overloaded fridges can block air vents, disrupting airflow.
Solution: Keep at least 20-30% free space in the fridge and ensure vents are unobstructed.
1.4. Fridge Door Seal Damage
Problem: A worn or broken door seal lets cold air escape, forcing the fridge to work harder.
Solution: Inspect the seal for cracks and replace it if necessary.
More details: Check out our guide on fridge seal replacement.
1.5. Incorrect Temperature Settings
Problem: Fridge temperature should be 3–5°C, and the freezer should be -18°C.
Solution: Adjust settings and monitor for 24 hours to see if cooling improves.
1.6. Low Refrigerant Levels
Problem: If your fridge is running but not cooling, it might be low on refrigerant.
Solution: Professional fridge regassing can fix this.
2. How to Fix a Fridge Not Cooling Properly
If your fridge is still not cooling after checking the above issues, try these steps:
Step 1: Unplug & Reset
Unplug the fridge for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. This can reset the system.
Step 2: Clean the Condenser Coils
If your coils haven’t been cleaned in a while, this is the first thing to check.
Step 3: Defrost the Freezer
If ice buildup is blocking airflow, unplug the fridge and let it defrost for 6-12 hours.
Step 4: Check the Thermostat
Set the fridge to its coldest setting and listen for a click. If no click is heard, the thermostat may be faulty.
Step 5: Call a Professional
If the fridge still isn’t cooling, it’s time for a commercial fridge repair service.
3. The Cost of Ignoring a Fridge Not Cooling Properly
A faulty fridge doesn’t just waste food—it increases energy costs and leads to expensive repairs.
Energy & Repair Cost Breakdown
A fridge with a faulty compressor can consume 50% more electricity, adding £150+ per year to your bill.
Repairing a broken evaporator fan early costs around £80-£200, while replacing a compressor can cost £400+.
A fridge breakdown in a commercial setting can lead to £500–£2,000 in spoiled food losses.
How to Avoid These Costs?
Regular commercial fridge maintenance prevents these issues and extends the lifespan of your unit.
4. How to Prevent Future Cooling Issues
The best way to avoid fridge cooling problems is preventative maintenance. Here’s how:
Clean condenser coils every 6 months.
Check door seals for wear and tear.
Monitor internal temperature to ensure proper settings.
Listen for unusual noises (check out our guide on refrigerator making loud noise).
Schedule annual professional servicing to keep your fridge in top condition.
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
A fridge not cooling can quickly escalate into a costly repair or full replacement. By understanding the causes and following proper troubleshooting steps, you can often fix the issue yourself or take timely action to avoid expensive breakdowns.
If your fridge still isn’t cooling, let the experts at Be Cool Refrigeration help you. We offer reliable commercial fridge repair services and maintenance plans to keep your refrigeration systems running smoothly.
📞 Need Help? Contact Us Today!
Visit our commercial refrigeration maintenance page for long-term solutions.
Book an expert fridge repair service now.
By addressing the issue early, you’ll save energy, money, and avoid unnecessary downtime!
