How To Fix Warm Fridge Cold Freezer

If your fridge is warm and your freezer is cold, it can be a frustrating problem. There are a few possible causes for this issue, and troubleshooting can help you determine the best course of action.

Causes of a Warm Fridge and Cold Freezer

There are several potential causes for a warm fridge and cold freezer situation, including:

Defrost system failure
Evaporator fan failure
Condenser coils clogged
Thermostat malfunction
Damaged or blocked air vents

Troubleshooting and Repair

To troubleshoot and repair a warm fridge and cold freezer, follow these steps:

1. Check the Defrost System

The defrost system helps to melt frost and ice buildup on the evaporator coils. If the defrost system fails, the coils can become iced over, blocking airflow and causing the fridge to become warm. You can check the defrost system by:

Unplugging the fridge and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Locate the defrost timer and turn it to the "defrost" setting.
Plug the fridge back in and listen for the sound of the defrost heater running.

If you do not hear the defrost heater running, the defrost system may be faulty and need to be repaired or replaced.

2. Check the Evaporator Fan

The evaporator fan circulates air over the evaporator coils. If the evaporator fan fails, the coils will not be able to cool the air in the fridge, causing it to become warm. You can check the evaporator fan by:

Unplugging the fridge and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Locate the evaporator fan motor and try to turn it by hand.

If the evaporator fan does not turn, it may be faulty and need to be repaired or replaced.

3. Check the Condenser Coils

The condenser coils release heat from the refrigerant. If the condenser coils are clogged, the refrigerant will not be able to cool properly, causing the fridge to become warm. You can check the condenser coils by:

Unplugging the fridge and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Locate the condenser coils at the back or bottom of the fridge.
Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or debris from the condenser coils.

If the condenser coils are heavily clogged, you may need to call a professional to clean them.

4. Check the Thermostat

The thermostat controls the temperature of the fridge. If the thermostat malfunctions, the fridge may not be able to maintain a cold temperature, causing it to become warm. You can check the thermostat by:

Unplugging the fridge and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Locate the thermostat and set it to a colder setting.
Plug the fridge back in and see if the temperature drops.

If the temperature does not drop, the thermostat may be faulty and need to be repaired or replaced.

5. Check the Air Vents

The air vents allow air to circulate throughout the fridge. If the air vents are damaged or blocked, the fridge will not be able to cool properly, causing it to become warm. You can check the air vents by: