Copy of Why Your Refrigerator Isn’t Cooling – 5 Things to Check Before You Call for Repair
- Elemental Appliance Repair
- Jul 10
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 28
Your refrigerator isn’t getting cold, and that’s a problem you can’t ignore. But before you panic or buy a new one, there are a few things you can check yourself. Some issues are simple fixes, while others may need a technician.
At Elemental Appliance Repair, we service Summerville, Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, and nearby areas. Here’s what we look for first:
1. Check the Temperature Settings
It sounds basic, but you’d be surprised how often the dial gets bumped.
The freezer should be set to 0°F (-18°C).
The fridge should be around 37°F (3°C).
Digital control boards can sometimes glitch. Try turning the power off for 5 minutes, then turn it back on to reset the board.
2. Is the Freezer Working, But the Fridge is Warm?
If your freezer is cold but the fridge is warm, it’s likely an airflow issue. Common causes include:
Frozen or blocked evaporator fan.
Broken damper control.
Frost buildup due to defrost failure.
These parts are repairable and often cheaper to fix than replacing the whole unit.
3. Listen for the Fan
When the fridge door is closed, the evaporator and condenser fans should be running. If it’s quiet, one of them might be broken or stuck.
No fan = no air circulation = warm fridge.
If it hums but doesn’t cool, it could be the compressor or start relay.
4. Check for Frost or Water Under the Drawers
Water under the crisper drawer? That’s a clogged defrost drain—a common issue in Samsung and Whirlpool refrigerators.
It causes water to freeze up around the air vents.
You’ll need to clear the drain and possibly thaw out the rear panel.
We see this issue frequently in Charleston homes due to humidity.
5. Dirty Condenser Coils
Pull the fridge out and check behind or underneath.
Dust buildup on the coils prevents proper cooling.
Clean coils = better airflow = longer fridge life.
Do this every 6–12 months, especially if you have pets.
When to Call a Technician
If you’ve checked all of the above and your fridge still isn’t cooling, it may be time to call in a pro.
We diagnose and fix:
Compressor failures.
Control board issues.
Thermistors and sensors.
Sealed system leaks (often not worth repairing—we’ll tell you honestly).
At Elemental Appliance Repair, we never guess. We diagnose. We repair with original parts only and always explain your options first.
Conclusion
Maintaining your refrigerator is crucial for its longevity and efficiency. Regular checks can save you from costly repairs and ensure your food stays fresh. If you encounter persistent issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals.
📍 Serving Summerville, Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Ladson, Goose Creek, and nearby areas.
Call us at 843-809-7538 or
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