🧊 Refrigerator not cooling
ModerateStep-by-step troubleshooting guide — 8 steps, Fridge, Moderate difficulty.
⚠️ Common Causes
Evaporator fan motor failed, condenser coils dirty, compressor not running, defrost system failure, door seal leak
🔧 Parts to Check
- Evaporator fan motor
- Condenser coils
- Compressor
- Defrost heater
- Defrost timer
- Door seal
🔧 Troubleshooting Steps
- Verify power — check outlet voltage with multimeter (should be 110-120V)
✓ Expected: 110-120V AC
- Check condenser coils — located on back or front bottom grille. Vacuum clean if dusty
✓ Expected: Coils clean, warm to touch
- Listen for compressor running — should hum steadily. If clicking, start relay may be failed
✓ Expected: Steady hum
- Check evaporator fan — open freezer, fan should run when door opens (or close door and listen)
✓ Expected: Fan spinning freely
- Check evaporator coils for frost buildup — if frosted, defrost system failed
✓ Expected: Coils clear of frost
- Test defrost heater with multimeter — should read 10-30Ω
✓ Expected: 10-30Ω (within component resistance range)
- Test compressor windings — Common to Start: 60-80Ω, Common to Run: 15-25Ω, Start to Run: 75-100Ω
✓ Expected: Within range above
- Check door seal — close a dollar bill in door, should resist pulling out
✓ Expected: Resists pulling out (good seal)