What To Do If Your Freezer Is Cold But Refrigerator Is Warm

If your freezer is doing its job but your fridge is causing problems, there are a few things that could be causing the issue. The issue might be caused by something simple like dirty condenser coils, a worn-out gasket seal, or poor ventilation. However, \ in some instances the issue could be caused by a more serious problem like faulty or worn-out internal parts.

Whatever the cause, a refrigerator that has stopped cooling can be costly if you end up with a fridge full of spoiled food. So, resolving the issue quickly is essential to ensuring your food remains edible. According to the Canadian Food Safety Department, many foods will no longer be safe for consumption after approximately four hours and should be disposed of to avoid illness. For safety purposes, never taste food as a way of determining if it has spoiled. “When in doubt, throw it out.”

Why Is My Freezer Cold But Not the Fridge?

Some of the most common refrigerator issues are the result of blocked vents, inoperable fans, a faulty thermostat, obstructed coils, or improper door seal. We’ll review these in more detail to help you pinpoint your issue.

Vents: As with most appliances, refrigerators require sufficient airflow to operate properly. Both the refrigerator and freezer compartments have vents that push out cold air. If a vent is partially or completely blocked, the cold air can not circulate properly throughout your freeze and refrigerator. The restricted flow of cold air will lower the interior temperature of your freeze and/or fridge. If the temperature gets low enough, food will begin to defrost and/or spoil.

Fans: Most refrigerators come with at least one fan. The condenser fan is usually behind the unit to keep the coils cool and help prevent the compressor from overheating. Some models will also have an evaporator fan located inside the unit.

Thermostats: The refrigerator’s thermostat acts as a sensor or monitor that starts the compressor when the temperature rises and stops it once the optimal (cool) temperature is achieved. The ideal temperature range for a refrigerator is between 2 and 4 degrees Celsius.

Coils: Typically located in the rear of the appliance, coils are vital for removing warmth. If they become clogged with dust, dirt, or other debris, it will negatively impact your appliance’s ability to cool efficiently.

Door Seal: Inspect the rubber seals around the refrigerator doors for any openings that could be allowing warmer air to enter and/or cold air to escape. If some of the material is missing, dirty, or deteriorating, consider having the seal around your doors replaced by a professional.

Leaks: Check for any leaks at the bottom of the fridge or problems with condensation. Many frost-free units have an internal defrosting process that channels moisture to a drip pan or reservoir beneath the unit. Check these hoses and components for any blockages or leaks.

How Do You Fix a Warm Fridge and Cold Freezer?

Vents: Start by checking for blocked vents inside the unit and remove any items obstructing proper airflow.

Fans: Next, inspect the condenser and evaporator fans to ensure they are spinning freely and not restricted by any debris. Unplug the appliance and test the fan's movement by rotating it manually. Be aware that a damaged evaporator fan might make unusual noises, which can become more pronounced when the freezer door is open.

Thermostats: If you suspect a faulty thermostat, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to reset it and check its functionality.

Coils: Finally, clean the condenser coils, typically behind or below the refrigerator, using a vacuum or a soft-bristle brush to remove any accumulated dust or debris.

Quick Fixes

• Check the refrigerator’s temperature control to see if the thermostat was inadvertently turned down.
• If your refrigerator is overpacked, it often restricts airflow, and the unit struggles to regulate the temperature.
• If you recently moved the refrigerator, ensure it’s positioned on a level surface. Adjust the level using shims where needed.

Preventive Tips to Avoid Future Fridge and Freezer Issues

Remember, a little maintenance now can save you from a big fix later. Consider some of the following preventative maintenance tasks to ensure your appliance continues to operate efficiently:

• Door Seals: Regularly clean the seals around the refrigerator door using warm water and mild soap. Look for any crumbs or liquid residue preventing a tight seal.
• Positioning: Ensure that the refrigerator's exterior has a little “breathing room.” The unit might not cool properly when the rear components are pushed too tightly against the wall.
• Cleaning Coils: Access the coils several times a year to remove dust accumulations and other debris. When the coils are dirty, the compressor might become increasingly inefficient, which results in higher energy bills.
• Clean and Discard: Make it a habit to wash the inside of the fridge every 4 to 6 months. Remember to remove any drawers or shelves for cleaning too. Discard any spoiled or expired food, as the items take up space and should not be consumed due to health risks.

When to Call a Professional

Although some preventative maintenance tips are helpful, refrigerators have many components that will eventually need to be repaired. In these cases, promptly contact a qualified service professional for assistance.

The service professionals at your local Mr. Appliance^® are among the most experienced and qualified appliance professionals in the industry. We service all the major brands and models.

We also offer a full range of residential appliance repairs that will resolve problems with ranges, washing machines, dishwashers, ice makers, and much more. To keep your appliances running smoothly throughout the year, utilize our Appliance Wellness Program.

And to ensure your satisfaction, all our work is backed by the Neighbourly Done Right Promise^™ If you need help getting your appliance running smoothly again, contact your local Mr. Appliance expert today!