Fridge Not Cooling? Quick Fixes and When to Call a Pro

There's nothing worse than opening the freezer and finding a lukewarm mess. Before you panic, grab a pen and note down a few basics – it saves time and money.

First, check the temperature dial. It’s easy to forget that someone may have moved it while cleaning. Set it to the recommended 3‑4°C for the fridge and -18°C for the freezer. Give it a few hours to stabilize; a sudden change can make it seem like the unit has stopped working.

Common Reasons a Fridge Stops Cooling

Most cooling problems boil down to three culprits: airflow blockage, dirty coils, or a faulty door seal.

Blocked airflow – The vents inside the fridge need clear paths for cold air to circulate. Look for food items that are stuck against the back wall or any ice build‑up around the evaporator. Removing the obstruction often restores normal temperature.

Dirty condenser coils – Coils sit either at the back or underneath the appliance. Dust, pet hair, and debris act like a blanket, making the compressor work harder and eventually overheat. A simple vacuum or brush cleaning (once a year) can boost efficiency dramatically.

Bad door gasket – If the seal is cracked, warped, or full of crumbs, warm air leaks in and the fridge fights to stay cold. Close the door on a piece of paper; if you can pull it out easily, the gasket needs replacing.

DIY Checks Before You Call a Technician

Turn the fridge off for five minutes, then plug it back in. This resets the electronics and can clear minor sensor glitches. While it’s cooling down, listen for the compressor – a steady humming sound means it’s running. If you hear clicking or nothing at all, the motor might be the problem.

Next, inspect the back of the unit. Is the compressor hot to the touch? Overheating often points to a sealed‑system issue, which requires a pro.

Finally, test the freezer. If it’s still freezing but the fridge isn’t, the problem is likely the fan that moves cold air from the freezer to the fridge compartment. A humming noise without airflow means the fan blades might be frozen or the motor failed.

If none of these steps bring the temperature back, it’s time to call Bridgewater Appliance Fixers. Our technicians can diagnose compressor, refrigerant, or electrical faults quickly, saving you from a food disaster.

Remember, regular maintenance – wiping coils, checking seals, and defrosting when ice builds up – keeps your fridge humming for years. When the cooling stops, a quick look at these basics often solves the issue, and if not, we’re just a call away.