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Why Is My Fridge Not Cooling But The Freezer Is? The Answer Will Shock You!

Quick Overview

  • If it becomes faulty, it may not send the correct signals to the compressor, causing it to run inefficiently or not run at all.
  • Overloading the refrigerator can cause the airflow to be restricted, making it difficult for the refrigerator to cool effectively.
  • If it becomes faulty, it may not send the correct signals to the cooling unit, causing the refrigerator not to cool properly.

Refrigerators and freezers are two of the most important appliances in any home. They help keep your food fresh, your drinks cold, and your ice cream frozen. But what happens when your fridge stops cooling but your freezer is still working?

This can be a big problem, especially if your refrigerator is full of food. But don’t worry, there are some things you can do to troubleshoot the problem.

First, check to see if the condenser coils are dirty. If they are, clean them with a stiff brush or a vacuum cleaner.

Next, check the thermostat. Make sure it is set correctly and that the temperature is correct.

If neither of these things solves the problem, you may need to call a professional. They will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it for you.

Why Refrigerator Not Cooling But Freezer Is?

Refrigerator not cooling but freezer is can be due to several reasons. Here are some common ones:

1. Clogged or dirty condenser coils: The condenser coils are located outside the fridge and are responsible for releasing heat. When they become clogged with dust or dirt, they can’t release heat effectively, causing the refrigerator to work harder and consume more energy. This can also cause the compressor to overheat, leading to a shorter lifespan.

2. Faulty thermostat: The thermostat controls the temperature of the refrigerator. If it becomes faulty, it may not send the correct signals to the compressor, causing it to run inefficiently or not run at all.

3. Insufficient refrigerant: The refrigerant is responsible for cooling the refrigerator. If there’s insufficient refrigerant, the refrigerator won’t be able to cool properly.

4. Faulty door seals: The door seals are responsible for sealing the refrigerator and preventing cold air from escaping. If they become damaged, the refrigerator won’t be able to maintain the correct temperature.

5. Overloading the refrigerator: Overloading the refrigerator can cause the airflow to be restricted, making it difficult for the refrigerator to cool effectively.

To troubleshoot the problem, check the condenser coils, thermostat, refrigerant, door seals, and load of the refrigerator. If the problem persists, call a professional refrigerator repair technician.

What Could Be The Possible Reasons For The Refrigerator Not Cooling But The Freezer Is?

  • 1. Clogged or damaged condenser coil: The condenser coil is responsible for releasing heat from the refrigerator. If it becomes clogged or damaged, it will not be able to release heat effectively, causing the refrigerator not to cool properly.
  • 2. Faulty thermostat: The thermostat controls the temperature of the refrigerator. If it becomes faulty, it may not send the correct signals to the cooling unit, causing the refrigerator not to cool properly.
  • 3. Insufficient refrigerant: The refrigerant is responsible for cooling the refrigerator. If there is insufficient refrigerant, the refrigerator will not be able to cool properly.
  • 4. Faulty cooling fan: The cooling fan is responsible for circulating air inside the refrigerator. If it becomes faulty, it may not circulate air effectively, causing the refrigerator not to cool properly.
  • 5. Faulty compressor: The compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant throughout the cooling system. If it becomes faulty, it may not circulate refrigerant effectively, causing the refrigerator not to cool properly.

Are There Any Common Issues With Refrigerator Cooling But Freezer Is Working?

Yes, there can be several common issues with a refrigerator cooling but the freezer is still working. Here are a few possible causes:

1. Faulty thermostat: The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature inside the refrigerator. If it becomes faulty, it may not accurately detect the temperature, causing the refrigerator to cool unevenly.

2. Clogged condenser coils: The condenser coils are responsible for dissipating heat from the refrigerant. If the coils are clogged with dust or debris, they may not effectively dissipate heat, causing the refrigerator to cool unevenly.

3. Broken fan: The fan inside the refrigerator circulates air to maintain a consistent temperature. If the fan becomes broken, it may not circulate air effectively, causing the refrigerator to cool unevenly.

4. Faulty defrost system: The defrost system is responsible for melting frost that accumulates on the evaporator coils. If the defrost system becomes faulty, it may not effectively melt the frost, causing the refrigerator to cool unevenly.

5. Leaking refrigerant: The refrigerant is responsible for cooling the refrigerator. If the refrigerant leaks, the refrigerator may not cool effectively, causing the freezer to work fine but the refrigerator to cool unevenly.

If you suspect any of these issues with your refrigerator, it’s best to call a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose the problem and fix it.

How Can I Troubleshoot My Refrigerator Not Cooling But The Freezer Is?

If your refrigerator is not cooling but the freezer is, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Check the temperature settings: Make sure that the temperature settings on the refrigerator and freezer are set to the correct levels. If the temperature is set too low, the refrigerator will not cool properly.

2. Check the power supply: Make sure that the refrigerator is receiving power and that the power cord is plugged in securely. If the power cord is loose, the refrigerator may not receive enough power to cool properly.

3. Check the condenser coils: The condenser coils are responsible for cooling the refrigerant inside the refrigerator. If the condenser coils are dirty or blocked, the refrigerator will not cool properly. Clean the condenser coils with a vacuum cleaner or a brush.

4. Check the evaporator fan: The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating cold air inside the refrigerator. If the evaporator fan is not working properly, the refrigerator will not cool properly. Check the evaporator fan for obstructions and make sure that it is running.

5. Check the seals: The seals around the refrigerator and freezer doors are responsible for keeping the cold air inside the refrigerator. If the seals are loose or damaged, the refrigerator will not cool properly. Check the seals and replace them if necessary.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, you may need to call a service technician to diagnose and repair the problem. It is important to have your refrigerator repaired as soon as possible, as not cooling properly can lead to food spoilage.

What Are The Possible Causes For A Refrigerator Not Cooling But The Freezer Is?

There are several possible causes for a fridge not cooling but the freezer is. Here are a few things you can check:

1. Check the temperature settings: Make sure that the fridge and freezer are set to the correct temperatures. The fridge should be between 37 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit and the freezer should be between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Check the door seals: Make sure that the door seals are tight and that the fridge is not left open for long periods of time. A loose seal can cause the fridge to lose cold air.

3. Check the condenser coils: The condenser coils are responsible for cooling the fridge. Make sure that they are clean and free of dust.

4. Check the evaporator fan: The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating cold air throughout the fridge. Make sure that it is clean and working properly.

5. Check the refrigerant level: If the refrigerant level is low, the fridge will not be able to cool properly. Check the refrigerant level and make sure that it is at the correct level.

6. Check the power supply: Make sure that the fridge is plugged in and that the outlet is working. If the fridge is not getting power, it will not be able to cool.

7. Check the defrost system: If the defrost system is not working, the fridge will not be able to cool properly. Check the defrost system and make sure that it is working properly.

If none of these solutions work, you may need to call a service technician to diagnose and fix the problem.

What Steps Should I Take If My Refrigerator Is Not Cooling But The Freezer Is?

If your refrigerator is not cooling but the freezer is, there are a few steps you should take to troubleshoot the problem. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Check the temperature settings: Make sure that both the refrigerator and freezer temperatures are set correctly. The refrigerator temperature should be between 37 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and the freezer temperature should be between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Check the power source: Make sure that the refrigerator is plugged in and that the outlet is working. If the outlet is not working, you may need to replace the cord or outlet.

3. Check the condenser coils: The condenser coils are responsible for cooling the refrigerant inside the refrigerator. If the condenser coils are dirty, they may not be able to cool the refrigerant properly. To clean the condenser coils, unplug the refrigerator, remove the cover over the coils, and use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any dust or debris.

4. Check the evaporator fan: The evaporator fan circulates cold air throughout the refrigerator. If the fan is not working, the refrigerator will not be able to cool properly. To check if the fan is working, unplug the refrigerator, remove the cover over the evaporator fan, and use a multimeter to test the fan motor for continuity.

5. Check the defrost system: The defrost system is responsible for melting any ice that builds up on the evaporator coils. If the defrost system is not working, the refrigerator will not be able to cool properly. To check if the defrost system is working, unplug the refrigerator, remove the cover over the evaporator coils, and use a multimeter to test the defrost heater for continuity.

6. Check the refrigerator’s thermostat: The thermostat controls the temperature of the refrigerator. If the thermostat is not working, the refrigerator will not be able to cool properly. To check if the thermostat is working, unplug the refrigerator, remove the cover over the thermostat, and use a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, refrigerators can occasionally malfunction and not cool properly. This issue can be frustrating, but fortunately, it can usually be fixed by checking a few basic things. First, make sure that the refrigerator is level and not tilted. Second, check the door seals and gaskets for cracks or gaps. Finally, clean the condenser coils and air filters regularly. If none of these solutions work, it might be time to call a professional refrigerator repair service.

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About the Author
Chelsea Monroe is the Test Kitchen Director for Chop'n Prep magazine. With 15 years in the culinary industry, Chelsea has worked as a chef at acclaimed restaurants in New York and San Francisco. She now oversees recipe development and product testing for the magazine. Chelsea specializes in discovering the best...