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Refrigerator Not Cooling: Causes and What to Do

A refrigerator that is not cooling usually has dirty condenser coils, a failed evaporator or condenser fan, a frosted-over evaporator from a defrost problem, a bad start relay, or a worn door seal. Check the setting, the coils and the vents first. If it still runs warm, call a technician before food spoils.

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Last updated October 2026

A warm fridge is urgent because of the food inside. FoodSafety.gov says a closed refrigerator keeps food cold for about 4 hours. Use that time to run a few safe checks and line up a repair.

Start here

Quick checks to try first

  1. Confirm the temperature control has not been bumped. The FDA recommends 40°F or below.
  2. Check that the fridge has power and the light comes on.
  3. Listen for the compressor and fans running.
  4. Make sure food is not blocking the vents between the freezer and fridge.
  5. Vacuum the condenser coils on the back or behind the bottom grille.
  6. Close the door on a dollar bill to test the gasket.
Safety

Safety first

Do not try to fix refrigerant leaks or the compressor yourself. Handling refrigerant requires EPA Section 608 certification.

Call a pro when

  • The fridge stays above 40°F after basic checks
  • There is frost on the freezer's back wall
  • The compressor clicks on and off
  • The fridge trips the breaker
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Diagnosis

What is causing it?

Match what you see to the likely cause.

SymptomLikely causeDIY or pro?
Fridge warm, freezer coldEvaporator fan or frost-blocked evaporatorPro
Both sections warm, clickingStart relay or compressorPro
Runs constantly, slowly warmingDirty condenser coilsDIY first
Frost on the back wallDefrost heater, timer or thermostatPro
Warm near the doorWorn door gasketDIY or pro
Silent, light onControl board or thermistorPro

Checks did not fix it?

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Step by step

Step-by-step troubleshooting

  1. Check the setting and power.
  2. Clean the condenser coils.
  3. Clear the vents inside.
  4. Check the door seal.
  5. If the freezer is cold but the fridge is warm, look for heavy frost on the back panel of the freezer.
  6. If it is still warm after a few hours, call a technician.
Refrigerator repair Repair costs
How it works

What is going on inside?

A refrigerator moves heat out of the cabinet with a sealed loop of refrigerant. The compressor pumps it, the condenser coils release heat into the room, and the evaporator coil in the freezer absorbs heat from the air. A fan blows that cold air into the fresh-food section. If any link breaks, such as a dirty condenser, a stopped fan or an evaporator covered in frost, the fridge warms up.

Prevention

How do I stop it happening again?

  • Vacuum the condenser coils once or twice a year.
  • Leave space around the fridge for airflow.
  • Do not block the vents inside with food.
  • Replace door gaskets that no longer seal.
  • Keep an appliance thermometer inside and check it weekly.
Cost

How much does it cost to fix?

Fixr and This Old House both put most refrigerator repairs between $200 and $500, and Thumbtack reports an average of about $250. A service call fee of about $50 to $100 is common, and many providers apply it to the repair. See the full cost guide.

Before you call

What should I tell the technician?

  1. Whether the freezer is cold, warm or frosted
  2. Whether you hear the compressor or fans
  3. Any clicking or buzzing
  4. The fridge's age, brand and model number
  5. How long it has been warm

Then call 1-833-563-1092 and give your ZIP code so your call reaches a provider near you.

Common questions

Why is my freezer cold but my fridge warm?

Cold air is made in the freezer and blown into the fridge. A failed evaporator fan, a frosted evaporator or a stuck damper stops that airflow.

How long can food stay in a warm fridge?

FoodSafety.gov says a closed refrigerator keeps food cold for about 4 hours. After that, perishable food may not be safe.

Can dirty coils stop a fridge from cooling?

Yes. Dust on the condenser coils makes it hard for the fridge to release heat, so it runs longer and cools less.

How much does it cost to fix a fridge that is not cooling?

Fixr and This Old House both put most refrigerator repairs between $200 and $500. Compressor work costs more.

Should I unplug a fridge that is not cooling?

Unplugging it with the doors open can melt a frosted evaporator and restore cooling for a while. It does not fix the cause, so book a repair as well.

What temperature should my fridge be?

The FDA recommends 40°F or below for the refrigerator and 0°F for the freezer.

Sources

  1. NAHB life expectancy of appliances (via USDA Forest Service)
  2. FoodSafety.gov, Keep food safe when you lose power
  3. U.S. FDA, Refrigerator Thermometers: Cold Facts about Food Safety
  4. Fixr, Appliance Repair Cost (updated Jan 2025)
  5. This Old House, Appliance Repair Cost (updated June 2026)
  6. U.S. EPA, Section 608 refrigerant management

Get it fixed

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