Question

What usually causes a refrigerator to stop cooling, yet the freezer unit is very cold?

Answer 1

When a refrigerator stops cooling properly, but the freezer unit remains cold, it's often an indication of a common issue known as "frost buildup" or "frost blockage." This occurs when the evaporator coils inside the freezer section get covered with a thick layer of frost or ice, leading to restricted airflow and poor cooling in the refrigerator compartment. There are several possible causes for this problem:

1. Defective defrost system: Most refrigerators have a defrost system that automatically melts the frost or ice buildup on the evaporator coils at regular intervals. If any part of this system, such as the defrost timer, defrost heater, or defrost thermostat, becomes faulty, the coils won't defrost properly, and frost will accumulate over time.

2. Door seal issues: A faulty door seal on either the refrigerator or freezer door can lead to warm air entering the unit, causing excess frost to build up on the evaporator coils.

3. Temperature settings: Incorrect temperature settings on the refrigerator or freezer can lead to frost buildup. The freezer section should typically be set between 0°F and 5°F (-18°C to -15°C), while the refrigerator section should be set around 37°F (3°C).

4. Blocked air vents: If the air vents between the freezer and refrigerator sections are blocked by food items or containers, the cold air won't circulate properly, leading to frost accumulation in the freezer and inadequate cooling in the fridge.

5. Overloading the freezer: Storing too many items in the freezer can obstruct airflow and cause frost to accumulate.

6. Malfunctioning evaporator fan: The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating cold air throughout the refrigerator and freezer compartments. If it stops working, the freezer may remain cold, but the fridge won't cool properly.

To diagnose and fix the issue, it's best to consult a professional refrigerator technician who can perform a thorough inspection and identify the specific cause of the problem. They can then replace faulty parts or make the necessary repairs to restore proper cooling performance.