If your freezer is freezing food properly but your fridge is blowing warm or hot air out of its vent, it's likely there is a problem with the cooling system. Refrigerators work by transferring heat from the inside to the outside, maintaining a cold temperature in the fridge and freezer compartments.
There are a few potential reasons for this issue:
Blocked airflow: Check if there's anything obstructing the airflow around the refrigerator's condenser coils or vents. Dust, debris, or other objects can prevent proper airflow, causing the fridge to overheat and blow warm air.
Faulty condenser coils: The condenser coils at the back or bottom of the refrigerator release heat. If these coils are dirty or damaged, they may not dissipate heat efficiently, leading to warm air being blown into the fridge compartment.
Faulty evaporator fan: The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating cold air throughout the fridge and freezer. If it's not working correctly, the freezer may still be cold, but the fridge will receive little to no cold air, resulting in warm temperatures.
Defective compressor: The compressor is the heart of the refrigeration system. It compresses refrigerant gas, allowing it to cool down and absorb heat from the fridge's interior. If the compressor is faulty, it may not be able to properly cool the refrigerant, leading to warm air being blown into the fridge compartment.
Low refrigerant levels: If there's a refrigerant leak, the fridge won't be able to cool properly, and warm air might be circulated in the fridge compartment.
Damaged gaskets or door seals: If the door gaskets or seals are damaged or not sealing properly, warm air from outside can enter the fridge compartment, offsetting the cooling effect.
If you notice warm air coming from the fridge vent and the freezer is still working correctly, it's essential to address the issue promptly to prevent food spoilage and potential damage to the appliance. In such situations, it's best to call a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose and fix the specific problem with your refrigerator.