Yes, if a refrigerator is placed too close to the wall or if there is insufficient space around it for proper ventilation, it can lead to cooling issues. Refrigerators require adequate airflow around them to dissipate heat generated by the compressor and condenser coils.
When a refrigerator is placed too close to the wall, the heat dissipation process can be hindered. This can cause the refrigerator's cooling system to struggle in maintaining the desired temperature in the refrigerator compartment while still being able to cool the freezer section.
The freezer section may continue to work because it is typically located at the bottom or top of the refrigerator and has its own separate evaporator and cooling system. The freezer doesn't rely on the same airflow as the refrigerator compartment, so it may still maintain its cooling performance.
To ensure proper cooling and efficient operation, it's recommended to leave some space between the refrigerator and the wall, typically around 2-3 inches. This allows for adequate airflow and helps prevent the buildup of heat around the refrigerator. It's also important to keep the refrigerator's condenser coils clean and free from dust and debris, as this can further affect its cooling efficiency.