If an old refrigerator stops cooling but can still make ice, it's likely that there is a problem with the refrigerator's cooling system. The cooling system in a refrigerator is responsible for maintaining the cold temperatures required to keep food fresh. It generally consists of a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and a refrigerant gas (such as Freon) that circulates through these components.
Here are some possible reasons why the refrigerator might stop cooling while the ice maker still works:
Failing Compressor: The compressor is the heart of the cooling system, and if it fails or becomes inefficient, the refrigerator won't be able to cool properly. In some cases, the compressor might still be functional enough to produce ice, but it cannot maintain the desired cooling temperature for the refrigerator section.
Faulty Thermostat: The thermostat regulates the temperature in the refrigerator. If it malfunctions, it might not signal the cooling system to turn on, resulting in a lack of cooling in the main compartment. The ice maker might be in a separate section or controlled by a different thermostat.
Blocked Airflow: The evaporator fan inside the freezer circulates cold air to the refrigerator compartment. If the fan is obstructed, not working correctly, or if there's an issue with the air ducts, it can lead to poor cooling in the refrigerator but not affect the ice maker.
Refrigerant Leak: A refrigerant leak can cause a gradual loss of cooling in the refrigerator. While it doesn't directly affect the ice maker's functionality, the cooling ability of the fridge will decline over time.
Defrost System Problems: If the defrost system fails to remove excess ice buildup from the evaporator coils, it can impede proper cooling in the refrigerator compartment.
Temperature Control Damper Issue: The temperature control damper regulates the amount of cold air that enters the refrigerator section. If it gets stuck or malfunctions, the fridge might not receive enough cold air even though the freezer continues to function properly.
It's essential to address cooling issues in a refrigerator promptly to avoid food spoilage and ensure its proper functioning. Given that the refrigerator is old, repair costs may be a significant consideration. In some cases, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a new, energy-efficient refrigerator, especially if the old one has frequent issues or inefficient energy consumption.