When your refrigerator won’t get cold, worries of spoiled food, troublesome repairs, and even expensive replacement can be overwhelming. But a Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling doesn’t have to spell disaster. Oftentimes simple reasons, like power issues or dirty condenser coils, can be identified and addressed to restore function.
Troubleshooting Tips for a Whirlpool Refrigerator Not Cooling
While it’s possible that a part failure or malfunction has resulted in a warm refrigerator, troubleshooting simpler reasons first can potentially yield the answer without having to call someone for help. These common causes for a Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling can be addressed in mere minutes with easy fixes or simple adjustments.
Check for Power Issues
Sometimes the reason for a warm refrigerator is more of a power issue than an appliance problem. We suggest checking your power sources with these simple assessments:
- Make sure the refrigerator is properly plugged into a functioning outlet.
- Inspect the power cord for signs of damage.
- Check your circuit box for tripped breakers, repositioning any that may be out of place.
- Avoid using extension cords to power the refrigerator. A typical cord can’t safely accommodate the electricity it requires.
Inspect Door Seals for Damage
The rubber gasket on your refrigerator door maintains a tight seal when it’s closed, keeping warm air out and cold air inside. However, a broken or torn gasket can prevent closed doors from sealing properly, resulting in warmer refrigerator temperatures.
If your refrigerator is warm, check the door seals for damage that can allow cold air to escape and warm air to enter. A ripped or broken door seal cannot be repaired and requires replacement.
Check the Temperature Settings
If you find your Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling but freezer is working properly, check your refrigerator’s temperature settings. The refrigerator’s temperature is factory-set to 37°F and should remain at that setting for optimal function.
Whirlpool and Jenn-Air refrigerators can have different ways of adjusting the temperature. The control panels for these refrigerators can be in different locations and temperature adjustments can have different ways of being measured. Refer to your use and care manual for the right way to adjust your refrigerator’s temperature. We suggest making small adjustments and waiting a full 24 hours to determine if the refrigerator cools sufficiently.
Clean the Condenser Coils
A refrigerator’s condenser coils help cool refrigerant, making cool air for the refrigerator. However, these coils often get coated in dust and dirt, hampering their cooling ability. When this happens, your refrigerator won’t get cold enough to maintain the optimum temperature.
Cleaning the condenser coils can enable them to properly cool its refrigerant and restore your refrigerator’s temperature. Here’s how to clean refrigerator coils quickly and easily:
- Consult your user manual to confirm the location of the condenser coils. Most are located behind a grille or kick plate.
- Disconnect the refrigerator from its power source.
- Remove the grille or kick plate.
- Use a narrow hose vacuum attachment and appliance cleaning brush to remove debris on and around the coils.
- Replace the grille.
- Restore power to the refrigerator.
Troubleshoot Part Failures
If your Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling continues, then it’s possible a part has malfunctioned. Common part failures include the condenser or evaporator fan motors as well as the start relay function that signals the compressor. We recommend a professional service to assess these problems and make any needed repairs.
For the very best in Springfield refrigerator repair call Mid America Service. We can address a Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling with a fast and professional repair.
