Troubleshoot a Warm Refrigerator | Allstar Appliance Parts

Have you noticed that your fridge isn't staying nearly as cold as it needs to? If so, click here to find out how to troubleshoot a warm refrigerator.

Does the food in your fridge look more like a science project than dinner?

Having a warm refrigerator can be a frustrating problem. If your items don't stay cold enough they'll rot and begin to smell. You can't afford to waste money or take chances with your health.

Often this is a fixable problem. Before you run to the appliance store to buy a new fridge, try these troubleshooting steps.

Is Your Fridge Overstuffed?

The first thing to check is your temperature settings. Make sure they're not too warm or your food will spoil quickly.

If your settings are right but your fridge isn't keeping your food cold, it may be because of the way you've packed it. An overstuffed refrigerator can interfere with the airflow needed to regulate temperature.

This is a best-case scenario because it requires no repairs, just better planning. Inspect your fridge. Throw out any old food.

Also take some time to clean your shelves, removing any unnecessary debris or clutter. Then rearrange your shelves to maximize airflow. Consider these tips to organize your fridge and reduce food waste.

If this is the cause of your warm refrigerator, you should see improved results within a couple hours of reorganizing.

Check the Evaporator Fan

Most fridges use a fan to push cold air from the freezer to the refrigerator component, keeping your fresh food cool. If that fan is blocked by excess items or malfunctioning on its own it could cause defrosting problems.

Your freezer will seem too cold and your refrigerator will feel warm. Check these circulation fans to be sure they're running properly. You should hear them humming.

If something is malfunctioning with your defrosting system, the evaporator fan is the usual culprit. But you'll want to check the whole system.

Unplug the fridge and leave the freezer door open for at least 12 hours, making sure the bottom is no longer cool to the touch. Plug it back in and check how the fridge is working in about 30 to 45 minutes.

If the refrigerator component seems to be running properly now, you most likely have a defrost issue.

Check the Seals

Another, more expensive problem you may be having is damage to your refrigerator door seals. If there's a crack in them, they can let warm or cold air out and ruin your temperature control ability.

Check for cracks or damaged spot in your seals. This may be time-consuming, but usually you can fix this problem yourself.

If you have side-by-side or French doors, be sure to check them both carefully. There are online tutorials that can teach you how to do this based on the type of fridge you have.

Parts to Fix a Warm Refrigerator and More

Hopefully, the issue causing your warm refrigerator can be solved with one of these simple solutions. But if you have a more advanced problem like an issue with your motor, you'll need a professional to help.

We have all the parts you need repair your appliances at reasonable prices. We're committed to providing you excellent service and expertise.

Have a question about an appliance? Contact us. We'd love to help you get your equipment up an running again.