Refrigerator Not Cooling? Common Issues and How to Fix Them

There’s nothing more frustrating than opening your refrigerator to find it’s not keeping things cold. Whether it's your milk going off too soon or your vegetables wilting before their time, a malfunctioning fridge can disrupt your entire routine. The good news? Many cooling issues are fixable and don't always require a brand-new appliance or an emergency callout. In this guide, we'll break down the most common causes of fridge cooling problems and how to troubleshoot them.

Check the Power Supply

It might seem obvious, but the first thing to check is whether your fridge is actually receiving power. Look to see if the light inside the fridge comes on when you open the door. If it doesn’t, check the plug, socket, and circuit breaker. Reset any tripped breakers and make sure the outlet is functioning by testing another appliance.

Inspect the Thermostat Settings

Sometimes the temperature control dial may be accidentally adjusted during loading or cleaning. Make sure the thermostat is set to the right temperature—between 3°C and 5°C for the fridge compartment is ideal. If you’ve recently adjusted the setting, give the fridge several hours to stabilise before reassessing.

Clear the Vents

Fridges need good airflow inside to maintain consistent cooling. If your shelves are overfilled or vents are blocked, cold air can’t circulate properly. Clear space around the vents—usually found along the back or sides of the interior—and avoid overcrowding your fridge with items.

Check the Door Seal

A damaged or dirty door seal can let warm air into the fridge, making it work harder and less effectively. Run your hand around the edge of the door to check for any gaps or air leaks. Clean the seal with warm soapy water and ensure it closes tightly. If the seal appears worn or cracked, consider replacing it.

Clean the Condenser Coils

Dust and grime can accumulate on condenser coils—usually located at the back or underneath the fridge—which reduces cooling efficiency. Carefully unplug your fridge and use a brush or vacuum to remove any build-up. This simple maintenance step can make a noticeable difference in performance.

Test the Evaporator Fan

If your fridge has stopped cooling but the freezer is still cold, the evaporator fan could be the culprit. This fan circulates cold air throughout the refrigerator. If it’s not running, you may hear unusual noises or notice warm spots inside the unit. Replacing a faulty fan motor may require professional service.

Defrost the Fridge

If there’s a build-up of frost or ice around the evaporator coils, it can block airflow and reduce cooling. Try manually defrosting the fridge by unplugging it and leaving the doors open for several hours. Once the ice has melted, plug it back in and monitor the temperature.

Consider the Age and Type of Your Appliance

Older fridges or those used heavily for years may naturally lose cooling efficiency. If your appliance is more than 10-15 years old, it might be time for a replacement. Newer models, including our selection of Freestanding Refrigeration and Built-In Refrigeration, offer better energy efficiency and consistent cooling performance.

Looking to replace a struggling fridge? Browse our range of Freestanding Fridge-Freezers for compact, powerful, and space-saving options ideal for any UK home.

Final Thoughts

Refrigerators are built to last, but like all appliances, they need regular maintenance and occasional troubleshooting. By staying proactive and knowing what signs to look out for, you can extend the life of your fridge and ensure your food stays fresh and safe.

If your refrigerator still isn’t cooling after these checks, it might be time to consult a technician or explore new energy-efficient models that better suit your needs. At Home Appliances Warehouse Ltd, we’re here to help you find the right solution, whether it’s a repair or a replacement.