Refrigerator Not Cooling? 7 Most Common Causes & Real Fixes (2025 Local Guide)

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A refrigerator that suddenly stops cooling is one of the most stressful home emergencies. Food spoils fast, temperatures rise quickly, and waiting days for a repair company isn’t an option. At Professional Appliance Repair, we’ve completed 6,800+ refrigerator repairs since 2017 across Tarpon Springs, Palm Harbor, Clearwater, Dunedin, Largo, and the entire Tampa Bay area.

Here are the 7 most common reasons a refrigerator stops cooling — based on real diagnostic data from our service calls — PLUS what you can fix yourself before calling a technician.

1. Dirty Condenser Coils (Most Common & Easily Preventable)

When coils are covered in dust, the refrigerator can’t release heat — causing warm temperatures and the compressor to overheat or short-cycle.

Symptoms:

• Back of fridge extremely hot

• Runs constantly

• Food soft/warm

DIY Fix:Vacuum coils or clean with a soft brush (only if safely accessible).

Professional Needed?If cleaning doesn’t help within 6–12 hours, call a tech.

2. Evaporator Fan Failure

The evaporator fan pushes cold air into the fridge section. When it fails, the freezer stays cold, but the fridge warms up.

Symptoms:

• Freezer cold, refrigerator warm

• Rattling or squealing noises

• No airflow from vents

Common repair cost: $150–$320

3. Frosted Evaporator Coils / Defrost Failure

A defrost system failure causes ice to build on coils, blocking airflow.

Symptoms:

• Ice sheet behind rear panel

• Fan noise scraping ice

• Fridge warm, freezer too cold

Most common causes:

• Defrost thermostat

• Defrost heater

• Defrost control board

Repair cost: $180–$420

4. Compressor Not Running (High-Risk Failure)

The compressor is the heart of the cooling system. When it overheats or fails, cooling stops completely.

Symptoms:

• Clicking sound every 1–3 minutes

• Fridge warm everywhere

• Rear panel warm but no vibration

Typical repair cost: $450–$1,200(Depending on brand: LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, GE, Frigidaire)

5. Refrigerant Leak (Common in LG & Samsung)

Modern refrigerators often develop micro-leaks, especially in the fresh food evaporator.

Symptoms:

• Slow loss of cooling

• Ice buildup on evaporator corner

• Compressor runs nonstop

• Temps drop then rise again

Repair cost: $350–$900(EPA-certified sealed system technician required.)

6. Failed Control Board or Sensors

Digitally-controlled fridges rely on multiple sensors. When one fails, the system misreads temperatures.

Symptoms:

• Incorrect temperature reading

• The fridge cycles strangely

• Inconsistent cooling

Repair cost: $180–$380

7. Damper Door Stuck Closed

The damper controls airflow between freezer → fridge.

Symptoms:

• Freezer frozen solid

• Fridge warm

• Clicking from the damper area

Repair cost: $120–$260

When to Call a Professional

Call immediately if:

✔ Food is spoiling

✔ Freezer is defrosting

✔ You smell burning or an electrical odor

✔ Your compressor is clicking

✔ Your fridge is under 10 years old (repair usually worth it)

We serve: Tarpon Springs, Palm Harbor, Clearwater, Dunedin, Largo, Seminole, St. Pete, Trinity, Odessa, Holiday & surrounding areas.

Need Fast Refrigerator Repair Today?

We offer:

• Same-day & next-day service

• Licensed & insured Florida business

• EPA-certified sealed system repair

• Manufacturer-trained technicians

• Transparent pricing, no surprises

• OEM parts only

📞 Call/Text: (727) 361-9800

🌐 Book Online: profapplianceservice.com

Refrigerator Not Cooling? Possible reasons:

❄️ 1. Dirty or Blocked Condenser Coils

(Most common reason a refrigerator stops cooling)

The coils underneath or behind your fridge remove heat from the refrigerant. When they get dirty or clogged with dust, hair, and kitchen debris, the fridge must work harder — and eventually stops cooling.

Signs Your Coils Are Dirty:

• Fridge running constantly

• Warm temperature inside

• Hot air blowing from the bottom/back

• Excessive dust build-up

DIY Fix:

1. Unplug the refrigerator

2. Remove toe-kick panel or pull unit away from wall

3. Use a coil brush or vacuum to clean them

4. Plug back in and wait a few hours

⚠️ If the fridge still doesn’t cool after cleaning the coils, there may be a sealed system issue (refrigerant leak, compressor failure), which requires EPA-certified repair.

The refrigerator is not cooling

❄️ 2. Faulty Evaporator Fan (Freezer Fan)

The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer into the fridge. If it stops working, your freezer may stay cold, but the refrigerator becomes warm.

Symptoms:

• Freezer is cold, fridge is warm

• Fan is loud, clicking, or not spinning

• You don’t feel air circulation inside fridge

DIY Check:

• Open freezer door and listen

• If the fan is silent while compressor is running → It likely failed

👉 This is not a DIY repair. Replacing the fan requires removing paneling and defrost system components.

❄️ 3. Defrost System Failure (One of the top Samsung/LG issues)

If the defrost system stops working, frost builds up and blocks airflow.

Signs of Defrost Failure:

• Ice buildup on the back freezer wall

• Loud buzzing or scraping noise

• Water leaking under fridge

• Fridge warm, freezer cold

The defrost system includes:

• Defrost heater

• Defrost thermostat

• Defrost sensor

• Control board

Any of these can fail.

Why it happens often in Samsung refrigerators:

Samsung models are notorious for defrost drainage issues and evaporator icing — one of the most common refrigerator repair calls in Florida.

👉 Requires professional service to avoid further damage.

❄️ 4. Low Refrigerant / Sealed System Leak

This is one of the most serious issues.

If your fridge has a refrigerant leak, compressor failure, or capillary tube restriction, the refrigerator can’t maintain temperature.

Symptoms:

• Fridge slowly gets warmer over days

• Compressor runs constantly

• No frost pattern on evaporator

• Clicking noises

Only an EPA-certified technician can diagnose sealed system issues, check pressures, and repair leaks.

Professional Appliance Repair is fully certified for:

✔ Sealed system

✔ Refrigerant leaks

✔ Compressor replacements

✔ LG / Samsung inverter compressors

✔ Sub-Zero / high-end refrigeration

LG refrigerator is not cooling

❄️ 5. Compressor Failure

(Often LG or Samsung)

The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator.

Signs of compressor failure:

• Clicking every 30–60 seconds

• Humming but no cooling

• Overheating at the back of fridge

• No vibration when plugged in

Newer LG and Samsung models use inverter compressors that require specialized testing.

⚠️ Do NOT attempt DIY repairs on compressors.

❄️ 6. Blocked Air Vents or Overpacked Fridge

Sometimes cooling issues are simple and inexpensive:

If food is pushed against the air vents, airflow is blocked, temperature rises, and food spoils.

DIY Fix:

• Make space around vents (back wall)

• Lower fridge load

• Set temperature to 37°F + freezer 0°F

• Wait a few hours

❄️ 7. Temperature Control Board / Thermostat Failure

Modern refrigerators depend on digital temperature sensors and control boards.

Symptoms of sensor/board issues:

• Fridge temperature randomly fluctuates

• Fridge won’t defrost

• Freezer works but fridge does not

• No error codes but poor cooling

Brands impacted:

✔ GE

✔ Whirlpool

✔ Samsung

✔ LG

✔ Frigidaire

Boards require diagnostic tools and are not DIY-fixable.

🔧 When You Should Call a

Professional Technician Immediately

Call a technician if:

✔ Refrigerator is completely warm

✔ You hear clicking or buzzing

✔ Freezer is cold but fridge is warm

✔ Ice buildup on evaporator panel

✔ Water leaking onto the floor

✔ Compressor is not running

✔ You smell burning or chemicals

✔ Food spoils within hours

These are urgent signs of:

• Sealed system leaks

• Failed compressor

• Blown defrost heater

• Evaporator fan failure

• Control board issues

📍 Serving All Tampa Bay: Fast, Local,

Same-Day Refrigerator Repair

Professional Appliance Repair proudly serves:

• Tarpon Springs

• Palm Harbor

• Trinity

• Odessa

• Dunedin

• Safety Harbor

• Clearwater

• Holiday

• New Port Richey

• St. Petersburg

• Seminole

We provide:

✔ EPA-certified refrigerator repair

✔ LG & Samsung specialists

✔ Whirlpool, GE, KitchenAid, Frigidaire

✔ High-end (Sub-Zero, Thermador, Viking)

✔ OEM parts only✔ Honest, reliable diagnostics

✔ Same-day or next-day service

Appliance Repair Near Me

📞 Need Refrigerator Repair? Call Now for Emergency Service

A fridge not cooling is always an emergency.

Don’t wait for food to spoil — get fast help today.

Call Professional Appliance Repair (727) 361-9800

Local • Certified • Experienced • Same-Day Service

Fixing Your Dryer: Essential Repair Tips

A dryer is an essential appliance in any home, especially when you need your laundry done quickly and efficiently. When your dryer stops working properly, it can disrupt your routine and cause frustration. Fortunately, many common dryer problems can be fixed with some basic troubleshooting and repair tips. This guide will walk you through practical steps to identify and resolve typical dryer issues, helping you get your appliance back in working order without delay.

Understanding Common Dryer Problems

Before diving into repairs, it’s important to understand the most frequent issues that dryers face. Knowing what to look for can save you time and money.

• Dryer won’t start: This could be due to a faulty door switch, blown fuse, or power supply issues.

• Drum not turning: Often caused by a broken belt or motor problems.

• Dryer not heating: Could be a heating element failure, thermostat issue, or clogged vent.

• Takes too long to dry: Usually related to airflow problems or a dirty lint filter.

• Unusual noises: Worn drum rollers, idler pulley, or motor bearings might be the cause.

  
  

Identifying the exact problem will help you decide whether a simple fix is possible or if professional help is needed.

Dryer drum and lint filter close-up

Dryer Troubleshooting Tips for Quick Fixes

When your dryer acts up, try these troubleshooting tips to diagnose and possibly fix the problem yourself:

1. Check the Power Supply

Make sure the dryer is plugged in and the outlet is working. Test the outlet with another device or use a multimeter to check for voltage. Also, inspect your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box for any tripped breakers or blown fuses.

2. Inspect the Door Switch

The dryer won’t start if the door switch is faulty. Open and close the door firmly and listen for a clicking sound. If you don’t hear it, the switch might need replacement.

3. Clean the Lint Filter and Vent

A clogged lint filter or vent can cause poor drying performance and overheating. Remove lint from the filter after every load. Also, disconnect the vent hose and clean it thoroughly to ensure proper airflow.

4. Test the Thermal Fuse

The thermal fuse protects the dryer from overheating. If it blows, the dryer will not start or heat. Use a multimeter to test for continuity. If the fuse is blown, replace it with the exact part specified by the manufacturer.

5. Examine the Drum Belt

If the drum isn’t turning, the belt might be broken or slipped off. Open the dryer cabinet and inspect the belt. Replace it if it shows signs of wear or damage.

6. Check the Heating Element

If the dryer runs but doesn’t heat, the heating element could be faulty. Use a multimeter to test for continuity. Replace the element if it’s broken.

7. Listen for Unusual Noises

Grinding or squealing noises often indicate worn drum rollers or idler pulleys. Inspect these parts and replace them if necessary.

These simple checks can resolve many common dryer problems. However, if you’re uncomfortable performing these tasks or the issue persists, it’s wise to seek expert assistance.

Cleaning dryer vent hose for better airflow

When to Call a Professional Dryer Repair Service

While many dryer issues can be fixed with basic troubleshooting, some problems require professional tools and expertise. If you notice any of the following, consider contacting a dryer repair service:

• Persistent electrical issues or frequent tripping of breakers

• Complex motor or electronic control board failures

• Gas dryer problems involving the ignition system or gas valve

• Safety concerns such as burning smells or smoke

• Repeated breakdowns despite repairs

  
  

Professional technicians have the training and parts to fix your dryer safely and efficiently. They can also perform thorough inspections to prevent future problems, ensuring your appliance runs smoothly for years.

Preventive Maintenance Tips to Extend Dryer Life

Regular maintenance can help avoid many common dryer problems and extend the life of your appliance. Here are some easy steps to keep your dryer in top shape:

• Clean the lint filter after every use to maintain airflow and prevent fire hazards.

• Inspect and clean the vent system at least once a year to remove lint buildup.

• Check the drum belt and rollers periodically for wear and replace as needed.

• Avoid overloading the dryer to reduce strain on the motor and drum.

• Use the correct drying cycles for different fabric types to prevent damage.

• Keep the area around the dryer clean and free of dust to improve ventilation.

  
  

By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of breakdowns and improve drying efficiency.

Enhancing Dryer Efficiency and Safety

Improving your dryer’s efficiency not only saves energy but also reduces drying time and wear on clothes. Here are some actionable recommendations:

• Use moisture sensor cycles if your dryer has them, to avoid over-drying.

• Separate heavy and light loads to ensure even drying.

• Dry similar fabric types together for optimal results.

• Ensure the dryer is level to prevent excessive noise and wear.

• Replace old or damaged vent hoses with rigid or semi-rigid metal ducts for better airflow and safety.

  
  

Safety is paramount when dealing with dryers. Never ignore burning smells or excessive heat, and always unplug the dryer before attempting any repairs.

By following these essential dryer troubleshooting tips and maintenance advice, you can keep your appliance running efficiently and avoid costly repairs. If you encounter complex issues or prefer expert help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted dryer repair service to get your dryer back in top condition quickly and safely.