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24/7/365 Emergency
Refrigerator Not Cooling?
Why isn't my refrigerator cooling? Common causes, what you can check, and when to call technicians.
6-Month Warranty
Equipment We Service
Ovens & Cooking
Refrigerators & Freezers
Ice Makers
Dryer Repair
24/7/365
Emergency
Service-call pricing
All tiers applied to the cost of the repair when work is done.
Standard Most appliances + brands | $99 |
Luxury High-end (Sub-Zero, Wolf, Miele, BlueStar, Thermador, etc.) | $125 |
Commercial Walk-in coolers, commercial laundry, restaurant equipment | $175 |
Warranty: 6-month parts, 6-month labor. Technician quotes the repair on-site before any work.
Request Service
Appliance Down? Instant SMS & Email Confirmation.
Submit below — you get an instant SMS + email confirming we've received your request. Our dispatcher locks in your tech's exact arrival time within 1 business hour. Live tracking link in every message.
Book a Service
Most jobs scheduled same-day or next-day.
Required fields marked *. Free estimates.
Common causes of refrigerator not cooling
Dirty Condenser Coils
importantCan DIY checkThe condenser coils, usually located on the back or underneath the refrigerator, release heat from the unit. If they become covered in dust and debris, the refrigerator can't dissipate heat effectively, leading to poor cooling.
Faulty Evaporator Fan Motor
criticalPro recommendedThe evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer compartment into the refrigerator section. If this fan isn't working, cold air won't reach the fridge, causing it to warm up.
Blocked Air Vents
minorCan DIY checkObstructions inside the refrigerator or freezer compartments, like food items pushed against vents, can prevent cold air from circulating properly. This is especially common if the unit is overpacked.
Defective Start Relay or Overload Protector
criticalPro recommendedThese components help the compressor start and run. If either fails, the compressor may not turn on or may shut off prematurely, preventing the unit from cooling.
Temperature Control Thermostat Issue
importantPro recommendedThe thermostat tells the refrigerator when to turn on the cooling system. If it's malfunctioning or set incorrectly, it may not signal the unit to cool when needed.
Door Seal Leak
importantCan DIY checkIf the rubber gasket around the refrigerator door is damaged or dirty, it can allow cold air to escape and warm air to enter, making the unit work harder and cool less effectively.
Quick checks you can run safely
- 1
Check Temperature Settings
Ensure the refrigerator and freezer temperature controls are set to the recommended levels. Sometimes, settings can be accidentally changed.
- 2
Inspect Door Seals
Check the rubber gaskets around the doors for any tears, gaps, or debris. Clean them with mild soap and water. Ensure the doors are closing completely and sealing tightly.
Safety: Ensure the appliance is unplugged before cleaning any internal components if necessary. - 3
Listen for the Compressor
Open the refrigerator door and listen carefully. You should hear a low humming sound from the compressor running. If there's no sound, or if it's clicking repeatedly, there may be a problem.
- 4
Check for Blocked Air Vents
Look inside both the refrigerator and freezer compartments for any vents that might be blocked by food items. Rearrange contents to allow for proper airflow.
- 5
Examine Condenser Coils (if accessible)
If you can safely access the condenser coils (usually on the back or bottom), check for dust and debris buildup. If they are dirty, unplug the refrigerator and carefully clean them with a vacuum cleaner brush attachment or a coil brush.
Safety: Always unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet before cleaning the condenser coils to avoid electrical shock.
When to call a pro right away
Compressor is not running or is making unusual noises
A non-running or noisy compressor often indicates a serious internal component failure that requires professional diagnosis and repair. Attempting to service sealed system components is dangerous and illegal without proper certification.
Evaporator fan is not spinning
The evaporator fan is crucial for circulating cold air. If it's not working, the refrigerator won't cool properly, and a professional is needed to diagnose the motor or its electrical connections.
Freezer is cold, but the refrigerator section is warm
This often points to an issue with airflow between the freezer and refrigerator compartments, possibly a blocked damper or a faulty fan, which requires expert attention.
You suspect a refrigerant leak
Refrigerant is a hazardous substance. Handling or attempting to recharge refrigerant without EPA Section 608 certification is illegal and dangerous, carrying risks of severe injury and environmental damage.
Saw a red flag above? Don't wait.
Same-day service. transparent service-call pricing (applied to repair) — applied to your repair.
Typical repair time once diagnosed: 90 minutes
Related issues we fix
Error code on your display?
Look up your brand's error codes for refrigerator not cooling — we cover the most common codes for each brand we service.
This page provides general diagnostic guidance for refrigerator not cooling. Specific causes and repairs vary by appliance brand, model, and condition. For accurate diagnosis, contact a licensed appliance repair technician. Repairs involving refrigerant systems, gas lines, or high-voltage circuits require certified professionals — DIY attempts on these systems may be illegal and dangerous.
How our repair process works
Five steps from your first call to the warranty receipt. No surprises.
- 1
Inspection
Your technician examines the appliance, listens to your description, and notes the model + serial for parts lookup. Visual + audio-based diagnostics first — non-invasive.
- 2
Diagnostics
Targeted tests on the failing subsystem (compressor, control board, heating element, motor, etc.) to identify the exact root cause. You get a clear explanation, not jargon.
- 3
Fix decision
Up-front estimate before any work begins: cost, parts, and the realistic likelihood of success vs. recommending replacement on an old or uneconomical unit. You decide.
- 4
Operational test
After the repair we run the appliance through its normal cycle on-site — never "it should work now, call us if it doesn't." You sign off when it's actually working.
- 5
Warranty + consultation
Receipt with warranty terms in writing. Plus a quick walkthrough of how to extend the appliance's life (filter cleaning, drain maintenance, etc.) — included free.
What our customers say
Excellent4.8Verified Google Reviews
Google
GoogleSean was very knowledgeable and professional. He saved the day! Our dryer was no longer heating. He came out the same day and diagnosed a burnt out heating coil. He was able to get it replaced and back up and running in about an hour! Thanks again!
GoogleSean was efficient and considerate. Got our icemaker working, but also explained to me how to fix it, if it freezes. He was very knowledgeable in all things appliances any make and model!!!
GoogleI can't say enough about the service I received from Sean at STAR Appliance Repair fixing my dishwasher. Sean diagnosed the problem, available parts, and completed the service the following day all while giving me step by step instructions so I was aware of t…
GoogleOur Samsung french door refrigerator had been icing up on the inside. Took a chance on this local repair company and what a blessing they were. I only had to wait 24 hours from the first call to have a repairman come to our home. I called on a Thursday to s…
Hours of Operation(all times EDT)
Mon8am–6pm EDT
Tue8am–6pm EDT
Wed8am–6pm EDT
Thu8am–6pm EDT
Fri8am–6pm EDT
Sat9am–4pm EDT
SunClosed
24/7/365 Emergency Service — live dispatcher answers around the clock. Emergency response within 4 hours in most service areas. When your appliance is down, we move fast.
Same-Business-Day Response Available — call before noon for priority scheduling in your service area.
Weekend Service Available— we work Saturday and Sunday for operators who can't wait until Monday.
Office hours: Mon–Fri 7:30am–4:30pm EDT. Emergency dispatch available 24/7/365.
Appliance Down? Instant SMS & Email Confirmation.
Star Appliance Repair — same-day available. Tech arrival time confirmed within 1 business hour.