Why is My Fridge Working But My Freezer Isn’t?

Opening your refrigerator to find cold milk only to discover thawed food in the freezer can be confusing and frustrating. If you’re asking yourself why your freezer isn’t freezing, you’re not alone. This is a surprisingly common freezer issue for homeowners, and in many cases, the cause is fixable with the right knowledge.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most likely reasons a freezer not freezing properly can happen even when the fridge still works. We’ll also explain when it’s safe to troubleshoot on your own and when it’s time to call in professional help.

How Your Fridge and Freezer Work Together

Before diving into specific problems, it helps to understand how these appliances function. In most refrigerators, a single cooling system serves both the fridge and the freezer. Cold air is generated near the freezer and then circulated into the refrigerator section.

When something disrupts that airflow or cooling process, it can result in uneven temperatures, leading many to wonder, why is my freezer not freezing while my fridge seems fine?

Common Reasons a Freezer Is Not Freezing

Blocked or Restricted Airflow

One of the most common answers to why your freezer isn’t freezing is airflow obstruction. Cold air needs space to circulate freely.

Check for overpacked freezer shelves, items blocking interior vents or frost buildup near air channels Rearranging items and removing obstructions can sometimes restore normal freezing.

Dirty Condenser Coils

Condenser coils release heat from the appliance. When they’re covered in dust or pet hair, the cooling system has to work harder and may struggle to maintain freezer temperatures.

Signs this may be the issue is the freezer not freezing fully, the fridge running constantly, or warm sides or back on the unit. Cleaning coils every six to twelve months can prevent this problem.

Faulty Evaporator Fan

The evaporator fan moves cold air from the freezer into both compartments. If it stops working, the refrigerator may still cool slightly, but the freezer won’t stay cold enough.

You may notice unusual noises, little to no airflow, or ice melting even with the door closed. This is a common reason homeowners experience an issue with the freezer not freezing.

Incorrect Temperature Settings

Sometimes the simplest explanation answers why your freezer isn’t freezing. Temperature settings may have been accidentally adjusted. As a best practice, your freezer temperature should be 0°F and your refrigerator temperature should be between 37–40°F. If settings are too warm, freezing performance will suffer.

Frequent Door Openings or Poor Door Seal

A freezer door that doesn’t seal properly allows warm air to enter, causing temperature fluctuations. Check for cracked or loose door gaskets, frost buildup near the door, or doors not closing fully. Replacing a damaged gasket can significantly improve freezing performance.

Excessive Frost on the Evaporator Coils

If your freezer builds up too much frost, airflow can become restricted. This often points to a defrost system issue. Symptoms include ice covering interior panels, gradually warming freezer temperatures, and the freezer not freezing evenly. Manual defrosting may offer temporary relief, but recurring frost usually means a deeper problem.

Defrost System Malfunction

Modern freezers rely on automatic defrost systems. If components like the defrost heater or thermostat fail, ice can build up unchecked. This is another common answer to why your freezer is not freezing properly over time.

Compressor Issues

The compressor is the heart of your refrigerator. If it’s struggling or failing, the freezer is often the first area affected. Warning signs include clicking sounds, appliance not cycling correctly, and a warm freezer but a cool fridge. Compressor repairs are complex and typically require professional service.

Control Board or Sensor Problems

Modern appliances rely on electronic controls to regulate temperature. A faulty sensor or control board can misread conditions and fail to trigger proper cooling. This type of issue often presents as inconsistent temperatures, the freezer not freezing despite running, and error codes on digital displays.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist for Homeowners

If you’re dealing with a freezer not freezing, try these troubleshooting steps before calling for service:

1. Confirm temperature settings.
2. Remove items blocking vents.
3. Clean condenser coils.
4. Inspect door seals.
5. Listen for fan operation.

If these steps don’t help, the issue is likely mechanical or electrical.

When to Call a Professional

While some freezer issues are DIY-friendly, others aren’t. Call a technician if the freezer continues to warm, you hear grinding or clicking noises, frost keeps returning or food safety is at risk. Professional diagnosis helps prevent further damage and wasted food.

Preventing Future Freezer Problems

Routine maintenance can reduce the chances of asking why your freezer is not freezing again. Helpful habits include avoiding overfilling the freezer, keeping vents clear, cleaning coils regularly, and monitoring the temperature each month. These small steps go a long way in keeping your appliance running smoothly.

A fridge working while the freezer isn’t can be frustrating, but the causes are often identifiable and sometimes preventable. Understanding the most common reasons why a freezer is not freezing empowers you to act quickly and protect your food—and your wallet.

If you want added peace of mind, Liberty Home Guard is here to help. Our expert resources and home warranty coverage are designed to support homeowners when appliances break down unexpectedly. Explore our related content to learn how Liberty Home Guard can help you protect your home, and everything inside it, year-round.