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Frigidaire refrigerator not cooling but freezer works

When your refrigerator isn't cooling, but the freezer is still working fine, it can be a frustrating experience. Before you panic and think your refrigerator is beyond repair, know that there are several possible causes for this issue, many of which you can troubleshoot yourself. In this guide, we’ll explain the common reasons behind a Frigidaire refrigerator not cooling and what steps you can take to potentially fix the problem.

Key reasons for the problem:

%

50% of reported issues are the

Stuck Air Damper or Damper Controlquestion

%

25% of reported issues are the

Broken/Weak Evaporator Fan Motorquestion

%

15% of reported issues are the

Frosted-Up Evaporator Coils / Defrost System Failurequestion

%

10% of reported issues are the

All Other Causesquestion

Diagnostic and troubleshooting steps

Frigidaire Refrigerator Not Cooling But Freezer Works?
Follow the steps below to troubleshoot common issues like a faulty evaporator fan motor, blocked air vents, or a malfunctioning thermistor.

Diagnostic & Troubleshooting
Check the Condenser Coils for Dirt or Debris

Step 1:

Check the Condenser Coils for Dirt or Debris

  • Locate the coils and inspect them for dust, dirt, pet hair, or debris that could be blocking airflow.
  • Clean the coils by using a coil brush, vacuum cleaner, or a damp cloth to clean the coils thoroughly.
     
Examine the Evaporator Fan for Malfunction

Step 2:

Examine the Evaporator Fan for Malfunction

  • Locate the evaporator fan and inspect for obstructions like ice buildup around the fan or objects blocking it.
  • Test the fan by turning on the fridge and listening for the fan running. If it’s not running, the fan motor may be defective.
     
Check the Thermistor or Temperature Control Board

Step 3:

Check the Thermistor or Temperature Control Board

  • Locate the thermistor and test it for continuity by using a multimeter. If it fails, the thermistor is likely defective and should be replaced.
  • Inspect the temperature control board. If the thermistor seems fine, the issue could lie with the temperature control board. This board regulates the cooling system based on signals from the thermistor.
     
Investigate the Defrost Drain for Blockages

Step 4:

Investigate the Defrost Drain for Blockages

  • Locate the defrost drain and inspect it for visible ice buildup or debris that may be obstructing the flow of water.
  • Clear any blockages by using hot water or a pipe cleaner to remove any debris or ice. If the drain is frozen, use a hairdryer on the lowest setting to gently thaw it.
     
Inspect the Start Relay or Compressor

Step 5:

Inspect the Start Relay or Compressor

  • Locate the start relay and test it for continuity by using a multimeter. If it doesn’t show continuity, it’s likely faulty and needs to be replaced.
  • Inspect the compressor. If the relay is working fine but the refrigerator is still not cooling, the compressor may be malfunctioning. 
     
Reset the Temperature Control

Step 6:

Reset the Temperature Control

  • Reset the control by turning off the fridge for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in to see if the cooling issues are resolved.
Examine the Freezer Compartment for Overload or Blockage

Step 7:

Examine the Freezer Compartment for Overload or Blockage

  • Check the freezer to ensure that there are no large or overstuffed items blocking the vents.

Key actions for homeowners:

  • Clean the condenser coils regularly.
  • Check the evaporator fan periodically.
  • Clear the defrost drain. 
  • Avoid overloading the freezer.
  • Maintain proper temperature settings.
  • Inspect the door seals. 
  • Avoid blocking vents inside the fridge. 
     
Diagnostic & Troubleshooting
Diagnostic & Troubleshooting

Most common repairs needed to fix a frigidaire refrigerator

When your fridge isn't cooling, certain repairs are more commonly required than others. Below are the most frequent fixes:
 

    • Check the Evaporator Fan:
      The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating cold air throughout the fridge. If it’s malfunctioning, the freezer may still cool, but the refrigerator won’t.
    • Clear the Air Vents:
      Blocked air vents inside your fridge can prevent cold air from circulating effectively, leading to cooling problems. Inspect the air vents inside the refrigerator, particularly at the back wall, for any obstructions, like spilled food or ice buildup. Clear away any debris to allow air to circulate freely and ensure your fridge cools properly.
    • Inspect the Defrost Heater:
      If your Frigidaire refrigerator isn’t cooling but the freezer is, it could be due to a frozen evaporator coil caused by a malfunctioning defrost system. The defrost heater helps to prevent the buildup of ice on the evaporator coil. If the heater is faulty, ice will accumulate and block airflow.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why is my Frigidaire refrigerator not cooling but the freezer works?

    Possible causes include dirty condenser coils that reduce the fridge’s cooling efficiency, a malfunctioning evaporator fan which circulates cold air from the freezer into the fridge, a clogged defrost drain or frozen evaporator coils, which can block the airflow, or a faulty thermistors or temperature control boards, which regulate the temperature settings for the fridge.

  • How can I prevent my Frigidaire refrigerator from not cooling in the future?

    To avoid future cooling problems, regular maintenance is key. For example, clean the condenser coils every 6–12 months to prevent dirt buildup, inspect and clean the air vents inside the fridge to ensure proper air circulation, check the door seals for any gaps or cracks that may cause cold air to escape, regularly monitor the temperature settings (the fridge should be set at 37°F and the freezer at 0°F),and keep the fridge uncluttered so air can circulate freely.

  • How do I fix a faulty evaporator fan in my Frigidaire refrigerator?

    The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer to the fridge. If the fan isn’t working, the fridge will not cool properly. To  troubleshoot, unplug the refrigerator for safety, locate the evaporator fan (usually at the back of the freezer compartment),and check for blockages like ice or debris and clear them. If the fan is still not working, test it with a multimeter to check for continuity. If there’s no continuity, the fan motor needs replacing.

  • What should I do if my Frigidaire refrigerator's compressor is not running?

    If the compressor isn’t running, your fridge won’t cool properly. The compressor circulates refrigerant, which is essential for cooling. First, listen for the compressor—if it’s not making any noise, it could be faulty. Next, check for electrical issues, like a tripped circuit breaker or loose wires. If there are no visible electrical issues, the compressor may need to be replaced. Unfortunately, compressor problems often require professional repair because they involve refrigerant handling, which is specialized work.

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