Why Is My Kenmore Fridge Not Cooling? Discover Solutions to Restore Optimal Cooling and Efficiency

ByArnould Eric Updated

Why Is My Kenmore Fridge Not Cooling but Freezer Works?

If your Kenmore fridge is not cooling but the freezer works, there could be several possible reasons for this issue.

One possibility is overstuffing the fridge, which can restrict proper air circulation and prevent the fridge from cooling effectively.

Another potential cause is a blockage in the vents, which can obstruct the flow of cold air from the freezer to the fridge compartment.

Additionally, dirty condenser coils can inhibit efficient cooling by trapping heat.

A faulty evaporator fan motor may also prevent the fridge from cooling as it is responsible for circulating cold air.

A defective thermistor, which monitors the temperature inside the fridge, could also be the culprit.

Finally, a defrost system failure can lead to ice buildup, blocking airflow and impairing cooling.

To address these issues, ensure that you do not overstuff the fridge, remove any blockages in the vents, clean the condenser coils, replace the faulty evaporator fan motor or thermistor, or seek assistance from a refrigerator repair specialist for defrost system failure.

If you encounter larger problems or need professional help, seeking assistance from a trusted appliance repair company like Best Service Company Appliance Repair is advisable.

Key Points:

  • Kenmore fridge not cooling but freezer works due to possible reasons
  • Overstuffing the fridge restricts air circulation and affects cooling
  • Blockage in vents obstructs cold air flow from freezer to fridge
  • Dirty condenser coils trap heat and hinder efficient cooling
  • Faulty evaporator fan motor can prevent circulation of cold air
  • Defective thermistor affects temperature monitoring inside the fridge
  • To address these issues, avoid overstuffing, remove blockages, clean coils, replace faulty parts, and seek professional help if needed

Did You Know?

1. Did you know that the Kenmore brand was first introduced in 1927 by the Sears Roebuck Company? It was initially used for a range of appliances that included washing machines, sewing machines, and refrigerators, making it one of the oldest and most established brands in the home appliance industry.

2. The cooling process in a Kenmore refrigerator involves the circulation of a refrigerant, typically a gas or liquid, through a series of coils. If your Kenmore fridge is not cooling but the freezer still works, it could indicate a problem with the evaporator fan motor, which is responsible for circulating cold air from the freezer to the fridge compartment.

3. Kenmore refrigerators often have a damper control assembly that regulates the airflow between the freezer and refrigerator compartments. If the damper control assembly malfunctions, it can disrupt the balance of cold air distribution, resulting in temperature imbalances where the freezer remains functional while the fridge does not cool adequately.

4. An obstructed condenser coil, located at the back or underneath the Kenmore fridge, can also be a culprit when the fridge fails to cool but the freezer works fine. Dust, dirt, or other debris buildup on the condenser coils restricts proper heat dissipation and can lead to cooling problems.

5. Sometimes, an electronic control board failure can cause a Kenmore fridge’s cooling issues. The control board acts as the brain of the refrigerator and manages various functions. If a malfunction occurs in the control board’s circuitry, it could impact the operation of the cooling system, resulting in inconsistent temperature regulation.

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Possible Reasons For Kenmore Fridge Not Cooling But Freezer Works:

There can be several reasons why your Kenmore fridge is not cooling properly while the freezer seems to be functioning fine. Understanding these possible causes can help you diagnose and fix the issue more effectively. Here are the common reasons you should consider:

1. Overstuffing the fridge:

  • Overcrowding the refrigerator with too many items restricts air circulation, preventing cool air from reaching all areas.
  • This can result in uneven cooling and certain parts of the fridge not cooling at all.
  • To fix this issue, remove unnecessary items and ensure proper air circulation.

2. Blockage in the vents:

  • Debris, food particles, or ice can accumulate in the vents over time, restricting the flow of cold air from the freezer to the fridge compartment.
  • Check the vents and remove any obstructions to restore proper airflow.

3. Dirty condenser coils:

  • Clogged condenser coils hinder the cooling process as they cannot release heat from the fridge effectively.
  • Regularly cleaning the condenser coils can help maintain optimal cooling efficiency.
  • Ensure the condenser coils are free from dust, pet hair, or debris.

4. Faulty evaporator fan motor:

  • The evaporator fan motor circulates cold air from the freezer to the fridge compartment.
  • If the motor becomes faulty or malfunctions, it can disrupt the airflow and cause cooling issues in the fridge.
  • Consider replacing the evaporator fan motor to solve the problem.

5. Defective thermistor:

  • The thermistor is a temperature sensor that controls the cooling cycle in the refrigerator.
  • A defective thermistor can cause the fridge to not cool properly while the freezer continues to work.
  • Replace the faulty thermistor to restore proper cooling and temperature regulation.

6. Defrost system failure:

  • If the defrost system fails, excessive ice buildup can occur in the freezer, affecting cooling in the fridge compartment.
  • If you notice frosty or icy buildup along with poor cooling, seek assistance from a refrigerator repair specialist to diagnose and fix the defrost system issue.

    • Overstuffing the fridge
    • Blockage in the vents
    • Dirty condenser coils
    • Faulty evaporator fan motor
    • Defective thermistor
    • Defrost system failure

Tips To Fix Overstuffing The Fridge Issue:

The problem of overstuffing the fridge can be easily resolved by following these simple tips:

  • Take out unnecessary items and organize the contents of the fridge to allow for proper airflow.
  • Use storage containers or organizers to maximize space without obstructing airflow.
  • Avoid filling the fridge to its maximum capacity and leave room for the cool air to circulate.

By implementing these practices, you can ensure that cool air can freely distribute throughout the fridge, restoring optimal cooling efficiency.

Tips To Fix Blockage In The Vents Issue:

If the vents in your Kenmore fridge are blocked, follow these steps to restore proper airflow:

  • Check for any visible debris or obstructions in the vents. Use a brush, cloth, or vacuum cleaner to remove any dirt or buildup.
  • If necessary, defrost the fridge to melt any ice that may be blocking the vents.
  • Regularly clean the vents to prevent future blockages.
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By maintaining clear and unobstructed vents, you can ensure that cold air circulates freely and evenly throughout the fridge, improving its cooling capabilities.

  • Clean vents regularly
  • Remove debris or obstructions from vents
  • Defrost fridge if needed

“Proper airflow is essential for your Kenmore fridge to function efficiently. By following these steps, you can maintain optimal cooling performance and prevent future problems.”

Tips To Fix Dirty Condenser Coils Issue:

To fix the issue of dirty condenser coils, follow these steps:

  • Locate the condenser coils, usually found at the back of the fridge or beneath it.
  • Disconnect the appliance from the power source before proceeding.
  • Clean the condenser coils using a vacuum cleaner or a brush specifically designed for this purpose.
  • Remove any debris, dust, or pet hair that may have accumulated on the coils.
  • Once cleaned, reconnect the fridge to the power supply and monitor its cooling performance.

Regularly cleaning the condenser coils will help the fridge dissipate heat more efficiently and promote proper cooling in the fridge compartment.

To summarize, here are the steps to fix dirty condenser coils:

  1. Locate the condenser coils.
  2. Disconnect the appliance from the power source.
  3. Clean the condenser coils, removing any debris, dust, or pet hair.
  4. Reconnect the fridge to the power supply and monitor its cooling performance.

Tips To Fix Faulty Evaporator Fan Motor And Defective Thermistor Issues:

To resolve issues with the evaporator fan motor and defective thermistor, follow these steps:

  • Consult the Kenmore refrigerator manual or seek professional help to locate the evaporator fan motor and thermistor.
  • If the evaporator fan motor is faulty, consider replacing it with a new one. Consult a refrigerator repair specialist for guidance or seek professional assistance.
  • In case of a defective thermistor, procure a compatible replacement part and install it following the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional assistance.

Fixing the faulty evaporator fan motor and defective thermistor will help restore the proper distribution of cold air, allowing the fridge to cool effectively.

Remember:

It is essential to consult either the refrigerator manual or a professional for guidance before attempting any repairs.

Additional Notes:

  • The evaporator fan motor is responsible for circulating cold air throughout the refrigerator.
  • The thermistor is a sensor that monitors the temperature and sends signals to control the cooling process.
  • Seeking professional assistance can ensure proper installation and prevent further damage.

Seeking Assistance From Best Service Company Appliance Repair For Defrost System Failure:

If you suspect that your Kenmore fridge’s defrost system has failed, it is best to seek assistance from a professional appliance repair service, such as the highly reliable Best Service Company Appliance Repair. Defrost system failure requires technical expertise to diagnose and repair, as it involves complex components and circuitry. By reaching out to a refrigerator repair specialist, you can ensure that the defrost system issue is properly resolved, restoring optimal cooling and efficiency to your Kenmore fridge.

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With these tips and assistance from trusted professionals, you can effectively diagnose and fix the cooling issues in your Kenmore fridge, restoring its functionality and ensuring the freshness and longevity of your food. Don’t let a malfunctioning fridge hamper your daily life; take the necessary steps to restore optimal cooling today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my fridge not cooling enough but freezer is OK?

One possible reason why your fridge is not cooling enough while the freezer remains unaffected could be due to a malfunction in the air circulation system. When the defrost system fails, it can lead to excessive ice buildup on the evaporator coils, restricting the flow of cool air to the refrigerator compartment. As a result, the freezer continues to function properly, as it has a separate cooling system, while the refrigerator fails to cool adequately.

Another potential explanation could be a faulty temperature control mechanism. If the thermostat responsible for regulating the temperature in the refrigerator compartment is not functioning correctly, it may not be signaling the cooling system to operate efficiently. Consequently, the freezer could still maintain the desired temperature while the refrigerator struggles to cool down.

Why is my refrigerator warm but freezer cold?

If the vents are blocked, cold air from the freezer cannot circulate properly and reach the fridge compartment, resulting in a warm fridge. It is important to ensure proper airflow by organizing the items in the freezer and avoiding overstuffing it. Another possibility is that the vents themselves may be blocked by ice buildup, which can occur if the freezer door is frequently left open or if there is a problem with the defrost system. Regularly defrosting the freezer and keeping the door closed can help prevent this issue and maintain the ideal temperature balance between the freezer and fridge.

Why is my Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling but freezer is fine?

If you’re experiencing a situation where your Whirlpool refrigerator is not cooling but the freezer is working fine, it’s possible that the issue lies with the condenser coils. These coils play a crucial role in cooling the refrigerant, and if they become dirty and covered with dust and debris, their effectiveness is compromised. This can result in the refrigerator not getting cold, while the freezer manages to maintain its temperature. Cleaning the condenser coils should help resolve this problem and restore proper cooling functionality to the refrigerator.

What is the main cause of fridge not cooling?

One of the main causes of a fridge not cooling is a malfunctioning internal part. This could be a faulty compressor, evaporator fan, or thermostat. When any of these components are not functioning properly, it can disrupt the cooling process and prevent the fridge from maintaining the desired temperature. Another common cause is poor ventilation, which can lead to the condenser coils becoming dirty and affecting the cooling efficiency. When the coils are covered in dirt and debris, they are unable to release heat properly, resulting in a decrease in cooling performance.

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