Why Is My Whirlpool Fridge Not Cooling but Freezer Works: Common Causes and Fixes
Why Is My Whirlpool Fridge Not Cooling but Freezer Works?
The most likely reasons why a Whirlpool fridge is not cooling but the freezer works are an overstuffed refrigerator that restricts air circulation, dirty condenser coils that prevent cool air circulation, a defective evaporator fan motor that hinders proper cooling, and a malfunctioning defrost system that causes ice buildup.
Other potential causes include faulty defrost thermostat, defrost timer, or thermistor.
To resolve the issue, rearrange the contents, clean the condenser coils, replace the fan motor if necessary, and troubleshoot or replace any faulty defrost components.
If unable to fix the problem, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.
Key Points:
- Overstuffed refrigerator restricts air circulation
- Dirty condenser coils prevent cool air circulation
- Defective evaporator fan motor hinders proper cooling
- Malfunctioning defrost system causes ice buildup
- Potential causes include faulty defrost thermostat, defrost timer, or thermistor
- Resolve by rearranging contents, cleaning condenser coils, replacing fan motor if necessary, and troubleshooting or replacing faulty defrost components
Did You Know?
1. Whirlpool fridges use a unique cooling system called “Adaptive Defrost Control” which alternates between cooling the fridge and defrosting the freezer to maintain optimal temperature levels.
2. The sudden temperature contrast between the fridge and freezer compartments can sometimes cause condensation to form outside the fridge, making it seem like it is not cooling properly. This condensation should evaporate naturally.
3. Did you know that placement of items inside the fridge can affect its cooling efficiency? To maintain consistent cooling, avoid overpacking the fridge or blocking the air vents with food items.
4. Occasionally, a faulty door seal or gasket can hinder proper cooling in a Whirlpool fridge. Check the seals around the fridge door and ensure they are clean, intact, and properly sealed to maintain optimal cooling temperatures.
5. If your Whirlpool fridge is not cooling but the freezer is working, it might be due to a malfunctioning evaporator fan. The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating cold air from the freezer to the fridge, so if it is not working correctly, the fridge won’t cool properly.
1. Overstuffed Refrigerator And Warm Temperature
One common cause for a Whirlpool fridge not cooling while the freezer works is an overstuffed refrigerator. When the fridge is filled to the brim with food and items, it prevents proper air circulation, leading to a warm temperature. The lack of airflow restricts the fridge from cooling effectively, as the cold air cannot circulate properly. Therefore, rearranging the shelves and disposing of any old or unnecessary food items can significantly improve air circulation and restore the refrigerator’s cool temperature.
Additionally, it is important to note that keeping the freezer compartment completely full can also impact the functionality of the refrigerator. By overcrowding the freezer, you can limit the airflow between the freezer and refrigerator sections. This limited airflow can cause the refrigerator to warm up while the freezer remains cold. The article suggests filling the freezer to only 3/4 capacity and ensuring that the vents between the freezer and refrigerator are not blocked, allowing for proper air circulation and temperature balance.
2. Cleaning The Condenser Coils For Proper Cooling
Dirty condenser coils can be a common cause of a Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling properly. Over time, dust, debris, and even pet hair can accumulate on the condenser coils, obstructing the cooling process. When the coils are clogged, the heat transfer necessary for effective cooling is hindered, resulting in a warm refrigerator.
To rectify this issue, it is recommended to clean the condenser coils regularly, every 6-12 months. To clean the coils, first, unplug the refrigerator from the power source. Next, locate the condenser coils, typically located behind or beneath the refrigerator. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove the debris from the coils. If necessary, you can also use a coil cleaning solution to wipe away any stubborn dirt. After cleaning, rinse the coils with water and dry them thoroughly with a cloth. By cleaning the condenser coils, you can restore cool air circulation and ensure proper cooling in the refrigerator compartment.
- Clean the condenser coils regularly, every 6-12 months
- Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning
- Locate the condenser coils behind or beneath the refrigerator
- Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove debris
- Consider using a coil cleaning solution for stubborn dirt
- Rinse the coils with water and dry thoroughly with a cloth
3. Malfunctioning Evaporator Fan Motor And Cool Air Circulation
A malfunctioning evaporator fan motor can cause a Whirlpool fridge to not cool properly, while the freezer remains functional. This motor is responsible for circulating cold air from the freezer to the refrigerator compartment. If the fan blades do not turn easily or if the motor produces excessive noise, it is likely experiencing a malfunction.
To troubleshoot the evaporator fan motor, follow these steps:
- Check for any obstructions that may be hindering the fan blades’ movement. Remove any items blocking the fan.
- Ensure that the power supply to the fan motor is intact by examining the wiring connections.
- If the motor continues to show signs of malfunction, it is advisable to seek professional assistance for replacement.
( – Check for obstructions
- Verify power supply
- Seek professional replacement)
4. Defrost System Failure And Ice Accumulation
Another common cause of a Whirlpool fridge not cooling but the freezer working is a defrost system failure. The defrost system is responsible for melting the frost and ice buildup on the evaporator coils. If the defrost system malfunctions, ice can accumulate on the coils, resulting in the refrigerator working harder to cool.
Two components of the defrost system that could fail are the defrost thermostat and the defrost timer. The defrost thermostat senses the temperature of the evaporator coils and signals the defrost cycle to turn on. However, if the thermostat fails, it may provide incorrect temperature readings and prevent the defrost cycle from activating. Likewise, the defrost timer, in coordination with the control board, controls the frequency of the defrost cycle. If the timer malfunctions, the refrigerator may not defrost as necessary, leading to cooling issues.
If you suspect a defrost system failure, it is advisable to contact Whirlpool refrigerator experts for assistance. Professionals can accurately diagnose the issue and provide the appropriate solution, whether it involves replacing the defrost thermostat, defrost timer, or any other faulty components.
- Defrost system failure can cause the Whirlpool fridge to not cool properly while the freezer is still working.
- The defrost thermostat senses the temperature of the evaporator coils and signals the defrost cycle to turn on.
- If the defrost thermostat fails, it may provide incorrect temperature readings and prevent the defrost cycle from activating.
- The defrost timer, in coordination with the control board, controls the frequency of the defrost cycle.
- If the defrost timer malfunctions, the refrigerator may not defrost as necessary, leading to cooling issues.
- Contacting Whirlpool refrigerator experts is recommended for accurate diagnosis and appropriate solution.
5. Contacting Whirlpool Refrigerator Experts For Assistance
When facing a situation where a Whirlpool fridge is not cooling properly but the freezer is working, troubleshooting the issue can be complex. If the suggested causes and fixes do not resolve the problem, it is highly recommended to contact Whirlpool refrigerator experts for assistance. They possess the knowledge and expertise to identify and resolve any complex issues that may be impacting the refrigerator’s cooling functionality.
By seeking professional help, you can avoid the risk of causing further damage to the appliance. Whirlpool refrigerator experts have advanced diagnostic tools and the necessary experience to pinpoint the exact cause of the cooling problem. They can efficiently repair or replace any faulty components, ensuring that your Whirlpool fridge operates at its optimal level and provides the desired cooling for both the freezer and refrigerator compartments.
In summary, various causes can contribute to a Whirlpool fridge not cooling while the freezer continues to work properly. These causes include an overstuffed refrigerator, dirty condenser coils, a malfunctioning evaporator fan motor, and defrost system failure. By rearranging the contents of the fridge, cleaning the condenser coils regularly, troubleshooting the fan motor, and addressing any defrost system malfunctions, you can resolve the cooling issue. If all else fails, professional assistance from Whirlpool refrigerator experts is strongly recommended to accurately diagnose and fix the problem, ensuring the proper functionality of your Whirlpool fridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my freezer working but not cooling my refrigerator?
If your freezer is working but your refrigerator is not cooling, it is possible that the problem lies with the evaporator fan. The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating cold air throughout both the freezer and the refrigerator compartments. If the fan is not working properly, it can result in the freezer maintaining its cold temperature but the refrigerator not receiving enough cold air. This could be due to a faulty motor or a blockage in the fan, and it may require professional repair or replacement.
What causes a Whirlpool refrigerator to stop cooling?
If a Whirlpool refrigerator stops cooling, it could be due to a variety of factors. One possible cause could be dirty condenser coils, which can impede the refrigerator’s ability to cool. Additionally, poor ventilation and improper installation can also contribute to the refrigerator’s cooling issues. Faulty or dirty gasket seals can also lead to a lack of cool air circulation, resulting in ineffective cooling. Moreover, unorganized food storage and placing the appliance in a location that hinders proper airflow can further exacerbate the problem. Finally, malfunctions in internal parts can cause the refrigerator to cease cooling as well.
Why is my freezer freezing but my fridge is warm?
The temperature difference between your freezer and fridge could be explained by an imbalance in item storage and obstructed air vents. When either compartment is overloaded, air circulation can be hindered, affecting the flow of cold air necessary for proper cooling. To rectify this, it is advisable to maintain a refrigerator occupancy of around 3/4 capacity and inspect the air vents for any obstructions. By optimizing item placement and ensuring unobstructed air circulation, you can restore an appropriate temperature balance between your freezer and refrigerator compartments.
What are some common causes for a Whirlpool fridge not cooling, while the freezer is still working properly?
There are several common causes for a Whirlpool fridge not cooling while the freezer is still functioning properly. One common cause is a faulty evaporator fan motor, which circulates cold air from the freezer to the refrigerator compartment. If this fan is not working, the freezer will still cool but the fridge won’t receive the proper amount of cold air. Another issue could be a defective defrost thermostat or heater, which can lead to excessive frost buildup on the evaporator coils, hindering the cooling process in the fridge section. In such cases, it’s best to consult a professional technician to diagnose and resolve the issue.