A fridge is an essential appliance that helps to keep our food fresh and healthy. However, it can be frustrating when our fridge stops working correctly, and our food starts to spoil. If you have a Whirlpool fridge and you're experiencing issues with it not cooling, then you're not alone. In this post, we'll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to troubleshoot your Whirlpool fridge and offer tips to avoid fridge issues in the future.
Causes
A list of the most common causes of a Whirlpool fridge not cooling:
- Dirty Condenser Coils: Over time, the condenser coils at the back or bottom of the fridge can accumulate dust and debris, hindering the cooling process.
- Faulty Condenser Fan: The condenser fan is responsible for dissipating heat from the condenser coils. A malfunctioning fan can cause the fridge to stop cooling.
- Broken Evaporator Fan: The evaporator fan is located in the freezer compartment and circulates air to keep the fridge cool. If it's not working, the fridge may stop cooling.
- Blocked Air Vents: Air vents within the fridge and freezer can get blocked with food or ice, which can prevent cool air from circulating properly.
- Faulty Thermostat: The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature inside the fridge. A faulty thermostat can cause the fridge to stop cooling.
- Low Refrigerant: The refrigerant is responsible for absorbing heat from the fridge and releasing it outside. If the refrigerant level is low, the fridge may stop cooling.
- Faulty Compressor: The compressor is the heart of the refrigeration system, and a malfunctioning one can cause the fridge to stop cooling.
- Faulty Start Relay: The start relay is responsible for powering the compressor. A faulty start relay can cause the fridge to stop cooling.
It's important to note that these are just the most common causes, and there could be other factors that may cause a Whirlpool fridge to stop cooling. As an appliance engineer, it's best to diagnose the specific problem through visual inspection and testing of the various components of the fridge.
Error codes
Modern refrigerators are equipped with advanced electronics and control systems that can detect issues within the fridge and freezer compartments. When a problem is detected, an error code is usually displayed on the control panel, which can help diagnose the underlying issue. Here are some common error codes and their possible causes:
| Error Code |
Description |
| E1 |
The temperature sensor or thermistor is faulty or not properly connected |
| E2 |
The evaporator fan is malfunctioning or blocked |
| E3 |
The condenser fan is malfunctioning or blocked |
| E4 |
The defrost sensor or heater is faulty or not properly connected |
| E5 |
The compressor is faulty or not receiving power |
| E6 |
The control board is malfunctioning |
It's important to note that these error codes are not specific to Whirlpool refrigerators and may vary depending on the brand and model. It's also essential to consult the fridge's user manual or contact a certified appliance technician for accurate diagnosis and repair.
Step-by-step instruction
Here are some step-by-step instructions to troubleshoot a Whirlpool fridge that is not cooling:
- Check the Power Supply: Ensure that the fridge is properly plugged into a functioning electrical outlet, and the circuit breaker or fuse is not tripped. If there is no power, then the fridge will not work.
- Check the Temperature Setting: Verify that the temperature setting is appropriate for the fridge and freezer compartments. If the temperature setting is too high or low, it can cause the fridge to stop cooling.
- Check the Door Seals: Inspect the door seals for any signs of damage or wear. If the seals are not tight, warm air can enter the fridge and cause it to stop cooling.
- Clean the Condenser Coils: The condenser coils are located at the back or bottom of the fridge and can accumulate dust and debris over time. Clean the coils using a vacuum cleaner or brush to help the fridge cool efficiently.
- Check the Condenser Fan: Verify that the condenser fan is functioning correctly and not obstructed. If the fan is not working, the fridge may not cool correctly.
- Check the Evaporator Fan: Inspect the evaporator fan in the freezer compartment and ensure that it is functioning correctly. If the fan is not working, the fridge may not cool correctly.
- Check the Defrost System: Verify that the defrost system is functioning correctly. If there is frost buildup on the evaporator coils or the defrost heater, thermostat or timer is faulty, the fridge may not cool correctly.
- Verify the Compressor: Check the compressor and verify that it is functioning correctly. A malfunctioning compressor can cause the fridge to stop cooling.
- Check the Start Relay: Verify that the start relay is functioning correctly. A faulty start relay can cause the fridge to stop cooling.
- Call a Professional: If you're unable to diagnose or repair the problem, contact a certified appliance technician to inspect and repair the fridge.
By following these steps, you can identify and resolve most issues that cause a Whirlpool fridge not to cool efficiently.
If nothing helped
If you've tried all of the troubleshooting steps and your Whirlpool fridge is still not cooling, here are some alternative solutions that you can try:
- Unplug the fridge for a few hours: Sometimes, a refrigerator may need to reset its internal components to function correctly. Unplugging the fridge for a few hours can help it reset.
- Replace faulty parts: If you've identified a faulty component, such as a compressor or thermostat, you may need to replace it to get the fridge working again. Consider purchasing new parts or hiring a professional to do it for you.
- Replace the fridge: If the fridge is old or damaged beyond repair, it may be more cost-effective to replace it entirely. Consider purchasing a new Whirlpool fridge or a different brand that suits your needs.
- Check your warranty: If your fridge is still under warranty, you may be able to get a free repair or replacement. Check your warranty information and contact the manufacturer or retailer for assistance.
- Hire a professional: If you're not comfortable or knowledgeable enough to troubleshoot and repair the fridge yourself, consider hiring a certified appliance technician to diagnose and fix the problem.
It's essential to consider the cost and feasibility of each alternative solution before deciding on the best course of action. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace the fridge rather than repairing it.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you avoid Whirlpool fridge issues in the future:
- Keep the fridge clean: Regularly clean the inside of the fridge and freezer compartments to prevent the buildup of dust and debris that can cause issues.
- Check the temperature settings: Ensure that the temperature settings are set correctly, and the fridge and freezer compartments are maintaining the appropriate temperatures.
- Avoid overloading the fridge: Don't overload the fridge with too much food or drinks, as it can cause the fridge to work harder and struggle to maintain proper temperatures.
- Keep the door seals clean and tight: Inspect the door seals for any signs of wear or damage and clean them regularly to prevent warm air from entering the fridge.
- Leave space around the fridge: Ensure that the fridge has enough space around it to allow proper ventilation and cooling.
- Keep the condenser coils clean: Regularly clean the condenser coils using a vacuum cleaner or brush to ensure efficient cooling.
- Avoid opening the fridge frequently: Don't open the fridge frequently or leave the door open for an extended period, as it can cause warm air to enter the fridge.
- Check the water filter: If your Whirlpool fridge has a water dispenser or ice maker, ensure that you replace the water filter regularly to prevent clogs and buildup.
- Don't store hot food: Allow hot food to cool down before storing it in the fridge to prevent the fridge from overworking.
- Regular maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance and inspections of your Whirlpool fridge with a certified appliance technician to catch any potential issues early on and ensure optimal performance.
By following these tips, you can prevent many common Whirlpool fridge issues and keep your fridge running efficiently for years to come.
FAQ
Why is my Whirlpool fridge not cooling?
There can be several reasons for a Whirlpool fridge not cooling, including faulty parts such as the compressor, thermostat, or evaporator fan, clogged or dirty condenser coils, a malfunctioning defrost system, or insufficient refrigerant.
Can I fix my Whirlpool fridge not cooling issue myself?
It depends on the severity of the problem. If you have basic knowledge and experience with fridge repairs, you may be able to troubleshoot and fix some issues yourself. However, for complex or severe problems, it's best to hire a professional appliance technician to diagnose and repair the issue.
How long should a Whirlpool fridge last before needing repairs?
The lifespan of a Whirlpool fridge can vary depending on various factors such as usage, maintenance, and the model's quality. However, on average, a Whirlpool fridge should last between 10-15 years before needing repairs.
How can I maintain my Whirlpool fridge to prevent future issues?
You can maintain your Whirlpool fridge by keeping it clean, checking temperature settings, avoiding overloading, checking door seals, leaving space around the fridge, keeping condenser coils clean, avoiding opening the fridge frequently, checking the water filter, and scheduling regular maintenance and inspections with a certified appliance technician.
Is it better to repair or replace a Whirlpool fridge that is not cooling?
It depends on the severity of the issue and the age of the fridge. If the issue is minor and the fridge is relatively new, it may be more cost-effective to repair it. However, if the fridge is old, and the issue is severe, it may be more cost-effective to replace it.
How much does it cost to repair a Whirlpool fridge that is not cooling?
The cost of repairing a Whirlpool fridge that is not cooling can vary depending on the severity of the issue and the cost of the replacement parts. On average, the cost can range between $200-$500 or more. It's best to get a quote from a certified appliance technician before proceeding with any repairs.
Conclusion
A Whirlpool fridge that is not cooling can be a frustrating and perplexing issue to deal with. However, by following our step-by-step guide and implementing our preventative maintenance tips, you can troubleshoot your fridge and avoid issues in the future. If you're still experiencing issues, it's best to consult a professional appliance technician to diagnose and repair the issue. Remember, regular maintenance and inspections are key to keeping your Whirlpool fridge running smoothly for years to come.
