Inglis Fridge Not Cooling

Introduction

Finding your Inglis fridge not cooling properly can be a real headache. Food spoils quickly, and no one wants to throw away groceries! This usually happens when the fridge isn’t maintaining its set temperature, or the freezer seems to be working fine but the fridge is warm. Addressing this issue promptly is important to prevent food waste and potential health risks associated with consuming spoiled food. Let’s get your fridge back to normal!

Common Causes of inglis fridge not cooling

There are several reasons why your Inglis fridge might not be cooling correctly:

• Dirty Condenser Coils: Dust and debris buildup on the coils hinders heat release.
• Blocked Vents: Obstructions prevent proper airflow between the freezer and fridge.
• Faulty Door Seals: Worn or damaged seals let warm air in.
• Overcrowded Fridge: Too much food restricts air circulation.
• Incorrect Temperature Settings: The thermostat might be set too high.
• Frozen Evaporator Coils: Excessive frost prevents proper cooling.
• Start Relay Issues: A faulty start relay can prevent the compressor from starting.
• Compressor Problems: A failing compressor may struggle to cool the fridge.
• Damper Door Malfunction: This door controls airflow between the freezer and the refrigerator section. If it’s stuck closed, the fridge won’t cool.
• Condenser Fan Motor Failure: This fan helps cool the condenser coils. If it stops working, the fridge won’t cool efficiently.

Symptoms Checklist

Here’s a list of symptoms that can help you identify the problem:

• Fridge is warm, but freezer works.
• Fridge and freezer are both warm.
• Motor is running constantly.
• Motor isn’t running at all.
• Ice cream melts quickly in the freezer.
• Condensation builds up inside the fridge.
• Unusual noises from the fridge.
• Food spoils quicker than usual.

How to Fix inglis fridge not cooling Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check the Temperature Settings: Make sure the thermostat is set to the appropriate temperature (usually between 37-40F).
2. Inspect the Door Seals: Close a dollar bill in the door at various points. If you can easily pull it out, the seal is weak and needs cleaning or replacement.
3. Clean the Condenser Coils: Located at the back or bottom of the fridge, unplug the fridge and use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris.
4. Check the Vents: Ensure the vents inside the fridge and freezer are not blocked by food items.
5. Defrost the Fridge: If you suspect frozen evaporator coils (especially in older models), manually defrost the fridge for 24 hours by unplugging it and leaving the doors open. Place towels to absorb water.
6. Listen to the Compressor: It’s usually located at the back of the fridge. Is it running? If not, it could be a start relay or compressor issue.
7. Check the Condenser Fan: Is the fan near the compressor running? If not, it could be a faulty fan motor.
8. Inspect the Damper Door: This door controls airflow between the freezer and the refrigerator. Check if it moves freely. It is usually located in the upper back of the refrigerator.
9. Reduce Overcrowding: Remove excess items from the fridge to improve air circulation.
10. Reset the Fridge: Unplug the fridge for 30 minutes to reset the system. Plug it back in and observe.
11. Check the Start Relay: (Advanced – use caution). Unplug the fridge. The start relay is attached to the compressor. Inspect it for any signs of burning or damage. If you are uncomfortable, skip this step.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before resorting to replacements, try these free methods:

• Fridge Reset: Unplugging the fridge can sometimes reset the system and resolve minor issues.
• Deep Cleaning: Cleaning the coils and interior can significantly improve cooling efficiency.
• Proper Arrangement: Avoid overcrowding and blocking vents.
• Seal Inspection: Regularly check and clean the door seals with warm soapy water.
• Temperature Recalibration: Ensure the temperature settings are correct.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If none of the troubleshooting steps work, you might need to consider replacing some parts. The most common failing parts are the compressor, start relay, condenser fan motor, and evaporator fan motor. Replacing these parts can range from $100 to $500+ depending on the part and if you hire a technician. A new refrigerator could cost $500-$2000 depending on the size, features, and brand. Consider the age and condition of your fridge before investing in repairs.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the fridge before performing any maintenance or repairs.
• Avoid working on electrical components with wet hands or on wet floors.
• If you are uncomfortable with electrical repairs, consult a qualified technician.
• Be careful when handling sharp tools or components.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment
• Warm soapy water and a cloth
• Multimeter (optional, for testing electrical components)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

• Q: Why is my freezer cold, but my fridge is warm? A: This often indicates a problem with the damper door or blocked vents between the freezer and fridge.
• Q: How often should I clean the condenser coils? A: Ideally, clean them every 6 months to a year.
• Q: What temperature should my fridge be set at? A: Aim for a temperature between 37-40F.
• Q: How do I know if my compressor is bad? A: If the compressor is not running and you’ve checked the start relay, it might be faulty. This usually requires a technician to diagnose.
• Q: What does the start relay do? A: The start relay gives the compressor an initial burst of energy to get it started. When it fails, the compressor doesn’t start.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting an Inglis fridge that’s not cooling can seem daunting, but many times, it’s a simple fix you can do yourself. Try the troubleshooting steps outlined above before calling a technician. With a little patience and effort, you might be able to save money and get your fridge back to optimal cooling performance!