My Whirlpool Side By Side Freezer Is Not Freezing

Introduction

A freezer that isn’t freezing is a homeowner’s nightmare! It means spoiled food, wasted money, and unnecessary stress. A Whirlpool side-by-side freezer that’s not freezing can happen for various reasons, even if the refrigerator side is working fine. Time is of the essence when your freezer isn’t cold enough. Quickly addressing the issue can prevent further food spoilage and potentially save you a costly repair bill.

Common Causes of My Whirlpool Side-by-Side Freezer Is Not Freezing

Here are some of the most frequent culprits:

• Blocked Air Vents: The freezer and refrigerator share cooling. Blocked vents can restrict airflow to the freezer.
• Dirty Condenser Coils: Dust and debris on the coils reduce their ability to release heat, impacting cooling performance.
• Faulty Door Seal: A damaged or dirty seal allows warm air to enter, making it difficult for the freezer to maintain temperature.
• Overloaded Freezer: Packing the freezer too full can restrict airflow and prevent proper cooling.
• Incorrect Temperature Settings: The freezer temperature might be set too high.
• Defrost System Problems: A malfunctioning defrost system can lead to excessive frost buildup, hindering cooling.
• Faulty Start Relay: the start relay helps the compressor get started. A faulty one can make it impossible for your freezer to cool.
• Compressor Issues: The compressor is the heart of the cooling system. If it’s failing, the freezer won’t cool properly.

Symptoms Checklist

Check these symptoms to confirm the issue:

• Freezer temperature above 32F (0C).
• Food thawing or feeling soft.
• Ice cream melting.
• Excessive frost buildup inside the freezer.
• Condensation on the freezer walls.
• Motor running constantly or not at all
• The refrigerator side is working normally.

How to Fix My Whirlpool Side-by-Side Freezer Is Not Freezing Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check the Temperature Settings: Ensure the freezer temperature is set to the recommended setting (usually around 0F or -18C).
2. Inspect the Door Seal: Examine the door seal for damage, cracks, or debris. Clean the seal with warm, soapy water and dry it thoroughly.
3. Clean the Condenser Coils: Locate the condenser coils (usually on the back or bottom of the refrigerator). Unplug the refrigerator and use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the coils.
4. Check Airflow: Make sure that the air vents inside the freezer are not blocked by food items. Rearrange items to allow for proper air circulation.
5. Defrost the Freezer Manually: If there’s excessive frost buildup, manually defrost the freezer. Unplug the refrigerator, remove all food items, and leave the freezer door open. You can speed up the process with a fan or a bowl of hot water.
6. Check the Defrost Timer: The defrost timer is commonly located behind the kickplate at the bottom front of the unit, or behind the control panel. The defrost timer has gears that fail. Gently turn the dial until the compressor stops. The defrost heater should now activate and start to melt any ice on the evaporator coil. After 30 minutes, the timer should automatically move to the cooling cycle, and the compressor will start again. If not, this part needs to be replaced.
7. Check the Defrost Heater: Sometimes the heating element that melts the frost can fail. Locate the heater behind the back panel of the freezer, then use a multimeter to test its continuity. If it doesn’t have continuity, replace the element.
8. Avoid Overloading the Freezer: Don’t pack the freezer too full. Leave space for air to circulate around the food items.
9. Ensure Proper Ventilation: Make sure the refrigerator has adequate clearance around it for proper ventilation. Don’t block the vents on the back of the refrigerator.
10. Listen to the Compressor: Listen to hear whether the compressor is running. It’s the heart of the system, and a quiet compressor could mean problems.
11. Check the Condenser Fan: The condenser fan is typically located near the compressor. Make sure it’s running.
12. Examine the Start Relay: The start relay is attached to the side of the compressor. With the power off, remove the start relay and shake it. If it rattles, or smells burnt, it may have failed and will need to be replaced.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Here are some things to try before considering replacements:

• Reset the Refrigerator: Unplug the refrigerator for 30 minutes to reset the system. This can sometimes resolve minor issues.
• Deep Clean: Thoroughly clean the inside of the freezer, removing any spills or buildup that could be affecting performance.
• Recalibrate Temperature Settings: If the temperature settings seem off, try adjusting them slightly and monitoring the temperature over the next 24 hours.
• Inspection Tips: Check for any unusual noises or smells coming from the refrigerator. These could be clues to the underlying problem.
• Maintenance Basics: Regularly clean the condenser coils and door seals to prevent future issues.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the freezer still isn’t freezing, a component replacement might be necessary. The most common parts to fail include the defrost heater ($50 – $100), defrost timer ($30 – $70), start relay ($20-$50) or compressor ($200 – $500 plus labor). If the compressor is the issue, it may be more cost effective to replace the entire refrigerator, especially if it’s an older model.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the refrigerator before performing any maintenance or repairs.
• Avoid working on electrical components with wet hands or on wet floors.
• Be careful when handling sharp tools or components.
• If you’re not comfortable performing any of these steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment
• Warm water and soap
• Clean cloths
• Multimeter (for testing electrical components)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

• Q: Why is my freezer warm but the refrigerator is cold? A: This usually indicates a problem with the airflow between the two compartments, often due to blocked vents or a faulty damper.
• Q: How often should I clean the condenser coils? A: It’s recommended to clean the condenser coils every 6 months to a year.
• Q: My freezer is making a loud buzzing noise. What could it be? A: A loud buzzing noise could indicate a problem with the compressor or the condenser fan motor.
• Q: Is it safe to use a hair dryer to defrost my freezer? A: While it’s faster, using a hair dryer is not recommended as it can damage the freezer’s interior. Its safer to let it defrost naturally.
• Q: The back wall of my freezer has frost buildup. Is this normal? A: A thin layer of frost is normal, but excessive buildup indicates a problem with the defrost system or a faulty door seal.

Conclusion

Don’t panic if your Whirlpool side-by-side freezer is not freezing. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself, saving time and money. If you’ve exhausted all the DIY options and the issue persists, it’s time to call in a qualified appliance repair technician. Good luck!

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