Start Here: Check the Basics

Before anything else, verify power to the fridge, check the temperature setting (should be 37– 40°F / 3–4°C), and make sure the door has been sealing properly. Around 20% of “broken fridge” calls turn out to be one of these three things.

1. Dirty Condenser Coils

Located behind or beneath the fridge, condenser coils release heat. When coated in dust and pet hair, they cannot release heat efficiently — leading to warm interiors and constant compressor cycling. Solution: vacuum the coils every 6–12 months.

2. Failed Evaporator Fan

The evaporator fan pushes cold air from the freezer into the fresh food compartment. If the fan fails, the freezer may still be cold but the fridge warms up. Diagnostic: open freezer, hold the door switch — you should hear the fan running.

3. Faulty Defrost System

Modern fridges cycle through defrost every 8–12 hours. If the defrost heater, thermostat, or timer fails, frost builds up on the evaporator coils and blocks airflow. You may notice ice buildup on the freezer’s back wall.

4. Failing Compressor

The compressor is the heart of the cooling system. A failing compressor may run constantly, click on and off, or fail completely. Compressor repairs are complex and typically require a sealed-system technician.

5. Low Refrigerant / Sealed-System Leak

Rare but expensive. Symptoms include the compressor running non-stop with weak cooling. Requires professional sealed-system service.

6. Bad Temperature Control or Thermistor

The thermistor reports temperature to the control board. If it fails, the fridge may cool too little or too much. Usually a $30–80 part with a straightforward swap.

7. Door Gasket Not Sealing

Worn or dirty door gaskets let warm room air into the fridge. Test: close the door on a $5 bill — if it slips out easily, your seal is failing. New gaskets solve this quickly.

8. Overloaded or Underloaded Fridge

A completely empty fridge has no thermal mass to hold cold. A packed fridge blocks airflow. Aim for 75% full for best performance.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve verified the basics and the fridge still isn’t cooling, do not wait — food spoilage is expensive and the underlying issue can worsen. Appliance Marketplace offers same-day refrigerator repair across Toronto and the GTA with a 90-day warranty on every repair.