It's a bit perplexing when you find your refrigerator warm but freezer cold. But don't worry, you're not alone in this problem. This is actually a common issue!
Refrigerators have a defrost system consisting of many parts that help keep your refrigerator at a consistent, cold temperature. So if you're having issues with your refrigerator not cooling but your freezer is working, it's most likely due to a failure with a component related to the defrost system.
5 Reasons for a Refrigerator Warm but Freezer Cold Issue
#1 – Defrost Control Board Failure
All parts in the defrost system work together to maintain stable temperatures in both the freezer and refrigerator. The system works to keep frost from accumulating on the evaporator coils that function to release heat. The defrost control board controls the timing of the defrost cycle. When this control board fails, frost will build up and prevent the evaporator coils from releasing heat. In this case, you'll find your refrigerator not cooling, freezer working. Unfortunately, if the defrost control board is broken, you'll have to install a new one.
#2 – Defective Thermistor
A broken thermistor often causes a freezer cold refrigerator warm issue. This part contributes to the refrigerator's defrost system by sending temperature readings to the defrost control board. In turn, the control board tells the compressor when to run. A faulty thermistor will cause the compressor to run inconsistently. Since the thermistor is controlled electronically, you'll need to test it with a multimeter to see if it's defective. If there is no continuity or the resistance does not change with the refrigerator temperature, it needs to be replaced.
#3 – Broken Evaporator Fan Motor
Evaporator fan motors play a crucial role in keeping your refrigerator cold. The fan blows cool air over the evaporator coils and circulates that cold air through both the freezer and refrigerator. If the evaporator fan is defective, air will not flow properly. Consequently, you'll find your refrigerator warm but freezer cold. One tell-tale sign that the fan motor is failing is a noisy refrigerator. However, if you don't notice any unusual noises, it's easy to test if this part has failed. Try moving the fan blades by hand. Any resistance from the blades indicates the motor has failed and needs replacement.
#4 – Damaged Damper Control Assembly
The air damper regulates the amount of cold air in your refrigerator by opening and closing when necessary. When the damper control is stuck closed or broken, your refrigerator won't get cold but freezer will. Manually check the air damper to see if it's functioning correctly. If it's jammed or just not working, it will need to be replaced.
If any of the above repairs for a refrigerator warm but freezer cold issue are above your skill level, give All Appliance Service a call today for your refrigerator repair.