How to Repair a Refrigerator That Doesn't Keep the Freezer Cold Enough

Your freezer should preserve your food over long periods of time.

Your home freezer should be cold enough to make ice and preserve food for prolonged periods when it is working properly. Your freezer is not working properly if the internal temperature is above 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius). Repairing your appliance will involve adjusting the configuration of your refrigerator's freezer section and examining for common faults. Most problems are caused by incorrect freezer settings or electrical problems.

Things You'll Need

• Cook's thermometer

Instructions

1. Adjust the freezer controls to a colder setting. Freezers are controlled by a dial on the inside wall or by a digital display on the fridge door. Older freezers rate their level of cooling from "A" (warmest) to "E" (coldest). Your freezer should be set somewhere in the middle for best results ("C" is ideal). Use a cook's thermometer to record the internal temperature of your freezer; it should be around 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-17 degrees Celsius). Adjust the digital controls to reflect these temperatures, if it's fitted with such a dial.

2. Ensure there is enough room in the freezer for the door to completely close. Objects like bottles, jars and plastic containers can hold the freezer door slightly ajar and allow cold air to escape. Remove some items from the freezer if necessary and allow the freezer time to cool down.

3. Confirm the freezer is currently cooling and not set to "defrost" mode. Most freezers have a defrost setting for melting natural ice buildup on the walls of the freezer. Defrost mode is usually controlled in the same way as the temperature settings, via a dial or digital control panel.

4. Verify the door seals are in good condition and are not damaged, split or punctured. Cold air can easily escape from the freezer if the door seals do not make good contact at all points with the body of the freezer cabinet. Even small holes or tears in the door seal can increase the internal temperature of the freezer.

5. Consider moving the refrigerator to a cooler location in your house away from dryers, ovens, radiators and other sources of heat. You may find your refrigerator or freezer compartment is too warm if the appliance does not have at least 1 inch of air space on all sides or if it is located in a warm area in your home. Hot weather can also contribute to higher internal temperatures.

Tips & Warnings

• Only freeze food that has already cooled to room temperature. Warm pots and pans can increase the internal temperature of the freezer and cause other already frozen items to defrost.

References

• Whirlpool Appliances: W1TXEMFWQ Refrigerator/Freezer Manual (PDF)
• Appliance Outlet: Where Should You Set Your Refrigerator Temperature?