KitchenAid Refrigerator Not Cooling? Expert Guide

You opened your KitchenAid refrigerator expecting a blast of cool air, only to be met with a lukewarm breeze and melting ice cream. It’s frustrating, right? You rely on your fridge every single day to keep food fresh, drinks cold, and leftovers safe. When it stops cooling, your whole kitchen routine gets thrown out of balance. But don’t worry—you’ve landed in the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about why your KitchenAid refrigerator isn’t cooling and exactly how to fix it, step by step.

Understanding Why Your KitchenAid Refrigerator Isn’t Cooling

Before you can fix a problem, you need to understand what’s causing it. When a KitchenAid refrigerator stops cooling, there could be a wide range of reasons behind the issue. From something as simple as a dirty condenser coil to more complex problems like a malfunctioning compressor, it’s important to go through the possible causes one by one.

Let’s break down the most common reasons:

Thermostat Settings Are Incorrect

It might sound too obvious, but it’s always best to start with the basics. If your refrigerator isn’t cooling, the very first thing you should check is the thermostat. Sometimes, the temperature dial can be accidentally bumped while loading groceries, adjusting shelves, or cleaning the interior.

Open your refrigerator and look for the temperature control dial or digital panel. Make sure it’s set to the proper temperature. For refrigerators, this is usually between 35°F and 38°F (1.6°C to 3.3°C). Freezers should be set at 0°F (-18°C). If the settings are too high (warmer), your fridge won’t stay cold enough.

Also, if your KitchenAid model has a digital control board, it might need to be reset. Unplug the fridge for 5 minutes and plug it back in to allow the settings to refresh.

Condenser Coils Are Dirty

Condenser coils release the heat that’s removed from inside the refrigerator. If these coils get covered in dust, pet hair, or grease, they can’t release heat efficiently, causing the fridge to stay warm. Most condenser coils are located either underneath or at the back of the refrigerator.

To clean them, pull the fridge away from the wall and unplug it. Use a coil cleaning brush (available at hardware stores) or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. Gently clean off the dirt and debris. Doing this at least twice a year can prevent future cooling problems.

The Evaporator Fan Isn’t Working

Your refrigerator has an evaporator fan that circulates cold air throughout the fridge and freezer compartments. If the fan motor fails or the blades get blocked, the cold air won’t reach the refrigerator area properly—even if the freezer seems fine.

You might hear a buzzing or clicking sound if the fan is struggling to operate. To check the fan, you’ll need to remove the back panel inside the freezer. If the fan blades are stuck or the motor isn’t running even when the fridge is on, the fan likely needs replacement.

Faulty Start Relay or Compressor Problems

The compressor is the heart of your refrigerator’s cooling system. It compresses the refrigerant and circulates it through the coils. If the compressor isn’t running, your fridge won’t cool.

The start relay, a small device attached to the compressor, helps it start up. If the relay is faulty, the compressor won’t get the signal it needs to begin its cycle. You can often hear a clicking sound followed by silence if this is the issue.

Testing the start relay with a multimeter can confirm whether it’s working. If not, replacing the relay might bring your compressor back to life. If the compressor itself is bad, unfortunately, it’s a more costly repair that usually requires a professional.

Blocked Air Vents

Air needs to flow freely between the freezer and refrigerator compartments to maintain proper temperatures. If items are stacked too closely in front of vents, airflow can be restricted, and some areas of your fridge may get warmer than others.

Look inside your fridge and freezer for blocked vents—usually located on the back or sides. Rearranging your items to allow space around these vents can help restore cooling efficiency.

DIY Fixes You Can Try Right Now

Once you’ve figured out what might be causing the issue, it’s time to take action. Many refrigerator problems can be fixed at home with just a few tools and a little time. In this section, we’ll cover some practical DIY steps to get your KitchenAid refrigerator back to chilling in no time.

Reset the Refrigerator

Sometimes, the simplest solution is to reboot the system. Your KitchenAid refrigerator has a control board that might just need a quick reset. Here’s how you do it:

Unplug the fridge from the wall.
Wait for about five minutes.
Plug it back in and listen to see if the compressor kicks on.

In some models, there’s also a reset button or a combination of buttons you can hold down on the digital display. Check your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions.

Adjust Temperature Settings

Double-check the settings on the digital control panel or the dial thermostat. If your fridge was set above 40°F, lower it to between 35°F and 38°F. For the freezer, set it to 0°F.

Give the refrigerator at least 24 hours to adjust to the new settings before checking to see if cooling has improved.

Clean Condenser Coils

Dirty coils are one of the most common culprits. Follow these steps:

Unplug the refrigerator.
Move it away from the wall to access the back or underneath.
Use a long brush or vacuum to gently remove dust and dirt.
Wipe down any sticky grime with a damp cloth.

Once clean, plug it back in and listen for signs of activity—like the hum of the compressor turning on.

Inspect and Replace the Door Gasket

If the door seal (gasket) isn’t sealing properly, cold air will escape and warm air will enter. To test the gasket, close the fridge door on a dollar bill and pull. If it slides out easily, the gasket might need replacing.

Gaskets can be ordered online based on your model number. Simply peel off the old one, clean the groove, and press in the new gasket.

Test the Evaporator Fan

Open the freezer compartment and listen for the fan. If it’s not running when the fridge is on, it could be faulty. Sometimes, a fan will work intermittently when it’s failing. You may be able to remove debris from around the blades or replace the motor entirely.

DIY evaporator fan kits are available for most KitchenAid models. Be sure to unplug the fridge before attempting this repair.

Check the Defrost System

Some KitchenAid fridges have automatic defrost systems. If this system fails, frost can build up and block airflow. Signs of this issue include frost buildup on the back panel of the freezer or water under the crisper drawers.

Test the defrost timer and defrost heater using a multimeter. If the timer isn’t advancing or the heater shows no continuity, they may need replacing.

When to Call in a Professional Repair Technician

Not every refrigerator issue can or should be fixed at home. While many small problems are totally manageable for a DIYer, some repairs involve complex electrical components, sealed systems, or refrigerant handling—which requires certification.

Let’s explore the signs that it’s time to call a professional repair service.

The Compressor Isn’t Running

If you’ve reset the fridge, cleaned the coils, and tested the start relay, but the compressor still won’t start or stay running, it may be time to bring in a technician. The compressor is sealed and requires special tools and expertise to diagnose and replace.

KitchenAid compressors are not cheap, and if your refrigerator is over 10 years old, it might be more cost-effective to consider a replacement unit.

There’s a Refrigerant Leak

If the fridge isn’t cooling and the compressor is running non-stop, you might be dealing with a refrigerant leak. These leaks are usually not visible, but one sign is that the fridge cools a little but never gets cold enough.

Handling refrigerants requires an EPA-certified technician. They can perform a dye test or pressure check to identify leaks and recharge the system properly.

Error Codes or Electronic Issues

Some KitchenAid refrigerators have electronic control panels that display error codes. If you see blinking lights, a flashing error message, or unresponsive controls, the problem may lie with the main control board, sensors, or wiring.

These electronic components can be delicate and expensive. A professional repair tech can diagnose the board and determine whether it can be repaired or needs full replacement.

The Problem Keeps Coming Back

If you’ve fixed an issue, but it reoccurs soon after—like the fridge cools for a day and then warms up again—it’s a sign of a deeper problem. Repeated breakdowns can mean a failing compressor, a faulty thermostat sensor, or wiring problems within the fridge.

Inconsistent temperatures can also spoil food quickly, so it’s wise to let a technician do a full diagnostic test before things get worse.

You Hear Strange Noises

Some refrigerator noises are normal, like a low hum or the occasional pop. But if you start hearing loud clicking, grinding, buzzing, or hissing, it might be pointing to a bigger mechanical issue.

For example:

A loud buzzing could be a failing compressor.
Clicking could signal the start relay is failing.
Hissing might mean a refrigerant leak.

Describing these sounds to a repair tech can help them diagnose the issue faster and bring the right tools and parts.

Preventing Future Cooling Issues in Your KitchenAid Refrigerator

Now that you’ve learned how to troubleshoot and fix cooling problems, let’s talk about how to prevent them from happening again. Like most appliances, refrigerators need a little routine care to keep running efficiently for years to come.

Clean the Coils Regularly

This is probably the single most important maintenance task. Dusty or dirty condenser coils force the compressor to work harder, which not only reduces cooling but also shortens the lifespan of your fridge.

Make it a habit to clean the coils every 6 months. If you have pets or your fridge is near a dusty area, do it even more often.

Keep the Vents Clear

When loading your fridge, make sure not to block the airflow vents inside. Leave a little space between food containers and the walls of the fridge and freezer.

Good airflow helps your fridge cool evenly and prevents the compressor from running non-stop.

Don’t Overload the Fridge

Cramming your refrigerator full of food may seem like a smart storage solution, but overloading it can reduce airflow and lead to warm spots.

Try to keep your fridge around 75–85% full. This allows air to circulate while still keeping enough cold mass to hold temperatures during power outages or when doors are opened frequently.

Check and Replace Door Seals

Every few months, inspect the gasket around the doors. Look for cracks, tears, or sticky residue. Clean it with a solution of warm water and mild dish soap.

If the seal doesn’t make full contact with the frame, replace it. Poor sealing increases energy usage and causes cooling loss.

Monitor Temperature with a Thermometer

Even if your fridge has a digital temperature readout, adding a simple refrigerator thermometer can give you more accurate readings. Place one in the fridge and one in the freezer.

This way, you’ll know right away if temperatures rise out of the safe range—and you can catch problems early before food spoils.

Schedule an Annual Maintenance Check

If your refrigerator is more than 5 years old, consider scheduling a professional inspection once a year. A technician can check refrigerant levels, test the compressor and fans, and look for signs of wear and tear.

This preventive approach can catch minor issues before they become major (and expensive) repairs.

I hope this guide helped you understand why your KitchenAid refrigerator isn’t cooling and how to fix it. Whether you took the DIY route or called in the pros, now you’re armed with the knowledge to keep your fridge running cold and strong for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it normal for my KitchenAid fridge to make clicking sounds?

A clicking sound from your KitchenAid fridge isn’t always a bad sign, but it can indicate a few things. The most common reason is the start relay attempting to activate the compressor. When the start relay is faulty, it may click repeatedly as it fails to start the compressor.

This type of clicking is usually loud and happens every few minutes. Another possibility is the automatic defrost timer. It clicks when switching between cooling and defrosting cycles. If the clicking is soft and periodic, that may be perfectly normal.

However, if your fridge isn’t cooling and you hear loud, repeated clicking, it’s best to inspect the start relay or call a technician. Over time, ignoring those sounds can lead to compressor damage, which is more expensive to fix.

Can I fix a refrigerator that’s not cooling on my own?

Yes, in many cases you can fix a non-cooling refrigerator yourself. Start with simple checks: make sure the fridge is plugged in, the thermostat is set properly, and the door is sealing tightly. Clean the condenser coils using a brush or vacuum, and inspect the vents for blockages. You can also reset the refrigerator by unplugging it for 5 minutes.

If you’re comfortable using tools, you can test components like the evaporator fan, start relay, or defrost timer. However, if the issue involves refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, or control board errors, it’s best to call a certified technician. These repairs require special tools and knowledge. Always unplug the fridge before doing any hands-on work.

Do I need to replace the compressor if my fridge isn’t cooling?

Not always. The compressor is a key part of the cooling system, but it’s not the only reason your fridge might stop cooling. Before replacing the compressor—which is expensive and complex—you should test other components first. The start relay is a common failure point that mimics a bad compressor.

If replacing the relay doesn’t help and the compressor still won’t start, then it might truly be the compressor. Also, check for dirty coils, broken fans, or a failing defrost system. Only after ruling out these causes should you consider compressor replacement. Have a technician verify it, as this job involves sealed-system work and refrigerant handling.

Is it safe to keep food in a fridge that’s not cooling?

No, it’s not safe. If your refrigerator is not cooling below 40°F (4°C), bacteria can grow quickly in perishable food. Meats, dairy, and leftovers should be kept at 40°F or lower to remain safe. If your fridge temperature rises above that range for more than 2 hours, you should discard most perishable items.

Use a thermometer to check the actual temperature, and avoid relying solely on the fridge’s internal display. If your fridge stops cooling and you can’t repair it immediately, move food into a cooler with ice packs or another working refrigerator to prevent spoilage.

Can dirty condenser coils really cause cooling problems?

Absolutely. Dirty condenser coils are one of the most common reasons refrigerators stop cooling properly. These coils are responsible for releasing heat pulled from inside the fridge. If dust, pet hair, and kitchen grease coat the coils, heat can’t dissipate efficiently.

This causes the compressor to overwork, and over time, the fridge may stop cooling altogether. Cleaning the coils takes just 15–30 minutes and can restore proper function. Use a coil brush and vacuum to gently remove buildup. Regular coil cleaning—about twice a year—can extend the life of your refrigerator and reduce energy bills.

Do I need a professional to replace the door gasket?

Not necessarily. Replacing the door gasket (seal) on a KitchenAid refrigerator is usually a DIY-friendly task. First, order the correct gasket for your model number—this can often be found on the inside of your fridge near the bottom drawer. To install it, soak the new gasket in warm water or use a hairdryer to make it more flexible.

Then, peel off the old one, clean the track it sat in, and press the new gasket into place, starting at the corners. Make sure it’s evenly sealed all the way around. If the door doesn’t close properly afterward or the gasket seems loose, you may need to warm it again to mold it better.

Is it worth repairing a 10-year-old KitchenAid refrigerator?

It depends. If your KitchenAid fridge is over 10 years old and experiencing major problems like a failed compressor or control board, the repair might cost nearly as much as a new fridge. However, if the problem is something simple—like a bad fan, dirty coils, or a faulty thermostat—it may still be worth fixing.

Evaluate the cost of parts and labor versus the cost of a new fridge. If the unit has been otherwise reliable, a basic repair might give it several more years of life. Always get a repair quote first, then weigh your options.

Can poor airflow inside the fridge affect cooling?

Yes, airflow is vital to your refrigerator’s cooling system. Cold air needs to circulate freely to keep all areas of the fridge and freezer evenly cool. If vents are blocked by food containers or the fridge is overloaded, cold air gets trapped in some areas and doesn’t reach others.

This can lead to warm spots, food spoilage, and overworking of the compressor. Check your vents—usually located at the back or sides—and make sure they’re not blocked. Don’t overstuff your fridge, and try to keep tall items away from the center where airflow pathways typically exist.