Whirlpool Side by Side Refrigerator Not Cooling: Here's Solutions

Have you noticed that your Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerator isn’t cooling properly? Don’t panic just yet! It happens more often than you might think, and there are plenty of ways to troubleshoot the issue. Let’s take a deep dive into some of the common causes and solutions to get your fridge back to working like new!

Common Causes Behind Your Whirlpool Side by Side Refrigerator Not Cooling

If your Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerator has stopped cooling, it’s not always a sign that you need to replace it. In fact, there are numerous reasons this could be happening, many of which can be easily fixed. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common causes behind this cooling issue.

1. Dirty Condenser Coils

The first thing you should check when your Whirlpool refrigerator isn’t cooling is the condenser coils. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the coils, which are typically located at the back or bottom of the fridge. These coils help your refrigerator release heat and allow it to maintain the right temperature. When they are clogged with dirt, the refrigerator struggles to release heat, which can cause cooling problems.

You can clean the coils yourself using a vacuum cleaner or a coil cleaning brush, which you can buy at most appliance stores. If you’re unsure of where to find them, check your refrigerator’s manual for more specific details on the location of the coils.

2. Faulty Thermostat

Your refrigerator’s thermostat is responsible for regulating its internal temperature. If the thermostat isn’t working properly, it could prevent the fridge from reaching or maintaining the correct temperature. Sometimes, the thermostat can be miscalibrated, causing it to believe the fridge is colder than it actually is. In this case, the fridge might not kick on to cool or could turn off too soon.

To check if the thermostat is the culprit, try turning the temperature control dial to the coldest setting. If the refrigerator still doesn’t cool, it might be time to replace the thermostat.

3. Broken Evaporator Fan

The evaporator fan in your Whirlpool refrigerator circulates cool air throughout the fridge and freezer compartments. If this fan is broken or malfunctioning, your refrigerator might fail to cool down properly. In most cases, a faulty evaporator fan motor will make a noticeable noise, or you might even hear a loud rattling sound when you open the door.

To check if the evaporator fan is working, open your refrigerator door and listen closely. If you don’t hear any fan noise when the fridge is running, it might need to be replaced.

4. Damaged Door Seals

A simple yet often overlooked problem is damaged door seals. The seals around your refrigerator doors are designed to keep cold air inside and warm air outside. If these seals are cracked, dirty, or worn out, they won’t provide a proper seal, causing cold air to escape and the refrigerator to warm up.

Check the seals by running your hand along the edges of the door. If you feel any gaps or notice that the seals are loose, it’s time to replace them. You can easily find replacement seals at most appliance stores.

5. Faulty Start Relay

The start relay helps the compressor in your refrigerator start and run. If this relay is faulty, the compressor won’t turn on, and your refrigerator won’t cool. A faulty relay can often cause the compressor to make a buzzing or clicking sound, but the fridge will still not cool.

To test the start relay, you will need to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply and remove the relay from the compressor. If it shows signs of wear or damage, it may need to be replaced.

6. Low Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant levels are a less common, but still possible, cause of cooling problems in a Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerator. Refrigerant is the substance that helps your fridge stay cold, and if it leaks or runs low, the refrigerator will struggle to maintain its cool temperature.

If you suspect that low refrigerant is the issue, you’ll need to call a professional appliance technician. Handling refrigerant requires specialized knowledge, and only a trained technician can properly recharge the refrigerant levels.

How to Troubleshoot and Fix Your Whirlpool Refrigerator Cooling Issues

Now that you know some of the common causes of cooling problems in your Whirlpool side-by-side fridge, let’s walk through some troubleshooting steps. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can resolve these issues on your own without having to call a repairman.

1. Check the Temperature Settings

Before jumping to conclusions, it’s always a good idea to check your fridge’s temperature settings. Sometimes, the issue is as simple as the refrigerator being set to too high a temperature. Whirlpool refrigerators typically have a temperature range between 37°F (3°C) and 40°F (4°C) for the refrigerator and 0°F (-18°C) for the freezer. If the temperature control is set too high, lower it and give it some time to cool down.

2. Clean the Condenser Coils

As mentioned earlier, dirty condenser coils are one of the top causes of cooling problems. If you haven’t cleaned the coils recently, now is the perfect time. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a specialized coil cleaning brush to remove dirt and debris.

Make sure you turn off the refrigerator and unplug it before attempting to clean the coils. Be gentle, and avoid damaging any of the coils in the process. A thorough cleaning can make a world of difference.

3. Inspect the Evaporator Fan

The evaporator fan is crucial for circulating cold air inside your refrigerator, so if it’s broken, the fridge won’t cool properly. To check the fan, open the refrigerator and listen closely for any noise. If the fan is working, you should hear a faint hum.

If the fan is not working, it may need to be replaced. Fortunately, replacing an evaporator fan motor is a relatively simple task, but it’s best to consult the user manual or contact an expert if you’re unsure.

4. Examine the Door Seals

Another simple fix for cooling issues is to inspect the door seals. If the seals are torn or damaged, cold air will escape, and your fridge will struggle to maintain the proper temperature. You can easily check the seals by closing the door on a piece of paper and pulling on the paper. If it slides out easily, it’s a sign that the seals aren’t tight enough.

You can replace worn-out seals by purchasing new ones from an appliance store. Make sure to measure your fridge’s door size before buying the replacements.

5. Replace the Start Relay

If the compressor isn’t running, a faulty start relay might be the cause. You can usually test the relay by listening for any buzzing sounds when the fridge is plugged in. If there’s no sound, the relay is likely broken and needs replacement.

Unplug the fridge before attempting to remove and replace the start relay. A quick online search or the user manual should provide instructions on how to replace this part.

6. Call a Professional

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above and your refrigerator still isn’t cooling, the problem may lie with the refrigerant levels. In this case, you’ll need to call a professional repair technician to inspect the system, detect any leaks, and refill the refrigerant if necessary.

Professional technicians can also check the compressor and other internal components to ensure everything is in working order.

Preventing Future Cooling Issues with Your Whirlpool Refrigerator

It’s always better to prevent problems from happening in the first place. By maintaining your Whirlpool refrigerator, you can avoid the hassle of dealing with cooling issues in the future.

1. Regularly Clean the Condenser Coils

Make it a habit to clean the condenser coils every 6 months to a year. If you have pets, you may need to clean them more often. This simple task can save you a lot of headaches down the line.

2. Keep the Door Seals Clean and Tight

Regularly inspect and clean the door seals to ensure they’re in good condition. Clean the rubber seals using warm, soapy water to remove any dirt and debris. If you notice any cracks, replace the seals as soon as possible.

3. Avoid Overloading the Refrigerator

Overloading your fridge can prevent proper airflow, causing cooling issues. Try to keep the refrigerator organized and avoid cramming it full of food. Proper air circulation is essential for maintaining the right temperature.

4. Don’t Block the Vents

Check the vents in both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. Don’t block them with food or other items, as this can restrict airflow and affect cooling efficiency.

5. Regularly Check the Temperature Settings

Ensure that your refrigerator and freezer are set to the correct temperatures. Set your fridge to 37°F (3°C) and your freezer to 0°F (-18°C) for optimal cooling. Also, monitor the temperature occasionally to ensure they stay consistent.

I hope this guide has helped you understand why your Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerator isn’t cooling and how you can fix it. By following these troubleshooting steps and preventative measures, you’ll be able to maintain your fridge and keep it running efficiently for years to come!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to fix a Whirlpool side-by-side refrigerator that isn’t cooling by myself?

Yes, many common causes of cooling problems can be fixed by yourself, such as cleaning the condenser coils or replacing door seals. However, more complex issues like low refrigerant levels may require professional help.

Can a dirty condenser coil cause the fridge to stop cooling?

Yes, dirty condenser coils are one of the most common reasons for cooling problems in refrigerators. Cleaning the coils can restore proper cooling.

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

Not necessarily. If the thermostat is miscalibrated, adjusting it could solve the issue. However, if it’s broken, you may need to replace it.

Is it safe to use a vacuum cleaner to clean the condenser coils?

Yes, using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment is a safe and effective way to clean the condenser coils. Just make sure the fridge is unplugged before you start.

Can a faulty start relay cause my Whirlpool refrigerator to stop cooling?

Yes, a faulty start relay can prevent the compressor from working, which means the fridge won’t cool. If the start relay is faulty, it will need to be replaced.

Do I need to call a professional if the evaporator fan is broken?

If you’re not comfortable replacing the evaporator fan yourself, you can call a professional technician to handle the repair.

Is it normal for my refrigerator to make noise while cooling?

Some noise is normal when the refrigerator is cooling, but loud, unusual noises could indicate a problem, such as a malfunctioning fan or compressor.

Can low refrigerant cause cooling issues?

Yes, low refrigerant levels can prevent your Whirlpool refrigerator from cooling properly. If you suspect low refrigerant, you’ll need to contact a professional for help.