6 Reasons Your Freezer Is Not Freezing

We often overlook the importance of our freezer until it stops working properly. Suddenly, the ice cream we were looking forward to is now a melted mess, and our frozen veggies are starting to thaw. This can be a major inconvenience.

A freezer not freezing can be a result of various issues. Some of these issues are easy to fix, while others may require the help of a professional.

In this article, we will discuss the top six reasons why your freezer may not be freezing and provide possible solutions to get it back up and running. Let’s jump in:

How Do Freezers Work?

Before we dive into the reasons why your freezer is not freezing, it’s important to understand how freezers work.

Freezers use a combination of cold air circulation and insulation to keep food frozen. The compressor in the freezer works by compressing refrigerant gas, which then cools down as it expands through coils inside the appliance. This process removes heat from the inside of the freezer, keeping the temperature at 0 degrees Fahrenheit or below. The cold air is then circulated throughout the freezer to ensure that all items remain frozen.

With this basic understanding of how freezers work, let’s take a look at the common reasons why your freezer may not be functioning properly.

Freezer Not Freezing: 6 Reasons Why

1. Dirty Condenser Coils

The condenser coils are responsible for releasing heat from the inside of the freezer. Over time, these coils can become clogged with dust and dirt, reducing their ability to remove heat effectively. Dirty coils can cause your freezer to overwork and struggle to maintain a freezing temperature.

To prevent this issue, regularly clean your freezer’s condenser coils. Simply use a vacuum or a brush to remove any build-up of dirt and dust. You can invest in a coil cleaning brush specifically designed for this purpose – which can help you reach the coils in tight spaces.

If you notice that the dirty condenser coils are damaged or corroded, they may need to be replaced by a professional. They will safely remove and replace the coils for you, ensuring your freezer temperature returns to normal.

2. Malfunctioning Evaporator Fan

The freezer’s evaporator fan is responsible for circulating cold air throughout your freezer compartments. If this evaporator fan motor stops working, the temperature inside your freezer will start to rise. You may also notice frost build-up and uneven cooling in your freezer.

To determine if the evaporator fan motor is malfunctioning, you can listen for it running when you open the freezer door. If you don’t hear any noise, it could be a sign that the fan has stopped working.

In this case, you will need to have the evaporator fan replaced by a professional. Trying to fix a broken evaporator fan motor yourself can be dangerous and may cause further damage to your freezer. A professional technician will have the proper tools and knowledge to safely replace the fan and get your freezer back to its good working condition.

3. Freezer Air Escaping

Another common cause of a freezer not getting cold is air escaping from the unit. This can happen due to an improperly sealed freezer door or a damaged door gasket. When the freezer cold air escapes, it is replaced by warmer air from the surrounding area, causing your freezer temperature to rise.

You can perform a simple dollar bill test to check for air escaping from your freezer. Place a dollar bill in between the door seal and the freezer frame and close the door. If you can easily pull out the bill without any resistance, it is a sign that cold air is escaping from your freezer.

You can try adjusting or replacing the door gasket yourself. However, if you are unsure or don’t have the proper tools, it is best to call a professional for assistance.

4. Faulty Thermostat

Another reason a freezer may not freeze is a faulty thermostat. The freezer’s thermostat regulates the temperature, and if it is not working properly, it may not send the signal to turn on the cooling system.

If you suspect that your freezer’s thermostat is not working, you can try resetting it or replacing it yourself. However, always make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow safety precautions.

If the issue persists, it is best to contact a professional for help in diagnosing and repairing the problem. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to properly troubleshoot and fix any issues with your freezer’s thermostat.

5 Overcrowding

While it may seem counterintuitive, overcrowding your freezer can also cause issues with freezing. When too much food is packed tightly on freezer shelves, airflow is restricted, and the temperature may not be able to be properly regulated. This can result in certain areas of the freezer being colder than others, leading to warm air and inconsistent freezing.

To avoid this issue, make sure to leave enough space around items in your freezer for proper air circulation. You can also consider organizing and decluttering your freezer regularly to prevent overcrowding.

6. Power Supply Problems

Finally, if none of the above solutions seem to fix the problem, it is possible that there may be issues with the power supply. Check to ensure that your freezer is properly plugged in and that there are no tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses.

If everything appears to be in working order, but your freezer still won’t freeze, it could indicate a larger issue with the electrical components of your freezer. A broken freezer compressor or faulty wiring could be the cause and will require professional repair.

In order to prevent power supply problems, make sure to regularly inspect your freezer’s electrical components and address any issues before they become bigger problems. Additionally, avoid overloading outlets with too many appliances, and always plug your freezer into a dedicated electrical outlet for optimal performance.

Need Help Getting Your Freezer to Freeze?

If you are still experiencing freezing issues with your freezer after trying these solutions, it may be time to call a professional appliance repair service. They will be able to diagnose the issue and provide proper repairs to get your freezer running properly again.

At All Appliance & Refrigeration, we offer reliable freezer repair services to help you maintain the performance of your appliance. Our team of experienced technicians can quickly and effectively diagnose and fix any issues with your freezer, so you can feel confident in its ability to keep your food frozen.

Contact us today for more information or to schedule a service appointment!