How do I make my freezer cold again?

Author: Dr. Seth Schowalter  |  Last update: Saturday, February 14, 2026

  1. Step 1: Check the setting controls. To be sure your appliance is set to the appropriate temperature, check your appliance's control settings. ...
  2. Step 2: Clear out the freezer shelves. ...
  3. Step 3: Clean the condenser coils. ...
  4. Step 4: Eliminate excess frost buildup.

How to fix a freezer that is not cold enough?

Freezer not cold enough. What else can I try?
  • Cleaning/vacuuming the coils in the back
  • Clearing any frost on the freezer coils (there isn't any build up)
  • Making sure there's no blockage preventing the cold air from the freezer getting into the fridge
  • Replaced the defrost timer

What causes a freezer to stop freezing?

Cause: The freezer may not be receiving power due to a blown fuse, tripped circuit breaker, or unplugged cord. Fix: Check the power supply, reset the breaker, replace fuses, or ensure the freezer is plugged in. Cause: Airflow can be obstructed by items stored too close to the vents.

How to make your freezer colder?

There should be an adjustable thermostat control somewhere. If it's a fridge/freezer, it's usually in the fridge. If it's a standalone freezer, it's usually outside the cooling area, maybe above the door. Turn the knob in the direction that increases cooling.

How do I increase cooling in my freezer?

Dusty condenser coils can't release heat efficiently. Cleaning them can improve your freezer's ability to cool. First, unplug your freezer. Move the unit away from the wall, then use a vacuum or brush to clean the coils, which are usually on the back of your unit or its side panels.

Refrigerator not Cooling? Check these things first!

How do I make my freezer make more ice?

Keep the freezer well stocked.

When the freezer has little or no food inside, it has to work harder to maintain the consistently low temperature needed to create ice. Strive to keep the freezer at least half-filled, stocking it with water bottles as necessary to add more bulk.

How do I reset a deep freezer?

First, cut power to your freezer by unplugging it from the wall or shutting off power to the proper control panel switch. Then reset the freezer's control panel by lowering it to zero or using a shut-off switch. Consult your user manual for specifics on navigating the control panel.

Why is my freezer not making ice?

This usually is due to the water filter being clogged or a restricted water supply. It is recommended to change the water filter first but if the condition still occurs then you want to check for a saddle valve, a water valve not turned on all the way or a kinked water supply line.

What to do when freezer is too cold?

  1. Step 1: Check temperature settings. If your freezer is too cold, you may need to adjust the temperature control to a warmer setting. ...
  2. Step 2: Reset freezer. Use the following steps to reset your freezer: ...
  3. Step 3: Clear blocked air vents. ...
  4. Step 4: Clean air vents. ...
  5. Step 5: Check ice maker. ...
  6. Step 6: Defrost freezer.

How long to unplug a freezer to reset?

Reset your refrigerator: First, unplug it (or turn off the power at the circuit breaker), and then wait about five minutes for the electrical charge to clear out of it. Then, power it back on again.

How can I make my freezer freeze faster?

For fast or quick freezing large amounts of food in an upright or chest freezer, turn the temperature control to THE HIGHEST SETTING (for example: 7 is the highest setting on many models) or in some older models press the yellow FAST FREEZE switch. Freezing is generally fast and efficient throughout the freezer.

How do I reset my freezer compressor?

Here's how to do it:
  1. Unplug your refrigerator. Disconnect your fridge from its power source by removing the power cord from the wall outlet. ...
  2. Turn off the refrigerator and freezer from the control panel. ...
  3. Reset your freezer and fridge temperature settings. ...
  4. Wait for the refrigerator temperature to stabilize.

Why is my freezer not freezing anymore?

Some causes may be simple, like crowding items or dirty condenser coils, and other causes may require professional repair, like a broken evaporator fan. To avoid losing your frozen meats, veggies, and leftovers to the thaw, check out these troubleshooting tips to help keep your freezer at the ideal temperature.

How to defrost a freezer in minutes?

Open the freezer door and position the fan so that air circulates into the freezer. The room temperature air will help the ice melt at a slightly faster pace. Another popular method for defrosting a freezer quickly is to use steam to melt the ice.

How do I get my freezer to freeze again?

  1. Step 1: Check the setting controls. To be sure your appliance is set to the appropriate temperature, check your appliance's control settings. ...
  2. Step 2: Clear out the freezer shelves. ...
  3. Step 3: Clean the condenser coils. ...
  4. Step 4: Eliminate excess frost buildup.

How do I keep my freezer colder?

Place one on the top shelf closer to the back and the other on the bottom shelf closer to the front. Check both regularly. Keeping the refrigerator and freezer full can also help regulate the temperature inside. If they aren't full, try putting bags of ice in the freezer, or pitchers of cold water in the fridge.

What causes a freezer to not get cold?

OVERPACKING

If your freezer is not working, the first thing to check is if the shelves are packed too tightly. Overstuffed freezers can cause an airflow blockage, especially when the evaporator fan is blocked. If your freezer is not cold enough, try clearing off your freezer shelves.

Why does my freezer not ice up?

Frost accumulating inside the freezer compartment can block the vents that carry cold air into the compartment. Most freezers today have auto defrost, so check to see if the door has been left open, or if the door seal is worn. You'll need to have the seal replaced if it's damaged or torn.

How do I get my freezer to make ice?

If your ice maker is not producing enough ice, please try the following:
  1. Lower the freezer temperature. ...
  2. Make sure that the water valve on the refrigerator water supply line is completely open. ...
  3. If you have a water filter in your refrigerator, it may help to change the filter cartridge.

What should my freezer be set at?

What should a freezer temperature be? Frozen food should be safe to eat indefinitely if your freezer stays at or below 0°F (-18°C). Freezing your food stops most bacteria from growing.

How long to leave the freezer unplugged to reset?

If you've ever moved a fridge freezer, or even bought one brand new, you'll know that you are meant to give them time to settle once they've been put back down again. Waiting 24 hours before plugging in your fridge prevents compressor damage and ensures proper oil circulation.

How do I know if my freezer is broken?

7-Signs Your Freezer Isn't Running Efficiently
  1. Food Going Off Quickly. Food spoiling or thawing quickly is a clear indicator your fridge/fridge-freezer is struggling to keep to optimal temperature. ...
  2. Fridge is Too Hot. ...
  3. Or Too Cold. ...
  4. Usual Noises. ...
  5. No Hum, No Light. ...
  6. Bills are WAY more than Expected. ...
  7. Excess Water & Puddles.

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