Why is my fridge not cooling but the light is on?

Author: Karl Hermiston  |  Last update: Sunday, December 28, 2025

If your fridge is not cooling but the light is on, your freezer may have an icy build-up. Unplugging your refrigerator may be a good troubleshooting move. The ice may be blocking a vent in the freezer that's preventing your refrigerator portion from properly cooling.

Why is my refrigerator light on but not cold?

Inspect the Circuit Breaker

If the fridge is plugged in but still not cooling, check your home's circuit breaker. A tripped breaker can cut power to the fridge without affecting the light. Reset the breaker if necessary and see if this resolves the issue.

How do you fix a refrigerator that is not cooling?

If it isn't cooling, 1. check the temperature dial 2. check the circuit breaker. if the light is on inside the fridge, you can skip this step. 3. unplug your fridge for 6 hours or so and then plug it back in. 4. Check to see if the coils are dirty. if they are, clean them.

What is the first thing to check when a refrigerator stops cooling?

Clear blocked air vents: Inspect the air vents inside the fridge and freezer compartments to ensure they are not obstructed by food or containers. Proper air circulation is vital for even cooling. Check the door seals: Inspect the rubber gaskets (door seals) around the refrigerator and freezer doors for damage.

Why does my fridge power on but not cool?

There are several causes for a refrigerator that doesn't cool, including dirty condenser coils, poor ventilation, improper installation, faulty or dirty gasket seals, unorganized food storage, appliance location and malfunctioning internal parts.

Refrigerator not Cooling? Check these things first!

What is the reason if refrigerator runs normally but no cooling effect?

Some complex issues that could prevent the refrigerator from cooling include the fan motor not working, the compressor not turning on or switching off, a faulty compressor relay, a malfunctioning internal thermostat, and evaporator fan problems.

Will unplugging a fridge reset it?

Reset your refrigerator

Follow the instructions below depending on your model and what you would like 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 much does it cost to fix a refrigerator that is not cooling?

Depending on the issue you're experiencing, fixing your fridge will average around $650, but you could pay anywhere from $200 to $1,300 or more.

How do I reset a refrigerator compressor?

Shutting off the power to the refrigerator will give all of its systems—including the compressor—time to reset. Power down your refrigerator by unplugging it from the wall or shutting off the circuit breaker connected to the fridge. Leave the unit unplugged for five to ten minutes.

How do I know if my fridge thermostat is broken?

Signs It Is Time to Replace Your Malfunctioning Fridge Thermostat
  1. The Fridge Is Too Warm. If the fridge doesn't feel cold, this is the most obvious sign that your thermostat has stopped working. ...
  2. The Fridge Is Unusually Cold. ...
  3. Fluctuating Temperatures. ...
  4. Compressor Won't Turn On Or Off. ...
  5. Frost build-up.

How to tell if a fridge compressor is bad?

A hum or a slight buzz is typical, but if your refrigerator starts making strange or loud noises, the compressor might be struggling. Professional Repair Required: Compressors have numerous components, and diagnosing the source of the noise can be complicated.

How much is a fridge gas refill?

Fridge freezers repair and gas refilling on-site ,R400 for gas refill. 0646213749 call or WhatsApp Lesley for assistance.

How long do refrigerators last?

Most refrigerators are designed to last between 10 and 20 years. If you're having any other problems on this list and the fridge is over ten years old, you'll probably save more money in the long run by simply replacing it. Otherwise, you could sink money into repairs for a fridge already on its way out.

Why is my fridge warm but light is on?

Inspect the evaporator fan motor for clogs or damage

Unplug your fridge, then locate the evaporator fan—you can typically find it behind the freezer wall. Take off the fan cover and check for any clogs due to debris or ice. You should also check for any damage or looseness in the evaporator fan blades.

How do I get my refrigerator compressor to kick on?

Reset Power
  1. Unplug your refrigerator. If the plug is too hard to reach, switch the circuit breaker off.
  2. Wait 5 minutes before returning power to the fridge.
  3. Once power is back, open your freezer and push the light switch 3 times to trigger a cooling cycle.
  4. Monitor temperature over the next 24 hours.

Why is my refrigerator running but not cooling?

If you can hear the compressor running but the fridge isn't cooling, the problem is most likely either frost-clogged evaporator coils or a stuck or broken evaporator fan. Evaporator fans often squeal or chirp when they start to go bad.

Is there a reset button on a refrigerator?

Appliances do not have a reset button on them - to reset any appliance you UNPLUG the unit from the outlet for 3 minutes - plug back in - or turn off breaker to outlet and appliance for that long - then turn back on. That will reset the control computer board and reset the appliance.

Where is the reset button on my compressor?

The location of the reset button on your compressor can vary depending on the model and manufacturer. Typically, it is located on the motor or near the motor housing. Look for a small red or black button that is often labeled “reset.”

How do you fix a refrigerator that won't stay cool?

If your refrigerator isn't cooling, try these troubleshooting steps:
  1. Check to see if it has been installed in the correct location.
  2. Unblock air vents.
  3. Reorganize your food and other contents inside.
  4. Check to see if gasket seals are broken or damaged.
  5. Relevel the refrigerator.
  6. Clean condenser coils.

Should I unplug my fridge if it is not cooling?

First, unplug or shut off the power to your fridge on your home's circuit breaker. Leave it off for five to 10 minutes, then restore power and adjust the temperature settings to where you want them (aim for 32ºF-40ºF). It can take up to 24 hours for the refrigerator's temperature to stabilize.

What is the most common cause of refrigerator compressor failure?

One of the most common causes is a lack of lubrication. The compressor relies on oil to keep it running smoothly, and if the oil level gets too low, the compressor can overheat and break down. Another common cause of compressor failure is a build-up of dirt and dust.

Why is my fridge light on but not running?

The compressor may be going bad, which is a common issue with refrigerators as they get older. You may also have dirty condenser coils, or the vents may be blocked with dust or debris. The interior of the fridge might also be too tightly packed with food.

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