Troubleshoot a Whirlpool Fridge Freezer Not Cooling

Is your Whirlpool refrigerator freezer still freezing while the fridge section is no longer cooling food properly? This common appliance issue can lead to spoiled food and frustration. But before calling for expensive repairs, there are several effective troubleshooting steps you can take to get your fridge and freezer cooling again.

Pinpointing the root cause is the first challenge. There are a variety of mechanical and electrical components involved in cooling a fridge and freezer section. By methodically isolating issues, you can zero in on solutions to save money and avoid replacing the appliance altogether.

Common Causes of a Whirlpool Fridge Freezer Not Cooling

When only the refrigerator section of your Whirlpool appliance is not cooling sufficiently, the problem is likely isolated to that section's cooling system. Here are some of the most common culprits:

Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant is the gas substance that cycles through the refrigerator coils to absorb and remove heat. If there is a leak in the sealed system, low refrigerant levels prevent proper cooling. You may notice the fridge temperature becoming gradually warmer over time. Refrigerant leaks often require professional repair.

Failed Thermistor

The thermistor is a temperature sensor that communicates with the control board. It monitors interior air temperature and tells the refrigerator when to cycle on to maintain the set coolness level. If the thermistor fails, the fridge doesn't know when to run its cooling system.

Faulty Control Board

The control board is essentially the refrigerator's computer, controlling multiple components responsible for cooling. If it malfunctions, the thermistor, compressor, fans, and other parts may not activate properly. A damaged control board often needs professional diagnosis and replacement.

Clogged Condenser Coils

Dust, pet hair, and debris can gradually clog up the condenser coils on the back of the fridge, preventing proper heat dissipation. This causes the refrigerator interior to get warmer but won't affect the separately cooled freezer section.

Failed Compressor

The compressor pumps refrigerant through the system under pressure. If the compressor pump fails, the refrigerant won't circulate, disabling cooling. Replacing a compressor can be very expensive, so proper diagnosis is important.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

The evaporator coils absorb heat from the fridge interior. If the defrost system fails, frost can build up on the coils over time, insulating them and preventing proper cooling. This is a common failure point, especially as appliances age.

Bad Door Gasket Seal

If the door gasket becomes warped or torn, warm air can leak into the fridge, causing interior temperatures to rise. The freezer may be less affected due to its separate sealing gasket.

How to Troubleshoot a Whirlpool Fridge Freezer Not Cooling

Start your troubleshooting by confirming it's just the refrigerator section not cooling properly. Feel inside the freezer - are items still frozen solid with ice buildup? Next, listen and feel for the compressor and evaporator fan running. Press your ear against the back bottom area of the fridge. Do you hear a humming or buzzing sound? Can you feel vibrations? This indicates the sealed system is still operating.

Step 1: Inspect the Condenser Coils

Slide the refrigerator out from the wall and look at the condenser coils on the back. Use a flashlight to check for thick dust buildup or obstructions from touching the wall. Use a vacuum crevice tool and soft brush to clean off any debris. Improve airflow by keeping the coils clean.

Step 2: Check the Thermistor

Unplug the refrigerator and use a multimeter on the Ohms setting to check the continuity of the thermistor contacts. You'll have to locate the thermistor housing inside the fridge - check the user manual for details. If the thermistor shows no continuity, it needs to be replaced.

Step 3: Monitor Evaporator Frost Buildup

If you suspect a defrost problem, pull out shelving and shine a flashlight on the metal evaporator coils inside the fridge (not freezer). Look for excessive ice and frost buildup. Thick, solid ice indicates the automatic defrost cycle is not functioning.

Step 4: Verify Door Seal and Alignment

Use the flashlight method or a paper bill to check for light gaps around the door sealing. If there is poor alignment, adjust the door hinges as needed. Worn or cracked gaskets should be replaced to ensure a tight air seal.

DIY Repairs for Whirlpool Fridge Freezer Not Cooling

After diagnosing the likely problem, review whether you can tackle the repair yourself or need professional assistance. Here are some common DIY fixes:

• Replace a faulty thermistor if you have the needed skills.
• Clean dirty condenser coils thoroughly with a brush and vacuum.
• Defrost built up ice on the evaporator coils. Turn off and prop doors open.
• Replace just the control board after proper diagnosis, if you have electrical knowledge.
• Adjust door alignment or replace a damaged gasket.
• Recharge refrigerant if a leak is found. Consider leak detection dye.

When to Call a Professional for Whirlpool Fridge Freezer Repair

While the DIY repairs above can resolve many cooling issues, more complex problems require a certified appliance repair technician. Call for professional assistance for:

• Refrigerant leaks requiring system recharge and leak detection.
• Compressor issues involving pump and sealed system repairs.
• Advanced control board failures needing custom diagnosis.
• Major evaporator defrosting and ice removal projects.
• Any repair beyond your technical skill and comfort level.

Most technicians offer service call discounts when refrigerator parts need replacement. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis of the issue is worth the investment.

Preventing Future Whirlpool Fridge Freezer Cooling Problems

With proper refrigerator maintenance and care, you can maximize the lifespan of your Whirlpool appliance and avoid premature failures:

• Regularly vacuum and clean condenser coils every 6 months to improve airflow.
• Ensure door gaskets seal tightly when closed to prevent air leaks.
• Avoid overpacking the refrigerator to allow space for airflow.
• Monitor and promptly defrost freezer to prevent ice buildup.
• Have a technician perform preventative maintenance annually.
• Use proper temperature settings for both fridge and freezer.

If your Whirlpool fridge freezer has recurring failures or the repair costs exceed replacement, it may be time to purchase a new unit. Consider the following:

• Compare repair costs to replacing the refrigerator entirely.
• Review new fridge freezer features and energy ratings when shopping.
• Find comparable Whirlpool models or explore other brands.
• Carefully measure your existing space and layout when selecting.

A properly operating refrigerator freezer is an essential appliance. By troubleshooting issues methodically when your Whirlpool unit stops cooling, you can often get it functioning again without major repairs. But for complex sealed system or electrical failures, rely on a trained appliance technician for accurate diagnosis and repair.