What Causes This Problem?
1. Dirty Condenser Coils
Condenser coils release heat from the refrigerant. When they're coated with dust and debris — which happens over 12–18 months of normal use — the fridge can't shed heat and stops cooling. Cleaning them is a DIY job if you can access them underneath or behind the unit.
2. Failed Evaporator Fan Motor
The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer into the fridge compartment. When it fails, the freezer may still be cold but the fridge section warms up. You'll often hear the fan has stopped if you listen near the back wall of the freezer.
3. Faulty Start Relay
The start relay gives the compressor a boost to start. A failed relay means the compressor won't run — you may hear a clicking sound every few minutes as it tries and fails to start. Shake the relay: if it rattles, it's bad.
4. Refrigerant Leak
Low refrigerant means the system can't transfer heat. This usually requires professional diagnosis and EPA-certified handling. Signs include frost only on part of the evaporator coil and a fridge that runs constantly without cooling.
5. Damaged Door Gasket
A worn or torn door seal lets warm air in continuously. The fridge works overtime and still can't maintain temperature. Test by closing the door on a piece of paper — it should grip firmly. If it slides out easily, the gasket needs replacing.
🔧 Not sure what's wrong? Our technicians diagnose quickly — call for same-day service.
📞 (813) 553-2255Basic Troubleshooting Tips
Try these checks first. If none of them resolve the issue, it's time to call a professional.
- Check that the temperature control hasn't been accidentally bumped to a warmer setting.
- Ensure the fridge is not overpacked — blocked air vents inside the compartment stop cold air circulation.
- Pull the fridge from the wall and vacuum the condenser coils (usually at the bottom or back).
- Listen for the compressor running. If the fridge is silent and warm, the compressor or start relay has likely failed.
- Check the door gaskets by looking for visible gaps, cracks, or areas where the seal has pulled away.
⚠️ When to Call a Professional
If cleaning the coils and checking the door seal doesn't resolve the issue within a few hours, call a professional. Compressor, evaporator fan, and refrigerant issues require trained technicians and proper tools. Waiting too long risks losing hundreds of dollars in food.
Need Professional Refrigerator Repair in Tampa Bay?
AK Service Solutions provides same-day refrigerator repair throughout Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Land O Lakes, Lutz, Brandon, Riverview, New Tampa, and Zephyrhills.