Discovering that your refrigerator isn’t cooling properly can be a real headache—especially in a busy Los Angeles household where you rely on it to keep food fresh and safe. You might notice milk spoiling faster, ice cream turning soft, or the fridge feeling warmer than usual, even though the compressor is running.
At Aldee Service, we’ve helped countless families across Los Angeles with refrigerator issues just like this. Our certified and licensed technicians have years of experience diagnosing and fixing all major brands, and we always prioritize honest, affordable repairs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common reasons for poor cooling and explain why calling a professional early often saves you time, money, and frustration—avoiding guesswork or risky DIY attempts.
Common Causes Why Your Refrigerator Isn’t Cooling Properly
Many factors can cause a fridge to run but not cool effectively. Here are the most frequent ones we see in our Los Angeles service calls.
Dirty Condenser Coils
The condenser coils (usually at the back or bottom of the fridge) release heat. When they’re covered in dust, pet hair, or debris, they can’t work efficiently. This is one of the top reasons for inadequate cooling and makes the compressor run longer than necessary.
Faulty Evaporator or Condenser Fan
Fans circulate cold air throughout the compartments. If the evaporator fan (inside the freezer) or condenser fan fails, air doesn’t move properly, leading to uneven or weak cooling.
Defrost System Issues
Frost buildup on the evaporator coils blocks airflow. Problems with the defrost heater, timer, or thermostat prevent automatic defrosting, causing ice accumulation and poor cooling performance.
Thermostat or Control Problems
The thermostat senses temperature and signals the compressor. If it’s faulty or out of calibration, the cooling cycle may not start or stop correctly.
Damaged Door Gaskets
The rubber seals around the doors keep cold air in. If they’re torn, dirty, or worn, warm air leaks in constantly, forcing the fridge to struggle.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is the substance that absorbs heat. Leaks in the sealed system reduce its level, severely impacting cooling. This requires specialized equipment to detect and repair.
Overloading or Poor Airflow
Packing too much food or blocking vents inside prevents proper air circulation, creating warm spots.
Simple Troubleshooting Steps (But Proceed with Caution)
While we strongly recommend professional diagnosis for accurate results and safety, here are a few safe, basic checks you can try first:
- Verify temperature settings: Fridge should be 35–38°F, freezer at 0°F or below.
- Test door seals: Close a piece of paper in the door—if it slips out easily, the gasket may need attention.
- Clean visible dust: Unplug the fridge and gently vacuum around the coils if accessible (but don’t force anything).
- Check for blocked vents: Rearrange food to allow airflow.
Stop here if these don’t resolve the issue. Further tinkering—like accessing electrical parts or refrigerant lines—can be dangerous, void warranties, or cause more damage.
When to Call a Professional Refrigerator Repair Expert
Most cooling problems go beyond simple fixes and need expert tools and knowledge. Calling a pro right away prevents food spoilage, higher energy bills, and expensive replacements later.
Contact a technician promptly if you notice:
- Persistent warm temperatures despite basic checks
- Unusual noises from the compressor or fans
- Excessive frost or ice buildup
- Water leaks or constant compressor running
- Signs of refrigerant issues (oily spots or hissing)
In the greater Los Angeles area, Aldee Service is your trusted choice. Our experienced, certified technicians provide fast service, precise diagnostics, and lasting repairs at reasonable prices—all backed by a warranty.
FAQ: Refrigerator Not Cooling Properly
Why is my refrigerator running but not cooling at all? Dirty coils, faulty fans, or low refrigerant are common culprits. A professional can quickly identify the exact cause.
How often should I clean my fridge coils? Every 6–12 months, depending on dust and pets. But if cooling is already poor, have a tech check for underlying issues.
Can a bad door seal cause cooling problems? Yes—leaky seals let warm air in, making the fridge work harder without proper results.
Is it safe to try fixing refrigerant leaks myself? No. Handling refrigerant requires EPA certification and special tools—DIY attempts are illegal and unsafe.
How much does professional refrigerator repair cost in Los Angeles? It varies by issue, but at Aldee Service, we offer transparent, reasonable pricing with no hidden fees.
What are ideal fridge and freezer temperatures? Fridge: 35–38°F; Freezer: 0°F or lower for food safety.
How soon can I get help in Los Angeles? We strive for same-day or next-day service—contact us as soon as you notice a problem! A refrigerator not cooling properly doesn’t have to disrupt your life. While quick checks are helpful, trusting certified professionals ensures safe, efficient repairs and peace of mind. If you’re dealing with this issue in Los Angeles, let Aldee Service handle it. Our expert team is ready to get your fridge back to perfect condition quickly and affordably. Contact us today through our online form—we’re here to help!
