If your KitchenAid refrigerator isn’t cooling properly, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem. Here are some of the most common causes and solutions:
- Clogged condenser coils. The condenser coils are located at the back of the refrigerator and are responsible for dissipating heat. If the coils become clogged with dust and dirt, they won’t be able to work effectively and the refrigerator will overheat. To clean the coils, unplug the refrigerator and use a vacuum cleaner to remove any loose debris. Then, use a coil brush to clean the coils thoroughly.
- Faulty condenser fan. The condenser fan helps to circulate air over the condenser coils. If the fan is not working properly, the coils will not be able to cool the refrigerant and the refrigerator will not cool. To check the fan, unplug the refrigerator and remove the back panel. You should be able to see the fan blades spinning freely. If the fan is not spinning, you will need to replace it.
- Faulty evaporator fan. The evaporator fan is located inside the refrigerator and helps to circulate cold air throughout the unit. If the fan is not working properly, the refrigerator will not cool evenly. To check the fan, unplug the refrigerator and remove the front panel. You should be able to see the fan blades spinning freely. If the fan is not spinning, you will need to replace it.
- Faulty start relay. The start relay is a small electrical device that helps to start the compressor. If the start relay is faulty, the compressor will not start and the refrigerator will not cool. To check the start relay, you will need a multimeter. Consult your refrigerator’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to check the start relay. If the start relay is faulty, you will need to replace it.
- Faulty compressor. The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator and is responsible for circulating the refrigerant throughout the system. If the compressor is faulty, the refrigerator will not cool. To check the compressor, you will need a multimeter. Consult your refrigerator’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to check the compressor. If the compressor is faulty, you will need to have it repaired or replaced.
If you have checked all of the above and your KitchenAid refrigerator is still not cooling properly, you will need to call a qualified appliance repair technician.
Technical Tips:
- When cleaning the condenser coils, be careful not to damage the coils. Use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner and avoid using harsh chemicals.
- If you are replacing the condenser fan or evaporator fan, be sure to purchase a fan that is compatible with your refrigerator model.
- When checking the start relay or compressor, be sure to follow all safety precautions. Consult your refrigerator’s owner’s manual for instructions.
Safety Precautions:
- Always unplug the refrigerator before performing any maintenance or repairs.
- Be careful not to damage the electrical wiring or components inside the refrigerator.
- If you are not comfortable performing the repair yourself, call a qualified appliance repair technician.
Additional Troubleshooting Tips:
- Check the door gaskets. The door gaskets are the rubber seals that create a tight seal around the refrigerator doors. If the gaskets are worn or damaged, cold air can escape and the refrigerator will not cool properly. To check the gaskets, look for any cracks, tears, or gaps. If you find any damage, the gaskets will need to be replaced.
- Check the thermostat. The thermostat controls the temperature inside the refrigerator. If the thermostat is set too high, the refrigerator will not cool properly. To check the thermostat, set it to a lower temperature and see if the refrigerator cools down. If the refrigerator does not cool down, the thermostat may be faulty and will need to be replaced.
- Check the defrost timer. The defrost timer controls the defrost cycle, which prevents ice from building up on the evaporator coils. If the defrost timer is faulty, the evaporator coils may become clogged with ice and the refrigerator will not cool properly. To check the defrost timer, consult your refrigerator’s owner’s manual.
- Check the refrigerant level. The refrigerant is the fluid that circulates through the refrigerator system and absorbs heat. If the refrigerant level is low, the refrigerator will not cool properly. To check the refrigerant level, you will need a refrigerant gauge. Consult your refrigerator’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to check the refrigerant level. If the refrigerant level is low, you will need to have the refrigerator recharged by a qualified appliance repair technician.
Conclusion:
If you have checked all of the above and your KitchenAid refrigerator is still not cooling properly, you will need to call a qualified appliance repair technician.