The DIY appliance repair information provided on this website blog is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice or services. Seek the advice of a qualified professional before attempting any DIY appliance repair.
Check the temperature control settings.
Start the troubleshooting process by checking the freezer’s temperature control settings. Make sure it is set to a chilly enough setting that will allow items in the freezer to remain frozen – most likely 0°F or below. If your settings are too high, then your food won’t freeze and it won’t stay cold.
Ensure that the power cord is securely plugged into the wall outlet and freezer.
Inspect both the wall outlet and power cord connected to the chest freezer to ensure that it is securely connected. Once you have confirmed that everything is properly plugged in, turn your freezer back on at the wall outlet. Your chest freezer should now be operating as normal.
Inspect if the door latch is in good condition and not obstructed in any way.
The door latch is typically located at the top of the door and allows it to stay securely closed. A faulty or worn out latch may cause your freezer not to freeze as desired. Be sure to inspect that it’s in good condition and not obstructed by anything. If you find any damage, you can either replace the latch yourself or call a professional for assistance.
Why Is My Refrigerator Working But Freezer Not Freezing? Common Causes and Fixes
Your ice cream is melting, but your fridge stays cold – what gives? Don’t worry, here’s how to fix the problem:
Dirty Condenser Coils: Dust and grime on the condenser coils (located at the back or underneath your appliance) make it harder for the freezer to cool down. Unplug the refrigerator and gently clean the coils with a vacuum and brush.
Frosted-Over Evaporator Coils: Frost buildup on the evaporator coils blocks airflow. You may need to do a manual defrost. Check your owner’s manual, but usually, this means turning off the fridge, emptying it, and letting the ice melt completely.
Malfunctioning Evaporator Fan: This fan pushes cold air around the freezer. If it’s broken or blocked, your freezer won’t get cold enough. Listen for strange noises – they might mean a faulty fan. A technician might need to check it out and possibly replace it.
Faulty Defrost System: The defrost system melts frost buildup regularly. If the defrost timer, heater, or thermostat malfunctions, too much frost could form and stop your freezer from working correctly.
Airflow Blockage: Overpacking the freezer or putting items too close to the vents can block airflow. Make sure there’s space around items in your freezer for proper air circulation.
Worn out Door Seals: Damaged or loose door seals let warm air sneak in, making it hard to freeze things. Test your seal by closing a dollar bill in the door. If it slips out easily, your seals need attention.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Check the temperature setting: Make sure the freezer is set to the right temperature.
- Look for ice buildup: Check inside for signs of frost.
- Listen for unusual sounds: Strange noises could mean a problem with the fan.
When to Call a Technician: If simple troubleshooting doesn’t work, it’s time to call a qualified technician. They’ll figure out exactly what’s wrong and fix your freezer.
How to Fix Chest Freezer Not Freezing
1. Check Power Supply
Make sure the chest freezer is properly plugged into a working power outlet. Check for any tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses.
2. Clean the Condenser Coils
Dust and debris on the condenser coils can hinder cooling efficiency. Unplug the freezer and vacuum or brush the coils to remove any buildup.
3. Assess Door Seal
Inspect the door seal for any cracks or gaps that may be allowing warm air to enter. Replace the seal if damaged, or clean it if dirty.
4. Check Temperature Settings
Ensure the temperature control settings are appropriately set. Adjust the thermostat to a colder setting if necessary.
5. Allow for Air Circulation
Avoid overcrowding the freezer, as this can restrict airflow. Leave some space between items for proper circulation of cold air.
6. Professional Inspection
If the issue persists, consider contacting a professional appliance technician to diagnose and repair any internal components.