Quick Answer: Fridge not cooling in Toronto? The most common causes are a faulty thermistor, failed evaporator fan, or compressor issue. Fixlify diagnoses and repairs same-day — call (437) 524-1053.
Step-by-Step Fridge Not Cooling Diagnosis
A refrigerator that is not cooling can stem from a dozen different components. The key to an efficient repair is systematic diagnosis: start with the simplest checks and work toward the compressor last, since it is the most expensive repair. This guide follows the exact sequence our Toronto technicians use on every not-cooling service call.
Step 1 — Check the Evaporator Fan
The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer into the fresh food compartment. If the fan motor burns out or the fan blade ices up, the fridge section warms while the freezer stays cold. Open the freezer, remove the back panel, and listen: a running fan rules out this cause. A seized or noisy fan needs replacement. Fan motors cost $60–$100; total repair $150–$200.
Step 2 — Check the Defrost System
If the evaporator coil is encased in a block of ice, the defrost heater or defrost thermostat has failed. Frost accumulation blocks airflow entirely, causing both compartments to warm. Manually defrosting (power off, towels, 24 hours) temporarily restores cooling but the frost returns within days without a component repair. The defrost heater or thermostat runs $90–$160 including labour for most brands.
Step 3 — Test the Thermistor
The thermistor (temperature sensor) tells the control board how cold each compartment is. A failed thermistor sends a constant false reading, causing the board to never call for cooling. Thermistor resistance should change predictably with temperature. A thermistor replacement is a $90–$130 repair and is one of the most cost-effective fixes in refrigerator diagnostics.
Step 4 — Inspect the Condenser Coils
Dirty condenser coils (located at the bottom or back of the fridge) make the compressor work harder and run hotter. In Toronto homes with pets, coils can become completely blocked with pet hair within 2–3 years. Clean coils with a coil brush or vacuum. If cleaning alone does not restore cooling, continue to step 5.
Step 5 — Evaluate the Compressor
The compressor is the heart of the refrigeration system. Compressor failure is confirmed when the unit clicks on but shuts off after a few seconds (thermal overload trip), or does not start at all. Compressor replacement is an expensive repair ($450–$900 including refrigerant and labour) and is typically only cost-effective on fridges less than 7 years old or premium brands like LG, Samsung, or Miele. Our technician will always give you an honest assessment of repair vs replace.
Refrigerator Not Cooling Cost Guide — Toronto 2026
| Component | Parts | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|
| Evaporator fan motor | OEM motor | $150–$200 |
| Defrost heater/thermostat | OEM kit | $90–$160 |
| Thermistor replacement | OEM sensor | $90–$130 |
| Start relay replacement | OEM relay | $80–$120 |
| Compressor replacement | OEM compressor | $450–$900 |
The $89 diagnostic visit pinpoints the exact fault before any parts are ordered. This fee is waived when you approve the repair. We service all major brands including LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, Bosch, Frigidaire, GE and Miele across all Toronto neighbourhoods.
Get Your Fridge Diagnosed Today
Same-day appointments available. Written estimate before any work begins.