Fridge Not Cooling: Diagnosis & Repair Guide
Is your fridge not cooling? This guide walks you through the most common causes, how to diagnose the problem, and when to call a professional for same-day repair in Toronto & GTA.
Most fridge not cooling issues can be diagnosed quickly and repaired same-day by our licensed technicians. We serve all of Toronto, Mississauga, Scarborough, North York, and surrounding areas.
Common Causes & Diagnosis
Dirty Condenser Coils
Coils clogged with dust restrict heat dissipation, forcing the compressor to work harder and reducing cooling efficiency. Clean coils every 6–12 months.
Defrost System Failure
Frost build-up on the evaporator coils blocks airflow. A faulty defrost heater, thermostat, or timer causes this. The freezer may be cold but the fridge warm.
Faulty Evaporator Fan Motor
The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer to the fridge. If it fails, the fridge section loses cooling while the freezer remains cold.
Compressor Issues
The compressor is the heart of the refrigeration system. If it fails to start or runs but doesn't compress refrigerant, cooling stops entirely.
Faulty Door Seals (Gaskets)
Worn or damaged door seals allow warm air to enter continuously, making it impossible for the fridge to maintain proper temperature.
DIY vs. Professional Repair
| Fix | DIY Possible? | Recommended | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Filter / Drain Cleaning | Yes | DIY First | Free |
| Belt / Fuse Replacement | Experienced only | Professional | $80–$150 |
| Fan Motor / Element | Not recommended | Professional | $120–$250 |
| Control Board / Compressor | No | Professional | $200–$400 |
Refrigerator Repair Cost in Toronto & GTA
| Repair Type | Typical Cost | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnostic & Minor Repair | $80 – $150 | Labour only |
| Part Replacement (common) | $150 – $280 | Parts & Labour |
| Major Component Repair | $250 – $400 | Parts & Labour |
| Complex / Compressor Repair | $300 – $450+ | Parts & Labour |
Common Causes & Diagnosis
Problem Cause 1
Description of the cause and what to check.
Problem Cause 2
Description of the cause and what to check.
Problem Cause 3
Description of the cause and recommended fix.