Why is My Freezer Not Freezing?

As an appliance expert, I have seen many cases where a freezer suddenly stops freezing. It can be frustrating and concerning, especially when you have a freezer full of food that needs to be kept at a certain temperature. There are various reasons why this may happen, and it's important to understand them in order to find a solution and prevent further damage to your freezer. First and foremost, it's important to rule out any user error. Sometimes, simply packing too much food into the freezer or not closing the door properly can affect its freezing capacity.

However, if you are sure that this is not the case, then it's time to look at the internal components of your freezer. Over time, freezer parts can wear out and malfunction, causing the appliance to stop freezing properly. Some of these parts are easy to replace on your own, while others may require professional help. The most serious reasons for a freezer not freezing are internal components that malfunction. One common culprit is the evaporator fan. If this fan is not working properly, it can prevent proper air circulation in the freezer.

To check if this is the issue, start by unplugging the refrigerator and removing and cleaning the evaporator fan blades. Often, ice buildup on these blades can cause them to bend and affect their function. If you notice that the blades are bent, they will need to be replaced. Another important component that affects the freezing capacity of your freezer is the thermostat. Freezers rely on accurate temperature readings from internal thermostats to regulate their temperature.

If the thermostat is transmitting inaccurate information, such as a lower temperature than what is actually maintained by the appliance, then the freezer may not freeze properly. To check if this is the issue, you can buy another thermometer and place it inside the freezer to compare its reading to the thermostat reading. Dirty coils can also be a major culprit when it comes to a freezer not freezing. If you have already cleaned and defrosted your freezer and everything seems to be in working order, try detaching the unit from the wall and vacuuming the coils with a crevice or brush attachment. Dirty coils can restrict airflow, so a quick cleaning can often solve the problem.

Additionally, breaking up any accumulated ice can help release congestion and allow the freezer to reach and maintain an acceptable temperature for storing food. In fact, many problems related to freezer malfunction can be solved with simple troubleshooting. However, if none of these solutions seem to work, then it's possible that the starter relay is not working properly. This means that it is not supplying power to the compressor, which is responsible for cooling the freezer. It's important to address a freezer that is not freezing as soon as possible. Not only can it put your family at risk by storing food at unsafe temperatures, but it can also shorten the lifespan of your appliance as it struggles to maintain an optimal temperature.

By figuring out what is causing your freezer to stop freezing, you can take the necessary steps to fix it and save both your freezer and your budget.

Common Causes of Freezer Malfunction

One of the most common causes of a freezer not freezing properly is frost buildup on the inside walls. When this happens, the freezer has to work harder to maintain its temperature, which can lead to other issues. To prevent this from happening, make sure to regularly defrost and clean your freezer. Another common cause is a door that is not properly sealed. If the seal breaks or the door cannot be closed completely, warm air can enter the freezer while cold air escapes.

This can affect the temperature inside and cause your freezer to stop freezing. To check if this is the issue, simply inspect the door seal and replace it if necessary. Lastly, it's important to mention that storing food in a broken freezer can also contribute to its malfunction. Not only does it put your family at risk, but it can also put unnecessary strain on the appliance. If you notice that your freezer is not freezing properly, make sure to transfer any perishable items to another freezer or cooler until the issue is resolved.

Protect Your Freezer with a Home Warranty

If you are concerned about your freezer's malfunction and want to protect yourself from unexpected repair costs, consider investing in a home warranty.

The American Home Shield home warranty provides coverage for home systems and appliances, including refrigerators and freezers. This can give you peace of mind knowing that you are covered in case of any unexpected malfunctions.

Conclusion

A freezer that is not freezing properly can be a major inconvenience, but it's important to address the issue as soon as possible. By understanding the common causes of freezer malfunction and taking the necessary steps to fix them, you can save both your freezer and your budget. Remember to regularly maintain and clean your freezer to prevent any future issues, and consider investing in a home warranty for added protection.