A fridge that runs but doesn’t cool is one of the most common appliance issues in homes across Sydney suburbs, from Bondi to Blacktown. While it may start as a minor annoyance, poor cooling often leads to food spoilage, rising energy bills, or worse—compressor damage.
Understanding the root causes can help you act before a small issue becomes an expensive failure.
Understanding the root causes can help you act before a small issue becomes an expensive failure.
Common Reasons Your Fridge Is Not Cooling Properly
Blocked Airflow from Vents
Cool air flows through vents from the freezer into the fridge compartment. When these vents are blocked by containers, ice, or packaging, air circulation becomes restricted, leading to inconsistent internal temperatures.
Dirty or Clogged Condenser Coils
Condenser coils are located behind or beneath the refrigerator and release heat. If they are dirty or dusty, the system cannot efficiently cool the interior. This forces the compressor to work harder, which can wear it down over time.
Faulty Door Seals and Gaskets
Cracked, hardened, or dirty door gaskets can cause warm air to leak in and cold air to leak out. As a result, your fridge struggles to maintain proper temperature even though it’s running non-stop.
Incorrect Temperature Settings
Thermostats can be accidentally adjusted or reset after power outages. If your fridge is set above 5°C, cooling will be insufficient. Always check that the fridge is set between 1.5°C and 4°C for optimal performance.
Failing Compressor or Evaporator Fan
If your freezer is cold but the fridge is warm, the evaporator fan may not be working. This fan helps distribute cold air. Similarly, if the compressor is failing, cooling across the entire unit will drop significantly.
Signs Your Fridge May Be Failing
These are early indicators that your refrigerator may require maintenance:
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Unusual noises like buzzing, clicking, or humming
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Condensation or water pooling on shelves
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Warm spots inside the fridge
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Food spoiling before expiration dates
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Fridge exterior feels hotter than usual
Identifying these signs early can prevent more serious (and expensive) damage. If left unresolved, they may turn into bigger fridge cooling issues that require attention from professionals.
Preventative Tips to Keep Your Fridge Cooling Efficiently
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Clean the condenser coils every 3–6 months
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Leave space around vents to ensure airflow
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Defrost regularly if your model isn’t frost-free
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Check gaskets and door alignment monthly
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Avoid overloading shelves and drawers
Routine maintenance not only improves efficiency but also helps prevent early signs of fridge failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my fridge running but still warm inside?
This is often due to airflow blockage, dirty coils, or a malfunctioning fan. It’s best to inspect these areas first before considering repairs.
How can I tell if the door seals are the problem?
Try the paper test: close a piece of paper in the door. If it pulls out easily, the seals are not tight enough and should be cleaned or replaced.
Can incorrect placement cause fridge cooling issues?
Yes. Fridges placed too close to walls or heat sources like ovens may not cool properly due to inadequate ventilation.
Is it normal for the outside of the fridge to feel hot?
Some warmth is expected, but excess heat near the sides may indicate the coils or ventilation are overworked.
When Cooling Issues Need Professional Help
If you’ve tried cleaning coils, adjusting settings, and checking seals—but the problem persists—it’s likely a deeper mechanical fault. Ignoring these signs can shorten your fridge’s lifespan and increase energy consumption significantly.
That’s when it’s time to get help from certified fridge specialists who can perform expert diagnostics and identify whether components like the compressor, evaporator fan, or thermostat need repair.
Keep Your Food Safe and Your Fridge Efficient
If you’re in Sydney and noticing reduced cooling or other persistent problems, don’t wait for your appliance to fail. Ace Fridge Repair offers trusted support for fridge repairs in Sydney, covering both residential and commercial systems.
📞 Call 0452 462 556 or request a callback to get started with fast, reliable help—no pressure, no hidden fees.