Check the Thermostat Settings
One of the most common causes of a KitchenAid refrigerator not cooling is improper thermostat settings. The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature inside the refrigerator and making sure it stays within the appropriate range. If the thermostat settings are incorrect, this can cause the refrigerator to not cool properly.
The first thing you should do is check the temperature setting on the thermostat. Make sure that it is set to the appropriate temperature for your refrigerator. The ideal temperature for most refrigerators is between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit. However, some models may have slightly different temperature ranges, so it is important to check your owner’s manual for the recommended temperature range.
If you have recently changed the temperature setting, it may take several hours for the refrigerator to reach the new temperature. Give the refrigerator time to adjust to the new setting before determining whether or not it is cooling properly.
If the temperature setting is correct, the next step is to check the thermostat for any damage or malfunction. You can do this by using a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity. To do this, unplug the refrigerator, remove the thermostat from its housing, and disconnect the wires. Set the multimeter to the continuity setting and touch the probes to the thermostat terminals. If there is continuity, the thermostat is working properly. If there is no continuity, the thermostat needs to be replaced.
Another thing to check is the location of the thermostat. If it is positioned in a spot that is too warm or too cold, it will not properly regulate the temperature inside the refrigerator. Make sure that the thermostat is located in the correct spot according to the owner’s manual.
Lastly, make sure that the air vents in the refrigerator are not blocked. If the vents are blocked, this can prevent cold air from circulating properly and can cause the refrigerator to not cool properly. Clear any blockages and see if this improves the cooling performance of the refrigerator.
By checking the thermostat settings and making sure that everything is working properly, you can often fix a KitchenAid refrigerator not cooling issue without having to call a repair professional. However, if you have checked everything and the refrigerator still is not cooling properly, it may be time to contact a technician for further diagnosis and repair.
Clean the Condenser Coils
One of the most common reasons why your KitchenAid refrigerator is not cooling is due to dirty condenser coils. Over time, dust, dirt, and pet hair can accumulate on the coils, making it difficult for them to release heat. When heat can’t escape properly, your fridge won’t be able to cool down effectively.
To clean the condenser coils, first, unplug your fridge and locate the coils. Depending on your fridge model, they may be located at the bottom or back of the appliance. Next, remove any excess debris and dust from the coils using a soft-bristle brush or a vacuum cleaner. Make sure to be gentle and not damage the coils.
If the dust is tough, rinse the coils with a mild detergent solution and warm water. You can also use a coil cleaner spray specifically designed for refrigerators. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaner’s label and wear gloves and eye protection to avoid any injury. Avoid using sharp or abrasive items to clean the coils, as this can cause irreversible damage.
Once the coils are clean, plug the fridge back in and allow it to cool down for a few hours before checking its temperature. Cleaning the condenser coils once every six months is recommended to keep your KitchenAid refrigerator running efficiently.
You can also prevent the buildup of dust and debris on the coils by vacuuming the surrounding area of your fridge regularly. Moreover, always keep the fridge’s exterior and interior clean and clutter-free to prevent airflow blockage and to help it run efficiently.
Replace the Evaporator Fan Motor
If your Kitchenaid refrigerator is not cooling, one of the components that could be causing the problem is the evaporator fan motor. The evaporator fan motor is responsible for circulating air over the cooling coils in the freezer section of the refrigerator. When the evaporator fan motor fails, the refrigerator will not cool effectively, and you will need to replace the motor.
To replace the evaporator fan motor, follow these steps:
Step 1: Unplug the refrigerator from the power supply to avoid electrical shock.
Step 2: Locate the evaporator fan motor. The fan motor is located inside the freezer section, usually at the back of the freezer compartment. Remove the protective cover to access the fan motor.
Step 3: Disconnect the wiring leading to the fan motor. Take a picture or make a note of how the wires are connected, so you can reconnect them later correctly.
Step 4: Remove any screws or bolts that hold the fan motor in place. Gently lift the fan motor out of the bracket, taking care not to damage any other components inside the freezer section.
Step 5: Install the new evaporator fan motor. Place the fan motor back into the bracket and tighten any screws or bolts to hold it in place. Reconnect the wiring that leads to the fan motor, referring to your picture or notes to ensure correct reconnection.
Step 6: Test the new evaporator fan motor. Plug the refrigerator into the power supply and turn it on. Listen for the sound of the fan motor running, and check that air is circulating over the cooling coils. If the refrigerator is now cooling correctly, then the replacement has been successful.
Step 7: Replace the protective cover. Once you have confirmed that the refrigerator is now cooling correctly, replace any protective covers that were removed earlier. These protective covers help to keep the air flowing correctly through the freezer section and prevent damage to any components.
Replacing the evaporator fan motor can be a little tricky, and you may want to consider hiring a professional to do the job for you if you are not confident with doing it yourself. However, replacing this component is relatively simple and is a good way to fix your Kitchenaid refrigerator when it is not cooling. If you do decide to take on this job, be sure to follow the steps carefully and do not force any of the components. If you encounter any problems, stop the job, and seek advice.
Replace the Start Relay
If you have determined that the start relay is the culprit behind your Kitchenaid refrigerator not cooling, then it’s time to replace it. The start relay is responsible for turning on the compressor and getting it to run. Without a functioning start relay, your refrigerator will not cool. Below are the steps to follow to replace the start relay:
Contents
Step 1: Gather Supplies
Before you begin, you will need to gather some supplies:
- New start relay (make sure it’s compatible with your Kitchenaid refrigerator model)
- Needle-nose pliers
- Flathead screwdriver
Step 2: Unplug Your Refrigerator
Make sure you unplug your refrigerator before attempting to replace the start relay. This will ensure your safety as well as prevent any damage to your fridge.
Step 3: Locate the Start Relay
The start relay is usually located on the back of your Kitchenaid refrigerator, attached to the compressor. Use your owner’s manual to locate it if you’re having trouble finding it. Once you’ve found the start relay, use needle-nose pliers to gently remove any wires that are connected to it. Remember to take a picture or make a note of where each wire goes so you can properly reconnect them later.
Step 4: Remove the Old Start Relay
Once you’ve disconnected the wires, use a flathead screwdriver to remove the old start relay from the compressor. Simply insert the screwdriver under the clip and pry it off gently. Be careful not to damage the compressor or any other important components while doing this.
Step 5: Install the New Start Relay
Take your new start relay and carefully attach it to the compressor. Make sure it’s in the same position as the old one. Once you’re satisfied that it’s securely attached, connect the wires back to their respective slots. Again, refer to your picture or notes if you need to.
Step 6: Plug Your Refrigerator Back In
Now that you’ve successfully replaced the start relay, it’s time to plug your refrigerator back in. Give it a few minutes to see if it starts cooling again. If it does, then congratulations! You’ve successfully fixed your Kitchenaid refrigerator. If not, then there may be another issue that requires a professional’s attention.
Replacing a start relay is not a difficult task, but if you’re uncomfortable with performing it yourself, don’t hesitate to call a professional. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to appliances that require electricity.
Check for Refrigerant Leaks
If your KitchenAid refrigerator is not keeping your food as cold as it should be, one possible cause could be a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is the substance that keeps your fridge cool, and if there is a leak, it can cause your fridge to gradually lose its cooling abilities. Even if only a small amount of refrigerant is leaking, it can still have a significant impact on the fridge’s performance.
The first step in fixing a refrigerant leak is to locate it. A thorough visual inspection can help you identify any obvious leaks, such as worn or damaged refrigerant lines. However, some leaks may be more difficult to find. You can use a refrigerant leak detector to help locate the source of the leak. This device can detect even small amounts of refrigerant in the air, allowing you to pinpoint the leak without having to dismantle the fridge.
Once you have identified the source of the leak, it is time to repair it. This may involve replacing damaged refrigerant lines, tightening loose fittings, or replacing other components. If the leak is detected in the refrigerant system, the EPA requires that a licensed technician carry out repairs. Refrigerant is a hazardous substance that can be harmful when handled improperly, so it is important to take all necessary precautions when working with it.
After the leak has been repaired, the next step is to recharge the system with refrigerant. This is also a job for a licensed technician, as the amount of refrigerant needed and the pressure at which it needs to be charged can vary depending on the type of fridge. Proper charging is essential to ensure that the fridge is operating at peak efficiency and that there are no further leaks.
It is important to note that simply recharging a fridge with refrigerant without fixing the leak will only provide a temporary solution. The refrigerant will eventually leak out again, and you will be back to square one. Fixing the leak is essential for a long-term solution.
Overall, if your KitchenAid refrigerator is not cooling properly, a refrigerant leak could be the culprit. By identifying and repairing the leak and recharging the system, you can get your fridge back to performing at its best.