My refrigerator is running, but it is not cool or cool enough.

If the refrigerator is running but not cooling at all or is not cold enough, several factors may influence the temperature. Check the following:

  1. Adjust the temperature to a cooler setting
  2. If this is a new unit:
    • Allow about 24 hours for the unit to cool down and stabilize after initial installation. If 24 hours have passed and the controls have been set properly but the unit is still warm, you may need to schedule service.
  3. Make sure that both the refrigerator and freezer contain a reasonable amount of food:

    • Closed containers of water, food or non-perishables will help to stabilize the temperature. This is because the items in the refrigerator absorb the cold and actually work to help the refrigerator maintain a steady temperature in much the same way that ice cubes keep a drink cold. When you open the refrigerator door, the cool air rushes out and warm air rushes in. The more items in the refrigerator, the less cool air is needed to keep the refrigerator cold. Therefore, when you close the door again, the refrigerator returns to a stable temperature more quickly.

  4. Make sure refrigerator and freezer doors can close and can properly seal:
    • Check for large items such as trays, platters, food items (like pizza boxes) and ice behind the ice bin that may interfere with door closure.

    • If the doors do not close on their own when partially opened, you may need to adjust the leveling legs or rollers so that the front is higher than the back. Keep adjusting the leveling legs or rollers until the door closes on its own when you open the door halfway (at a 45 degree angle).

    • Make sure the door gaskets are sealing properly.

    • Adjust your door gasket so that is seats and seals correctly

  5. Check to see if large containers are placed against the back wall of the refrigerator:

    • Large containers in back may block the flow of cold air and adversely affect the temperatures in the refrigerator. Move tall items forward so they don't block the air flow.

  6. Check to see if the condenser is dirty:

    1. Most refrigerators manufactured since the year 2001 have condenser coils in a location that does not require them to be cleaned. If your model has coils that need to be cleaned, directions will be in your owner's manual. Download a copy of the Owner's Manual.

      • 2001 and newer compact refrigerators and smaller capacity top freezer models still have coils to be cleaned.

      • If the owner's manual indicates the model has coils to be cleaned, follow the directions in the manual.

    2. To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug the appliance before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.

    3. When the condenser coils get dirty the sealed system does not operate as efficiently as possible.

  7. Be sure the refrigerator is installed in an area where the temperature will not go below 60°F or exceed 110°F:
    • Your refrigerator may not cool properly if installed outside of these temperature ranges.
  8. Verify that the refrigerator has proper air clearance:

    • In general, at least 2 inches of air clearance is required on each side, top and back of the refrigerator. Air clearance requirements do vary by style and model. Please consult your owner’s user manual for specific requirements. Download a copy of the Owner's Manual and/or Installation Instructions.

  9. Make sure the interior lights are going off when the doors are closed:

    • To check on most models, close the door slowly. The light should go out when the door opening is reduced to approximately 1 inch. If the light stays on, it may produce heat that affects your refrigerator temperature.

    • If the refrigerator door is misaligned, the light will stay on. If the light stays on, your refrigerator may not cool properly.

  10. If you are still having issues after following these steps you may need service. Please reach out to us via the service request form.