Freezer Working But Not Fridge: Troubleshooting Guide

A freezer working but not fridge scenario can be frustrating, especially when your food is at risk of spoilage. While Viking refrigerators are known for their reliability, this issue can still occur. Understanding why the fridge is not cold but the freezer is can save time, money, and stress. In this guide, we’ll explore common causes and offer a step-by-step approach to resolving the problem, ensuring your Viking refrigerator functions efficiently.

Understanding the Problem: Why Is My Fridge Not Cooling But Freezer Works?

When your freezer is working but the fridge is not, it usually means there’s an issue with airflow, cooling components, or temperature regulation. Let’s explore the common causes:

1. Airflow Blockages: Cold air circulates from the freezer to the fridge through vents, and if these vents are blocked by food or ice buildup, the fridge won’t receive adequate cooling. This results in the freezer remaining cold while the fridge warms up.
2. Evaporator Fan Issues: The evaporator fan moves cold air from the freezer into the fridge, and when it fails, the fridge won’t get enough airflow. A faulty fan or motor can be due to ice buildup, obstructions, or mechanical failure.
3. Damper Control Malfunctions: The damper controls the flow of cold air from the freezer to the fridge, and if it malfunctions or gets stuck, the fridge will not cool properly. This can occur due to mechanical wear, obstructions, or electrical issues.
4. Temperature Sensor Problems: The thermistor and other sensors monitor temperatures and communicate with the control board to regulate cooling cycles. If a sensor is faulty, it can misread temperatures, causing the fridge to be warmer than it should be.
5. Dirty Condenser Coils: Condenser coils help release heat from the fridge, but when they are covered in dust, they can’t function efficiently. This often causes the fridge to struggle with cooling while the freezer remains unaffected.
6. Control Board or Thermostat Failures: The main control board and thermostat manage the overall cooling operation, and if either fails, the fridge may not cool even if the freezer works. These issues can arise from electrical malfunctions or worn-out components.

How to Troubleshoot a Refrigerator Freezer Is Cold but Refrigerator Is Not

If you’re facing a fridge not cooling but a freezer works situation, follow these steps to identify and fix the issue:

Check the Evaporator Fan Motor

The evaporator fan motor circulates air from the freezer into the fridge. If this fan stops working, the freezer remains cold, but the fridge won’t receive the cool air it needs. To check if the evaporator fan motor is the culprit:

• Step 1: Locate the evaporator fan motor inside the freezer compartment. It’s usually behind the back panel.
• Step 2: Listen for unusual noises or check if the fan is spinning.
• Step 3: If the fan isn’t working, test it with a multimeter for continuity. Replace the motor if it fails the test.

Inspect the Damper Control Assembly

The damper control assembly regulates the amount of cold air entering the fridge. If it gets stuck closed, the freezer will work but not the fridge. Here’s how to inspect it:

• Step 1: Locate the damper control assembly between the freezer and fridge compartments.
• Step 2: Check if the damper is moving freely and not obstructed by ice or debris.
• Step 3: If it’s stuck, try manually adjusting it. If the damper is broken, replace it.

Examine the Thermistor

The thermistor monitors the fridge’s temperature and signals the control board to turn the compressor and fan on or off. A malfunctioning thermistor can cause the fridge not cooling but the freezer works issue. To examine the thermistor:

• Step 1: Find the thermistor inside the fridge compartment.
• Step 2: Use a multimeter to test the thermistor’s resistance. The resistance should change in response to temperature changes.
• Step 3: Replace the thermistor if it fails to respond correctly.

Clean the Condenser Coils

Dirty condenser coils can lead to poor cooling performance, affecting the fridge and freezer. However, the freezer might still maintain its temperature, leading to the freezer working but not the fridge. To clean the condenser coils:

• Step 1: Unplug the refrigerator and locate the condenser coils, usually at the back or bottom.
• Step 2: Use a coil brush or vacuum to remove dust and debris.
• Step 3: Clean the coils every 6-12 months to maintain optimal cooling efficiency.

Check the Temperature Control Thermostat

The temperature control thermostat directs power to the compressor and fans. If this component is faulty, the fridge may not cool but the freezer works. To test the thermostat:

• Step 1: Locate the thermostat inside the fridge, typically behind the control panel.
• Step 2: Rotate the thermostat from the lowest to the highest setting and listen for a click.
• Step 3: If there’s no click, use a multimeter to test for continuity and replace it if needed.

Verify the Main Control Board

The main control board controls various functions of the refrigerator, including the compressor and fan motors. If all else fails, the main control board may be defective. To verify:

• Step 1: Inspect the control board for any visible signs of damage like burnt components.
• Step 2: Test other components first, as control board issues are less common.
• Step 3: If the control board appears faulty, consider replacing it as a last resort.

Conclusion

Experiencing a freezer working but not a fridge problem can disrupt your kitchen routine, but with the right approach, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue efficiently. By checking components like the evaporator fan motor, damper control assembly, and condenser coils, you can often pinpoint the cause and take appropriate action. Always remember to conduct these checks safely, and when in doubt, consult a professional technician like us at Professional Viking Repair.

Common FAQs

1. Why is my fridge not cold but the freezer is working?

This issue often arises due to a malfunctioning evaporator fan motor, blocked airflow from the damper control, or dirty condenser coils. Proper diagnosis and repairs are essential to restore the fridge’s cooling.

2. How do I reset my fridge when the freezer works but the fridge doesn’t?

Resetting the fridge can sometimes resolve minor glitches. Unplug the fridge for about 5-10 minutes, then plug it back in. Check if the cooling resumes. If not, proceed with further troubleshooting steps.

3. Is it safe to continue using the freezer if the fridge is not cooling?

While the freezer might still function, it’s best to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to the refrigerator system. Prolonged neglect could lead to complete appliance failure.

See what’s next by reading our latest article about food safety fridge storage!