Refrigerator not cooling but freezer works — what it usually is

When a Frigidaire or Electrolux refrigerator stops cooling but the freezer stays cold, it can feel like a mystery. The good news is that the problem is usually something you can identify quickly, and in many cases it’s a fix that a professional technician can resolve in a single visit. Below we walk through the most common reasons for this symptom, the safe checks you can do yourself, and the point at which you’ll want to call a qualified service tech.

What’s really happening inside the fridge?

In most modern side‑by‑side or French‑door units, the freezer and refrigerator share the same cooling system. A single compressor circulates refrigerant through a set of coils, and a small fan (the evaporator fan) moves the cold air from the freezer compartment into the fresh‑food compartment. If the freezer is still cold but the fridge is warm, the most likely culprits are:

• Blocked or frozen evaporator fan. The fan may be stuck, obstructed by ice, or have a failed motor.
• Damaged or dirty evaporator coil. If the coil is iced over, air can’t flow properly.
• Faulty temperature sensor or control board. The system may think the fridge is already at the set temperature and stop running the fan.
• Improper door sealing. A leaky door gasket can let warm air in, overworking the system and causing the fridge side to warm up while the freezer stays cold.

What you can safely check before calling a tech

These steps take only a few minutes and don’t require any special tools. If anything feels unsafe—especially dealing with ice buildup—skip to the next step and call a professional.

• Listen for the evaporator fan. Open the freezer door and stand close to the back wall. You should hear a faint whirring sound. If the fan is silent, it may be stuck or dead.
• Inspect the freezer for ice buildup. Look at the back wall and the area around the fan. A thick layer of frost (more than a quarter‑inch) can block airflow. If you see ice, do not try to chip it off with a metal tool; instead, turn the unit off, let it defrost, and schedule a service visit.
• Check the door gaskets. Run your hand along the seal on both the fridge and freezer doors. If you feel gaps, tears, or the gasket is loose, warm air could be entering the fridge compartment.
• Verify the temperature settings. Make sure the fridge is set to the recommended 37‑40°F (3‑4°C) and the freezer to 0‑5°F (-18°C). Accidentally setting the fridge too high can give the impression it isn’t cooling.
• Clear any obvious obstructions. Items placed too close to the interior vents can restrict airflow. Rearrange food so there’s space around the vents on both sides of the unit.

When it’s time to call a professional

If you’ve listened for the fan and it’s silent, or you’ve found a thick ice layer that won’t melt on its own, it’s best to have a qualified technician take a look. The same goes for any error codes on the display panel, a malfunctioning temperature sensor, or a control board issue—these components require specialized testing equipment.

APS Electronics has been a family‑run service business in eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island since 2015. As the authorized warranty servicer for Electrolux, Frigidaire, Speed Queen, and GE, we have direct access to manufacturer parts and service procedures. Whether you’re in Sharon, Quincy, or Plymouth, we’ll come to your home, diagnose the problem on the spot, and give you a clear estimate before any work begins. Our in‑home diagnostic fee is $175 for standard appliances and $225 for high‑end models; this fee is not applied toward any repair cost.

What to expect from a service visit

During the appointment, our technician will:

• Confirm the condition of the evaporator fan and motor.
• Inspect the evaporator coil for ice or damage.
• Test the temperature sensor and control board with manufacturer‑approved tools.
• Check the door seals and overall airflow inside the unit.
• Provide a written repair estimate, including parts and labor, before any work is performed.

Because we are an authorized warranty servicer, any warranty‑covered repair will be routed through the manufacturer, ensuring you receive the proper parts and service under the terms of your warranty.

If you’re dealing with a fridge that’s warm while the freezer stays frosty, don’t wait for the food to spoil. A quick check of the fan, ice buildup, and door seals can often point you in the right direction, and a prompt service call will get your refrigerator back to full performance. For reliable, in‑home service, call 781‑214‑8440.

FAQ

Q: Why is my freezer still cold when the fridge isn’t cooling?
A: The freezer and fridge share the same cooling system; if the evaporator fan or airflow is blocked, the freezer can stay cold while the fridge warms up.

Q: Can I fix a frozen evaporator coil myself?
A: It’s best to let a technician handle a frozen coil; improper defrosting can damage the unit or cause injury.

Q: Does the diagnostic fee count toward the repair cost?
A: No, the diagnostic fee is separate and is not applied toward any repair work.

Q: How quickly can APS Electronics service my refrigerator?
A: We schedule appointments based on availability and the urgency of the issue; you can call us to discuss a convenient time.