Repair help
Why Is My Freezer Not Freezing? And How to Fix
AAZparts Team
Updated on June 24, 2025
5 min read
If your freezer isn't staying as cold as it should, the issue could be caused by dirty condenser coils, faulty fans, worn door gaskets, or a malfunctioning control board. These problems not only affect your freezer but can also impact your refrigerator’s overall performance. At AZParts, we provide reliable replacement parts to help you fix cooling issues quickly and keep your appliance running efficiently.
Troubleshooting a Freezer That Won’t Freeze
Is your freezer running but not keeping things frozen? Here are a few simple but effective steps to identify and fix the issue:
1) Check and reset the thermostat setting
Sometimes, the problem is as simple as an accidental bump to the thermostat dial. Make sure it’s set to the correct temperature. Try rotating it from the lowest to the highest setting—if you hear a click, the thermostat might still be functional.
To be sure, test it with a multimeter for continuity. If it fails, replacing the thermostat could restore proper cooling.
To be sure, test it with a multimeter for continuity. If it fails, replacing the thermostat could restore proper cooling.
2) Inspect the defrost timer
A stuck defrost timer can prevent your freezer from entering the cooling cycle.
To test:
To test:
- Unplug the freezer.
- Use a screwdriver to manually turn the defrost timer’s advancement screw until you hear a click.
- Wait 30–60 minutes. If the freezer doesn’t start cooling, the defrost timer likely needs replacement.
3) Clean the condenser coils
Dust and grime on condenser coils make it harder for the freezer to release heat, reducing cooling efficiency.
- Unplug the appliance.
- Use a brush or vacuum to clean the coils (usually at the back or underneath).
- Wipe with warm soapy water if needed, but avoid spilling water on internal components.
- Let it sit for an hour, then plug it back in.
4) Check the Door Seal
A worn or dirty door seal can allow warm air to seep in, compromising your freezer’s ability to stay cold.
Try this simple test: close the freezer door on a dollar bill and pull it out. If there’s little to no resistance, the seal may be failing.
Clean the gasket thoroughly to remove dirt and residue. If the issue persists, you may need to replace the gasket or realign the door for a tighter seal.
Try this simple test: close the freezer door on a dollar bill and pull it out. If there’s little to no resistance, the seal may be failing.
Clean the gasket thoroughly to remove dirt and residue. If the issue persists, you may need to replace the gasket or realign the door for a tighter seal.
5) Inspect the Evaporator Coils
If your evaporator coils are frosted over, air can’t circulate properly inside the freezer. This may point to a faulty defrost heater.
Use a multimeter to test the heater for continuity. If the component is no longer conducting electricity, it should be replaced.
Dust buildup on the evaporator coils can also block airflow, so be sure to clean around the coils as needed.
Use a multimeter to test the heater for continuity. If the component is no longer conducting electricity, it should be replaced.
Dust buildup on the evaporator coils can also block airflow, so be sure to clean around the coils as needed.
6) Check the Compressor
The compressor is the heart of your freezer’s cooling system. A healthy compressor will emit a low humming noise.
If you hear repetitive clicking or no sound at all, the compressor or its start relay may be malfunctioning.
Use a multimeter to test for continuity, and inspect the relay—if it smells burnt, it’s time for a replacement.
If you hear repetitive clicking or no sound at all, the compressor or its start relay may be malfunctioning.
Use a multimeter to test for continuity, and inspect the relay—if it smells burnt, it’s time for a replacement.
7) Examine the Condenser Fan Motor
Located near the compressor, the condenser fan helps dissipate heat.
If the blades are obstructed or the motor is running rough, cooling efficiency can suffer.
Ensure the blades spin freely and quietly. If they don’t, or if the motor feels hot or sluggish, replacing the fan motor may resolve the issue.
If the blades are obstructed or the motor is running rough, cooling efficiency can suffer.
Ensure the blades spin freely and quietly. If they don’t, or if the motor feels hot or sluggish, replacing the fan motor may resolve the issue.
8) Keep Your Freezer Well-Stocked
Believe it or not, a full freezer operates more efficiently than an empty one. Frozen items help maintain a consistent temperature, reducing the appliance's workload and energy consumption.
Aim to keep your freezer at least two-thirds full. If you're running low on food, use water bottles, ice trays, or other frozen goods to fill the space. Even distribution of items also helps improve airflow and performance.
Aim to keep your freezer at least two-thirds full. If you're running low on food, use water bottles, ice trays, or other frozen goods to fill the space. Even distribution of items also helps improve airflow and performance.
Look for Frost on the Freezer’s Back Wall
Freezer Not Freezing: Troubleshooting FAQs
Is your freezer not freezing while the fridge still works? Or are you struggling with uneven cooling or melted ice cream? Below are common reasons your freezer may not be getting cold—and how to fix them.
Why Are My Refrigerator and Freezer Not Cooling?
There could be several culprits:
- Faulty thermostat or control board
- Blocked air vents
- Dirty condenser coils
- Worn door gaskets
- Malfunctioning fan motor
Check power connections, clean the coils, and ensure proper ventilation around the unit.
Why Is My Fridge Cold But Freezer Not Freezing?
If the fridge seems fine but the freezer is warm, dirty condenser coils or a faulty evaporator fan might be the issue. Try vacuuming the coils and ensuring nothing is blocking airflow inside the freezer.
Why Is My Freezer Cold Only at the Top or Bottom?
Overpacking the freezer can block the fan and cause uneven cooling. Rearrange your frozen items to allow better airflow.
Why Won’t Ice Cream Freeze Properly?
If your freezer freezes meat but not ice cream, the temperature might be too warm. Make sure your thermostat is set to 0°F (-18°C) . If your unit is in the garage, ensure it’s rated for garage use.
Need Replacement Parts for a Freezer Not Freezing?
If your freezer is not freezing , and basic troubleshooting doesn’t fix the issue, a faulty component may be to blame. Over time, mechanical parts can wear down, leading to poor performance or complete failure. Here are some parts that may need replacement to restore proper function:
- Thermostat – If the temperature is not consistent or too warm, your freezer’s thermostat may not be working correctly.
- Defrost Timer or Heater – Ice build-up on the evaporator coils can prevent cold air from circulating. A malfunctioning defrost system is a common cause of freezers that stop freezing.
- Evaporator Fan Motor – This fan circulates cold air throughout the freezer. If it’s broken or making noise, it may need to be replaced.
- Condenser Fan Motor – Helps remove heat from your freezer. If it fails, your unit may run hot or stop freezing altogether.
- Start Relay and Overload Protector – These work with the compressor. If your freezer hums but doesn’t cool, the relay could be faulty.
- Compressor – A major component that compresses refrigerant. A failing compressor will often result in no cooling at all.
- Door Gasket – Worn-out or cracked seals let warm air inside, causing frost buildup or reduced freezing performance.
At AZParts , we offer a wide selection of high-quality, OEM-compatible freezer replacement parts that fit popular brands such as Frigidaire, Whirlpool, GE, LG, Maytag, and Kenmore. Whether you're dealing with a deep freezer not freezing or a side-by-side unit with cooling issues , you’ll find the exact part you need.
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