Freezer runs but is not cold enough; food is soft or partially thawed; compressor and fans seem to run frequently.

Safety first: Unplug the freezer before cleaning coils or working near moving parts.

Steps to improve cooling:

• 1. Verify settings and load: Ensure the temperature is set to the recommended level (around 0°F). Avoid overloading the freezer or blocking air vents with packages.
• 2. Clean condenser coils: Pull the freezer away from the wall. Use a coil brush and vacuum to remove dust from the condenser coils under or behind the unit. Improved airflow can significantly improve cooling.
• 3. Check door gasket: Inspect the gasket for gaps or tears. Close a sheet of paper in the door and pull; if it slides out easily, the seal is weak. Replace the gasket if necessary.
• 4. Confirm evaporator fan operation: Open the door and press the door switch; you should hear the fan running. If not, see the evaporator fan fault section.
• 5. Look for frost pattern: Remove the interior rear panel and inspect the evaporator. A light, even frost across the entire coil is normal. Heavy ice on only part of the coil or no frost at all suggests a sealed system problem.

When to call a technician: If cleaning and gasket checks do not restore proper temperature, or if the frost pattern is abnormal, a sealed system or control issue likely exists and requires professional service.