Freezer runs but does not get cold enough; compressor and fan run almost continuously
Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Do not attempt to open the sealed refrigeration system yourself; refrigerant handling requires certification.
Steps:
- Check temperature: Use a thermometer to confirm the freezer is above the target temperature despite long run times.
- Inspect for frost pattern: Remove the inner rear panel and observe the evaporator coil after 15–20 minutes of running. A healthy system shows even frost across most of the coil.
- Identify symptoms: If only a small section of the coil frosts, or there is no frost at all while the compressor runs, this suggests a sealed system issue.
- Check condenser and airflow: Ensure condenser coils are clean and the condenser fan (if present) is running. Poor airflow can mimic sealed system problems.
Next steps: If airflow and coils are clean but cooling remains poor with an abnormal frost pattern, contact a licensed refrigeration technician for leak detection, repair, and recharging.