Refrigerator not cooling at all; both fresh food and freezer compartments are warm, interior lights work, and fans may or may not run.

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator before accessing the compressor area. Sealed system repairs require a licensed technician.

• Listen for compressor: After plugging in, listen at the back. A clicking sound every few minutes with no steady hum suggests a bad start relay.
• Check condenser fan: If the fan near the compressor is not running when the unit calls for cooling, there may be a control or power issue.
• Inspect start relay: Remove the rear access panel, pull off the relay/overload from the compressor, and check for burn marks or rattling. Replace if suspect.
• Evaluate compressor: If a new relay does not start the compressor, or the compressor is extremely hot and silent, the compressor or sealed system is likely failed and needs professional replacement.
• Do not puncture lines: Never cut or open refrigerant lines yourself; this is hazardous and illegal without proper certification.