Freezer is cold but refrigerator section is warm; ice cream is hard but milk spoils quickly.

Safety first: Disconnect power before removing freezer panels. Use gloves to protect from sharp metal and ice.

• Check freezer back wall: Look for heavy frost or snow buildup on the inside rear panel. This indicates a defrost problem.
• Listen for evaporator fan: Close the doors for 1–2 minutes, then open the freezer and listen for a fan running. If silent, the evaporator fan motor may be bad.
• Manual defrost: To restore cooling temporarily, unplug the unit and leave doors open for 24–48 hours, or carefully use a hair dryer on low to melt ice behind the panel. Protect flooring from water.
• Inspect defrost components: With the rear freezer panel removed, test the defrost heater and defrost thermostat/thermistor for continuity. Replace any open components.
• Check air damper: Locate the air damper between freezer and refrigerator. Ensure it opens and closes when temperature is adjusted. Replace if stuck closed.