Wine cooler runs but does not cool; interior stays near room temperature

Critical safety warning: Sealed system repairs involve refrigerant handling and require EPA certification and specialized tools. Homeowners should not attempt to open the sealed system.

• Verify basic operation: Confirm that the compressor and both fans (evaporator and condenser) are running and that the condenser coil becomes slightly warm after 10–15 minutes.
• Check for frost pattern: With the inner rear panel removed, observe the evaporator coil after 10–20 minutes of run time. A healthy system will show an even light frost across most of the coil. Frost only at the inlet or no frost at all suggests a sealed system issue.
• Listen for compressor noise: A very quiet or clicking compressor that runs but does not cool may be mechanically weak.
• Inspect for oily residue: Look for oil stains on tubing joints, which can indicate a refrigerant leak.
• Next steps: If a sealed system problem is suspected, unplug the unit and contact an authorized Amana service provider. In many cases, sealed system repairs on compact wine coolers may not be cost-effective compared to replacement.