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Why Your Refrigerator Stopped Cooling Suddenly: Top 5 Reasons

September 23, 2025 admin 0 Comments

A refrigerator is one of the most essential appliances in any household. From storing fresh produce to keeping beverages chilled during hot summers, it’s something families can’t live without. But when your refrigerator stops cooling, the inconvenience is immediate, groceries spoil quickly, meal plans get disrupted, and costs can add up.
According to industry insights, the Canadian appliance market continues to grow steadily, highlighting the significant reliance on reliable machines that we have every day. Yet, no fridge is immune to problems. The good news? Most cooling failures come down to a few common causes.

In this blog, we’ll highlight the top 5 reasons why refrigerators stop cooling and how homeowners across Canada, especially in regions like the GTA, can deal with them.

Common Reasons Why Your Refrigerator Stopped Cooling

1. Dirty Condenser Coils

Over time, dust and dirt accumulate on the condenser coils at the back or bottom of your fridge. This is especially common in Canadian homes with pets or during long winters when indoor air circulation is reduced. When coils are dirty, your fridge struggles to release heat, making it less efficient.

Signs of the problem:

  • The fridge feels warm even though it’s running.
  • Visible dust or debris on the coils.

Quick Fix:
Unplug your refrigerator and carefully clean the coils with a brush or vacuum. Experts recommend doing this at least twice a year, particularly before summer, when refrigerators work at their peak capacity.

2. Faulty Evaporator Fan

The evaporator fan circulates cold air inside your fridge and freezer. If it breaks, you might notice uneven cooling common in Canadian homes where freezers stay cold but the fridge warms up.

Signs of the problem:

  • The freezer is cold, but the fridge section feels warm.
  • Loud or unusual noises when the fan is running.

Quick Fix:
Check if the fan blades spin freely. If the motor has failed, replacing it is the only solution.

3. Broken Thermostat or Temperature Control

A faulty thermostat prevents the compressor from kicking in when needed. This is a frequent reason why your refrigerator stopped cooling suddenly.
Signs of the problem:
Fridge temperature doesn’t change, even after adjustments.

Food either freezes or stays too warm.

Quick Fix:
Try resetting the thermostat to a lower temperature. If that doesn’t help, the thermostat or control board may need replacement.


4. Malfunctioning Compressor

The compressor is the “engine” of your fridge, pumping refrigerant through the system. If it fails, your refrigerator won’t cool at all. In Canada, power surges during storms or long-term wear can cause compressor issues.

Signs of the problem:

  • The fridge is completely warm inside.
  • The compressor is silent or makes a clicking sound without running.

Quick Fix:
Compressor problems require professional help. This is not a DIY fix and may involve part replacement.

5. Defective Start Relay

The start relay powers the compressor. If it’s defective, the compressor can’t start, leaving your fridge warm.

Signs of the problem:

  • Clicking noises as the fridge tries to start.
  • Lights and fans work, but no cooling happens.

Quick Fix:
Replacing a faulty start relay is a relatively simple job, but it’s best handled by a technician to ensure safety.

When DIY Fixes Don’t Work

Some issues, like dirty coils or thermostat resets, are easy enough to handle on your own. But when those fixes don’t work, it’s time to bring in professionals. Attempting complicated repairs can cause more damage or even safety risks.

That’s when it pays to rely on expert refrigerator repair services in GTA. Skilled technicians can quickly diagnose the issue, replace parts if needed, and get your fridge cooling again, saving both your groceries and your budget.

Preventive Tips to Avoid Cooling Issues

Canadian households can reduce the chances of sudden cooling problems by following these simple maintenance tips:

  • Clean coils regularly: At least twice a year, especially before summer.
  • Check door seals: Cold air leaks are common in older homes.
  • Avoid overloading your fridge: Proper airflow keeps temperatures even.
  • Replace water and air filters on schedule: This improves both performance and efficiency.
  • Schedule annual refrigerator repair check-ups: Preventive service is always cheaper than emergency repairs.

These steps help extend the lifespan of your fridge while keeping your food safe and fresh.

Conclusion

When your refrigerator stops cooling, the cause is often one of five common problems: dirty coils, a faulty fan, a broken thermostat, compressor trouble, or a defective start relay. Some of these can be handled at home, but others require a professional touch.

Don’t let spoiled food and unexpected costs ruin your day. For reliable, fast, and affordable solutions, contact SS Appliance Solutions today. Our team specializes in professional refrigerator repair across the GTA and beyond, helping Canadian families keep their homes running smoothly year-round.

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