Common Refrigerator Problems and How to Fix Them

A refrigerator is one of the most essential appliances in any home, and even a small issue can put your food at risk. Below are some of the most common refrigerator problems, what causes them, and simple steps you can take before calling for professional service.

1. Refrigerator Not Cooling Properly

Possible causes:

• Dirty condenser coils
• Faulty evaporator fan
• Low refrigerant levels
• Blocked air vents

What to do:

• Clean the condenser coils (usually located at the back or bottom).
• Make sure items aren’t blocking airflow inside the fridge.
• Listen for the fan — if it’s quiet or inconsistent, it may need replacement.
• If cooling is still weak, the sealed system may require professional repair.

2. Freezer Working but Fridge Warm

Possible causes:

• Frost buildup
• Defective damper control
• Evaporator fan not running

What to do:

• Check for frost in the freezer — defrost the unit if needed.
• Ensure the fan inside the freezer is spinning.
• If the damper door is stuck closed, a technician will need to replace it.

3. Refrigerator Leaking Water

Possible causes:

• Clogged defrost drain
• Cracked drain pan
• Faulty water line (for ice maker models)

What to do:

• Flush the defrost drain with hot water.
• Inspect the drain pan underneath for cracks.
• Check water lines behind the fridge for leaks or loose connections.

4. Strange Noises Coming from the Fridge

Possible causes:

• Condenser fan issues
• Compressor starting to fail
• Ice buildup touching the fan

What to do:

• Clean the fan area.
• Remove excess frost.
• Loud buzzing or clicking may indicate compressor problems — call a professional immediately.

5. Ice Maker Not Working

Possible causes:

• Low water pressure
• Frozen water line
• Malfunctioning ice maker assembly

What to do:

• Make sure the water supply valve is fully open.
• Check the fill tube for ice blockages.
• If the ice maker isn’t cycling, the assembly may need replacement.

Need Expert Refrigerator Repair?

If your fridge still isn’t working correctly, our licensed technicians can diagnose the problem and provide fast, reliable repairs.
Need a check-up? Call Star Appliance Repair at (647)-847-8774 today!