Few home issues feel as urgent as a refrigerator that stops cooling. Spoiled food, melted ice cream, and rising temperatures can quickly turn into a costly headache.
Before you panic or start shopping for a new fridge, there’s good news — many cooling problems can be fixed quickly. In this guide, Yanfix, your trusted same-day appliance repair company in Ottawa, walks you through the most common causes of fridge cooling issues and how to solve them.
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse — our trained technicians are ready to help today. We offer same-day appliance repair, transparent pricing, and a 90-day warranty on all work.
Check the Power and Thermostat Settings
Sometimes, the simplest explanation is the right one. A fridge that isn’t cooling may not be getting power, or the thermostat might be set too high.
Quick Fix:
- Ensure the fridge is properly plugged in.
- Check if the interior light turns on.
- Make sure the thermostat is set to 37–40°F (3–4°C).
- Avoid placing the fridge near heat sources (like ovens or radiators).
If everything seems fine but cooling hasn’t resumed after a few hours, there may be a deeper issue.
Dirty Condenser Coils
Dusty or greasy coils are one of the top reasons fridges lose cooling efficiency. These coils release heat from inside the unit, and when they’re dirty, your fridge has to work harder — often without success.
Quick Fix:
- Unplug the fridge.
- Locate the coils (usually behind or underneath).
- Clean them gently with a coil brush or vacuum.
- Plug the unit back in and allow several hours for temperature stabilization.
💡 Pro Tip: Clean the coils at least twice a year — more often if you have pets.
Blocked Air Vents
Fridges rely on airflow between the refrigerator and freezer sections. If vents are blocked by food containers or frost buildup, cold air can’t circulate properly.
Quick Fix:
- Move items away from vents to improve airflow.
- Defrost if you notice ice buildup.
Don’t overfill the fridge — leave space for air to move freely.
Faulty Evaporator Fan or Condenser Fan
Your refrigerator has fans that circulate cool air and expel heat. If either fails, your fridge will stop cooling efficiently.
Quick Fix:
- Listen for unusual noises — squealing, rattling, or silence may signal a fan issue.
- Unplug and inspect for debris or obstructions.
If the fan motor isn’t spinning freely, it needs replacement by a technician.
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse — our trained technicians are ready to help today. We offer same-day appliance repair, transparent pricing, and a 90-day warranty on all work.
Malfunctioning Start Relay or Compressor
The compressor is the heart of your fridge. If the start relay fails, the compressor may not turn on, leaving the fridge warm.
Quick Fix:
- Listen for a clicking sound — if it clicks repeatedly without humming, it’s likely a relay issue.
- Replacing a start relay is a simple fix for a professional.
- If the compressor itself is faulty, that requires expert service.
Yanfix technicians in Ottawa can diagnose compressor or relay problems quickly and provide same-day repair or replacement.
Frost or Ice Buildup on Coils
Too much frost on the evaporator coils can block airflow, causing warm spots and inconsistent cooling.
Quick Fix:
- Defrost your fridge by unplugging it for 24 hours.
- Once melted, clean and dry all interior surfaces.
- Plug it back in and monitor performance. If frost reappears within days, the defrost system (heater or timer) may need repair.
Door Seal Leaks
Worn or dirty door gaskets can let cold air escape, forcing the fridge to work harder and cool less effectively.
Quick Fix:
- Inspect the rubber seal for cracks or gaps.
- Clean it with warm soapy water and dry it thoroughly.
- If the seal is loose, replace it — this is one of the cheapest fixes for poor cooling.
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse — our trained technicians are ready to help today. We offer same-day appliance repair, transparent pricing, and a 90-day warranty on all work.
When to Call a Professional Technician
You should call Yanfix Ottawa if:
- The fridge is running constantly but not cooling.
- You see frost buildup or puddles of water.
- The compressor makes loud or clicking noises.
- You’ve tried basic fixes without success.
Our same-day refrigerator repair service in Ottawa covers all major brands — Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, GE, Bosch, and more — and includes a 90-day warranty on all repairs.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Cooling Issues
Task | Frequency | Why It Matters |
Clean condenser coils | Every 6 months | Improves energy efficiency |
Check door seals | Quarterly | Prevents air leaks |
Defrost freezer | As needed | Keeps airflow consistent |
Keep vents clear | Always | Ensures even cooling |
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid overloading your fridge — air circulation is key to consistent cooling.
Why Choose Yanfix in Ottawa
Ottawa homeowners choose Yanfix for refrigerator repairs because we provide:
- Same-day appointments — no waiting for days.
- Upfront pricing — clear quotes before work starts.
- Certified technicians — experienced with all major brands.
- Full 90-day warranty on parts and labour.
- Local expertise — serving Kanata, Nepean, Orleans, Barrhaven, and surrounding areas.
Need help now? Visit contacts page to book your same-day fridge repair in Ottawa.
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse — our trained technicians are ready to help today. We offer same-day appliance repair, transparent pricing, and a 90-day warranty on all work.
FAQ Section
Why is my fridge running but not cooling?
The most common causes are dirty coils, faulty fans, or a broken start relay. Clean the coils first — if the problem continues, call Yanfix.
How can I tell if my compressor is bad?
If your fridge isn’t cooling and you hear clicking or humming, the compressor may be failing. A technician can confirm with testing tools.
Can a fridge lose cooling because of a dirty condenser coil?
Absolutely. Dirty coils trap heat and prevent proper cooling. Cleaning them can solve the issue within hours.
How fast can Yanfix repair my fridge in Ottawa?
We offer same-day refrigerator repair for most cases — often completed during the first visit.
Do Yanfix repairs come with a warranty?
Yes! Every repair includes a 90-day warranty on both parts and labour.
Conclusion
A refrigerator that stops cooling doesn’t always mean it’s time to buy a new one. Many issues — from dirty coils to worn seals — can be fixed quickly by a trained technician.
With Yanfix, you’ll get fast, reliable, same-day service in Ottawa backed by experience, transparency, and a full warranty.
Keep your food fresh and your mind at ease — book your repair today and let our experts restore your fridge’s performance.
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse — our trained technicians are ready to help today. We offer same-day appliance repair, transparent pricing, and a 90-day warranty on all work.
