A refrigerator that stops cooling is one of the most urgent breakdowns in summer, because food spoils quickly. Sometimes the fridge runs and the motor hums, but the inside temperature does not drop; sometimes the appliance "dies" completely. The cause can range from a simple setting error to a failed compressor. In this article we explain why a refrigerator stops cooling, which steps you can safely take at home, what to avoid, and how the 166 Usta diagnostic works.
A normal temperature is about 3–5°C in the refrigerator compartment and approximately −18°C in the freezer. If the temperature remains high, move perishable food to a safe place and do not consume food whose safety is uncertain.
The most common causes include a faulty compressor, a freon (refrigerant) leak, a layer of ice forming on the back wall and blocking the ventilation openings, a worn door gasket (rubber seal) that lets warm air in, and a faulty thermostat or temperature sensor. In addition, placing the fridge next to a stove or in direct sunlight, leaving the door open for long periods, and unstable mains voltage all weaken cooling.
If the freezer works but the refrigerator compartment is warm, the cold-air circulation, fan, air duct, damper or defrost system often needs checking. If both compartments are warm, the power supply, compressor and refrigeration circuit may require broader diagnostics.
Loss of refrigerant is not normal consumption. Pressure and temperature should be measured, a possible leak should be located, and refrigerant should not simply be added before the leak is repaired.
First check the thermostat dial — it is sometimes accidentally turned to minimum. Make sure the door closes fully and the rubber gasket has not lost its elasticity. If there is a thick layer of ice on the back wall, unplug the fridge, remove all food and fully defrost it with the doors open for at least 24 hours. Check whether the condenser coil (radiator) at the back is dusty; if so, unplug the appliance and clean it with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner.
Also check that the plug is firmly inserted, the outlet works and the circuit breaker has not tripped. Leave space for airflow behind and beside the appliance, do not block internal air vents with food, and do not place hot dishes directly inside. If the refrigerator was recently transported, follow the waiting period in the manufacturer’s instructions before switching it on.
Do not try to chip away ice with a knife or sharp tool — you can puncture the tubing and cause a freon leak. Do not recharge freon yourself, as it requires special equipment. Do not switch the appliance on and off repeatedly when it is not cooling, as this harms the compressor. Also, do not restart the fridge immediately after switching it off — wait at least 10–15 minutes so the compressor can start smoothly.
If you notice a burning smell, sparks, repeated breaker trips, oily traces, damaged pipes, loud clicking or an overheated compressor, disconnect the appliance from power and contact a technician.
The professional refrigerator technician service from 166 Usta accurately identifies the fault on site. Technicians test the compressor and start relay, measure freon pressure, find and fix the leak, recharge gas to standard, check the thermostat and sensors, and replace the door gasket when needed. For power-supply issues, an electrician assists too. To book, visit our contact page, and for more useful articles see our blog.
The technician clarifies the fridge's brand and model, the number of compartments (No Frost or drip system), whether the problem affects both compartments or just one, whether the motor runs, and whether there is unusual noise. Based on this, it is faster to determine whether the issue relates to electronics, the compressor, or the gas system. The wider technician network is available at 166.az, and appliance technical service at 166tech.az.
