1. Look at the condenser
The condenser is the radiator-like coil, usually behind a grille at the bottom or top. If it’s matted with dust and grease, the fridge can’t get rid of heat. The photo above is a real one we cleaned. That’s the most common cause we see.
2. Check the door seals
Close the door on a sheet of paper. If it slides out easily, the seal is leaking warm air in. Torn or flattened seals are a simple fix.
3. Is the evaporator iced up?
Ice built up on the coil inside means the fridge isn’t defrosting properly. Don’t chip it off with a knife. Call us.
4. Check the controller
Make sure the set temperature hasn’t been changed, and note any alarm or fault code on the display.
5. Don’t overload it
Packing it full or loading it with hot food blocks the airflow and makes it struggle.
6. Is the fan running?
Listen for the fans inside and at the condenser. A silent fan or a loud grinding noise points to a fan motor fault.
When to call us
If it’s still above 8°C (or a freezer above -15°C), move high-risk food to another unit and call us. Refrigeration breakdowns are treated as urgent.
Need it fixed? See our refrigeration repairs page.