Why fridges struggle here
A refrigerator works by moving heat out of the cabinet and releasing it into the kitchen. In a hot, humid kitchen that job is harder: warm room air makes the condenser work harder, doors opened often let in humid air, and dust collects on coils and fans. Fridges tucked into tight alcoves or placed beside ovens struggle most. The result is a machine that runs nearly all the time, and any weak component such as a fan, seal, sensor or defrost part quickly shows up as warm food, ice build-up or puddles.
Refrigerator repair is for anyone whose fridge or freezer is not keeping food properly cold, is leaking, icing up, noisy or constantly running. It suits families, shops, small cafes and anyone with a spare or garage freezer.
Signs that your fridge needs repair
- Food is not cold enoughThe fridge is merely cool, milk spoils early or the freezer is soft. Possible causes include dirty coils, failed fans, door seal leaks, thermostat or sensor faults, or a sealed-system problem.
- Freezer works, fridge section is warmOften an airflow or damper problem: the cold air produced in the freezer is not reaching the fridge compartment.
- Ice build-up at the back or around the doorDefrost system or door seal faults.
- Water pooling under or inside the fridgeA blocked defrost drain, a cracked tray or a faulty water line.
- Constant runningDirty condenser, poor ventilation, door seal gaps or low cooling capacity.
- Loud buzzing, clicking or rattlingFan, compressor start components or loose parts.
- Frequent on-off cyclingThermostat, relay or electrical issues.
- Sweating on the outsideDoor seal or humidity problems.
How we diagnose a refrigerator
- Ask about the symptomsWhich compartment is warm, when it began, whether there are noises, leaks or error lights, and any recent power cuts or relocation.
- Check the basicsDoor seals, door alignment, ventilation space around the unit, settings and obvious frost or blockages.
- Coils and fansCondenser coils, evaporator and condenser fans are checked for dirt, damage and correct operation.
- Sensors, thermostat and defrostThe parts that control temperature and clear frost are tested.
- Compressor and cooling systemIf the simpler causes are ruled out, a technician checks start components, the compressor and signs of a sealed-system problem.
- Explain, repair and testWe tell you the cause and options, repair the fault and then let the fridge run and check it is cooling properly.
About "fridge gas"
Refrigerators also use a sealed refrigerant circuit, and, as with air conditioners, low refrigerant means a leak, not consumption. But many fridge problems look like low gas and are not: dirty coils, a failed fan, a worn seal or a defrost fault produce the same warm food. A sensible repair rules those out first. Our article on fridge gas leaks and look-alike faults explains the difference.
What to do when the fridge stops cooling
- Keep the doors closed as much as you can. A closed fridge keeps food cold for a good while, while repeated opening lets the cold out.
- Check that the plug is in, the socket has power and the temperature setting has not changed.
- Move the most perishable items to another fridge, a cool box or a neighbour's freezer if the problem looks serious.
- Do not refreeze thawed food and discard anything that has been warm too long. Our guide on what to do first when a fridge stops cooling goes through this step by step.
- Contact us with the symptoms and a photo of the model label.
Keeping a fridge healthy
Leave space around the unit for air to circulate, vacuum the condenser coils when the appliance is unplugged if the manual allows, keep door seals clean and check that the door closes fully. Do not overfill the cabinet so air cannot circulate. Our kitchen appliance care guide has more practical routines.
Need help with your AC or appliance?
Call or message us on WhatsApp. Tell us the appliance, its make and model if you have them, and what is happening. A photo or short video of the fault helps.
Available 24/7 · We aim to respond within 30 minutes · 6-month warranty on repair work
Refrigerator repair FAQs
How long can food stay in a fridge that has stopped cooling?
That depends on the temperature and the food. As a cautious guide, perishable foods that have been above safe temperature for several hours should not be eaten. When in doubt, throw it out.
Is the freezer ice the problem or a symptom?
Usually a symptom. Heavy ice often indicates a defrost fault or door seal leak, so removing it only helps temporarily.
Why is my fridge cold but leaking water?
A blocked defrost drain is the classic cause, followed by a damaged water tray or a loose water line on models with a dispenser.
Can a fridge be repaired after a power surge?
Often, if the damage is limited to control boards, relays or start components. A technician can test which parts are affected.
Is it worth repairing an old fridge?
Many faults, such as seals, fans, thermostats and defrost parts, are worth repairing on a unit that is otherwise sound. After diagnosis we will give you a candid view.
Helpful guides
Refrigerator Guides
Fridge Stopped Cooling? What to Do in the First Hours
When a fridge warms up, the next few hours matter. Here is how to protect food, run safe checks and decide when it is time to call for repair.
Refrigerator Guides
Common Fridge Faults in Hot, Humid Climates
A fridge works harder in a hot, humid kitchen. These are the faults that appear most often and what each one means.
Refrigerator Guides
Fridge Gas Leak or a Look-Alike Fault? How to Tell
Many fridge problems look like a gas leak but are not. Learn the difference before assuming the worst.