Opening the door to find your refrigerator isn’t cold is alarming enough to make you call for a repair. But before you reach for the phone, a Bosch refrigerator not cooling can have simple solutions. From power source problems to incorrect temperature settings, we’ll troubleshoot some easy DIY fixes.
Bosch Refrigerator Not Cooling? Here’s How to Pinpoint the Problem
Fixing a problem is much more difficult when you don’t know where to start. Our troubleshooting tips address the most common causes for a Bosch refrigerator not cooling to quickly fix the glitch.
#1. Check the Power Source
Is your refrigerator light off when you open the door? If so, then a power issue may be responsible for your Bosch refrigerator not cooling. We recommend these assessments to check your refrigerator’s power sources:
- Make sure the refrigerator’s power cord is plugged in properly.
- Test the refrigerator’s outlet to make sure it’s delivering electricity.
- Check your home circuit breaker box for tripped breakers. Reposition breakers as needed.
#2. Clean the Condenser Coils
A refrigerator’s condenser coils help cool refrigerant so it can produce cool air. However, these coils are often located on the back or bottom of the refrigerator and can easily become covered in dust and dirt. When this happens, the coils may be unable to properly cool the refrigerant and the refrigerator’s internal temperature can rise.
Cleaning the condenser coils can help restore the refrigerator’s temperature. We suggest cleaning the coils every 6-12 months with these simple steps:
- Locate the condenser coils
- Use a narrow hose vacuum attachment to vacuum accumulated dust and debris.
- Gently circulate an appliance brush in and around the coils to capture hard-to-reach dust and dirt.
- Vacuum up any lingering dust particles around the coils and on the floor.
#3. Replace the Door Gasket
The rubber gasket on your refrigerator door creates a seal that prohibits cold air from escaping and warm air from entering. However, if this seal is dirty or damaged, the refrigerator door won’t close properly and you’ll notice that your Bosch refrigerator is warm.
While you can clean a dirty gasket with a damp cloth, clear signs of damage may not always be visible. You can test your gasket’s function by placing a dollar bill halfway in the door before closing it. If you encounter resistance when pulling the bill out, then the gasket is intact. If it slides out easily, the gasket is no longer functioning optimally and should be replaced.
#4. Check the Temperature Settings
If you find your refrigerator not cooling but the freezer works fine, check the temperature settings for your refrigerator. These settings can inadvertently be changed or moved by shifting objects in the refrigerator, changing the internal temperature. Make sure the temperature is set between 35-37°F for optimal cooling.
#5. Part Failure
If these troubleshooting tips still leave you with a Bosch refrigerator not cooling properly, then it’s possible a component has failed. These parts can be responsible for temperature changes when they malfunction:
- Defective condenser fan motor: the condenser fan blows air over the condenser coils to aid in cooling refrigerant. If the fan motor is defective then the refrigerant may not cool sufficiently, causing warmer refrigerator temperatures. A defective condenser fan motor requires replacement.
- Malfunctioning evaporator fan motor: an evaporator fan blows air to cool the refrigerant and then circulates cool air throughout the refrigerator and freezer. If it malfunctions, the refrigerator may not receive enough cool air. A malfunctioning fan motor requires replacement.
- Faulty thermostat: the thermostat measures the refrigerator’s temperature, signaling the compressor to provide more cold air as needed. If the thermostat is faulty, it can fail to signal the compressor and the refrigerator won’t receive cool air when it needs it. A faulty thermostat needs to be replaced.
Dave Smith Appliance can help with any Bosch refrigerator repair. Call us to schedule a fast and professional service.
