Got a freezer that’s humming but not freezing? You’re not alone. A warm or frosting freezer can throw your food plan into chaos, but most fixes are simple enough to try before you pick up the phone.
1. Freezer not cooling at all – First, check the power. Is the plug loose? Is the circuit breaker tripped? If the freezer is plugged in and the light works, the next step is to verify the temperature setting. Many people accidentally set it to “fresh food” mode, which runs warmer. Set it back to the coldest setting and give it a few hours.
2. Frost buildup inside – Too much frost blocks airflow and makes the compressor work harder. Defrost it manually: unplug the unit, leave the door open, and let the ice melt. Place towels to catch water. Once dry, wipe the interior, turn it back on, and watch for recurring frost. If it keeps forming, the door seal might be the culprit.
3. Door won’t stay closed – A warped door or a damaged gasket lets warm air sneak in. Close the door on a piece of paper; you should feel resistance. If the paper slides out easily, the seal needs replacing. You can buy a new gasket from a local shop and install it yourself – just follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Strange noises – Clicking or buzzing can mean the evaporator fan is stuck or the compressor is working overtime. Unplug the freezer, locate the fan (usually behind the back panel), and clean away dust or debris. Spin the fan by hand; it should turn smoothly. If it’s stuck, a simple replacement part often solves the issue.
5. Water leaking at the bottom – This often happens when the drain tube is clogged. Locate the tube (usually a small pipe at the back) and flush it with warm water. A pipe cleaner can help dislodge blockages. After clearing, the water will drain properly and the frost won’t melt onto the floor.
DIY fixes work for most minor hiccups, but some signs mean it’s time to bring in a professional. If the compressor is hot to the touch, you hear a loud humming without cooling, or the unit trips the breaker repeatedly, stop fiddling and call Glastonbury Appliance Repair. These symptoms point to internal component failure that requires specialist tools and parts.
Another red flag is a persistent foul smell. A bad odor usually means food has spoiled inside, and cleaning the interior might not be enough – the evaporator coil could be contaminated, which needs a deep clean.
Calling us means you get a qualified technician who knows the make and model of your freezer. We’ll diagnose the exact problem, give you a clear price, and fix it right the first time. Our rates are transparent, and we work fast so your food stays safe.
Before you book, have these details ready: the freezer’s brand, model number (usually on a sticker inside the door), and a brief description of what’s wrong. This helps us bring the right parts and speeds up the repair.
Remember, regular maintenance keeps freezers happy. Clean the coils every six months, check the door seal weekly, and defrost when frost gets thicker than a quarter‑inch. Small habits prevent big breakdowns.
If you’ve tried the simple steps and the freezer is still acting up, don’t waste time guessing. Give Glastonbury Appliance Repair a call, and we’ll have your freezer freezing again in no time.
If your freezer isn’t cooling, you don’t have to panic or call a repair guy right away. There are simple checks and fixes that anyone can try at home, often saving you time and money. This article covers the top reasons freezers stop cooling and gives step-by-step advice for each problem. You’ll also get quick tips to avoid future breakdowns. No need to be an expert—just a little guidance and a few minutes can go a long way.