Side-by-Side Refrigerator Not Cooling – What Part Fixes This Problem?
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
A side-by-side refrigerator that’s not cooling is one of the most common and frustrating problems. Symptoms can vary: freezer may be cold while the fridge is warm, both compartments may be warm, or the unit may run continuously without reaching temperature. Because side-by-side designs share a cooling system between freezer and fresh-food sections, a fault in airflow, defrost, compressor start components, or the control electronics can produce similar symptoms. Diagnosing the issue starts with observing temperature patterns, noises, frost or ice buildup in the evaporator area, and whether fans run. Many failures are caused by a single failed component (evaporator fan, condenser fan, start relay) or by icing from a defrost failure that blocks airflow. Replacing the correct part requires a few targeted checks — a multimeter, simple access to the evaporator and condenser areas, and basic safety precautions (unplug before working on the appliance).
Common Symptoms
Warm refrigerator compartment while freezer is cold or both compartments are warm, excessive frost or ice on the evaporator, loud or no running fans, compressor running but little/no cooling, frequent on/off cycling.
Common Causes
- Evaporator fan motor failed or blocked, stopping cold air circulation from freezer to fridge
- Defrost system failure (defrost heater, defrost thermostat or control) causing ice build-up that blocks airflow
- Compressor start device, relay or compressor failure preventing the refrigerant cycle
- Condenser fan motor failure or dirty condenser coils causing poor heat rejection
- Faulty main control board or temperature sensors/thermistors giving incorrect commands
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Quick check: open the freezer and listen for the evaporator fan when the compressor is running. If you hear the compressor but no evaporator fan and you see frost build-up, the evaporator fan or defrost system is a likely culprit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fix a side-by-side refrigerator that won’t cool myself?
Yes, many faults can be diagnosed and repaired by a handy homeowner: check for frost on the evaporator (defrost failure), verify fan motors run (evaporator and condenser), clean condenser coils, and listen for the compressor and relay clicks. Always unplug the fridge before working on electrical components. If the compressor or sealed system is suspected (no cooling and no compressor start), call a certified tech because refrigerant work requires special tools and certification.
How much does it cost to repair a not-cooling side-by-side refrigerator?
Cost varies by the failed part and labor rates. Typical DIY parts: evaporator or condenser fan motor $30–$120, start relay/overload $10–$60, defrost heater or thermostat $20–$150. Control boards and compressors are more expensive: control board $150–$400, compressor replacements or sealed-system repairs $500–$1,500+ including labor. A diagnostic service call is often $75–$150 depending on region.
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at ProsourceParts.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to ProsourceParts.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.