Whirlpool Freezer: not freezing

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing issues with your Whirlpool freezer not freezing? If the internal temperature fails to reach below -18°C, while the unit runs, you may have warm spots and inconsistent freezing. Common causes include improper temperature settings, dirty condenser coils, and faults in the evaporator fan or thermistor. This guide will help you diagnose and resolve the issue effectively.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

  • Thermistor and control board faults are commonly documented causes for Whirlpool freezers not maintaining freezing temperatures

Possible Causes

Incorrect temperature setting or overcrowded interior

How to Identify: Freezer set to a warmer setting or vents blocked by food; temperature setting not at recommended freezing level

Part: User controls/airflow

Dirty or inefficient condenser coils

How to Identify: Condenser coils dusty/clogged, cooling less efficient, compressor works harder or longer

Part: Condenser coils

Faulty evaporator fan motor

How to Identify: No airflow inside freezer, warm spots near vents but cold at back, no fan sound when door switch engaged

Part: Evaporator fan motor

Defective thermistor/temperature sensor

How to Identify: Freezer runs but doesn’t maintain set temp; multimeter resistance out of spec; control board may get incorrect temperature readings

Part: Thermistor (temperature sensor)

Control board malfunction

How to Identify: No proper activation of compressor/fans despite correct temperature readings; erratic behavior

Part: Control board

Defrost system failures (heater or timer) leading to icing

How to Identify: Excess frost buildup on evaporator coils, freezer cycles improperly, reduced cooling efficiency

Part: Defrost heater assembly or timer

DIY Solutions

Check and adjust temperature setting & airflow

Easy 5-15 minutes
  1. Verify control panel/dial set to freezing or colder
  2. Rearrange items to ensure air vents inside freezer are not blocked
  3. Wait 24 hours to observe temperature changes

Clean condenser coils

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum with crevice tool, coil brush
  1. Unplug freezer and pull it away from wall
  2. Locate condenser coils (back or under unit)
  3. Vacuum and brush dust off coils thoroughly
  4. Plug freezer back in and allow time to cool
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug before cleaning

Inspect evaporator fan airflow and test

Moderate 20-40 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, multimeter (optional)
  1. Unplug freezer and open freezer back panel
  2. Locate evaporator fan and check manually if it spins freely
  3. Reconnect power and activate door switch to see if fan runs
  4. If fan doesn’t run, consider replacement
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before accessing internal components

Professional Repairs

Replace thermistor (temperature sensor)

Estimated Cost: $30 - $150

Control board replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Evaporator fan motor replacement

Estimated Cost: $50 - $200

Defrost system repair (heater or timer)

Estimated Cost: $80 - $300

When to Call a Professional

No cold air despite checking settings and airflow
Unusual noises from compressor or fans
Compressor not running or frequent rapid cycling
Visible frost/ice buildup not resolved by manual defrost

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean condenser coils: Reduced cooling due to heat dissipation issues
    Frequency: annually
  • Inspect and clean door gasket: Cold air loss due to poor seal
    Frequency: every 3-6 months
  • Avoid overfilling freezer: Blocked airflow and uneven cooling
    Frequency: ongoing

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Freezer not freezing?
Common causes include incorrect temperature settings, dirty condenser coils, or issues with the evaporator fan or thermistor.
How do I fix Whirlpool Freezer not freezing myself?
Check the temperature settings, clean the condenser coils, and inspect the evaporator fan to ensure proper airflow.
How much does it cost to fix not freezing?
Repair costs range from $30 for a thermistor replacement to $400 for a control board replacement.
When should I call a technician for not freezing?
Call a technician if DIY fixes don't work, or if you suspect a faulty control board or defrost system.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty thermostat preventing the compressor from running
  • Dirty condenser coils reducing cooling efficiency
  • Blocked air vents restricting airflow inside the freezer

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and replace the thermostat if faulty. Locate the thermostat, disconnect power, and test it with a multimeter. Replace if it shows no continuity.

  2. Clean the condenser coils. Unplug the freezer, locate the coils, and use a vacuum or brush to remove dust and debris.

  3. Check for blockages in air vents. Inspect the vents inside the freezer for ice buildup or food obstruction and clear them.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Whirlpool upright freezer not freezing

Community Discussions

not freezing

Unplugging the freezer for 48 hours and cleaning it may help recalibrate it.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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