Whirlpool Refrigerator: not cooling, no interior lights, clicking sound

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling, with no interior lights and a clicking sound? This could indicate a faulty start relay, condenser fan issues, or power problems affecting the lights. Discover the potential causes and solutions to restore your fridge's functionality.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

Interior light failure may be caused by door switch not engaging or disconnected wiring harness. (Product Help | Whirlpool

Possible Causes

Faulty start relay causing compressor failure to start

How to Identify: Repetitive clicking every few minutes with compressor failing to run and warm interior; clicking sound from rear near compressor area. No cooling observed. Clicking often in a â€œclickâ€¦ pauseâ€¦ clickâ€ cycle.

Part: Start relay / overload protector on compressor

Failed or obstructed condenser fan motor

How to Identify: No sound or slow fan spin when fridge should be running; clogged by dust or debris; fridge not cooling despite compressor attempting to run. (Fridge Mentor

Part: Condenser fan motor / blades

No power to interior lighting due to door switch or wiring issue

How to Identify: Interior lights fail to turn on when doors open; check if door switch plunger is engaging, or if wiring harness is unplugged. (Product Help | Whirlpool

Part: Door switch / interior light wiring

Dirty or dusty condenser coils reducing cooling efficiency

How to Identify: Condenser coils covered in dust, poor heat dissipation, fridge runs longer or gets warm without effective cooling.

Part: Condenser coils

Faulty evaporator fan or airflow blockage

How to Identify: Freezer may be cold while fridge is warm; little or no airflow from freezer to fridge.

Part: Evaporator fan motor

Professional Repairs

Replace evaporator fan motor

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200

When to Call a Professional

If fridge still clicks and does not cool after start relay and fan cleaning checks.

If compressor is hot and clicking continues indicating possible sealed system failure.

If evaporator fan motor replacement is needed.

If electrical wiring damage or interior power loss persists.

Preventive Maintenance

Clean condenser coils: Dust buildup causing cooling inefficiency
Frequency: every 6 months
Inspect door gaskets and align doors: Air leaks and interior light switch misalignment
Frequency: every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Refrigerator not cooling, no interior lights, clicking sound?

This issue may be due to a faulty start relay, obstructed condenser fan, or a wiring issue affecting the interior lights.

How do I fix Whirlpool Refrigerator not cooling, no interior lights, clicking sound myself?

Unfortunately, there are no DIY solutions recommended for this issue. Professional assistance is advisable.

How much does it cost to fix not cooling, no interior lights, clicking sound?

Professional repairs, such as replacing the evaporator fan motor, typically cost between $80 and $200.

When should I call a technician for not cooling, no interior lights, clicking sound?

You should call a technician immediately, as this issue requires professional diagnosis and repair due to its urgency.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

70%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

Defective Start Relay
Faulty Compressor
Tripped Circuit Breaker or Blown Fuse

User Suggested Solutions

Check the circuit breaker or fuse. Reset the breaker or replace the fuse if necessary. Ensure the refrigerator is plugged in securely.
Inspect the start relay by unplugging the refrigerator, removing the relay, and testing it with a multimeter. Replace if faulty.
If the compressor is suspected to be faulty, check for signs of overheating or unusual noises. If confirmed, replace the compressor.