Whirlpool Refrigerator: not heating

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Whirlpool refrigerator not heating properly? If the interior feels warmer than usual and food is spoiling, it may not be cooling as designed. This issue can stem from dirty condenser coils, blocked air vents, or a malfunctioning thermostat. Address it quickly to avoid food loss.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

  • Whirlpool refrigerators may have specific thermistor sensor and damper assemblies that can fail and lead to warm fridge compartments even when freezer is cold.

Possible Causes

Dirty or dusty condenser coils reducing heat dissipation

How to Identify: Warm exterior back of fridge, fridge running constantly with poor internal cooling, visible dust/debris on coil surfaces

Part: Condenser Coils

Malfunctioning thermostat or temperature control

How to Identify: Incorrect internal temperature readings, fridge fails to trigger compressor, no clicking sound when adjusting settings

Part: Temperature Control Thermostat

Faulty start relay preventing compressor from starting

How to Identify: Compressor not starting or buzzing, fridge warm despite power, relay tests show lack of continuity

Part: Start Relay

Refrigerant leak or compressor failure

How to Identify: Hissing sounds, oily residue around tubing, compressor warm/hot with no cooling effect

Part: Compressor / Refrigerant System

Blocked air vents limiting airflow between freezer and fridge

How to Identify: Items blocking vents, uneven cooling between compartments; adjust interior items to ensure airflow

Part: Air Vents / Damper Assembly

DIY Solutions

Clean Condenser Coils

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum, coil brush, screwdriver (if needed to access coils)
  1. Unplug the refrigerator.
  2. Locate the condenser coils on back or beneath the fridge.
  3. Use a coil brush and vacuum to remove dust/debris.
  4. Reconnect power and monitor cooling over next 24 hours.
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug unit before working near electrical components.

Ensure Airflow Is Unblocked

Easy 10-15 minutes
  1. Remove or reorganize items blocking interior vents.
  2. Ensure no containers or food are pushed against airflow paths.
  3. Check that freezer vents are not iced over or obstructed.

Check and Adjust Temperature Settings

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Locate the temperature control dial or digital panel.
  2. Set refrigerator to recommended cold setting.
  3. Wait up to 24 hours to see if temperatures stabilize.

Professional Repairs

Replace Evaporator Fan Motor

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150 (parts) + labor

Replace Start Relay or Compressor

Estimated Cost: $100 - $600+

Repair Refrigerant Leak and Recharge System

Estimated Cost: $200 - $700+

Replace Thermistor or Damper Control Assembly (Brand Specific)

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200+

When to Call a Professional

Fridge fails to cool after cleaning coils and adjusting settings
No airflow from evaporator fan or fan not spinning
Compressor not running or making unusual noises
Signs of refrigerant leak (hissing, oily residue)
Thermistor or control board suspected faulty

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean condenser coils: Heat dissipation issues leading to poor cooling
    Frequency: every 3–6 months
  • Check door gaskets for proper seal: Warm air infiltration causing fridge to run more and cool less
    Frequency: quarterly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Refrigerator not heating?
Common causes include dirty condenser coils, blocked vents, or a malfunctioning thermostat.
How do I fix Whirlpool Refrigerator not heating myself?
Clean the condenser coils, unblock air vents, and check temperature settings to restore cooling.
How much does it cost to fix not heating?
Professional repairs can range from $50 for parts to over $600 for major issues like compressor replacement.
When should I call a technician for not heating?
Call a technician if DIY fixes don't work, or if you suspect a refrigerant leak or compressor failure.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Defrost heater failure (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Replaced the entire evaporator coil assembly and heating element

    Success rate: 50.0%

  2. Replaced the burnt connector and ice maker

    Success rate: 50.0%
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Whirlpool fridge ice problems with the heater coil
  2. Can't Find Replacement Part - Whirlpool WRT313CZLZ00 Defrost...

Community Discussions

defrost heater needs replacement

Replaced the entire evaporator coil assembly and removed the heating element for installation.

DIY View on Reddit →

heater coil problem with ice maker, either always on or never shuts off

Replaced the burnt connector and ice maker, but issues persisted; possible manufacturing defect.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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