Heating & Cooling Experts

Each replay uses a recreated ChatGPT interface so the placement can be read in its original conversational context. It is not a live or embedded chat.

1. ObservedJul 14, 2026Conversation1 turnsPlacementAfter turn 01 turns · After turn 0Replay chat
   Observed conversationJul 14, 2026 · interface recreation

   ChatGPTArchived view

   My refrigerator is running constantly but the food section is not staying cold. Is this usually repairable?

   Yes. In many cases, a refrigerator that runs continuously but isn't keeping the fresh food compartment cold is repairable. The key is identifying the cause, because the cost can range from a simple cleaning to a major sealed-system repair.

   Some of the most common causes are:

   • Dirty condenser coils: If the coils are coated with dust or pet hair, the refrigerator can't shed heat efficiently and may run almost nonstop. Cleaning them is inexpensive and often restores normal performance.
   • Evaporator fan problem: The freezer makes the cold air, and the evaporator fan circulates it into the refrigerator compartment. If the fan has failed or is blocked by ice, the freezer may stay somewhat cold while the refrigerator warms up.
   • Damper (air vent) issue: A stuck or broken damper can prevent cold air from flowing from the freezer into the fresh food section.
   • Defrost system failure: If frost builds up on the evaporator coils, airflow is restricted. This is a common repair involving the defrost heater, thermostat, or control board.
   • Door gasket leak: A torn or loose gasket lets warm air in, causing the compressor to run constantly.
   • Sealed system or compressor problem: If the refrigerator has lost refrigerant or has a weak compressor, it may run continuously without cooling well. These are among the most expensive repairs.

   A few things you can check yourself

   1. Is the freezer still cold (around 0°F/-18°C), or is it warm too?
   2. Open the freezer and listen for a small fan running after holding the door switch closed.
   3. Look at the back wall inside the freezer. Is there a thick layer of frost?
   4. Check whether the condenser coils underneath or behind the refrigerator are dirty.
   5. Make sure nothing is blocking the air vents between the freezer and refrigerator compartments.

   Is it worth repairing?

   • If the problem is a fan motor, thermostat, defrost component, damper, or dirty coils, repairs are often relatively affordable and worthwhile.
   • If it's a sealed-system leak or compressor failure, the repair can be expensive. For refrigerators more than about 10–15 years old, replacement is often the more economical choice.

   If you can tell me:

   • the brand and model,
   • how old the refrigerator is,
   • whether the freezer is still cold, and
   • whether you see frost on the back wall of the freezer,

   I can help narrow down the most likely cause.

   

   GEM Plumbing & Heating ServicesAd

   Heating & Cooling ExpertsThe solution to your home comfort problems.