Are you having issues with error codes flashing on your Whirlpool refrigerator? You’re not alone – many Whirlpool refrigerator users reported a cooling-off error that requires diagnosis and repair.
In this guide, we will discuss what causes the cooling to go off and how to effectively handle it so your fridge can stay running in peak condition.
Usually, this issue doesn’t require professional repair as you can (safely) do it yourself. Read along to learn more about why this error happens and what you can do to prevent it in the future.
Why is your Whirlpool Refrigerator Cooling Off?
First, let’s see why your Whirlpool refrigerator suddenly turns the cooling off and if it could indicate another underlying core issue.
Usually, the “cooling off” message will appear if something is interrupting the cooling function of your Whirlpool refrigerator, so let’s look at the most common issues that could be causing this problem.
1. Clogged Condenser Coils
One of the reasons why your Whirlpool refrigerator may have cooled off is clogged condenser coils. Also, if you notice the fridge is making a lot of noise, it might have problems with the condenser.
The condenser coils are another part of your refrigerator that can become clogged and cause your Whirlpool fridge to start cooling off.
When they become dirty, they lose their ability to manage the refrigerator’s temperature properly. This can cause your food to spoil more easily, and you will start to see the temperature in your fridge go up.
This can happen even if you leave the door open only slightly to try and increase airflow around the condenser coils.
If you notice that your Whirlpool refrigerator is cooling off or making a lot of noise, it might be time to look at the condenser coils.
2. Power Failure
Your Whirlpool refrigerator may have cooled off due to a power failure. This is a common problem with most refrigerators and can be fixed easily.
No matter what type of fridge you have, whether it’s a traditional bottom-freezer refrigerator or one of the new side-by-side models, the cooling system will be affected by a power failure.
If you experience a longer power outage, keeping the fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible is essential to prevent warm air from getting inside. This helps to ensure that your food stays cold for as long as possible and prevents spoilage.
3. Door Seal Issue
The door seal on your Whirlpool fridge is important for keeping cool air in and preventing warmer air from entering. If the seal becomes worn or damaged, it may not be able to maintain the temperature in your appliance properly.
To test its condition, simply close your fridge door and try to pull it back open with a firm tug. If the door moves easily, then you likely have a worn seal that needs to be replaced. It is also possible that the door seal is clogged with dust and debris, preventing it from properly sealing.
4. Inadequate Temperature Setting
Another reason the cooling may be off on your Whirlpool fridge is because the temperature hasn’t been properly adjusted. You need to ensure that the temperature dial is set to a point where there is the right amount of cooling.
When it comes to food storage in your refrigerator, you always want to ensure that everything stays fresh and at its best. This means keeping an eye on how cold your fridge gets and making adjustments as needed.
Your Whirlpool fridge can provide a lower temperature setting, but you need to ensure that the correct temperature has been set properly.
How to Fix a Whirlpool Refrigerator Cooling Off
Detecting the core issue causing your fridge to turn the cooling off may take some time.
Keep reading to find out how you can troubleshoot your Whirlpool refrigerator, fix this issue, and prevent the cooling from turning off.
1. Clean the Clogged Condenser Coils
If clogged condenser coils are causing the cooling to turn off in your Whirlpool refrigerator, you may have to clean them. This is a fairly simple task that can be done in your own home.
- Turn off the power to the refrigerator and unplug it from the wall outlet. Let it sit for about an hour so that any residual electricity has dissipated, as there is some risk of shock when you begin working on the coils.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the cover panel for the refrigerator’s condenser coils. In most models, this should be located on either the back of the appliance or at its bottom side.
- Examine your condenser coils and look for any visible clogs or dirt build-up that could be causing issues with cooling. If you see this, use a cleaning spray or vacuum to remove the clogs and allow air to flow through the coils.
- Once any dirt or clogs have been removed, place the cover panel you removed in step 2 back and plug the refrigerator back into its power source. Let it sit for another hour before turning it on again so it can start to cool.
2. Restart the Whirlpool Refrigerator
After a power surge, it may be necessary to restart your Whirlpool refrigerator. To restart your Whirlpool refrigerator after a power surge, disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet.
Wait at least 30 seconds to allow any residual electricity in the system to dissipate. Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet and turn on your refrigerator.
3. Replace or Clean the Door Seal
In case the refrigerator door seal is clogged, you will have to clean it thoroughly to allow the cooling to restart.
In this case, you will need a dishwashing liquid, water, and a cotton cloth. Here’s how to clean the door seal properly:
- Open the refrigerator door and unplug it from the power socket immediately. Wait for about 20 minutes to allow any residual electric charge to dissipate.
- Mix warm water with a capful of dishwashing liquid in a plastic container.
- Wrap the cloth around the tip of the cotton swab and dip it into the solution. Move the cloth back and forth to remove any grime and dirt from the door seal without damaging it. If you notice no significant change, repeat this step until the seal is clean.
- Once you have cleaned the seal and removed any grime or dirt, use a dry cloth to wipe it down thoroughly.
- Plug your refrigerator back in and wait for 20 minutes before opening the door again. The cooling system should now be working properly once more. If it is not cooling, consider contacting a repair technician to take a closer look at the appliance.
However, if the door seal is damaged in any way, it is advised to replace it. To do so, start by removing the door seal completely.
Afterward, use a silicone adhesive to attach the new one in its place and press it firmly against the surface. Once the seal is installed correctly, plug the refrigerator back into the power socket and wait 20 minutes before checking if it is cooling as it should.
4. Set the Right Temperature
One of the main reasons why your Whirlpool fridge shows that the cooling is off is that the temperature hasn’t been properly adjusted.
Ensure that the temperature setting is suitable for the type of food you’re storing. Avoid putting warm foods in the fridge because they’ll raise their internal temperature and affect the cooling system negatively.
If the temperature is still too high, it’s possible that your fridge’s cooling system needs to be serviced. In this case, give Whirlpool a call and ask for help. They’ll send out a professional technician right away who will repair your appliance in no time.