Refrigerator not cooling but freezer works
If the refrigerator is not cooling but the freezer works, cold air is not reaching the fresh-food section. Frost on the evaporator cover or a failed evaporator fan is more likely than a dead compressor. If neither side is cold, clean the condenser coils and check the door seals. LG FF and GE FF are the fan codes.
First things to check
- If the freezer is cold and the fridge is warm, frost on the evaporator cover or a failed evaporator fan is blocking airflow — that is not a dead compressor.
- If both compartments are warm, clean the condenser coils and confirm both doors seal.
- Check for frost blocking the freezer back wall before ordering a fan motor.
- Match your symptom to the error codes and compatible parts listed below.
- Replace the faulty part or call a technician if the fix requires sealed systems or live voltage work.
Related error codes
Related replacement parts
FAQ
Why is my refrigerator not cooling but the freezer works?
Airflow between the freezer and the fridge is blocked. Defrost the evaporator cover and listen for the evaporator fan. Replace the fan only if it does not run after the ice is gone.
Why is my refrigerator not cooling or freezing?
Both compartments warm points at power, dirty condenser coils, a failed condenser fan, or the compressor — not the evaporator fan that only serves the fridge.
Why is my refrigerator not cooling but the freezer is fine?
A cold freezer with a warm fridge means air is not moving into the fresh-food section. Clear frost from the evaporator cover and listen for the evaporator fan.
Why is my refrigerator not cooling but the light is on?
The light only proves the outlet has power. If the freezer is cold, look at airflow. If both sides are warm, clean the condenser coils and check the door seals.
Why is my refrigerator not cooling enough?
A fridge that is cool but not cold enough usually has blocked airflow or dirty condenser coils. Clear frost from the freezer back wall and vacuum the coils.
Why is my refrigerator not cooling after a power outage?
Give it a few hours after power returns. If the freezer gets cold and the fridge does not, frost or the evaporator fan is blocking airflow.
What should I check first?
If the freezer is cold and the fridge is warm, frost on the evaporator cover or a failed evaporator fan is blocking airflow — that is not a dead compressor. If both compartments are warm, clean the condenser coils and confirm both doors seal. Check for frost blocking the freezer back wall before ordering a fan motor.
What error codes are related to this problem?
GE FF, GE dE, LG FF, LG rF, Samsung 21E, Samsung 22E, Frigidaire SYEF
When should I call a technician?
Call a pro if you smell burning or gas, see sparking, or the same code returns after replacing the suspected part.
When to call a professional
Call a technician if you smell gas, see sparking, or basic checks don't resolve the issue.
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