Fridge not cooling or leaking water? Common causes and fixes

A fridge that is not cold enough puts your food at risk, so it is worth acting quickly. These are the most common causes we see, and what you can check yourself.

Not cooling enough

• Temperature dial. Check that it has not been moved to a low setting by mistake.
• Door seal. Close the door on a strip of paper. If the paper slides out easily, the rubber seal is weak and cold air is escaping.
• Too much food. A packed fridge blocks the air vents inside. Leave some space so cold air can move around.
• Dirty coils. Dust on the coils at the back or bottom makes the fridge work harder. Unplug the fridge and clean them gently with a brush or vacuum.
• No space behind the fridge. Keep a gap of a few inches (about 5 to 10 cm) at the back and sides for air to escape.

Water on the shelf or floor

Water at the bottom of the fridge compartment is often caused by a blocked defrost drain. The melted frost cannot flow out, so it collects inside. A leak on the floor can also come from a loose water tray or a cracked door seal that causes extra frost. If cleaning the drain does not help, a technician should check it.

Protect the compressor

Fridges do not like sudden voltage changes. A voltage protector helps protect the compressor, and if the fridge was switched off, give it a few minutes before switching it on again.

When to call a technician

Call us if the fridge stays warm after these checks, the compressor runs all the time or makes loud buzzing sounds, there is heavy frost build-up, or you notice a burning smell.