Whirlpool Side-by-Side Freezes But Doesn't Cool

Refrigerator Not On

• The side-by-side unit can have a perfectly working freezer and a refrigerator side that is not cooling. This can happen if the refrigerator side is not turned on. The sides have separate “Off” settings that will shut off the cooling or freezing for each side. Check your refrigerator control panel to see if the refrigerator side has been turned off. If it has, simply turn the setting to "On." Note that it does take up to 24 hours for the refrigerator to cool normally once it has been turned off.

Temperature Too Low

• The refrigerator has a temperature control setting that enables you to make that side cooler or warmer. Some units have a control knob, while others have a slide control or even a digital control. Usually the factory default temperature is marked by an arrow or a large dot. Check your setting to determine if you need to lower the temperature in the refrigerator. If you do, it should be lowered by only one setting at a time. Give it 24 hours to take full effect. If it is still not cool enough, lower the temperature until you get it where it needs to be to cool what's stored in the refrigerator.

Amount of Food Stored

• When you add a large amount of food to your refrigerator at once, it affects the unit’s ability to cool. In fact, it takes several hours for the refrigerator to cool back down to the normal temperature once you've added a large amount of food to the unit. Making sure that the door to the refrigerator is closed will assist in cooling the unit more quickly.

Open Door

• If the refrigerator door is left open, or you open it an excessive number of times, this can result in that side not being cool. When the door is opened, it not only allows the cool air to escape, it also allows warm air into the refrigerator. Making sure that the door is closed or opened less frequently will help keep the temperature inside cool.

Internal Problems

• If you have tried to troubleshoot the unit without success, you may need to seek the assistance of a qualified appliance repair professional. Contact Whirlpool directly, or consult a local professional for assistance.