My Frigidaire Refrigerator Does Not Blow Cold on Top

New Install

• If the refrigerator is newly installed in your home, you might not have a problem at all. When first installed, the unit needs 24 hours to fully cool down. If you have just gotten the unit, try giving it a day and check back to determine if it is cooling or not. If not, you can continue troubleshooting.

Not On

• The unit may not be blowing cold because it is not on. First, take a look at the power outlet to confirm that it is plugged into a power source. Once you do that, take a look inside the unit where the temperature settings are located. In the same area, you will find an “off/on” switch or button. You might need to turn the unit on.

Temperature Too High

• The refrigerator has a temperature control knob or panel for both the freezer and the refrigerator. Look at that control knob to make sure the setting is not set warmer than you want. If it is, make an adjustment to the temperature you prefer. When you do this, it will take up to 24 hours for the unit to fully cool down to the new setting.

Blocked Vents

• For a side by side refrigerator, blocked vents can be the cause of a lack of cool air. The wall that divides the refrigerator and freezer has vents at the top and bottom and circulate air between the two sides. If food gets situated so that the vents are blocked, it prevents the air from moving. As a result, it can get too warm in the unit. Keeping food away from the vents will prevent this from happening.

Coils Dirty

• Excessively dirty coils on the back of the refrigerator might be to blame for the lack of cold air. Dirty coils interfere with the compressor’s ability to keep the unit cool. You can clean the coils off with a vacuum. Just use a hose attachment and run it over the dirty coils to remove the buildup. Once you do this, it can take a few hours for the unit to cool down.

Faulty Compressor

• The compressor is the part of the refrigerator that works to maintain the thermostat setting. If you have tried to troubleshoot the lack of cold air with no success, the problem may be the result of a faulty compressor. Consult a local refrigerator repair technician to replace the compressor.