What is actually happening
On a fridge freezer the freezer side normally does the cooling for both compartments, so a freezer that has stopped freezing while the fridge is still cold is unusual and points at airflow rather than the compressor. The most common cause of all is a thick layer of ice on the evaporator, which stops air moving over the coil no matter how well the compressor is working.
The usual causes
- A failed defrost heater or defrost timer, letting ice build up over the evaporator
- A failed evaporator fan, so cold air never circulates
- A door left ajar or a failed door seal, packing the compartment with frost
- A refrigerant leak
- A failed thermostat or sensor
What you can safely check yourself
Work through these in order. Anything past this point — panels off, testing parts, anything to do with the wiring — is an engineer's job, and not one to attempt with the appliance plugged in.
- Empty it and defrost it fully for twenty-four hours with the door open, then run it again — if it works and then fails a few weeks later, that is the defrost system
- Check the door seal and that nothing is holding the door open
- Listen for the fan when the door switch is held in
Still not freezing?
Most of these need an engineer once the checks above are done. £66 including VAT for an engineer to come out and diagnose it, or £84 in total including VAT if it is put right on the visit and no parts are needed. Any parts needed are quoted on site before we fit them — you decide. Every repair carries a 90-day workmanship guarantee.
Local engineers covering Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire — same and next-day appointments, and the person who comes out is one of ours, not a subcontractor.
Call 0115 648 0929 Book online — postcode and number is all we need
Common questions
Why is my freezer not freezing?
The freezer is running but the contents are soft or thawing. On a fridge freezer the freezer side normally does the cooling for both compartments, so a freezer that has stopped freezing while the fridge is still cold is unusual and points at airflow rather than the compressor. The most common cause of all is a thick layer of ice on the evaporator, which stops air moving over the coil no matter how well the compressor is working.
Can I fix a freezer not freezing myself?
Empty it and defrost it fully for twenty-four hours with the door open, then run it again — if it works and then fails a few weeks later, that is the defrost system. Check the door seal and that nothing is holding the door open. Listen for the fan when the door switch is held in. Beyond those checks this one normally needs an engineer.
How much does it cost to repair a freezer not freezing?
£66 including VAT for an engineer to come out and diagnose it, or £84 in total including VAT if it is put right on the visit and no parts are needed. Any parts needed are quoted on site before we fit them — you decide. Every repair carries a 90-day workmanship guarantee.