Your refrigerator runs 24 hours a day, so when something goes wrong, it disrupts everything. The good news — most refrigerator problems come down to a handful of common causes that a certified technician can fix quickly.
Refrigerator Not Cooling
This is the most common refrigerator complaint. Your fridge is running, the light is on, but food isn't staying cold.
Most likely causes:
- Dirty condenser coils — dust buildup prevents heat from escaping
- Evaporator fan failure — cold air isn't circulating from the freezer
- Worn door gaskets — warm air is seeping in
- Faulty thermostat — the compressor isn't getting the signal to run
The simplest check: close the door on a piece of paper. If you can pull it out easily, your door seal is worn and needs replacing.
Can't figure out the cause?
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Refrigerator Making Loud Noises
Some refrigerator noise is normal — the compressor hum, occasional clicking, or water dripping during defrost. These noises are not:
- Loud buzzing or rattling — usually the condenser fan hitting debris, or the compressor vibrating against the housing
- Clicking that repeats every few minutes — often the compressor struggling to start
- Grinding or scraping sounds — evaporator fan blade hitting ice buildup
Unusual noises that start suddenly and don't stop should be checked by a technician before they turn into a bigger problem.
Refrigerator Leaking Water
Water pooling inside or underneath your refrigerator usually has one of two causes:
- Blocked defrost drain — the most common cause. Food debris blocks the drain hole at the back of the freezer, and water overflows onto the floor instead.
- Clogged water filter or supply line — if your fridge has a water dispenser or ice maker, a loose connection or old filter can cause leaks.
Quick fix to try: Pour a small amount of warm water into the defrost drain at the back of the freezer to clear any blockage.
Freezer Works But Fridge Is Warm
If your freezer is ice cold but the refrigerator section is warm, the problem is almost always the evaporator fan motor. This fan pushes cold air from the freezer into the fridge section. When it stops, the freezer stays cold but the fridge warms up.
This is a straightforward repair for a technician and is usually resolved in one visit.
When to Call a Professional
Clean condenser coils and check door seals yourself. For everything else — compressor issues, fan motor replacement, refrigerant leaks, and control board failures — call a certified technician.
FixWell Appliance Repair serves San Francisco and Marin County with same-day appointments.
FAQ
How long should a refrigerator last?
Most refrigerators last 10–20 years. If yours is under 12 years old, repair is almost always more cost-effective than replacement.
Why is my fridge warm but freezer cold?
Almost always an evaporator fan issue. The cold air isn't circulating into the fridge section.
How much does refrigerator repair cost in San Francisco?
Most repairs range from $220–$450 depending on the part. FixWell provides upfront pricing before any work begins.