Amana Refrigerator Not Cooling? Try These Troubleshooting Tips Now

You just noticed your Amana refrigerator isn't cooling like it should. Uh oh, that's not good. Before you panic and start Googling for an expensive repair service, take a deep breath. There are a few simple things you can try yourself to get your fridge back to keeping things frosty. As an appliance technician, I've seen people spend hundreds of dollars on a service call for an issue they could have easily fixed in under an hour. Save yourself the time, money, and frustration by running through this quick troubleshooting checklist. With some luck, you'll be enjoying an ice-cold drink from your Amana fridge again in no time. Let's get started!

Introduction

Did you come home to find your Amana fridge not cooling properly? Don't panic, try these simple troubleshooting steps first before calling for service.

1.Check the settings

Make sure the temperature control dial isn't set too warm. The recommended setting for a refrigerator is 37 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (3 to 4 degrees Celsius). If it's higher than that, turn the dial to a cooler setting and wait a couple hours as it may take time for the temperature to adjust.

2.Ensure there's airflow

For your Amana to chill effectively, air needs to circulate. Ensure there's space between the fridge and walls so air can flow freely. Make sure the condenser coils (in back) are also dust-free. Use a vacuum with an extension hose to clean them.

3.Defrost the freezer

If the freezer is packed with ice, the fridge won't cool properly. Unplug the fridge and let the ice melt completely. This can take 24 hours. Then plug it back in, set the temperature to the recommended setting and add food once it's chilled.

4.Check the door seals

If the door seals are damaged or not sealing fully, cold air will escape. Inspect the seals for cracks, tears or gaps and replace if needed. As a temporary solution, you can apply weather stripping tape to problem areas.

Hope this helps get your Amana fridge cooling again. If issues continue after trying the steps above, it's best to call an appliance technician to check for any repairs needed. Stay cool!

Common Causes of an Amana Refrigerator Not Cooling

If your Amana fridge isn't cooling like it used to, don't panic. Chances are it's an easy fix. Here are some common culprits to check first:

1.Condenser Coils

The condenser coils are responsible for releasing heat from the fridge, so if they're clogged with dust, your Amana won't run efficiently. Unplug the fridge and use a vacuum with an attachment to clear away any debris from the coils.

2.Sealed System Leak

If there's a leak in the sealed system (the tubes containing refrigerant), your fridge won't stay cold. Call an appliance technician to test for leaks and recharge the system.

3.Thermostat Issues

The thermostat controls the temperature in your fridge. If it's malfunctioning, it may not turn on the compressor when needed. Try adjusting the temperature to a slightly warmer setting. If that doesn't work, the thermostat likely needs replacement by a pro.

4.Compressor Problems

The compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant through the system. If it's broken or worn out, your Amana fridge won't cool. Unfortunately, compressor issues require service from a refrigeration technician to properly diagnose and repair.

With regular maintenance and quick action when problems arise, your Amana fridge can keep your food fresh for years. Try these basic troubleshooting tips first before calling for costly repairs. Most of the time, DIY fixes or minor adjustments will have your fridge chilling in no time.

How to Troubleshoot an Amana Refrigerator Not Cooling

Have you noticed your Amana refrigerator not cooling as well lately? Before calling for expensive fridge repair, try these troubleshooting steps first to get it cooling properly again.

Check the temperature setting.

Make sure the temperature dial or digital display is set to the proper temperature for cooling, around 35 to 38 degrees Fahrenheit. If it was accidentally bumped to a warmer setting, adjust it back to the correct range.

Inspect the condenser fan.

The condenser fan blows hot air away from the condenser coils, which can prevent the fridge from overheating. Locate the fan near the back of the fridge; if it's not spinning, try spinning it manually. If it still won't turn on, it likely needs replacement.

Clean the condenser coils.

Dust and dirt on the condenser coils reduce efficiency and cooling ability. Pull the fridge out and use a vacuum with an extension hose or brush to remove built-up dust from the coils, which look like thin, black radiator fins. Cleaning the coils can significantly improve cooling.

Check the door seals.

Faulty door seals prevent the fridge from sealing properly, allowing cold air to escape. Inspect the seals around the door for cracks, tears or blockages; if damaged or ripped, the seals will need replacement. To check the seal, place a dollar bill between the seal and the door; it should offer some resistance when pulling out.

Try these basic troubleshooting steps before spending money on a service call. If cooling does not improve, it's best to have an Amana technician evaluate your fridge to determine if any parts need replacement or repair to get it chilling again.

Checking the Condenser Coils in Your Amana Refrigerator

Checking the condenser coils in your Amana refrigerator is an easy first step to troubleshooting why it's not cooling properly. The condenser coils are located behind or underneath your fridge.

Cleaning the Condenser Coils

• Pull your refrigerator out from the wall and unplug it. Make sure it's away from the wall so you can access the back.
• Use a vacuum with an extension hose or brush to remove any dust buildup on the condenser coils. Be very careful not to damage the coils.
• For stuck-on debris, use a commercial condenser coil cleaner or a DIY solution of equal parts water and white vinegar or water and lemon juice. Spray it on and let it sit, then wipe away with a sponge or scrub brush.
• Rinse the entire area with water to remove any remaining dirt or cleaning solution.
• Make sure the area around the refrigerator is also clean and spacious enough for proper airflow. Push your fridge back into place, plug it in and turn it on.

Dirty or clogged condenser coils prevent efficient cooling. Give your Amana refrigerator time to adjust to the newly cleaned coils—it can take a few hours to start cooling properly again. If it's still not chilling after 12-24 hours, it's best to contact Amana support for additional help. Cleaning the condenser coils is an easy fix, but other issues could also be preventing your fridge from cooling.

Replacing the Start Relay to Fix an Amana Refrigerator Not Cooling

If your Amana refrigerator is not cooling properly, the start relay could be the culprit. The start relay is responsible for providing power to the compressor and condenser fan. If it’s malfunctioning, your fridge won’t be able to circulate cold air. Here are the steps to replace the start relay:

Locate the Start Relay

• The start relay is typically found behind the lower kickplate or in the rear of the refrigerator. You may need to remove a cover panel to access it. The relay will be near the compressor - look for a small device with several wires attached.
• Turn off the power to the fridge at the breaker before proceeding. Then disconnect the wires from the old relay. Most Amana models use a three-terminal relay, so there will be three wires to remove. Note where each wire connects so you can attach the new relay properly.
• Remove the mounting screws or bolts holding the old relay in place. Install the new relay, securing it with the mounting hardware. Reconnect each wire to the proper terminal on the relay, matching the configuration of the old relay.
• Turn the power back on and check that the new relay is working properly. The compressor and condenser fan should turn on. Give the fridge a few hours to start cooling again. If it’s still not getting cold, the issue could be with the compressor or another component. But in many cases, replacing the start relay does the trick to get an Amana refrigerator cooling again.

When to Call a Repair Professional for an Amana Refrigerator Not Cooling

If your Amana refrigerator is no longer cooling properly, it’s time to call in the pros. While some issues are easy to fix yourself, problems with the sealed system require an expert's touch.

Refrigerant Leaks

If your fridge isn't cooling at all, low refrigerant is likely the culprit. The sealed system contains refrigerant gasses under high pressure to provide cooling. Any leaks in the pressurized tubing or seals can release the refrigerant, reducing efficiency. Only licensed technicians have the proper equipment and training to recharge the refrigerant and repair any leaks.

Compressor or Condenser Fan Failure

The compressor and condenser fan work together to circulate refrigerant and dissipate heat. If either component malfunctions, the fridge won't cool adequately. Replacing or repairing the compressor or fan motor requires disassembling major components, which is best left to a professional to avoid causing further damage or injury.

Control Board or Thermostat Issues

Problems with the control board or thermostat can disrupt the cooling cycle. If the fridge is intermittently cooling or the temperature is off, it likely needs replacement parts and reprogramming to restore proper function. It’s best to have an appliance repair technician test components to determine the exact cause and solution.

Rather than continuing to troubleshoot a non-cooling Amana fridge yourself, save time and money by calling for professional service right away. A trained technician has the skills and experience to quickly diagnose and repair issues with the sealed system or other complex components in your refrigerator. Get your appliance back to keeping your food cool and fresh—call for service today!

Conclusion

So there you have it, a few simple things you can try right now to get your Amana fridge cooling again. Don't let that spoiled food and lukewarm drinks get you down. Put that troubleshooting cap on, roll up those sleeves and get to work. With some patience and the tips we've shared, you'll be enjoying a nice cold glass of lemonade from your Amana fridge in no time. Stay determined and remember that you've got this! Get your fridge back to doing what it does best - keeping all your favorite foods fresh and frosty. You'll get through this little hiccup and your trusty Amana will be chillin' once more. Keep calm and cool on! In conclusion, if your Amana refrigerator is not cooling properly, take action now to diagnose and fix the issue. A malfunctioning fridge can lead to spoiled food and frustration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Have some frequently asked questions about your Amana refrigerator not cooling? We’ve got you covered.

Why is my Amana refrigerator not cooling?

There are a few possible reasons your Amana fridge may not be chilling properly:

• The thermostat could be malfunctioning, preventing the compressor from turning on.
• The compressor itself may need service or replacement. The compressor is responsible for pumping refrigerant through the system to provide cooling.
• There could be a refrigerant leak, reducing the amount of coolant in the system.
• The condenser coils could be dirty, preventing heat exchange.
• The evaporator fan might have stopped working, inhibiting air flow and cooling circulation.

What should I check first?

As a first step, verify that your Amana refrigerator is plugged in and the thermostat is set to an appropriate temperature. Next, inspect and clean the condenser coils, which are typically located behind or underneath the fridge. Vacuum away any dust buildup, which prevents the coils from releasing heat properly.

Do I need to call for service?

If checking the thermostat, plug, condenser coils and other DIY fixes don’t resolve the issue, it’s best to contact Amana service for an accurate diagnosis and repair. Refrigeration systems contain hazardous refrigerants and high-voltage components that should only be serviced by a certified technician. Trying to repair the fridge yourself could result in injury or void your warranty.

How much will repairs cost?

The cost to repair an Amana refrigerator not cooling will depend on the specific issue, as well as your refrigerator model and warranty status. Minor fixes like a thermostat replacement may be a few hundred dollars, while a compressor repair could be $500-$1500 or more. The good news is that many Amana refrigerators come with generous warranty coverage for the sealed system, which includes the compressor, condenser, evaporator and tubing. So fridge not cooling repairs may be fully or partially covered if your unit is still under warranty.

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank the online community for sharing their experiences, troubleshooting tips and success stories to help others. By posting questions, answers and reviews on sites like Reddit, YouTube and appliance repair forums, do-it-yourselfers everywhere have access to a wealth of knowledge to get their refrigerators back up and running.

Community Knowledge base

Homeowners have benefited from the accumulated wisdom of appliance technicians, master DIYers and everyday people encountering and solving the same issues. Videos, how-to guides and discussion threads on symptoms, diagnosing problems and fixing everything from defrost timers to thermostats have empowered many to make simple repairs themselves, saving time, money and hassle.

Sharing specifics on your particular Amana refrigerator model, trouble codes displayed and the steps taken to resolve cooling issues could help someone else down the road. Paying it forward and contributing your experience to the community knowledge base is greatly appreciated. Together, we can keep more refrigerators humming and food fresh for years to come.