Likely Causes
A dirty or blocked condenser coil restricting airflow
A dirty or blocked condenser coil restricting airflow. This is one of the more frequent reasons homeowners in our service area call about this exact symptom.
A failing condenser or evaporator fan motor
A failing condenser or evaporator fan motor. This is one of the more frequent reasons homeowners in our service area call about this exact symptom.
A low refrigerant charge from a slow sealed-system leak
A low refrigerant charge from a slow sealed-system leak. This is one of the more frequent reasons homeowners in our service area call about this exact symptom.
A compressor nearing the end of its service life
A compressor nearing the end of its service life. This is one of the more frequent reasons homeowners in our service area call about this exact symptom.
Safe Checks You Can Try First
- Check that the condenser coils (usually underneath or behind the unit) are free of dust and pet hair
- Confirm the temperature control isn't accidentally set too warm
- Listen for the compressor and fans actually running when the door is closed
When to Call a Technician
If the unit is still warm 24 hours after these checks, or you hear no compressor hum at all, it's time to call a technician — food safety is on the line.
Frequently Asked Questions
No — most cases like this are a specific, repairable part failure rather than a sign the whole unit needs replacing. A technician can tell you the realistic cost-versus-replace comparison on the spot.
The checks above are safe to try yourself. Beyond that, appliance repair involves electrical, gas, or refrigerant systems that are best left to a trained technician.