I have a 2003 Frigidaire side by side that is having problems. About a week ago I noticed the items in the freezer were cold, but not frozen. Fridge side working fine. After a couple days in denial, we threw out our freezer food and I called a repair man. After about 20 minutes of general looking he concluded that I had a freon leak brought on by dust/hair insulating the coils and getting them hot enough to melt solder joints. Since unit is 10 years old, recommended I just replace unit instead of repairing coils. About this time the fridge started to get warmer as well. Figured time for a new fridge.

But to save fridge items prior to new purchase, I shifted everything from fridge to freezer (from 45-50 degrees to perfect 32-35 degrees). Its now been another 2 days and my freezer (on max cold) is maintaining a nice 32 degrees and my fridge (also max cold) is now at 40 degrees. Question is, if I have a freon leak why am I still maintaining these temperatures....or could it be something else?

Please advise, need to repair or replace soon.

Thanks

Thanks for prompt response. I wondered if it was a defrost problem (freezer stuck in defrost mode). I will empty contents and remove panel to check evaporator. Repair man only removed bottom plate on back of unit.

Yes. The experienced repair person may come to this conclusion just by checking the compressor's and condensor's temperature, and amperage draw.

Simon.