Hi all,
Our Kenmore side-by-side is not getting cold enough. The freezer is around 30F (set to 0F) and the fridge is around 44F (set to 36F). The compressor is running round the clock. The fan in the freezer is working well (blowing a lot of cold-ish air) and I can feel some circulation in the fridge but not a lot. I am about to take the cover off and check the coils for frost but this is a new-to-us fridge (2011 model) and it has only been plugged in for 48 hours.
Thoughts?
It should be down to temperature after 48 hours.
Check the door seals.
Is the condenser/compressor fan running?
Are the condenser coils under the unit clean?
Are the vents in the kick plate and the rear cover clean?
If OK then remove the cover in the freezer and check the evaporator coils.
If there is just frost in one area (usually where the freon enters the coil) then it is probably a sealed system problem and it will be an expensive repair as ypou need a pro.
It often makes more sense to put the dollars towards a new unit.
If the coils are clogged solid then it may be a defrost problem.
Usually this can be fixed a a DIYer.
Below is a link to a problem similar to yours
http://www.applianceaid.com/refrigerator-not-cold-enough.php
For a sealed system problem take a look at the 3 example pictures part way down the page.
I am about 90% sure it is the seals. The doors have popped open several times in the middle of the night the last two nights (the fridge has an audible alarm if the door is open too long).
It’s going back and being replaced this week. Thanks again.
You are welcome.
When you get the new on be sure to check that it is level side to side and front to back or leaning slightly to the back.