Refrigerator - Does Not Run or Cool

We understand the concern of realizing that your Refrigerator is not running or cooling and the need to get this fixed quickly. If your Refrigerator is not cooling and does not seem to be running, there are a few things you should check before considering repair service. Hopefully, one of the tips below will get the appliance running.

 

Diagnosing a Refrigerator That Does Not Run or Cool

  1. First, open the Refrigerator and see if you have light in the fresh food section. If not, this could indicate you don't have power to the Refrigerator. Make sure the fridge is plugged into the wall outlet and make sure you are getting power at the outlet.

  2. If you have lights, make sure the thermostat (controls) were not turned off by accident. You can take a look at the Owner's Manual for your specific Refrigerator model to see how to properly set the controls.

  3. Note that the compressor and fans do not run during the defrost cycle which could make the Refrigerator seem like it quit running. Depending on the model, the defrost cycle can be as long as 30 to 45 minutes and can occur once or twice a day.

  4. If there was a short power outage, the compressor overload will cycle on and off (not the compressor) until the refrigerant system equalizes at which point the compressor will start and refrigeration will resume. There is no need to cycle the power to the Refrigerator for this to happen. This is a safety feature that protects the compressor in the event of a power failure or if the customer should unplug the appliance and plug it right back in. This is an automatic feature and no consumer intervention is required.

  5. The Refrigerator may be in the Demo Mode.

Repair Service Required

If service is required, keep the Refrigerator plugged in to make sure the symptoms do not disappear. This helps the technician better diagnose the Refrigerator. For a repair, please schedule a service appointment with GE Appliances Factory Service.