A refrigerator that stops cooling is one of the most urgent breakdowns in summer, because food spoils quickly. Sometimes the fridge runs and the motor hums, but the inside temperature does not drop; sometimes the appliance "dies" completely. The cause can range from a simple setting error to a failed compressor. In this article we explain why a refrigerator stops cooling, which steps you can safely take at home, what to avoid, and how the 166 Usta diagnostic works.
The most common causes include a faulty compressor, a freon (refrigerant) leak, a layer of ice forming on the back wall and blocking the ventilation openings, a worn door gasket (rubber seal) that lets warm air in, and a faulty thermostat or temperature sensor. In addition, placing the fridge next to a stove or in direct sunlight, leaving the door open for long periods, and unstable mains voltage all weaken cooling.
First check the thermostat dial — it is sometimes accidentally turned to minimum. Make sure the door closes fully and the rubber gasket has not lost its elasticity. If there is a thick layer of ice on the back wall, unplug the fridge, remove all food and fully defrost it with the doors open for at least 24 hours. Check whether the condenser coil (radiator) at the back is dusty; if so, unplug the appliance and clean it with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner.
Do not try to chip away ice with a knife or sharp tool — you can puncture the tubing and cause a freon leak. Do not recharge freon yourself, as it requires special equipment. Do not switch the appliance on and off repeatedly when it is not cooling, as this harms the compressor. Also, do not restart the fridge immediately after switching it off — wait at least 10–15 minutes so the compressor can start smoothly.
The professional refrigerator technician service from 166 Usta accurately identifies the fault on site. Technicians test the compressor and start relay, measure freon pressure, find and fix the leak, recharge gas to standard, check the thermostat and sensors, and replace the door gasket when needed. For power-supply issues, an electrician assists too. To book, visit our contact page, and for more useful articles see our blog.
The technician clarifies the fridge's brand and model, the number of compartments (No Frost or drip system), whether the problem affects both compartments or just one, whether the motor runs, and whether there is unusual noise. Based on this, it is faster to determine whether the issue relates to electronics, the compressor, or the gas system. The wider technician network is available at 166.az, and appliance technical service at 166tech.az.
If the motor runs but there is no cooling, the most likely causes are a freon leak, a compressor losing power, or in a No Frost system a faulty fan/heater. The exact cause is determined by professional diagnostics.
Switch off the appliance and fully defrost it. If ice keeps forming, this usually points to a leaking door gasket or a No Frost system fault, and you should call a technician.
No. Wait at least 10–15 minutes so the compressor pressure equalizes. Restarting immediately can damage the start relay and the compressor.
If your fridge is not cooling, do not lose your food — immediate action matters. Call 166 Usta: +994 10 123 01 66 or short number 166.
