Jenn-Air refrigerator not cooling

Why is my JennAir refrigerator not getting cold?

When your JennAir refrigerator is not getting cold, there are a few different issues that could be responsible for the problem, including a failed automatic defrost system, compressor, evaporator fan or thermistor (also known as the temperature sensor).

This video from shows how to troubleshoot problems when your refrigerator isn't cooling:

Your refrigerator might seem warmer than usual for a day if you’ve just added a lot of food—wait 24 hours after adding a lot of food to see if the refrigerator cools properly.

Also make sure none of the food containers are blocking airflow at the vents; the owner's manual usually shows where the vents are located.

Check for electrical power

If you haven't added a lot of food during the past day, and you can’t hear your refrigerator running, the first thing to do is check for power. Open the refrigerator door and see if the light turns on.

If the light doesn’t turn on, let’s check the power cord and the outlet. Obviously, you’ll want to make sure that the refrigerator is plugged in and that the power cord isn’t damaged. Then make sure that the electrical outlet is working by plugging in a lamp or some other appliance that makes noise. If your outlet isn't working, you’ll need to have it repaired by a qualified electrician.

Check for excessive frost

Once you’ve confirmed that your refrigerator is getting power, the next thing you will want to check for is excessive frost built up on the evaporator, which can inhibit cooling.

You may need to troubleshoot issues with the automatic defrost system if the evaporator is caked with frost. This video will walk you through that process:

Diagnosing compressor and evaporator fan problems

If there’s no frost on the evaporator coils, move on to some more advanced checks. Most JennAir refrigerators, have a diagnostic test mode that checks refrigerator operations.

First, check to see if the compressor and evaporator fan run in the test mode. To enter the diagnostic test mode on this Kenmore model, within 2 seconds, press the light switch 3 times and then press and hold it a 4th time until you hear a long beep. You're now in the test mode. If this doesn’t work on your model, check your tech sheet for instructions. You can usually find it located behind the bottom front grill or taped to the back of the refrigerator.

Press the door switch twice to start the compressor. The control beeps twice and then you should hear the compressor start. If you don’t hear the compressor turn on, check the start relay on the compressor.

This video will show you how to troubleshoot issues with your compressor:

To check the fan, press the door switch twice within 2 seconds and wait for the two beeps. Repeat this step 2 more times. The control beeps twice and then starts the evaporator fan.

If the evaporator fan doesn't run, unplug the refrigerator and check the evaporator fan. This video will show you how to troubleshoot problems with your evaporator fan:

Check the temperature sensor

If the compressor and evaporator fan both work in the diagnostic test mode, you’ll need to check the thermistor, which is the temperature sensor. This video will show you how to troubleshoot problems with the temperature sensor:

To exit the test mode, within 2 seconds, press the door switch 3 times and then hold the switch down until the control beeps. Or just unplug the refrigerator.

These expert tips may help you resolve the cooling problem in your JennAir refrigerator. If not, schedule refrigerator repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to fix the cooling problem.

What to expect when you experience a Jenn-Air refrigerator not cooling issue

How is the not cooling problem fixed?

Correcting most not cooling problems usually involves replacing the compressor, electronic control board or evaporator. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a refrigerator that is not cooling

When the refrigerator is not cooling it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures.

What to look out for with a refrigerator not cooling diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your refrigerator problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.