It’s easy to take a cold fridge or freezer for granted, so when what you expect to be icy cold is now lukewarm, it can be concerning. Luckily there are some steps that can be taken before having to arrange a service call. They might sound simple, but often it’s the simple things being overlooked that can cause problems.
Here are some quick tips on how to fix a refrigerator that’s on the blink:
1. Double-check the unit is still plugged in to the power socket. It’s not uncommon for the fridge to be moved or the plug to become loose.
2. Don’t pack the unit too tightly. A fridge or freezer loaded with too many items can restrict the cold air from flowing to all interior areas.
3. Make sure the temperature settings are correctly set and haven’t been adjusted by accident. Freezers should operate at -18 degrees Celsius, refrigerators at 4 degrees Celsius.
4. Check that the compressor is running. There should be a quiet whirring noise, almost like a mini air conditioner. If the noises are prolonged or overly loud, that could be a problem requiring further investigation.
5. Ensure that the doors are properly closed. There should be a full seal around the door that prevents the cold air from escaping. Large items like trays, plates and drink bottles can sometimes keep the door ajar.
6. Reset the unit by switching it off from the power switch and waiting five minutes before turning it back on. It may take up to four hours to reach an optimal temperature. The larger the unit, the longer it will take.
7. Clean out any dust from the rear of the unit. Dust can block vital ventilation points and coils. Check the unit’s user guide for full maintenance instructions.
If these steps don’t result in a cool fridge or freezer, it’s time to contact Hisense for further assistance which may include a service call.
Find a fridge retailer
Hisense’s 453L Black Steel Refrigerator – 5.5 Energy Star Rating. No other AustralianRefrigerator has a higher Energy Star Rating.