Freezer not freezing

Brand:Hotpoint

Model:FV15CWC

Product:Freezer

Shop Parts

Common Problems

Diagrams & Manuals Related Videos

Top 6 Reasons Freezer Not Freezing?

03:26

Common solutions for: Freezer not freezing

01 - Condenser Coils are Dirty

If the condenser coils are located within the freezer walls, the coils do not require cleaning. However, if the condenser coils can be readily accessed from behind or under the unit, you should clean them every 6 to 12 months by using a soft bristle brush (or a dedicated condenser coil cleaning brush) to wipe off the coils in a circular motion. A vacuum cleaner with a nozzle attachment can also be used for hard-to-reach areas.

Top Solution

02 - Incoming Power Problem

Confirm the freezer is plugged in and there is power at the wall receptacle. You can plug another small appliance into the receptacle to confirm there is power. If there is no power, check the circuit breakers and GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlets, if applicable, to confirm they have not tripped, or inspect any fuses to confirm none have blown. Plugging the unit’s power cord into a ground fault outlet is not recommended, but such an outlet can be reset to restore power by pressing ...in the button on the faceplate.

Highly Likely

03 - Sealed System Problem

If all the refrigeration components seem to be working but the freezer is not cooling properly, there may be a restriction or leak in the refrigeration system. To determine this, you will need to remove the evaporator cover (not applicable to chest freezers) and observe the frost pattern on the coil. Note: The compressor, condenser and evaporator fans should all be running, and the condenser coil should be clean and have good air flow. There should be light frost on most of the coil. If the coil... has frost or ice buildup in only one section, there is likely a restriction or leak in the system. This repair is expensive (maybe cost prohibitive) and should be diagnosed and repaired by a qualified technician.

Highly Likely

04 - Freezer door left open

If there is a lot of frost accumulation on the food and around the door opening, it is likely the door was not closed properly for a lengthy period. Ensure the door closes properly and that there is no food, racks, or containers obstructing the door.

Common

05 - Power reset

After a power surge or power outage, freezer operation could be temporarily affected. Full operation can sometimes be restored through a power reset by either unplugging the appliance's power cord for a few minutes and then plugging it back in or switching off the circuit breaker for the freezer then switching it back on.

Common

06 - Temperature Control Thermostat

The temperature control thermostat directs voltage to the compressor, evaporator fan motor, and condenser fan motor. If the thermostat is not working, the refrigerant system will not get power and the freezer will not cool. To determine if the thermostat is defective, rotate the thermostat from the lowest setting to the highest setting and listen for a “click.” If you hear a click, the thermostat is not likely defective. If you do not hear a click, use a multimeter to test the thermostat for con...tinuity. If the temperature control thermostat does not have continuity, replace it.

Less Common

07 - The Evaporator Coils are Frosted Over

The most common cause for this condition is a problem with the defrost system. The defrost heater turns on several times throughout the day to melt away any frost that may have accumulated on the freezer evaporator coils. If the defrost heater won’t turn on, frost will continue to accumulate on the evaporator coils, and the coils will eventually frost over. To determine if the defrost heater is at fault, use a multimeter to test the defrost heater for continuity. If the defrost heater does not h...ave continuity, replace it. On most chest freezers the evaporator coils are hidden in the walls. Some upright freezers utilize the shelves for the evaporator coils. These types of coils would need to be manually defrosted.

Uncommon But Possible

Freezer not freezing

Top 6 Reasons Freezer Not Freezing?

Common solutions for: Freezer not freezing

Shop by Popular Hotpoint Freezer Models