A Canton homeowner called about their Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling properly, with the top of freezer warm but bottom still cold, and ice buildup visible under the evaporator area. Our diagnosis revealed a simple but easily overlooked issue that was blocking proper airflow throughout the unit.
The Problem
The customer reported their refrigerator not cooling properly with the top of freezer warm, bottom still cold, and refrigerator compartment warm. The compressor was humming and warm (not excessively hot) with the condenser fan running, and ice buildup was visible under evaporator area in a waterfall pattern, frozen in place. No water was leaking onto the floor.
Diagnosis
We found no airflow to the refrigerator compartment. The freezer compartment was missing the shield over evaporator coils, and a box of food had slipped in and fallen over the fan, blocking proper air circulation through the system.
The Repair
- Parts replaced: No parts replaced
- Work performed: Removed food box blocking evaporator fan, showed customer how to clear the drain and possibly fabricate a shield over the evaporator coil
- Result: Restored proper airflow to refrigerator compartment
Is It Worth Repairing?
This Whirlpool refrigerator model is a solid mid-range unit that typically provides reliable service for 12-15 years with proper maintenance. Since this issue required no parts and was resolved by removing the obstruction, it’s definitely worth keeping this appliance running. The missing evaporator shield is a known issue with this model as the part is no longer available from Whirlpool.
Maintenance Tips for Whirlpool Refrigerators
- Check that food items in the freezer aren’t blocking the evaporator fan or air vents
- Clean the defrost drain regularly to prevent ice buildup that can obstruct airflow
- Keep the condenser coils clean and ensure adequate clearance around the unit for proper ventilation
Appliance Repair in Canton, OH
Canton is in Stark County — an area we cover regularly from our base in Louisville, OH. We also serve Alliance, North Canton, and Massillon. Louisville Appliance Repair is owned and operated by Samuel Willhite, a master-certified technician with Bosch and Speed Queen factory authorizations. If your appliance needs service, schedule online or call (330) 693-9163. You can also find us on Google and read verified reviews from customers across Stark County and surrounding areas.
Louisville Appliance Repair serves Stark County and surrounding areas.
Schedule your repair online,
call (330) 693-9163,
or see our reviews on Google.