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How to Troubleshoot A Mini Fridge Not Cooling?

Published on
6 min read
How to Troubleshoot A Mini Fridge Not Cooling? image

Best Mini Fridges Troubleshooting Steps to Buy in December 2025

1 Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator, Portable Mini Fridge, Skin Care 4L Capacity/6 Cans, for Bedroom, Car, Office & Dorm, Small Cooler for Cosmetics, Magnetic Brushed Stainless Steel Door, White

Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator, Portable Mini Fridge, Skin Care 4L Capacity/6 Cans, for Bedroom, Car, Office & Dorm, Small Cooler for Cosmetics, Magnetic Brushed Stainless Steel Door, White

  • VERSATILE COMPACT DESIGN: PERFECT FOR FOOD, DRINKS, AND SKINCARE!
  • DUAL POWER SUPPLY: USE AT HOME OR ON-THE-GO WITH AC/DC OPTIONS.
  • ULTRA-QUIET & EFFICIENT: REST EASY WITH MINIMAL NOISE AND RAPID COOLING.
BUY & SAVE
$34.19 $42.99
Save 20%
Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator, Portable Mini Fridge, Skin Care 4L Capacity/6 Cans, for Bedroom, Car, Office & Dorm, Small Cooler for Cosmetics, Magnetic Brushed Stainless Steel Door, White
2 Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge - Ideal for Home, Office or Dorm - Includes Carrying Handle, AC/DC Wall/Car Charger

Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge - Ideal for Home, Office or Dorm - Includes Carrying Handle, AC/DC Wall/Car Charger

  • ULTIMATE CONVENIENCE: PERFECT FOR LUNCH, DRINKS, AND SNACKS ANYWHERE!
  • PORTABLE DESIGN: LIGHTWEIGHT MINI FRIDGE IDEAL FOR OFFICE & TRAVEL USE.
  • ECO-FRIENDLY COOLING: CFC-FREE TECHNOLOGY FOR A GREENER CHOICE!
BUY & SAVE
$29.99 $49.99
Save 40%
Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge - Ideal for Home, Office or Dorm - Includes Carrying Handle, AC/DC Wall/Car Charger
3 Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator, Portable Mini Fridge, Skin Care 4L Capacity/6 Cans, for Bedroom, Car, Office & Dorm, Small Cooler for Cosmetics, Beverage and Food, Black

Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator, Portable Mini Fridge, Skin Care 4L Capacity/6 Cans, for Bedroom, Car, Office & Dorm, Small Cooler for Cosmetics, Beverage and Food, Black

  • VERSATILE STORAGE: PERFECT FOR FOOD, DRINKS, AND SKINCARE ANYWHERE!

  • COMPACT DESIGN: FITS EASILY IN BEDROOMS, OFFICES, AND RVS.

  • DUAL POWER SUPPLY: USE AT HOME OR ON THE GO WITH AC/DC OPTIONS!

BUY & SAVE
$36.99
Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator, Portable Mini Fridge, Skin Care 4L Capacity/6 Cans, for Bedroom, Car, Office & Dorm, Small Cooler for Cosmetics, Beverage and Food, Black
4 Upstreman 3.2 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Single Door Mini Fridge, Dorm Fridge, Adjustable Thermostat, Mini Refrigerator for Bedroom, Office, Dorm, Black-BR321

Upstreman 3.2 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Single Door Mini Fridge, Dorm Fridge, Adjustable Thermostat, Mini Refrigerator for Bedroom, Office, Dorm, Black-BR321

  • COMPACT DESIGN FITS PERFECTLY IN DORMS, OFFICES, AND SMALL SPACES.
  • ADJUSTABLE THERMOSTAT ENSURES OPTIMAL FRESHNESS FOR ALL PERISHABLES.
  • ULTRA-QUIET OPERATION AND ENERGY-EFFICIENT-SAVES YOU MONEY DAILY!
BUY & SAVE
$135.99 $159.99
Save 15%
Upstreman 3.2 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Single Door Mini Fridge, Dorm Fridge, Adjustable Thermostat, Mini Refrigerator for Bedroom, Office, Dorm, Black-BR321
5 Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge - Ideal for Home, Office or Dorm - Includes Carrying Handle, AC/DC Wall/Car Charger

Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge - Ideal for Home, Office or Dorm - Includes Carrying Handle, AC/DC Wall/Car Charger

  • CONVENIENT SIZE: PERFECT FOR LUNCH, BEVERAGES, AND SNACKS ON-THE-GO.
  • PORTABLE DESIGN: WEIGHS ONLY 3 LBS; PLUG IN AT HOME OR IN YOUR CAR.
  • ECO-FRIENDLY TECH: CFC-FREE, USING ADVANCED THERMOELECTRIC COOLING.
BUY & SAVE
$29.99 $44.99
Save 33%
Frigidaire EFMIS171 Retro Mini Portable Personal Fridge - Ideal for Home, Office or Dorm - Includes Carrying Handle, AC/DC Wall/Car Charger
6 CROWNFUL Mini Fridge, 4 Liter/6 Cans Portable Skincare Fridge, AC/12V DC Cooler and Warmer Personal Refrigerator for Bedroom, Car, Dorm, Office, Food, ETL Listed Black

CROWNFUL Mini Fridge, 4 Liter/6 Cans Portable Skincare Fridge, AC/12V DC Cooler and Warmer Personal Refrigerator for Bedroom, Car, Dorm, Office, Food, ETL Listed Black

  • EFFORTLESS SWITCHING: EASILY TOGGLE BETWEEN COOLING AND HEATING MODES.

  • COMPACT STORAGE: HOLDS 6 CANS; IDEAL FOR DRINKS, FOOD, & SKINCARE.

  • WHISPER-QUIET OPERATION: ENJOY PEACE WITH A LOW NOISE LEVEL OF 25DB.

BUY & SAVE
$43.99
CROWNFUL Mini Fridge, 4 Liter/6 Cans Portable Skincare Fridge, AC/12V DC Cooler and Warmer Personal Refrigerator for Bedroom, Car, Dorm, Office, Food, ETL Listed Black
7 Antarctic Star Mini Compact Refrigerator with Gaming Light, 4L Capacity/6 Cans Portable Mini Fridge, for Bedroom,Car,Office and Dorm, Small Cooler for Cosmetics, Beverage and Food, White

Antarctic Star Mini Compact Refrigerator with Gaming Light, 4L Capacity/6 Cans Portable Mini Fridge, for Bedroom,Car,Office and Dorm, Small Cooler for Cosmetics, Beverage and Food, White

  • VERSATILE STORAGE FOR FOOD, DRINKS, AND COSMETICS-IDEAL FOR ANY SPACE!
  • AC/DC OPTIONS FOR HOME, CAR, OR CAMPING-PERFECT FOR ON-THE-GO USE!
  • WHISPER-QUIET PERFORMANCE AND ENERGY-SAVING DESIGN FOR PEACEFUL NIGHTS!
BUY & SAVE
$44.99
Antarctic Star Mini Compact Refrigerator with Gaming Light, 4L Capacity/6 Cans Portable Mini Fridge, for Bedroom,Car,Office and Dorm, Small Cooler for Cosmetics, Beverage and Food, White
8 Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator, Portable Mini Fridge, Skin Care 4L Capacity/6 Cans, for Bedroom, Car, Office & Dorm, Small Cooler for Cosmetics, Beverage and Food, White

Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator, Portable Mini Fridge, Skin Care 4L Capacity/6 Cans, for Bedroom, Car, Office & Dorm, Small Cooler for Cosmetics, Beverage and Food, White

  • VERSATILE STORAGE: PERFECT FOR FOOD, DRINKS, AND SKINCARE ON THE GO!
  • COMPACT DESIGN: FITS 6 CANS; IDEAL FOR DORMS, OFFICES, AND TRAVEL.
  • QUIET & EFFICIENT: OPERATES AT 25DB; COOLS DRINKS IN JUST 1 HOUR!
BUY & SAVE
$36.99
Antarctic Star Compact Refrigerator, Portable Mini Fridge, Skin Care 4L Capacity/6 Cans, for Bedroom, Car, Office & Dorm, Small Cooler for Cosmetics, Beverage and Food, White
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If your mini fridge is not cooling, there are a few common troubleshooting steps you can take to try and fix the problem. First, make sure the fridge is plugged in and receiving power. Check the outlet and power cord to ensure they are working properly. Next, check the temperature settings on the fridge to make sure they are set correctly. If the settings are correct, try cleaning the coils on the back of the fridge, as dust and debris can cause the fridge to not cool properly. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it is possible that there is a problem with the thermostat, compressor, or coolant levels, in which case it may be necessary to call a professional for repair.

How to troubleshoot a faulty overload relay in a mini fridge?

  1. Check the power supply: Make sure the mini fridge is properly plugged in and receiving power. Check the outlet by plugging in another appliance to confirm there is power.
  2. Inspect the overload relay: Locate the overload relay on the compressor of the mini fridge. Check for any visible signs of damage, such as burnt or melted components.
  3. Test the overload relay: Use a multimeter to test the overload relay for continuity. Disconnect the relay from the compressor and test the connections for continuity. If there is no continuity, the relay is faulty and needs to be replaced.
  4. Replace the overload relay: If the overload relay is found to be faulty, purchase a new one that is compatible with your mini fridge's make and model. Install the new relay by connecting the wires according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  5. Test the mini fridge: Plug in the mini fridge and turn it on to test if the new overload relay has resolved the issue. Monitor the fridge for any abnormal noises or signs of malfunction.
  6. Seek professional help: If the issue persists after replacing the overload relay, it may indicate a different problem with the mini fridge's compressor or other components. In this case, it is recommended to consult a professional appliance repair technician for further troubleshooting and repair.

What is the function of the evaporator fan in a mini fridge?

The function of the evaporator fan in a mini fridge is to circulate air over the evaporator coils. This helps to cool down the air and maintain a consistent temperature inside the fridge. The evaporator fan also helps to prevent frost buildup on the coils by circulating air and promoting proper airflow.

How to identify if the capillary tube in a mini fridge is clogged?

  1. Check for ice buildup: One common indicator of a clogged capillary tube is the presence of ice buildup in or around the tube. If you notice ice formation, it may be blocking the flow of refrigerant through the tube.
  2. Inspect the temperature: If the mini fridge is not cooling properly or maintaining a consistent temperature, it could be a sign of a clogged capillary tube. A blockage in the tube can prevent the refrigerant from flowing properly and cooling the interior of the fridge.
  3. Listen for unusual noises: A clogged capillary tube can cause the compressor to work harder than normal, leading to unusual noises such as buzzing, rattling, or knocking sounds. If you hear any of these noises coming from your mini fridge, it may indicate a blockage in the capillary tube.
  4. Check for leaks: Inspect the capillary tube for any signs of leaks or damage. If there are any visible cracks or holes in the tube, it may be causing a blockage and preventing the refrigerant from flowing properly.
  5. Consult a professional: If you suspect that the capillary tube in your mini fridge is clogged, it is recommended to consult a professional technician for further diagnosis and repair. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to properly assess the issue and provide the appropriate solution.

What is the role of the gasket on the door of a mini fridge?

The gasket on the door of a mini fridge serves as a tight seal to prevent warm air from entering the fridge and cold air from escaping. It helps to maintain the temperature inside the fridge, ensuring that the food and beverages stored inside stay fresh and cold. The gasket also helps to reduce energy consumption by preventing the fridge from working harder to maintain its temperature. Additionally, the gasket helps to keep out moisture and humidity, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew inside the fridge. Overall, the gasket plays a crucial role in the efficient operation of a mini fridge.

How to check if the compressor in a mini fridge is working?

There are a few ways to check if the compressor in a mini fridge is working:

  1. Listen for noises: When the compressor is working properly, you should be able to hear a humming sound coming from the back of the fridge. If you do not hear any noise, the compressor may not be working.
  2. Feel the back of the fridge: Place your hand on the back of the fridge where the compressor is located. If the back of the fridge is warm to the touch, it indicates that the compressor is working and producing heat during the cooling process.
  3. Check the temperature: Place a thermometer inside the fridge and monitor the temperature over a period of time. If the temperature is not dropping as it should, the compressor may not be working properly.
  4. Check for frost buildup: If there is frost buildup on the coils at the back of the fridge, it may indicate that the compressor is working but the airflow is blocked. If there is no frost buildup at all, it may indicate that the compressor is not functioning.

If you suspect that the compressor in your mini fridge is not working, it is best to contact a professional technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

What is the role of the start capacitor in a mini fridge?

The start capacitor in a mini fridge is used to provide an extra surge of power to the compressor motor when the fridge is started up. This extra power helps to overcome the initial resistance and get the motor running smoothly. Once the motor is up to speed, the start capacitor disengages and the motor continues to run on its own power. The start capacitor is essential for the proper functioning of the compressor motor in a mini fridge.