How to Troubleshoot A Mini Fridge Not Cooling?

20 minutes read

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.

Best Mini Fridges of 2024

1
Honeywell Beverage Refrigerator and Cooler, 115 Can Mini Fridge with Glass Door for Soda Beer or Wine for Office or Bar with Adjustable Removable Shelving

Rating is 5 out of 5

Honeywell Beverage Refrigerator and Cooler, 115 Can Mini Fridge with Glass Door for Soda Beer or Wine for Office or Bar with Adjustable Removable Shelving

  • Three pane glass door for ultimate temperature control
  • Electronic digital thermostat control panel
  • Slide out plastic coated shelving
  • Adjustable legs
  • Interior LED light
2
Upstreman 3.2 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Single Door, Adjustable Thermostat, Refrigerator for Dorm, Office, Bedroom, Black-BR321

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

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

  • Compact Single-Door: This mini fridge measures 18.7’’*17.4’’*33.1’’(W*D*H) and has 3.2 Cu.ft(90.6 L) capacity including freezer. The single door design is convenient and space efficient. While being able to grab ice cubes and drinks at one step, this single-door mini fridge has more capacity compares to those double-door small refrigerator with the same size. The storage is greatly utilized, occupies a little space, making it perfect for dorms, offices, bedrooms, RV cars and garages.
  • Adjustable Thermostat: From 33.8° F to 46.4° F (1° C to 8°C NOT suitable for storing ice cream) , there are 5 variable temperature settings can be manually switched between as per your needs. (Optimum temperature range for perishable food storage is 37 to 41 °F (3 to 5 °C)). The temperature of freezer is affected by the cooler’s temperature settings. Choosing the most favourable temperature setting to keep the food fresh while save on electricity bills.
  • Energy-efficient & Quiet: The mini fridge energy cost is estimated to be as low as 0.5 kWh per day. The small refrigerator working noise is 38 dB, roughly at the level of quiet rural area. Economic and quiet, you will hardly notice its existence when it’s cooling all your food & drinks, ideal appliance for bedroom, study and quiet space.
3
RCA RFR322 Mini Refrigerator, Compact Freezer Compartment, Adjustable Thermostat Control, Reversible Door, Ideal Fridge for Dorm, Office, Apartment, Platinum Stainless, 3.2 Cubic Feet

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

RCA RFR322 Mini Refrigerator, Compact Freezer Compartment, Adjustable Thermostat Control, Reversible Door, Ideal Fridge for Dorm, Office, Apartment, Platinum Stainless, 3.2 Cubic Feet

  • STYLISH: Our RCA Compact Refrigerator comes in a variety of colorful, bold, and glossy colors. That compliments your design and improves the appearance of your kitchen, dorm, room, or workplace, wherever you choose to put it.Cooling method:Compressor
  • REVERSIBLE DOORS: It is small enough to fit in any dorm, kitchen, room, or workplace. Using the reversible door, you can easily set the little fridge door to open to the left or right, depending on your needs and room layout.
  • ADJUSTABLE THERMOSTAT CONTROL: The thermostat may be easily controlled with the control dial. From mild to cold to coldest. Even in hot weather, simply turn the knob to the temperature you choose.
  • ENERGY SAVING: Our mini-fridge not only keeps your beverages and food cool and fresh, but it's also really friendly to your wallet. Its highly Energy efficient compressor cooling has an annual power consumption of just 5 kilowatt per hour.
  • ICE CUBE CHAMBER: 0.3 cu ft compartment that can reach 32 degrees F .
4
FRIGIDAIRE EFR376-BLACK 3.2 Cu Ft Black Retro Bar Fridge with Side Bottle Opener

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

FRIGIDAIRE EFR376-BLACK 3.2 Cu Ft Black Retro Bar Fridge with Side Bottle Opener

  • 3.2 Cubic Foot Retro Fridge with Can Opener.Lock Type:Electronic
  • Compact size allows for placement of this refrigerator virtually anywhere there is an electrical outlet
  • Opening bottles is a breeze with a built-in side bottle opener.
  • 2 Slide out adjustable spill proof glass shelves allows you to personalize your food storage to meet your unique needs
  • Ice cube tray is included to allow you to make ice any time
5
Frigidaire EFR840-BLACK-COM Compact Refrigerator, 3.1, Black

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Frigidaire EFR840-BLACK-COM Compact Refrigerator, 3.1, Black

  • RETRO DESIGN: Compact in size and attractive retro design with decorative door embellishments that give this retro refrigerator a sleek contemporary look.Lock Type:Electronic.Installation type: Freestanding
  • EASY TO CLEAN: Has 2 spill-proof and removable glass shelves that slide out to simplify cleanup, preventing liquids from leaking onto items below.
  • PLENTY OF STORAGE: This 3.2 Cu Ft mini fridge has a lot of storage with a .25 Cu Ft freezer with ice cube tray. Refrigerator compartment has a crisper drawer and 2 shelves.
  • EASY TEMPERATURE CONTROL: This chic unit features easily accessible temperature controls make temperature management easy.
  • GREAT FOR SMALL SPACES: Compact size allows for placement of this refrigerator virtually anywhere there is an electrical outlet. Flush back design makes this the perfect choice for a college dorm room or office
6
Upstreman 1.7 Cu.ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Adjustable Thermostat, Energy Saving, Low Noise, Single Door Compact Refrigerator for Dorm, Office, Bedroom, Black-FR17

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

Upstreman 1.7 Cu.ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Adjustable Thermostat, Energy Saving, Low Noise, Single Door Compact Refrigerator for Dorm, Office, Bedroom, Black-FR17

  • Compact & Convenient: Given a dimension of 18.9” *17.7” *19.3” (W*D*H), this mini fridge can fit it anywhere you need. Whether it’s on the counter or under the desk, it requires little space yet offers plenty of storage room, perfect for apartment, dorm, office, bedroom and RV. The reversible door provides great flexibility when used in a limited space.
  • Adjustable Temperatures & Freezer: Ranges from 33.8° F to 46.4° F (1° C to 8°C NOT suitable for storing ice cream), the fridge offers 5 variable temperature settings per your need. Includes a compact freezer that allow you to make ice cubes, keep your food fresh and drinks chilled.
  • 38dB Quiet: Operates at a low noise of 38 dB, this fridge brings the peace and refreshing cold at the same time. It’s so quiet that you can hear the ice cubes melting in the glass! Free of any disturbance while it’s keeping all your food nice and fresh, ideal for environment like bedroom, office, kitchen and study.
7
Manastin 3.2 Cu. Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer for Bedroom, Dorm, Office, Compact Refrigerator with Adjustable Thermostat, Removable Glass Shelves and Reversible Door (Black)

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

Manastin 3.2 Cu. Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer for Bedroom, Dorm, Office, Compact Refrigerator with Adjustable Thermostat, Removable Glass Shelves and Reversible Door (Black)

  • 【Efficient Use of Space】The size of this mini refrigerator is 17.52" x 19.3" x 32.7", with an area of only 7.7ft³, allowing more possibilities for space. With a huge storage space of 3.2 Cu. Ft. and fine partitioning, the upper layer of quick-freezing and efficient refrigeration ensures the freshness of ingredients, while the lower layer of high moisture retention locks in the moisture and nutrition of food. Additional door storage shelves can accommodate a variety of beer drinks and sauces.
  • 【Energy Saving & Low Noise】 This mini fridge is Energy Star certified and consumes only 220kWh of electricity a year, which costs only 0.07 per day, making it environmentally friendly and economical. The compressor works with very low noise, even if placed next to the bed, it will not affect you and your family's sleep, making it a very ideal household appliance.
  • 【Suitable for Various Use Needs】 The humanized reversible single door design can be set to open the door to the left or right according to different space needs and hand habits, making it very convenient to access food. Adjustable feet easily adapt to a variety of uneven ground. Fashionable and simple appearance can be matched with a variety of styles, ideal for use in the bedroom, apartment, dormitory, office
  • 【Adjustable temperature & Defrost】 There are 7 levels available for adjustment, the temperature range from 23℉ to 50℉(-5-10C), you can easily and quickly adjust the temperature to the desired level. Generally speaking, 4 is suitable for home or office use. Even in the hot summer, you can always enjoy a cold drink. If you have a need for defrosting, you can easily do it by simply pressing the switch in the center of the knob.
8
EUHOMY 3.2 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Single Door Compact Refrigerator, LED light, Adjustable Thermostat, Mini Refrigerator Energy Saving, Mini fridge for Bedroom, Dorm, Office, Black.

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

EUHOMY 3.2 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Single Door Compact Refrigerator, LED light, Adjustable Thermostat, Mini Refrigerator Energy Saving, Mini fridge for Bedroom, Dorm, Office, Black.

  • 🧊Energy Saving & LED Light - Our mini fridge consumes as low as 0.5 kWh per day (about 0.47 dollar/day), it is energy saving and environmental friendly. In addition, mini refrigerator design is more humane, unlike other similar products, it also comes with an LED light, you can take the storage at night with impunity.
  • 🧊Refrigerator & Micro Freezer - 3.2 Cu.ft large capacity mini fridge with freezer contains 2.9 Cu.ft Refrigeration section (21℉~42℉) and 0.3 Cu.ft micro-freezer section (15℉~28℉). The micro-freezing section of the small refrigerator allows for short-term storage of a variety of meat products and is equipped with a water catch pan underneath for easy defrosting or cleaning when the power is off.
  • 🧊Compact Design - Compact Refrigerator size: 17.3 "D x 18.5 "W x 32.4 "H. Top of the dorm fridge has reversible hinges, so you can change the opening direction at will according to the placement. This is a mini fridge for bedroom, kitchens, dormitories, and offices with a compact form factor that takes up only 2.2ft².
9
Upstreman 3.1 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Double Door Mini Fridge, Adjustable Thermostat, Mini Refrigerator for Dorm, Office, Bedroom, Black

Rating is 4.2 out of 5

Upstreman 3.1 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Double Door Mini Fridge, Adjustable Thermostat, Mini Refrigerator for Dorm, Office, Bedroom, Black

  • Compact and Capacious: This mini fridge with freezer has a dimension of 18.31'*19.49'*33.46(W*D*H) and offers 2.22 Cu.Ft cooler and 0.8 Cu.Ft freezer in separate compartments. Ideal for personal use at dorm, office and bedroom.
  • 7 Adjustable Temperatures & LED Light: 7 variable temperature settings provide you the desired storage condition for food and drinks. The fridge temperature ranges from 33.8 F to 46.4 F while the freezer temperature maintains constantly at -0.4 F. The LED light in the small fridge ensures you find supplies with ease even in the dark.
  • Removable Shelves & Crisper Drawer: Equipped with removable shelves, adjustable to fit your practical storage needs. The crisper drawer helps preserve the humidity for vegetables and fruits, keeps them juicy and fresh.
  • Energy-efficient & Quiet: The estimated cost goes as low as $0.1 per day. A low working noise of 38 dB makes this mini fridge suitable for dorms, offices and bedrooms. Compact and quiet, it's there only when you need it.


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.

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