There’s nothing more frustrating than opening your side-by-side fridge with an ice maker, grabbing a cold drink, and realizing the fridge section is warm while the ice maker is happily cranking out cubes. You start thinking, “Did I just waste money on a broken fridge?” We get it, this is a common problem that confuses a lot of people. The good news? Most of the time, it’s fixable without replacing the whole fridge.

At St. Louis Appliance Outlet, we see this all the time. Usually, it comes down to airflow problems, small mechanical issues, or temperature control quirks. Understanding why your ice maker keeps working while the fridge doesn’t can save you a ton of stress and prevent you from tossing perfectly good food.

What Usually Causes This Problem?

When the fridge section isn’t cooling, but the ice maker still works, there are a few usual culprits:

• Blocked or Frozen Vents: Cold air comes from the freezer into the fridge. If vents are blocked, the fridge won’t get cold.
  

• Dirty Condenser Coils: Dust and pet hair can coat the coils, making cooling inefficient.
  

• Evaporator Fan Issues: The fan moves cold air from the freezer. If it’s not working, the freezer may still make ice, but the fridge stays warm.
  

• Temperature Control Problems: Faulty thermostats or control boards can confuse the fridge and freezer settings.
  

• Refrigerant or Compressor Problems: Low refrigerant or a failing compressor can prevent the fridge from cooling, even if the freezer is okay.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

Here’s how we guide people through fixing a side-by-side fridge with an ice maker issue without immediately calling a technician:

1. Check the Vents: Make sure nothing is blocking airflow in the fridge or freezer. Even big containers can restrict cold air.
   

2. Clean the Coils: Dusty coils make the fridge work harder. Unplug it and give it a good clean every 6-12 months.
   

3. Test the Evaporator Fan: Open the freezer door. Do you hear or feel the fan spinning? If not, it may need replacing.
   

4. Check Temperature Settings: Make sure your fridge is at 37-40°F and the freezer at 0°F.
   

5. Look for Frost Build-Up: Excess frost can block airflow. Defrosting manually can help.
   

6. Listen to the Compressor: If it’s silent or sounds weird, it might need professional attention.

Why the Ice Maker Still Works?

It’s tempting to think your fridge is completely broken, but the ice maker often keeps churning for a reason:

• Ice makers pull cold air directly from the freezer, sometimes with their own sensors or motors.
  

• The freezer might be fine, so it keeps making ice even if the airflow to the fridge section is blocked.
  

• Some models are designed so the ice maker doesn’t rely on the main evaporator fan.

So while it feels weird, it’s actually normal in many cases.

When You Should Call a Pro?

Sometimes the fix is easy. Other times, the fridge is signaling a bigger problem. Call a professional if:

• Cleaning and defrosting don’t help
  

• You hear strange noises from the fan or compressor
  

• Frost or leaks appear in weird places
  

• The thermostat or control board isn’t responding

A technician can safely check refrigerant levels, fan motors, and compressors. It saves you time, stress, and possible food loss.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

We always tell customers that a little upkeep goes a long way:

• Clean Coils Regularly: Dust and pet hair can accumulate fast.
  

• Keep Airflow Clear: Don’t overpack the fridge or freezer; vents need space.
  

• Defrost When Needed: Frost blocks airflow.
  

• Check Temperatures: Keep the fridge at 37-40°F, freezer at 0°F.
  

• Inspect Door Seals: Old gaskets let warm air in, making your fridge work harder.

These simple steps help your fridge last longer and stay efficient.

When is it Time for a Replacement?

Sometimes it’s just smarter to replace your fridge. If your unit is over 10 years old or has multiple failing parts, it’s worth considering a cheap refrigerator for sale from a trusted outlet. At St. Louis Appliance Outlet, we carry new, open-box, and scratch-and-dent models.

Buying from us gives you:

• Affordable options that fit your budget
  

• Delivery and installation support
  

• Peace of mind with a reputable local business
  

• Reliable models, including side by side fridge with ice maker units

Sometimes, upgrading is easier, cheaper, and less stressful than patching a fridge with multiple issues.

Quick Fix Checklist

Before spending a ton on repairs, check:

• Vents are clear
  

• Condenser coils are clean
  

• Evaporator fan spins
  

• Frost isn’t blocking airflow
  

• Temperature settings are correct
  

• Compressor is running properly
  
  

Following this can solve most problems without calling a technician.

Upgrade Your Fridge Today

If troubleshooting doesn’t cut it, or your fridge is older than 10 years, St. Louis Appliance Outlet has an affordable refrigerator for sale that works for your kitchen and budget. From reliable new models to open-box and scratch-and-dent units, we’ve got something for every household. Don’t wait for another spoiled grocery run, come explore our inventory and find a fridge that keeps everything cold, including that ice maker you love.

FAQs

1. What is the first thing to check when a refrigerator stops cooling?
Start with vents and condenser coils; they’re the most common causes.

2. How to fix a fridge when it's not cold?
Check airflow, defrost if needed, and inspect the evaporator fan and thermostat.

3. What are the signs of a failing fridge compressor?
Loud or unusual noises, constant running, or the fridge not cooling are all warning signs.

4. How do I check if my fridge compressor is working?
Listen for humming or vibrations; a multimeter can check electrical function if you’re experienced.

5. Is it worth replacing a compressor in a refrigerator?
For older fridges, replacing the unit is usually cheaper than a new compressor.