Any refrigerator techs here? Whirpool not cooling enough?

Question

We have a whirpool side by side fridge that is 2 years old. Model # ED5PBEXTQ00. Our side by side fridge was manufactured 4/06. I have noticed over the last few weeks the fridge part was not as cool as it should be. Milk would go bad too quick but otherwise the food stays pretty cool. We checked the temp in there and it was 53 degrees. So my husband cleaned the coils on bottom. We checked the temp the next morning and it is 51 degrees (but we also turned the fridge section to a cooler setting- it was in the middle prior which had always served us fine.) After cleaning coils, if that was the problem how long would it take to get cold enough? Yesterday he noticed the drain pan was dry but this morning has water in it. I feel it was not just the coils and something else it wrong with it. We have heard the water dripping so I assume the defrost is working. The freezer is still freezing fine. Is there anything we can check to find out the problem? What could be going on?

Answer 1

Could just be the fan has quit working.  It helps circulate the the cold air from the freezer into the refrigerator.  Take a look at http://www.repairclinic.com/0088_4_1.asp

for some other troubleshooting tips.

Answer 2

It is definitely an air flow problem since your freezer is working and the fresh food section is not.

Orion is correct about checking if you are getting air out the damper in back left.  I have replaced hundreds of those but very rarely one that new. (The older ones were weak, yours will be stronger made but they still break then don't open).

Be aware the RETURN air duct is that louver on the left side probably right above your crispers and likely level with the bottom glass for that.

It is possible to place a loaf of bread or a bag of salad, veggies, or fruits up against that return and completely cut of the air return and then the air can't return and it won't cool. The air won't come in if it can't go back.

In that case you WILL feel some air when you check the vent because the door is open. But you feel much more if you open the freezer at the same time.

Possibilities are blocked vent, iced up vent,  bad refrigerator control, or bad damper. The first and last are most common.

Good Luck.

Answer 3

in the fresh food side back right top theirs a vent that allows cold air in from the freezer. check and feel if clod air is coming through. if not it might be iced up or the motor that opens the vent is bad. hope this helps

Answer 4

Are you sure that you cleaned ALL the coils.. Using a vacuum cleaner and crevis tool some times all that you can clean is the front coil.....An air compressor with a nozzle and extension works alot better but is sure a lot messier for the kitchen... Also make absolutely sure the draing hole is completely open and the hose is not kinked.

Answer 5

I had a similar problem, it turned out to be a bad defrost heat element. everything ices up, so the fan cannot work properly.