Refrigerator Freezing Food In The Fridge Section

Common Reasons for a Refrigerator to Freeze Food In The Fridge Section

Temperature Setting Is Too Low
- This is the most common cause
- The recommended fridge temperature is around 37–40°F (3–4°C)
- Setting the fridge temperature to 37°F (3°C) or lower risks freezing items, especially those near the back or vents.
Blocked Airflow Within the Fridge
- Cold air from the evaporator is circulated within the fridge via vents
- If food is too close to an outlet vent, it may get blasted with cold air and freeze
- If the airflow returning to the evaporator is blocked it can cause colder areas within the fridge
- If the airflow to the temperature sensor is blocked it can cause the fridge to overcool
Damaged Door Gasket Not Sealing
- The refrigerator door is sealed with a rubber gasket to help lock in cold air and maintain the internal temperature
- If the seal is damaged or warped, it can let in warm outside air leading to temperature issues inside the appliance
Ice Maker Seals or Settings
- A built-in ice maker located in the fridge section may be the reason behind the freezing temperatures
- If the ice compartment is not properly sealed or the ice bucket is not in place, freezer temperature air may be allowed to enter the fridge section
- Ice makers that are turned on but not connected to a water supply may continue to cycle and try to make ice releasing too much cold air inside the refrigerator.
Faulty Thermostat or Temperature Sensor
- If the thermostat is malfunctioning it may cause the compressor to for run too long, dropping temperatures lower than intended
- If the thermostat is malfunctioning it may cause the damper to stay open for too long, dropping temperatures lower than intended
Malfunctioning Damper Control
- The damper regulates how much cold air comes in from the freezer
- If the damper is stuck open or leaking when closed, too much cold air is allowed into the fridge
Dirty Condenser Coils
- When coils are clogged with dust the fridge may overcompensate and run longer to maintain freezer temperatures leading to overcooling in the fridge section
Malfunctioning Temperature Sensor or Control Board
- The control board might be sending incorrect signals causing overcooling in the fridge compartment
- The temperature sensor might be sending incorrect signals to the control board causing overcooling in the fridge compartment
Malfunctioning Sealed System
- A fridge with a weak sealed system may run longer to maintain freezer temperatures leading to overcooling in the fridge section

Tips to Prevent or Fix Freezing in the Fridge

Check and Adjust Temperature Settings
- Set the fridge to 38°F (4°C) or above and monitor with a fridge thermometer if possible
Reorganize Food Placement
- Avoid placing food near the air vents (usually at the back or sides)
- Don’t Overpack the Fridge
- Leave space for air to circulate properly
Inspect and Clean Coils
- Vacuum or brush the condenser coils every 6–12 months
Inspect the Door Gasket Seal
- Check for cracks, tears or any other visible sign of wear
- If any damage is found the door gaskets may need to be replaced
Inspect the Ice Maker Compartment Seals
- Check that the ice bucket is completely in place and the compartment is sealed
- Turn off the ice maker if it is not being used or not connected to a water supply
Check the freezer temperature
- If the freezer temperature is abnormal high and the compressor runs longer than normal it could be an indication of a weak sealed system
Test the Thermostat and Sensors
- Activate Service Mode
  - Compare the actual compartment temperature to the displayed temperature sensor reading
- Manualy test the compartment temperature sensor
  - How to test a refrigerator or freezer temperature sensor with a multimeter
Check the Damper
- Activate Service Mode
  - Open and close the damper and check for smooth consistent operation
  - Close the damper and check for air leakage around the seal

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