Your Fridge Is Warm But Freezer Is Cold? The Evaporator Fan You Never Think About Has Stopped
Your refrigerator sounds quieter than usual. Too quiet. The fridge section is warm, but the compressor is running. You open the freezer — it's cold. The evaporator fan has failed.
The Fan That Moves Cold Air (And Why You Don't Hear It Anymore)
The evaporator fan sits inside the freezer. Its job: circulate cold air from the freezer to the fridge section. When the fan stops, the freezer stays cold but cold air never reaches the fridge.
How to Diagnose Evaporator Fan Failure
- Open the freezer door and listen carefully.
- Locate the fan vent (usually behind a rear panel).
- Press the door switch (or hold it down with tape) to trick the fridge into thinking the door is closed.
- Listen for fan noise. No sound? The fan has failed.
Common Fan Failure Causes
- Ice buildup blocking the fan blades (most common in frost-free fridges with defrost problems)
- Failed fan motor (bearings seize after 5-10 years)
- Debris (food particles, plastic wrap) caught in the blades
Repair Cost
Evaporator fan motor: KSh 2,000-4,500 depending on brand. Labor: KSh 1,500-2,500 (requires removing freezer panels). Total: KSh 3,500-7,000.
"My LG fridge was warm but the freezer was fine. Repair Ready found a frozen evaporator fan — ice blocked the blades. They cleared the ice and replaced the defrost heater while they were in there. Total: KSh 5,000. Works perfectly." — Ruth, Karen
📞 Call 0707 790 099 if your fridge is warm but freezer is cold. Mention 'evaporator fan' for faster diagnosis.