(13 Fixes) Maytag Refrigerator Not Cooling/Freezing [2023]

Is your Maytag refrigerator not cooling or freezing?

Well, here’s some good news.

It’s possible to fix this issue at home.

And this can save you a lot of bucks and time from long customer service calls.

How?

Continue reading to learn:

• 13 easy tips to fix a Maytag refrigerator that isn’t cooling or freezing
• The possible reasons why your Maytag refrigerator has this problem.
• The function of “Showroom” mode and how you can get your unit out of it.
• The ideal clearances and temperature (inside and outside) for refrigerators.
• And so much more…

Why is my Maytag refrigerator not cooling or freezing?

Your Maytag refrigerator is not cooling or freezing due to blocked vents or dirty components. The former is common in overstocked fridges. While the latter can be a filthy door gasket. As well as condenser fans or coils. Other possible causes are incorrect temperature, setting, and tiny clearances. 

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Maytag refrigerator not cooling or freezing: 13 ways to fix it

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#1: Make sure that the temperature is correct

Before trying other tips, check your fridge’s temperature first.

“Why?”

Because this is sometimes overlooked.

Yes, you may have set your fridge at the right temperature before. 

But you or someone else might have adjusted the control by accident.

So now, your Maytag refrigerator isn’t cooling or freezing anymore.

If this is the case, the fix is super easy.

You only have to readjust the temperature of your fridge.

Based on Maytag, the ideal setting for fridges is 37ºF (2.8ºC). But, it can also be between 32ºF to 40ºF (0ºC to 4.4ºC). 

While freezers should be set at 0ºF (-18ºC).

Now, if you have touchpad buttons as control, they might be confusing at first. 

This is because they don’t display the temperature degrees. And the higher the number is, the cooler your fridge or freezer will be.

So, remember these things:

• For a higher temperature: Set it one level lower.
• For a lower temperature: Adjust the control one level higher.

Repeat the step until your fridge is at its normal cooling temperature.

Note: Changes may not appear right away. Refrigerators take up to 24 hours to fully stabilize. So check your fridge and freezer again after a whole day.

Read next: 15 Refrigerator Do’s And Don’ts (Avoid #7 At All Times)

#2: Turn the “Showroom” or “Demo” mode off

It could also be that there’s nothing wrong with your Maytag refrigerator.

And the reason it isn’t cooling or freezing is because of a certain mode.

“Wait. What mode?”

Maytag has a feature called “Showroom” or “Demo” mode.

And as its name suggests, it’s used when refrigerators are still in the store. 

In this mode, the refrigerator lights turn on when you open it. But all of its other functions (including cooling) are switched off.

“How will I know if my Maytag fridge is in Demo mode?”

If it’s turned on, you can see the word “Showroom” on the display panel.

It’s usually on the right side – above “order” and “replace.” 

However, this may vary per model.

Again, this setting might be activated accidentally.

So if you see that your unit is in “Demo” mode, here’s what you should do.

How to turn it off:

The method will be different for every model. But the general process for most units are similar.

Simply press and hold the button/s listed below at the same time for about 3 seconds.

• MRT711S – “Temp.”
• MFI2570FE – “Light” + “Power Cold.”
• MFI2269F – “Refrigerator Cooling Off.”
• MFW2055F – “Fridge Temp” + “Freezer Temp.”
• MFF2055F – “Power Cold” + “Moisture Control.”
• MFT2776FE / MFX2676FR / MSC21C6MF / MSS26C6M – “Options” + “Water Filter.”

Then, wait until the word “Showroom” disappears.

Note: In some models, you may only need to turn the temperature all the way up to get it out of the “Demo” mode. Here’s a manual that you can use for reference. 

(It’s about putting your unit in “Showroom” mode. But the steps are also the same if you want to deactivate it so you can follow it as well.)

#3: Wait for your unit to stabilize

Is it a newly bought Maytag refrigerator?

If so, and it hasn’t been 24 hours after the installation, you have nothing to worry about.

Most fridges stabilize their temperature after a whole day. So it’s normal if your fridge isn’t cooling yet within that period.

“Help! The problem still continues after 2 or more days. What can I do?”

Try the other possible fixes below.

You may also contact Maytag’s customer service: 208-616-5145.

Or try logging in to Maytag Owner Support Center to send your queries.

#4: Double-check your power source

This is another simple fix that some people might forget to do first.

A loose connection can also be the cause of this problem. So if your fridge isn’t cooling, look at its cord too.

Check if it’s plugged properly into the outlet.

And also, see if the circuit breaker connected to it is switched on or not.

But if everything’s alright, there might be a problem with the cord.

However, don’t jump to a final conclusion yet.

There are other possible reasons. And I’ll talk about each of them below.

#5: Power cycle your fridge

Is there a thick ice build-up inside your fridge even though it’s not cooling properly?

If so, try this quick and easy fix.

Reset your Maytag refrigerator.

You can do this by pressing a combination of buttons.

And also, by simply unplugging your fridge.

To do this:

1. Remove the plug of your fridge from its outlet. (Turn its circuit breaker off.)
2. Wait for around 5 to 10 minutes.
3. Plug your fridge back into a power source. (Switch on the circuit breaker.)

Once it resets, give your refrigerator some time to adjust on its own. Then check if it’s cooling again or not.

Note: If the problem still persists, you may have a faulty circuit board. This is like a motherboard of computers that controls all functions of a fridge. If it’s damaged, your unit won’t cool properly no matter what. And it must be replaced by an expert.

Continue reading: 7 Steps To Reset Your Maytag Refrigerator In 39 Sec

#6: Reorganize its contents

If your fridge isn’t cooling, it could also be that it’s overstuffed.

Meaning, there are too many goods inside. So some items might block the vents.

The purpose of the vents is to supply cold air from the freezer to the fridge compartment.

So if they’re blocked, it’ll interrupt the circulation of cold air inside. Which will then result in a warm compartment.

If you’re experiencing this, here are some other signs:

• Too much frost inside.
• Inconsistent temperature.
• Frozen goods in the fridge compartment (outside the freezer).

How to fix it:

This is going to be easy.

1. Look for the vents inside your fridge first. (These are usually found on the back wall.)
2. Move the goods that are too close to them.
3. Rearrange your items with the location of vents in mind.
4. Dispose of expired products and leftovers to give your fridge some space.

Don’t forget to check out: 15 Best Ways To Maintain Your Refrigerator (Checklist)

#7: Keep your fridge well-stocked

But what if your fridge is the opposite?

It doesn’t have much content inside. So obviously, the vents aren’t blocked.

Well, if overstocking is bad, the same also goes for understocking.

The items inside help retain coolness.

So if your fridge doesn’t have enough of them, it has to double its efforts to keep its interior cold.

For this one, the only fix is to make sure that your fridge is well-stocked.

This means that it should have enough goods inside that can hold coolness. But not too much that they block the air vents.

#8: Avoid opening it too many times

How frequently do you open your fridge?

Because the longer you do this, the more warm air gets into your unit.

This will bring excessive moisture to your fridge. Then cause frost build-up inside the walls.

And it’ll also let the cold air escape from your unit.

What to do?

To help your appliance maintain its coolness, refrain from opening it for a while.

Then, also check its door seal for any cracks or gaps.

If its door seal is alright, the doors might have been left open for a long time.

So wait for your fridge to reach its cooling temperature again.

If not, proceed to the next tip.

#9: Inspect and clean its door seal

Have you checked your fridge doors?

If they’re not completely shut and you can feel the cold air from the inside, you might have an issue with the gasket.

“What is it?”

It’s the rubber lining that you see on your fridge doors.

Its job is to keep them closed tightly. So that the cold air won’t get out of the unit.

Since the door gasket is often in contact with our hands, it can become dirty over time. And this can weaken its airtight seal.

So if you haven’t cleaned it for a long time…

It could be the reason why your Maytag refrigerator isn’t cooling enough.

How to keep your gasket clean: 

1. Create a solution of warm water and baking soda. For every quart (946 ml) of water, add 1 to 2 tbsp (14.3 to 28.3 g) of baking soda.
2. Put some of it on a clean microfiber cloth.
3. Wipe all the areas to remove mold and stains.
4. Dry the door seal with a clean soft towel.

But if you see cracks on the door gasket, this is now the time to replace it.

Note: For grooves and other parts that can’t be reached easily, use an object with a small tip. Say, a cotton swab or a stick covered with cloth.

#10: Keep it away from any heat source and cold rooms

Did you know that one more factor that can affect the coolness of your fridge is its location?

Yup. The room temperature could also limit the cooling of your Maytag refrigerator.

So, where is it currently placed in your house?

If it’s close to a heat source like a range or oven, it could be the cause of the issue. As well as if it’s placed under direct sunlight.

Due to this, the compressor will work more to keep the inside of your fridge cool. And over time, it may malfunction.

However…

It’s also not advised to keep your fridge in an unheated part of your house.

“But why?”

If the temperature outside falls way too low, the compressor won’t work at all.

So if you think about it, a cold room is worse than a hot one.

Oh no!

What’s the ideal room temperature for refrigerators?

The room temperature shouldn’t be higher than 110°F (43°C). And also, not less than 55°F (13°C).

These are the best temperatures for a fridge to work properly.

#11: Move it a bit away from the wall

Clearances are also important for our appliances.

Most especially to refrigerators. Since heat needs to escape from their coils.

Without any gaps on all sides, they can overheat in the long run.

And aside from inadequate cooling, it can also lead to:

• Machine noises.
• High electricity cost.
• Failure of the system.
• Compressor problems.

How to fix it:

Give more clearances to your refrigerator.

“How much space should be between a fridge and a wall?”

According to the Maytag manual, it must be at least ¼ in (6.35 mm) on all sides – including the top.

But if it’s beside a fixed wall, a 2 ½ in (63.5 mm) gap is needed on both sides.

#12: Clean the condenser coils

If nothing works, you might also have a condenser problem.

Its job is to take the heat away from the refrigerant as it passes through the coils. So it should escape properly into the room.

But since they tend to accumulate dirt…

They can be covered with dust and hair if not cleaned regularly.

Now, this will inhibit the dispersion of heat. Which can affect your fridge’s interior.

How to fix it:

Do a thorough cleaning of your condenser coils.

Note: For your safety, unplug your Maytag fridge first before doing the steps below. You can also switch its circuit breaker off to be sure.

And then:

1. Move your fridge away from the wall. (Just enough to give you more access while cleaning it.)
2. Find your condenser coils. (These black bars can be located on the top, back, or under your fridge.)
3. If there’s a plate that covers your coils, pull or slide it until it pops off.
4. Using a vacuum with a hose attachment, do a fast cleaning of the coils.
5. Further, scrape the dirt with a long condenser coil brush.
6. Vacuum the coils once more to remove the debris.
7. Reattach the plate back to its place. (If you did step #3.)

And that’s it.

Note: Clean the condenser coils at least once every 2 to 3 months. But if you have a pet at home, you may do this more often to keep your fridge working smoothly.

#13: Inspect its condenser fan motor

If the condenser coils aren’t the problem…

Check if its fan is working.

This blows air to the condenser as it removes heat from the refrigerant. So this part is vital to avoid overheating.

But if it’s obstructed, it won’t draw much air to the condenser. And it may also result in a warm fridge compartment.

How to know if the condenser fan is working or not:

Step 1: Unplug your fridge first to prevent electrical shock.

Step 2: Look for the condenser fan in your fridge.

It’s typically located at the back of a refrigerator-freezer side.

Step 3: Take off its cover or access panel.

Then check if there’s dirt or any obstruction between its blades.

Step 4: Using any object, spin the blade of the condenser fan.

• If it spins smoothly – this might not be the cause of your problem.
• If not – you may need to replace the condenser fan with a new one.

Note: For this, contact an experienced repairman to assess the problem.