[Rick57]

We have a GE side-by-side Profile Artica that just will not get cold. At first it started with the freezer not getting colder than 19 when we have it set for -2 and today the refrigerator side is at 46 and we have it set for 37. I cleaned the coils last night underneath. I have no idea whats's going on. Any help would be great.

Another thing I noticed tonight is the wall that seperated the refrig side and freezer side where the doors shut is very very hot.

Thanks,
Rick

[woodchuck]

Is the condenser fan running. It blows or pulls air across the condenser coils you cleaned. It should be running when the compressor is running.

Is the evaporator fan in the freezer running. It circulates the cold air in the freezer and to the fridge.

Is there any ice buildup on the back wall or behind it.

[kayakcrzy]

Rick57, sitting here drinking my morning coffee, tells me that you have a condenser motor problem. Pull the unit out, and take the back off on the bottom, and see if the fan is running. Alot of times, there is something behind there that is stopping the blade from turning. It could be the insulation, a little mouse looking for a nice warm stop for the winter, or the motor is bad. If the blade is not turning try to spin it. If the blade is turning, it is most likely turning to slow, and you would need to replace it. Put your hand on top of the compressor, I will bet a warm cup of coffee, that it is hot. If you need me, you can reach me on my web site at ApplianceEducator.com Tom

[Rick57]

Ok, I pulled the unit out and pulled the cover off. The condenser is hot to the touch but the fan is turning. I didnt see much dirt or build up back there but I took the vacuum to it anyway. I did unplug it while I worked on it and when I plugged it back in I could hear the compressor kick on. I was not running when I pulled it out, maybe something got reset? Tons of crap on this frig, buttons, etc...

I guess I will just see.

Thanks...

[kayakcrzy]

Replace the condenser motor, it is most likely not spinning fast enough. The fact that the motor was running and the compressor wasn't is letting me know that the motor is not cooling off the compressor. Do it my good man, or you will be replacing a compressor too. Tom ApplianceEducator.com

[sethmeisterg]

[quote=kayakcrzy;24653]Replace the condenser motor, it is most likely not spinning fast enough. The fact that the motor was running and the compressor wasn't is letting me know that the motor is not cooling off the compressor. Do it my good man, or you will be replacing a compressor too. Tom

Hi,

How can one test if the condenser motor isn't spinning the fan fast enough -- how hot should the actual compressor be? On my artica side-by-side it's super hot all the time (when it's working) even though the refrigerant returning from the jelly-roll coil is cool. What are the specs for standard compressor temperature?

Thanks,
--S