SMEG Fridge Not Cooling: 7 Common Problems (with solutions)

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Nothing more frustrating than a faulty fridge.

It’s essential to get your SMEG fridge to the proper temperature, or else your food and drinks will spoil.

We are confident that we will be able to identify your cooling problems and hopefully get your SMEG fridge back to cooling again.

In this article, we’ll help answer the most common problems with SMEG refrigerators.

SMEG Fridge Not Cooling: 7 Common Problems (with solutions)

Typical causes of SMEG fridge not cooling include the refrigerator not being plugged in, the refrigerator door not closing properly, damaged seals, blocked vents, and a dirty or faulty condenser.

Based on our research and experience, below are the most common reasons why your SMEG fridge is not cooling.

Ready, let’s jump in!

Check SMEG Fridge is Plugged In

Although it may appear obvious, the first step is to ensure that the refrigerator is properly plugged in.

If the SMEG fridge is not properly plugged in, remove the plug from the socket and re-insert it.

Remove the plug and try plugging another item into the same socket if it is properly inserted. If the newly plugged-in item fails to function, try resetting the circuit breaker for that outlet.

If the outlet is still not working, call an electrician.

At the very least, you have your SMEG refrigerator that is cooling again.

If the outlet is not the problem, move to the next step below.

Check the Fridge Door Shuts Properly

Fridge doors that do not close properly and damaged or worn-out seals are common causes of refrigerators not cooling.

Check to ensure that the door is properly closed. Failure to do so will result in cold air leaking out.

Check the door seals to ensure they are not torn, weathered, or dirty.

Dirty seals can cause gaps large enough to allow warm air to enter, affecting cooling.

If you notice dirty seals or frost build-up around the gasket, clean them right away and give your refrigerator up to 24 hours to return to normal temperature.

It is best to call a technician if the seals need to be replaced or the door is faulty.

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Related Article: SMEG Appliances With Most Recalls (Check Before Buying)

Check the Door Switch

Most refrigerators prefer not to run the condenser unless the door is positively closed.

This saves electricity by producing cold at the most efficient times.

However, if your refrigerator believes the door is always open, it will not run the condenser long enough to maintain the proper level of cold.

Examine the door latch on your refrigerator.

When your fridge door is closed, this tiny lever pushes down (turning off the light) and springs open when the door is open (turns on the light).

If the latch is dirty gently wipe it down, cleaning off the grime.

Related Article: SMEG Fridges With Most Recalls (Check Before Buying)

Reduce Fridges Temperature

The fridge’s temperature may need to be reduced, especially during warmer months or if the fridge is packed with food.

Reduce the temperature of your refrigerator. The ideal refrigerator temperature is 3°C (37°F) and the freezer temperature is -18°C (0°F).

If your refrigerator is in direct sunlight or close to a heat source, consider relocating it if possible.

While we’re on the subject of fridge location, make sure there’s an inch of clearance between the fridge and the back of the wall for proper operation.

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SMEG Fridge in Demo Mode

If the Refrigerator is plugged in and turned on, but it still isn’t cold enough, you may have accidentally set it to or left it in Demo Mode.

When the refrigerator is in Demo Mode, the display will read OF-OF, which disables the compressor to save electricity while it is on the showroom floor.

Turning off Demo Mode is simple and varies depending on the display type of your refrigerator. In general, each model may necessitate a unique set of display buttons.

Related Article: SMEG Fridges With Most Recalls (Check Before Buying)

Your SMEG Fridge is Clogged

Your refrigerator requires air circulation!

If you have too much food in your SMEG refrigerator or freezer, you may be blocking an air vent, causing your refrigerator to not cool properly.

Check that your air vents aren’t clogged with food.

So, we’ve covered the more obvious reasons why your fridge won’t cool down.

If your fridge still won’t cool down, let’s move on to more technical steps to go over.

Clean the Condenser Coils

A set of condenser coils can be found at the back of your refrigerator.

When these coils become dusty or freeze over, they can prevent your refrigerator from cooling.

Cleaning the condenser coils is thankfully simple; simply do the following:

  • Remove your SMEG refrigerator from the wall.
  • Turn off the power.
  • Remove the condenser coils’ cover.
  • If the coils are encrusted with ice, turn off your refrigerator and wipe away any excess water. Clean the coils if they are covered in dust.
  • After they’ve been defrosted or cleaned, replace the coil cover, turn on the power, and see if your fridge now cools properly.

If not move on to the next step

Condenser Fan Could Be Faulty

If the refrigerator isn’t cool enough, the condenser fan motor may be malfunctioning.

The condenser fan motor cools the condenser coils by drawing air over them.

Without a working fan, your refrigerator may overheat and fail to cool properly.

Your condenser fan motor can be found behind or beneath your refrigerator.

If the fan motor stops working, it will almost certainly need to be looked at by a professional.

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Circuit Board Faulty

At least two circuit boards are used in a modern refrigerator: the main control board and the temperature control board.

Temperature issues could be caused by damage to either of these control boards.

These problems are difficult for a novice to diagnose or repair, so if you suspect a control board failure, best to contact a qualified technician.

How long should a Refrigerator Last?

If you have come to the conclusion your fridge is broken and out of warranty, you should consider whether it is cheaper to replace than to repair.

Based on research by Choice.com.au they estimated the lifespan for when it is cheaper to replace.

  • Cheaper to replace: 6–20 years
  • Life expectancy:
    • Budget/entry level: 6 years
    • Mid-range: 9 years
    • High-end: 13 years

Faulty thermostats and damaged door seals are worth repairing, and the cooling performance of an older fridge can be partially restored by replacing worn seals.

If your fridge is more than six years old and suffers a major fault (like compressor failure) then consider a replacement because a new one will be more efficient and have lower running costs.

Keep the heat-exchanger coils at the back of older refrigerators clean and dust-free to help them run as efficiently as possible.

Warranty of SMEG Fridge

To find out the warranty of your fridge, it’s best to locate the paperwork that was handed over to you when you purchased the fridge.

SMEG fridge warranty is typically 36 months from the date of purchase.

For more information on warranty check the SMEG website 

Related Article: SMEG Appliances With Most Recalls (Check Before Buying)

SMEG Fridges Pros and Cons

SMEG is a renowned Italian brand that has gained popularity for its iconic retro-style refrigerators.

While SMEG fridges are known for their aesthetic appeal, it is essential to assess their pros and cons before making a purchase decision.

Let’s delve into the advantages and disadvantages of SMEG fridges, exploring their style, functionality, and overall performance.

Pros of SMEG Fridges:

Stylish and Iconic Design:

One of the major highlights of SMEG fridges is their unique and retro-inspired design.

These refrigerators serve as statement pieces in kitchens, adding a touch of vintage charm.

SMEG offers a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing homeowners to customize their fridge to match their kitchen décor.

High-Quality Construction:

SMEG is known for its commitment to quality craftsmanship. These fridges are built to last, featuring robust materials that ensure durability and longevity.

With attention to detail and precision, SMEG appliances are made to withstand the test of time.

Ample Storage Space:

SMEG fridges provide generous storage capacity, accommodating the needs of households with varying sizes.

Their well-thought-out interior layout includes adjustable shelves, door compartments, and spacious crispers, offering flexibility and organization options for different food items.

Advanced Technology and Features:

Behind their vintage exterior, SMEG fridges incorporate modern technology to enhance usability and convenience.

Some models come equipped with features like LED lighting, automatic defrosting, temperature control, and adjustable humidity settings, ensuring optimal food preservation.

Energy Efficiency:

SMEG places importance on energy efficiency, with most of their fridges boasting excellent energy ratings.

This means lower electricity bills and reduced environmental impact, making SMEG fridges an eco-friendly choice.

Cons of SMEG Fridges:

High Price Point:

One of the notable downsides of SMEG fridges is their premium price tag.

The unique design and high-quality construction come at a cost, making them relatively more expensive compared to other refrigerator brands.

This might be a deterrent for budget-conscious consumers.

Limited Customization Options:

While SMEG offers a range of colors and finishes, the customization options might not satisfy everyone’s preferences.

The brand’s retro aesthetic may not align with modern or minimalist kitchen designs, limiting choices for those seeking a different style.

Potential for Limited Availability:

SMEG is an Italian brand that might have limited availability in certain regions or countries.

This can make it challenging for consumers outside major metropolitan areas to find and purchase SMEG fridges.

Some Reported Reliability Issues:

While SMEG prides itself on quality construction, there have been occasional reports of reliability issues with their appliances.

These issues include malfunctions, cooling problems, or premature wear and tear.

However, it’s worth noting that such reports are relatively rare and not representative of the majority of SMEG fridges.

Conclusion

SMEG fridges offer a blend of style and functionality, making them an attractive choice for those who prioritize aesthetics in their kitchen.

With their iconic design, high-quality construction, and advanced features, SMEG fridges deliver on several fronts.

However, the premium price point, limited customization options, and occasional reports of reliability issues should be considered when evaluating these appliances.

Ultimately, it’s essential for prospective buyers to weigh these pros and cons to determine if SMEG fridges align with their personal preferences and requirements.

Final Thoughts

Here we conclude this article and hope you learned all there is to know about troubleshooting your KitchenAid fridge.

Remember, machines tend to break down, and however infuriating you find your SMEG fridge is broken, it is always good to keep a calm head.

Connect with an Appliance Repair Technician
Click here to use the chatbox to speak with one of our skilled Technicians
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