Why Is My KitchenAid Refrigerator Freezing Food?

Though finding frozen food in the refrigerator can be a shock, a few simple changes can solve the problem. Why is my fridge suddenly freezing everything? If the temperature setting was accidentally lowered, some items will freeze. Troubleshoot a KitchenAid refrigerator freezing food with these likely causes.

In many cases, a simple adjustment to your use and care can ensure that refrigerated items maintain their temperature. Here’s how to determine the reason for a KitchenAid refrigerator freezing food.

If your KitchenAid refrigerator temperature settings are too low, some items may start to freeze. While the temperature controls may have been accidentally adjusted, sometimes a freezer temperature that’s too low can also freeze refrigerated items. Check the temperature in both your refrigerator and freezer. For optimal cooling, the refrigerator should be set at 38-40℉, while the freezer should be 0-2℉.

If either temperature is too low, raise it by one degree, giving the refrigerator 8 hours to reach the new setting. If you still find the KitchenAid refrigerator temperature too cold, try raising the temperature by one more degree within the proper range.

Certain areas of the refrigerator can be cooler than others due to the positioning of the air vents or the freezer’s location. Since cool air sinks, the base of the refrigerator is also usually cooler than the middle shelves or doors. You’ll find your KitchenAid refrigerator freezing food if temperature-sensitive items are stored in these colder areas.

Try these food storage tips if your KitchenAid refrigerator freezes food :

KitchenAid refrigerator air vents are located in different areas of the interior compartment, depending on your model refrigerator. The vents allow cool air to enter the refrigerator and ensure adequate airflow between it and the freezer. 

If certain items are placed directly in front of the vents, they can freeze from direct contact with cold air. You may also find the refrigerator not cooling properly due to a lack of airflow. Reposition any items away from the vents to ensure that air can circulate properly. Generally, it’s best to keep a one inch perimeter around the refrigerator’s walls to maintain airflow and prevent food from freezing.

While there are foods you shouldn’t refrigerate, having enough food in your refrigerator is essential to maintaining its temperature. When a refrigerator is sufficiently stocked, each item absorbs the cold air, resulting in more even cooling. If there aren’t enough items, cold air will settle at the bottom, resulting in a KitchenAid refrigerator freezing food.

For proper cooling, aim to keep the refrigerator ¾ of the way full at all times. If this isn’t possible, try filling and cooling jugs of water to better absorb the cool air.

Do you still have KitchenAid refrigerator temperature concerns? The refrigerator’s condenser coils may need to be cleaned. These coils help cool refrigerant, creating cool air for the refrigerator. If they’re dirty or dusty, refrigerant may not sufficiently cool, causing the condenser to work harder to maintain the right temperature. Sometimes it can work too hard and create an internal temperature that’s too cold.

Cleaning the condenser coils can resolve cooling issues and restore proper temperatures. Consult your user manual to determine if the coils on your KitchenAid refrigerator require cleaning, as some may not. Most coils are located behind the base grille at the bottom of the refrigerator, which can be easily removed. Once accessible, the coils can be vacuumed with a brush attachment or cleaned with an appliance brush to remove dust and debris.

Is your KitchenAid refrigerator freezing food even after these troubleshooting tips? It may be time for a refrigerator repair service to have a look. Contact Authorized Appliance for fast and professional service!