Refrigeration repair done properly

Fridge and freezer faults can range from a simple thermostat replacement to a more involved compressor diagnosis. Some issues — particularly those involving refrigerant — require specialist handling in line with UK regulations. Our engineer David Hollis holds Gas Safe registration and has spent nine years working specifically on refrigeration appliances.

We work with freestanding fridges, fridge-freezers, American-style units, under-counter fridges, wine coolers, and integrated models. Most makes and models found in UK homes fall within our scope.

Food safety is a real concern when refrigeration fails. We aim to attend promptly, and will give you a realistic assessment of the fault so you can make informed decisions about your food and your appliance.

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Common fridge & freezer faults

Refrigeration problems often develop gradually — here are the issues we're called out to most frequently.

Not cooling properly

If your fridge feels warmer than usual or food is spoiling faster than it should, the appliance isn't maintaining its set temperature. This might be a thermostat fault, a condenser issue, a failing fan motor, or in more serious cases, a refrigerant problem. Accurate diagnosis is essential — and we'll carry it out before recommending a fix.

Excessive ice build-up

A thick layer of frost forming in the freezer compartment is usually a sign that the automatic defrost system isn't working correctly. Common causes include a faulty defrost heater, a failed thermostat within the defrost cycle, or a defrost timer issue. Left unaddressed, excessive ice significantly reduces the appliance's efficiency.

Unusual sounds

Fridges are never completely silent, but new or louder-than-usual noises are worth investigating. A rattling or vibrating sound may come from a loose component or a struggling condenser fan. A clicking sound that cycles on and off might indicate the compressor is struggling to start. We'll listen, inspect, and advise accordingly.

Water pooling inside

Water collecting at the bottom of a fridge is a common complaint. It's most often caused by a blocked or frozen defrost drain — the channel through which meltwater passes to the evaporation tray at the back. Clearing and cleaning the drain typically resolves this quickly.

Compressor faults

The compressor is the heart of the refrigeration system. When it fails, cooling stops. Compressor faults can sometimes be mistaken for other issues — an accurate diagnosis is important before any work proceeds. Depending on the age of the appliance, repair may or may not be economical, and we'll give you an honest assessment.

Interior light not working

A non-functional interior light is usually the simplest of fridge faults — in most cases it's a failed bulb or LED module. However, it can occasionally indicate an issue with the door switch. We'll confirm the cause and replace the appropriate component.

What to expect during a visit

Arrange a visit

Call us or complete our contact form. Let us know the symptoms, your appliance make and model, and any urgency around food safety. We'll work to attend as quickly as our schedule allows.

Engineer assessment

Our engineer will inspect the appliance — checking temperatures, listening to the compressor, testing the thermostat and defrost system — to build an accurate picture of the fault.

Clear explanation and estimate

We'll tell you what's wrong, what's needed to fix it, and what it will cost. If the repair isn't economical given the appliance's age, we'll tell you that too.

Repair and testing

Repair proceeds only with your agreement. We carry common replacement parts and will confirm temperatures before leaving to ensure the appliance is cooling correctly.

Refrigerant handling & regulations

Work involving refrigerant gases must be carried out by a qualified engineer. Refrigerants used in domestic appliances are controlled substances under UK and EU legislation — releasing them into the atmosphere is illegal and environmentally harmful. Our engineer David Hollis is trained and registered to handle refrigerants lawfully. If your appliance requires refrigerant work, you can be confident it will be done in full compliance with current regulations.

Frequently asked questions

My fridge has stopped cooling suddenly — what should I do?

First, check that the appliance is plugged in and the socket is live. Then check the temperature control setting hasn't been accidentally moved. If everything looks normal but cooling has stopped, transfer perishable items to a cool bag or alternative fridge if possible, and contact us to arrange a visit. Avoid opening the doors more than necessary.

Is it worth repairing an older fridge?

It depends on the fault and the age of the appliance. A simple thermostat or fan replacement on a 6-year-old fridge is usually economical. A compressor failure on a 12-year-old unit may not be. We'll give you an honest view and won't push you toward a repair that doesn't make financial sense.

Can you repair integrated or built-in fridges?

Yes. Integrated fridges require a little more time to access, but we regularly work on built-in units. The diagnostic and repair process is the same — we'll inspect the appliance in situ where possible.

Do you carry spare parts?

We carry a selection of commonly needed parts. For less common components, we'll source from suppliers and return once parts arrive. We'll give you a realistic timescale when we know what's needed.

Fridge & Freezer Repair