A Hisense fridge not cooling is one of the most common calls we get at our Welshpool workshop. The good news is that most causes are simple and you can often sort them out yourself in under an hour. We’ll guide you through the checks in order, starting with the easy stuff and working up to the parts that need a technician.
We’ve based this guide on what we actually see on the bench, not just a generic checklist. So, let’s get into it.
Quick Checks First
Before you assume the worst, rule out the basics. It sounds obvious, but a huge number of Hisense fridge problems come down to something simple.
- Check the fridge is plugged in properly and the power point works.
- Make sure the temperature dial or digital control hasn’t been bumped to a warmer setting.
- Check nothing is blocking the internal vents. Overpacking the fridge stops cold air from moving around.
- Listen for the compressor. A soft hum means it’s running.
If everything checks out here and your Hisense fridge is still not getting cold, move on to the next step.
Dirty Condenser Coils
This is probably the single biggest cause of a Hisense fridge not cooling properly. The condenser coils sit at the back or underneath the fridge, and their job is to release heat. When they’re covered in dust, pet hair, or grime, the fridge has to work much harder to stay cold, and often it just can’t keep up.
Unplug the fridge first. Then use a vacuum with a brush attachment or a coil cleaning brush to clear the dust off. Give this a go every six months if you can, especially if you have pets or the fridge sits near a vent.
Door Seal Issues
A worn or dirty door seal lets cold air escape and warm air in. Over time, this makes the compressor run constantly, and you’ll notice frost building up, condensation on the outside of the door, or food that spoils faster than it should.
Run your hand around the seal to feel for gaps. A simple test is to close the door on a piece of paper and pull it out. If it slides out easily, the seal isn’t gripping properly and probably needs replacing.
Thermostat and Temperature Control
If the coils and seal look fine but your Hisense fridge is not freezing or staying cold enough, the thermostat could be the issue. This is the part that tells the compressor when to kick in.
Try adjusting the dial slightly colder and wait 24 hours before checking again. Fridges take time to respond, so don’t judge it after ten minutes. If the temperature still won’t settle, the thermostat sensor itself may have failed, and that’s usually a job for a technician rather than a DIY fix.
For reference, most fridges should sit between 3°C and 5°C. The government’s guide on appliance settings notes that the ideal temperature for most fridges is around three degrees Celsius, which is a useful benchmark when you’re troubleshooting. You can read more in this guide on using your fridge and freezer efficiently.
For a broader look at causes across all fridge brands, our guide on why is my fridge not cooling covers issues that apply beyond just Hisense models too.
Compressor Concerns
The compressor is the heart of the cooling system, and problems here are usually the most serious. Signs to watch for include:
| Symptom | Likely Cause |
| Clicking sound, no hum | Faulty start relay |
| Fridge runs constantly, never gets cold | Compressor struggling or low refrigerant |
| No sound at all from the back | Compressor has failed |
| Compressor hot to touch | Overworking due to blocked airflow |
If you’re hearing clicking or the compressor won’t start at all, don’t keep switching the fridge on and off. This can put extra strain on the motor. It’s worth getting a technician to check it properly at this point.
When to Replace
Not every Hisense fridge problem is worth repairing. As a rough guide, if the fridge is under five years old and the fault is a coil, seal, or relay, repair usually makes sense. If the compressor has failed on an older unit, replacement is often the more sensible option once you weigh up parts and labour.
We’re honest about this with every customer who comes through our doors. We’d rather tell you a repair isn’t worth it than have you spend money chasing a fridge that’s on its way out. If you do decide it’s time for something new, you can browse our range of tested fridges at our Welshpool showroom.
FAQs
Why is my Hisense fridge not getting cold?
In most cases, it’s dirty condenser coils, a worn door seal, or a thermostat set too warm. Start with these before assuming a bigger fault.
How do I reset a Hisense fridge?
Unplug the fridge for about five minutes, then plug it back in. This resets the control board and can clear minor faults.
Is a Hisense fridge worth repairing?
Usually, yes, if the fridge is relatively new and the fault is a common one like a coil, seal, or relay. Compressor failure on an older unit is a different story, and replacement often works out cheaper in the long run.
If you’ve worked through these steps and your fridge still won’t cool, feel free to get in touch with our team. We’re happy to talk you through it or take a look in person at our Welshpool workshop.

