How to Fix Hotpoint Refrigerator Not Cooling

When a Hotpoint refrigerator shows not cooling, it is telling you something specific. Below are the causes we see most, ranked, with what each looks like and how to check it.

The likely culprit#

Most likely: compressor start relay failure. When it quits, the compressor attempts to start (click), runs for 1-2 seconds, then shuts off (click). The start relay provides the initial power boost to start the compressor. If that checks out, look next at dirty condenser coils.

Safety first#

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Before starting any troubleshooting on your Hotpoint refrigerator, disconnect power at the circuit breaker or unplug the unit. For gas appliances, turn off the gas supply valve.

Ranked causes and what to look for#

Match your symptom to the rows below, starting at the top:

Sorting it out, step by step#

Move through these in order — the first match is usually the fix.

1. Compressor Start Relay Failure (30% of cases)#

Behind the scenes, the start relay provides the initial power boost to start the compressor. When it gives out, the compressor attempts to start (click), runs for 1-2 seconds, then shuts off (click). This cycle repeats every few minutes. With the unit unplugged, inspect this part for visible wear or a loose connection and test it before replacing.

2. Dirty Condenser Coils (25% of cases)#

When covered in dust and pet hair, heat dissipation drops and the compressor runs continuously without reaching target temperature. On Hotpoint models, coils are either underneath (behind a kick plate) or on the rear. Condenser coils dissipate heat from the refrigerant. Check the element or igniter for visible damage and continuity before replacing it.

3. Evaporator Fan Motor Failure (20% of cases)#

What happens: the evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer to the fresh food compartment. When it gives out, the freezer stays cold but the refrigerator section warms up. On the HPS16BTNRWW, the fan is inside the freezer behind the rear panel. Spin the affected part by hand with power off — grinding, drag, or a burnt smell points to the motor.

4. Defrost System Failure (15% of cases)#

The auto-defrost system blocks ice buildup on the evaporator coils. When the defrost heater, timer, or thermostat quits, ice accumulates on the coils, blocking airflow. Symptoms: the refrigerator works for a few days after manual defrost, then stops cooling again. Rule it in or out with a visual check and a continuity test where possible.

5. Compressor Failure (10% of cases)#

Mechanically, complete compressor fault is less frequent but expensive. The compressor won't run at all — no humming from the rear. This can be caused by electrical fault (windings) or mechanical seizure. With the unit unplugged, inspect this part for visible wear or a loose connection and test it before replacing.

Models this commonly hits#

We see this reported most on Hotpoint models such as HPS16BTNRWW, HSS25GFTWW, HPS18BTNRWW, though the diagnosis above applies across the refrigerator lineup.

The short checklist#

Here is the whole diagnosis on one line each:

• Compressor Start Relay Failure — 30% of the time; rule it in or out with a visual check and a continuity test where possible.
• Dirty Condenser Coils — 25% of the time; with power off, test the heating component for continuity.
• Evaporator Fan Motor Failure — 20% of the time; listen for a hum without movement, which usually means the motor or its start components have failed.
• Defrost System Failure — 15% of the time; with the unit unplugged, inspect this part for visible wear or a loose connection and test it before replacing.
• Compressor Failure — 10% of the time; rule it in or out with a visual check and a continuity test where possible.

What fixing it usually involves#

The repair path is predictable: diagnose, access, replace, and verify. A tech confirms the compressor start relay failure or works down the list, fits the right part, and runs a cycle to be sure it holds.

Keeping it from coming back#

Most of these faults are wear-driven, so periodic cleaning and gentle use stretch the time between repairs on your Hotpoint refrigerator.

When it is a job for a pro#

Call a technician if the symptom persists after the checks above, if the repair means reaching power, gas, or sealed components, or if your Hotpoint refrigerator is still under warranty — DIY work can void it. What you pay comes down to the failed component and the labor for your unit — a diagnostic visit confirms the number up front.

If the fix is beyond a quick DIY, request a technician who works on Hotpoint refrigerators and can diagnose it in one visit.