Why are the items in a home freezer melting but refrigerator section is freezing?

If the items in a home freezer are melting while the refrigerator section is freezing, it could be due to a few different factors:

1. Defrost Drain Clog: Check if the defrost drain of the freezer is clogged. If the drain is blocked with ice or food particles, it can prevent proper drainage of melted water, leading to frost buildup and temperature fluctuations within the freezer compartment. Ensure the drain is clear to allow water to drain properly.

2. Faulty Thermostat: A malfunctioning thermostat can cause inaccurate temperature readings, resulting in incorrect cooling levels in the freezer and refrigerator compartments. Check if the thermostat is functioning correctly and ensure that it's set to the desired temperature.

3. Damaged Door Seal: A damaged or worn-out freezer door seal can allow cold air to escape and warm air to enter, affecting the temperature inside. Inspect the door seal for any gaps, tears, or cracks, and replace it if needed to ensure a proper seal.

4. Evaporator Coil Issue: The evaporator coil, which is responsible for cooling the inside of the refrigerator and freezer, may have an issue. Frost buildup on the coil or a refrigerant leak can impact the unit's cooling performance. If the evaporator coil problem is severe, it might require professional assistance for repair or replacement.

5. Refrigerant Leak: A refrigerant leak can lead to a loss of cooling power in the refrigerator and freezer compartments. If there's a leak, the entire cooling system may need servicing or repair.

6. Temperature Control Setting: Make sure the temperature control setting for both the refrigerator and freezer is set appropriately. Sometimes, accidentally adjusting the controls can cause improper cooling. Confirm that the settings align with the desired temperatures.

7. Excessive Food Load: Overloading the freezer with a significant amount of warm food can temporarily raise the temperature inside, causing items to start melting. Try to space out the food items and allow sufficient airflow for even cooling.

8. Power Outage or Surge: A recent power outage or power surge might have disrupted the refrigerator/freezer's cooling cycle, leading to temperature fluctuations and melting of frozen items. Check if there were any recent power issues in your area.

If you've checked these potential factors and the problem persists, it's recommended to consult with a qualified appliance repair technician for further diagnosis and repair.