The part(s) or condition(s) listed below for the symptom Freezer cabinet is hot on the outside are ordered from most likely to least likely to occur. Check or test each item, starting with the items at the top of the page.
Top 5 Reasons Freezer Runs All The Time?
Top Reasons Freezer Coils Are Frozen?
Top 6 Reasons Freezer Not Freezing?
Clean Out Freezer Ice - Tech Tips from Repair Clinic
Freezer Not Working & Hearing A Clicking Sound? Freezer Troubleshooting
Defrost Drain Frozen? Freezer Troubleshooting
Freezer Indicator Light Is Out? Freezer TroubleshootingUnlike upright freezers that will typically have a fan to help remove the heat from the condenser. Chest freezers dissipate the heat from the condenser coils through the cabinet. It is normal for the outer cabinet to be warm.
If the condenser coils are located within the freezer walls, the coils do not require cleaning. However, if the condenser coils can be readily accessed from behind or under the unit, you should clean them every 6-12 months. If the condenser coils are dirty, they won’t be able to dissipate heat effectively, greatly reducing the cooling capacity of the freezer. If the condenser coils are dirty or have not been cleaned in a while, clean them.
The condenser fan motor cools the condenser coils and compressor when it’s running. A defective fan motor that doesn't work will result in the condenser coil, compressor, and any tubing in the cabinet walls to become very hot. Try rotating the fan blades by hand. If the blades don't turn easily, the motor has seized and will need to be replaced. You can also use a multimeter to test the fan motor for electrical continuity. If the motor tests negative for continuity, you'll know the component has failed.
