Likely cause, what to safely try first, and whether it gets worse if you wait.
Likely cause
Dust-caked condenser coils, a failing evaporator fan or compressor, or a door seal that's no longer sealing.
What to try first
- Check the condenser coils (usually behind a bottom kickplate or on the back) for a thick layer of dust/pet hair — this is the single most common cause and a DIY vacuum fix.
- Close the door on a piece of paper and try to pull it out — if it slides out easily, the door gasket has failed and is letting warm air in.
- Confirm the interior temperature dial hasn't been accidentally bumped to a warmer setting.
⚠ This tends to get worse (and more expensive) the longer it's left unaddressed — worth acting on soon.