How long should a refrigerator run before it shuts off?

Author: Madonna O'Kon  |  Last update: Friday, July 4, 2025

How often should a fridge start and stop? All fridges are 'on' most of the time. And by that I mean — it is typical for a refrigerator compressor to run anywhere between 4 and 8 hours before turning 'off'. Newer models run even more frequently — about 80% of the time.

How often should a refrigerator cycle on and off?

However, your refrigerator does not—and should not—run constantly. Every 12 to 15 hours, the refrigeration defrost cycle should begin, which uses a defrost heater to melt any frost that has accumulated on the evaporator coils. Once the defrost cycle is complete, the refrigeration cycle will begin again.

How long is too long for a refrigerator to run?

Your fridge should run from around 35% of the day to around 85% of the day.

Is it normal for a refrigerator to run constantly?

Yes. The compressor runs until the refrigerator hits its target temperature and then cycles off until that temperature rises out of range again. Unless the compressor is rapidly cycling on and off, this is exactly how the system is supposed to work.

How long does a new refrigerator run before it shuts off?

If your fridge continues to run non-stop after the initial 24-hour period, it might indicate an issue that requires attention.

How often should a fridge turn on and off?

Should you hear a refrigerator running all the time?

But if your refrigerator seems to be “running” all the time, then the appliance is working too hard. While having a refrigerator that works overtime might give the impression the appliance is especially robust, it's actually an indication that something could be wrong with your refrigerator parts.

Why does my fridge not switch off?

If your refrigerator is constantly running, the defrost heater, responsible for melting ice in critical areas like the evaporator coils, might be malfunctioning. This issue can lead to continuous operation and potential mechanical failures if not promptly and effectively addressed.

How do you know when a refrigerator is going bad?

Your refrigerator starts making strange noises. A gentle hum is normal as the fan motors inside your refrigerator do their job. Unusual sounds like grinding, scraping, knocking, or rattling are signs of bigger issues. You should also check your ice maker if you hear strange noises coming from your fridge.

How many hours a day does a refrigerator run?

Step Three: Most “average” refrigerators run for about eight hours per day. Multiply 8 hours of usage by the number of watts you came up with in step two, or 8 x 960 = 7,680 watts per day, on average.

How long do I unplug my fridge to reset it?

Reset your refrigerator: First, unplug it (or turn off the power at the circuit breaker), and then wait about five minutes for the electrical charge to clear out of it. Then, power it back on again.

Why is my refrigerator not shutting off?

If your refrigerator is running too long, it could be due to a malfunction of the defrost termination thermostat. This is the component in charge of turning off the defrost heater at the end of the defrost cycle, when the evaporator gets up to 35 to 47 degrees F. It can normally be found on the evaporator tubing.

What shortens the life of a refrigerator?

For example, overloading the fridge with too much food can put extra strain on the motor, which will cause it to work harder and potentially fail sooner. Similarly, frequently opening and closing the fridge door can also lead to premature wear and tear.

What if my fridge is off for 8 hours?

Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers after 4 hours without power. After a power outage never taste food to determine its safety.

What is the first thing to check when a refrigerator stops working?

The first thing you should do is check if the power supply to your refrigerator is working properly. Make sure that none of the plugs or wiring are loose or damaged, and check that the power outlet is still functional. If everything looks fine on that front, then it could be a problem with the refrigerator itself.

What is the ideal cycle of a refrigerator?

An ideal refrigerator or heat pump can be thought of as an ideal heat engine that is operating in a reverse Carnot cycle. Heat pump cycles and refrigeration cycles can be classified as vapor compression, vapor absorption, gas cycle, or Stirling cycle types.

When should you turn off your refrigerator?

We recommend unplugging your refrigerator from power when you go out for a longer period. You will not need fresh food then. Make sure to dispose of any item that will go rotten without cooling. If your use of the refrigerator is minimal, then you can try turning off the fridge for a few hours at night.

How often should I hear my refrigerator running?

How often should a fridge start and stop? All fridges are 'on' most of the time. And by that I mean — it is typical for a refrigerator compressor to run anywhere between 4 and 8 hours before turning 'off'. Newer models run even more frequently — about 80% of the time.

Is it normal for a refrigerator to run for 2 hours?

For Refrigerators and Freezers to maintain the proper temperature, the compressor will run much of the time. Refrigerators and Freezers have compressors that are designed to run 80% to 90% of the time.

How often should a freezer turn on and off?

Normal Cycling Patterns

So, how often should a fridge/freezer cycle on and off? On average, most refrigerators run for about 45 minutes to an hour before taking a break. This means the compressor is actively cooling your food for around 80–90% of the day.

What is the most common fridge failure?

The three most common reasons for failures that we see as a result of wear & tear are a mechanically locked compressor, failure of the fan motor, and dirty condenser coils. The refrigerator's compressor is the heart of the cooling system; without a working compressor the refrigerator cannot function.

Why does my refrigerator run every 20 minutes?

When you add food to the refrigerator, it technically reduces the space inside that must be cooled. The appliance doesn't have to run as long because the space is filled. An empty refrigerator, however, creates a larger space to cool. As a result, the compressor runs a lot to create a consistent temperature setting.

What goes bad first in a fridge?

Milk has been named the item most likely to expire in the fridge, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 Americans has revealed that 46 percent say they've been caught by a sour scent in their bottle or carton.

How do I reset a refrigerator?

Unplug your refrigerator

Disconnect your fridge from its power source by removing the power cord from the wall outlet. You may hear some whooshing or knocking noises after you do so; that's normal. Make sure your fridge stays unplugged for several minutes, otherwise the reset won't work.

How to tell if a refrigerator compressor is bad?

What Are the Signs of a Bad Refrigerator Compressor?
  1. Your Refrigerator is Constantly Running. Does it seem like your refrigerator is running all the time? ...
  2. Your Energy Bill is Rising. ...
  3. It Doesn't Stay Cold. ...
  4. You Hear More Noise than Usual. ...
  5. The Circuit Breaker Trips. ...
  6. You Notice a Burning Smell. ...
  7. Refrigerator Problems?

How long should a refrigerator last?

According to the United States Department of Energy, refrigerators last approximately 12 years. At that point, it's likely time to replace it. Of course, if your refrigerator is not energy-efficient, you may want to consider replacing it before it stops working.

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