How long to leave a refrigerator unplugged to reset?

Author: Dora Abshire Sr.  |  Last update: Friday, December 12, 2025

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.

How long should you unplug a refrigerator to reset it?

Unplug the Refrigerator

You can disconnect your fridge from its power source by removing the power cord from the wall outlet or by flipping the correct circuit breaker in the breaker panel. There may be whooshing or knocking noises, which is normal. Remain unplugged for 10 minutes.

How do I get my fridge to start cooling again?

  • 1. Check the Temperature Settings Ensure that the refrigerator is set to the appropriate temperature (usually around 37°F or 3°C). Sometimes, the settings can be accidentally changed.
  • 2. Inspect the Air Vents Make sure the air vents inside the fridge are not blocked by food items.
  • 3. Clean the Condenser Coils

What happens if you don't wait 24 hours to plug a fridge in?

If you've ever moved a fridge freezer, or even bought one brand new, you'll know that you are meant to give them time to settle once they've been put back down again. Waiting 24 hours before plugging in your fridge prevents compressor damage and ensures proper oil circulation.

Is it good to unplug a fridge and then plug it back in?

No. Wait at least 5 minutes so the pressure in the sealed system has time to equalize. If you plug it in right away, it will not start and the overload protector will shut it off. Once the compressor has cooled and the overload resets, it will attempt to start again. This can lead to the start relay failing.

How long do I unplug my fridge to reset it?

How long does it take for a refrigerator to get cold after being unplugged?

It can take about 12 hours to cool the interior down to 40℉ (the food safe recommended temperature as determined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). But cooling time can vary by brand and refrigerator type. With that in mind, cooling time can range from 2 to 24 hours.

Is it bad to leave a refrigerator unplugged for a long time?

The answer is no. The temperature of a refrigerator needs to be maintained at a certain level, and if you unplug it, the temperature inside drastically changes leading to many problems. Even when not in use at night, it is best left plugged in to preserve the quality of the food stored inside.

How long can a refrigerator sit without being plugged in?

Luckily, your fridge can go without power and keep your food safe for up to 48 hours, depending on the food and how it's stored. Here's everything you need to know—including when bacteria growth becomes a threat and forces you to toss perishable food.

How much is a fridge gas refill?

Fridge freezers repair and gas refilling on-site ,R400 for gas refill. 0646213749 call or WhatsApp Lesley for assistance.

How long are things OK in the fridge without power?

As the USDA notes in Keeping Food Safe During an Emergency, your refrigerator will keep food safe for up to 4 hours during a power outage. Keep the door closed as much as possible. Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers after 4 hours without power.

What number should a fridge be on?

Fridge temperature settings are generally numbered from 1 to 5, with 5 being the coldest. A fully stocked fridge may need to be set to a higher setting (around 3 or 4), whereas one with more space is best suited to temperature setting 2 or 3.

How long before a new refrigerator gets cold?

They might take between 12 and 24 hours to get to temperature. The FDA says the temperature inside your refrigerator should be under 40 degrees. Most experts say the ideal temperature is between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit.

How long does it take for a refrigerator compressor to reset?

Wait for the refrigerator temperature to stabilize

The minimum time you should wait for a refrigerator temperature to stabilize is 24 hours, so don't rush things.

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

Clear blocked air vents: Inspect the air vents inside the fridge and freezer compartments to ensure they are not obstructed by food or containers. Proper air circulation is vital for even cooling. Check the door seals: Inspect the rubber gaskets (door seals) around the refrigerator and freezer doors for damage.

How long do you have to leave the fridge open after unplugging it?

Generally leaving the fridge open for a week in hot dry weather will be enough, or a couple weeks in colder weather. I wouldn't recommend leaving the doors open longer than a month.

How do I know if my fridge needs gas?

The Foodstuff Starts Getting Spoiled or at Best Starts Remaining Warmer. If you find the foodstuff stacked in your fridge has started getting spoiled or getting warmer, that's a red flag. This is the first sign of the fridge losing gas, and the rate of the loss speeds up, you can find a freezing effect.

Why is my fridge not getting cold?

There are several causes for a refrigerator that doesn't cool, including dirty condenser coils, poor ventilation, improper installation, faulty or dirty gasket seals, unorganized food storage, appliance location and malfunctioning internal parts.

Will unplugging a refrigerator reset it?

Reset your refrigerator

Follow the instructions below depending on your model and what you would like to reset: 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.

What is the longest lasting refrigerator brand?

Some of the most long-lasting refrigerator brands come from GE, LG, and Bosch. These refrigerators come at different price points, whether you are looking for a standard model or high-end appliance.

Is it OK to unplug a refrigerator for a few months?

In general, it is advisable not to exceed a few weeks. Three important pieces of information regarding the safe duration of leaving the refrigerator unplugged are: Climate Impact: Warmer climates may accelerate the formation of odors or mold, making it advisable to keep the unplugged period shorter.

How long can a fridge stay cold unplugged?

Power Outages: During and After

The refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened. A full freezer will keep the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.

What to do after unplugging the fridge?

Dispose of any uneaten foods and give the fridge a thorough cleaning. Wait at least 15 minutes after unplugging the refrigerator to clean it — longer if it has a freezer, which needs to be fully thawed before you begin. After cleaning, wipe all areas with a dry rag so there's no remaining moisture.

Can I switch off my fridge for 2 months?

If you are going away for a month or longer, it is a good idea to unplug your refrigerator to save energy. Empty your refrigerator, drain the water tank if you have one, clean the inside of the appliance and leave the doors open to avoid any unwanted odours.

Previous article
How do you vent a dryer in the middle of the house?
Next article
What trade fixes exhaust fans?