Is a refrigerator supposed to run constantly?

Author: Tristin Rutherford  |  Last update: Friday, July 11, 2025

Your fridge should run from around 35% of the day to around 85% of the day. A refrigerator that gets opened more frequently has to operate more often to lower the temperature of warmer items, so this amount varies. However, no fridge should run all the time.

How often should a refrigerator cycle on and off?

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.

Why is my fridge running all the time?

Several potential causes could be making your fridge run continuously: dirty condenser coils, a faulty defrost heater, and problems with the defrost thermostat. To fix this issue, clean the condenser coils, replace the defrost heater if necessary, and check and replace the defrost thermostat if it's malfunctioning.

Should your refrigerator always be running?

No definitely not, a fridge should cycle on and off. When the desired temperature is achieved it should shut off, and only come back on when cooling is needed. In the event a fridge runs constantly, it needs attention.

Should I be able to hear my fridge 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.

Refrigerator Runs Constantly — Refrigerator Troubleshooting

How long should a fridge run before shutting off?

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 a fridge supposed to hum all the time?

A mild hum or even a clear humming sound is normal for a fridge that is switched on. It comes from the compressor, and there is nothing to worry about. However, if the hum becomes deafening or the cooling capacity has decreased considerably, call a professional to fix the compressor.

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.

Does the refrigerator fan run all the time?

Your fridge should run from around 35% of the day to around 85% of the day. A refrigerator that gets opened more frequently has to operate more often to lower the temperature of warmer items, so this amount varies. However, no fridge should run all the time.

How do I know if my refrigerator is running properly?

When a refrigerator is not maintaining its proper temperature, there are a few warning signs you may notice, such as:
  1. Food spoiling quickly, possibly causing odors.
  2. Excessive condensation on food and beverage packaging.
  3. Refrigerator interior temperatures are lukewarm or room temperature.

Is it normal for fridge compressor to run all the time?

The compressor on a refrigerator or a freezer can run for approx. 45 minutes per hour. Electronically controlled compressors run continuously, but with changed intensity, as needed. This is normal and not a malfunction.

Is it normal for a refrigerator to run for an hour?

Your variable speed compressor is designed to run 100% of the time except during the defrost cycle. At times it may even run faster, such as after a defrost cycle.

Why wont my refrigerator fan stop running?

Check if the fan is clogged up with ice, and if so, defrost the freezer. Check the fan for any signs of damage, and if you find any, like a broken fan blade, the fan will need to be replaced. Check the fan shaft to make sure the fan can turn around correctly – if it can't, then you will have to replace the fan unit.

What happens if a refrigerator runs all the time?

When your refrigerator runs constantly, a failed condenser fan motor is a common culprit. The condenser fan blows cool air over the condenser coils to remove heat from the refrigerant, producing cool air for the refrigerator.

Is the fridge supposed to be on all the time?

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 many hours a day should a refrigerator run?

For example, most people have units that operate (or “run”) for about eight total hours per day. But, if you do things like clean the coils, position the appliance correctly, keep it well-maintained, and set the right temperature, you can reduce the amount of time it runs to less than eight hours per day.

Should you hear a refrigerator running all the time?

When a refrigerator runs normally, you'll hear the compressor click on several times a day. If it seems to click on every few minutes or doesn't shut off at all, it's time to troubleshoot a few areas to avoid overheating internal components.

Why is my refrigerator motor running constantly?

If the refrigerator runs constantly there might be something caught in the condenser fan motor blade, or the condenser fan motor might be defective. The condenser fan motor draws air over the condenser coils to cool them. The condenser fan motor is located underneath the refrigerator near the back.

When should the fan kick in on a fridge?

All depends how long the refrigerator has stayed without groceries. If you left the refrigerator wide open while stocking food in it, it will take between 20 to up to 30 minutes to kick in.

Is there a reset button on a refrigerator?

Appliances do not have a reset button on them - to reset any appliance you UNPLUG the unit from the outlet for 3 minutes - plug back in - or turn off breaker to outlet and appliance for that long - then turn back on. That will reset the control computer board and reset the appliance.

Why is my Frigidaire refrigerator constantly running?

Frigidaire Refrigerator Main Control Board

If the refrigerator runs constantly, the main control board might be defective. A few times a day the control board is supposed to turn off the cooling system and turn on the defrost heater to melt away any frost that may have accumulated on the freezer evaporator coils.

Why is my Whirlpool refrigerator running constantly?

One of the most common reasons a Whirlpool refrigerator runs constantly is because the internal temperature is too high. If your fridge isn't set to the manufacturer's recommended temperature settings, it will run constantly in an attempt to reach the desired temperature.

Should my fridge be silent?

Your Fridge Is Extra Quiet

If so, it could be an indication that something is wrong with it. While a quieter fridge can be a good thing, too much silence could be a sign that the compressor is not running. If you notice this, have a specialist check your refrigerator.

How to tell if a fridge compressor is bad?

A hum or a slight buzz is typical, but if your refrigerator starts making strange or loud noises, the compressor might be struggling. Professional Repair Required: Compressors have numerous components, and diagnosing the source of the noise can be complicated.

How much does it cost to replace a refrigerator compressor?

Installing a new refrigerator compressor costs about $450 on average, ranging between $300 and $400, in most cases. The cost for the compressor itself can run from $100 to $500, not including installation. When your refrigerator is running perfectly, you probably don't give its inner workings much thought.

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