What does it mean when your refrigerator runs a lot?

Author: Oral Reynolds  |  Last update: Thursday, June 26, 2025

If the coils are coated in dust and dirt, the refrigerant may not cool properly, and the refrigerator's temperature warms. This will prompt the compressor to run constantly as it tries to cool the interior. Fortunately, cleaning the coils is a simple process that can be repeated annually to maintain their function.

How do you fix a refrigerator that runs constantly?

My refrigerator runs constantly. How can I fix it?
  1. Jump-start the defrost timer. ...
  2. Check the defrost heater tube. ...
  3. Test the defrost termination thermostat. ...
  4. Inspect the door gaskets. ...
  5. Check the condenser fan motor. ...
  6. Adjust the evaporator fan motor. ...
  7. Find out if the sealed system is damaged.

How long should a refrigerator run before it shuts 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 refrigerator fan supposed to run constantly?

However, the compressor and fan motors should only have to run occasionally throughout the day to maintain that cool temperature. If the compressor and fan motors are continuously running, it means the system is having trouble maintaining the temperature.

Why does my fridge keep kicking off?

CHECK THE CONDENSER FAN. Certain types of refrigerators use condenser fans to force air through the condenser coils and create that all-important cooling effect. If that fan malfunctions, it's more than likely that the compressor will eventually overheat. That's when you'll hear it clicking off and clicking on again.

Refrigerator Runs Constantly — Refrigerator Troubleshooting

What do I do if my fridge keeps shutting off?

It May Be a Thermostat Issue

To check, the next time your refrigerator shuts off, turn the thermostat knob all the way off and then turn it back on. If it starts running, then it is likely the thermostat that needs to be replaced.

How to fix a short cycling refrigerator?

Cleaning everything thoroughly can fix the problem. First, make sure the refrigerator is unplugged. Then, use a narrow vacuum attachment and brush to clean the condenser coils and fan. Hot soapy water and an optional mix of water and bleach can be used to clean the interior of the refrigerator as well.

How do I know if my refrigerator fan is bad?

If your refrigerator unit is not cooling the insides like it regularly does, and the fan on the back of the inside wall is either not running or not blowing cool air like normal, it might be time to replace the evaporator fan.

How to reset refrigerator compressor?

Shutting off the power to the refrigerator will give all of its systems—including the compressor—time to reset. Power down your refrigerator by unplugging it from the wall or shutting off the circuit breaker connected to the fridge. Leave the unit unplugged for five to ten minutes.

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.

How to know when a fridge is dying?

7 Signs Your Refrigerator Is Dying
  1. Your Fridge Is Over 10 Years Old. ...
  2. Your Fridge Is Extra Loud. ...
  3. Your Fridge Is Extra Quiet. ...
  4. Food Is Spoiling Before the Expiration Date. ...
  5. Excess Frost in the Freezer or Fridge. ...
  6. Condensation on the Outside of the Fridge. ...
  7. The Back of the Fridge Feels Hot to the Touch.

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.

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.

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.

Which brand of refrigerator is the best?

Our Top Pick: LG produces excellent refrigerators that perform well in our tests and receive high satisfaction ratings from consumers, including our survey participants. The Smart French Door Refrigerator with Dual Ice Maker stands out for its simple, user-friendly design and customizable features.

How do you know when a refrigerator compressor is going bad?

Your refrigerator compressor is responsible for that humming sound. So, if the sound stops for good, or if the sound goes from faint to a constant or very loud humming noise that does not shut off, it may be a sign the compressor is broken or malfunctioning.

Do refrigerators have a reset button?

How do I reset my refrigerator compressor? If you switch the power off and wait a couple of minutes, it should set itself. There is sometimes a red overload button on or near the compressor, this will very occasionally trip, switch off, wait about 5 minutes then firmly press the button,...

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 running constantly?

If your refrigerator doesn't stop running, it can lead to higher electricity bills and reduce the lifespan of your appliance by months or even years. Several potential causes could be making your fridge run continuously: dirty condenser coils, a faulty defrost heater, and problems with the defrost thermostat.

How do you tell if your refrigerator is going out?

7 Signs Your Refrigerator Is Dying
  1. Your refrigerator is over 10 years old. ...
  2. You see excessive condensation on your food. ...
  3. Your food is going bad too quickly. ...
  4. Ice is building up in your freezer. ...
  5. Your refrigerator is leaking. ...
  6. The back of your refrigerator gets overly hot. ...
  7. Your refrigerator starts making strange noises.

How much does it cost to have a refrigerator fan replaced?

Refrigerator Fan Replacement

You can expect to pay between $120 and $150 for fan replacement.

Why is my refrigerator cycling on and off constantly?

If your refrigerator is cycling on and off incessantly, it is possible that the evaporator fan is not working properly. The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer to your fridge. When it stops, warm air will enter and the fridge will work its compressor harder in order to maintain a constant temperature.

What are the symptoms of a bad thermostat in a refrigerator?

If a thermostat is faulty it will show one of the following symptoms:
  • The thermostat does not switch on, the light inside (if fitted and the bulb has not failed) will light up but the motor will not try to start.
  • The fridge will not switch off, the motor runs continuously and everything is freezing solid inside.

Why does my fridge keep starting and stopping?

The condensor coils dissipate heat. If dust and debris accumulate around the coils, your refrigerator may not be able to cool properly, it may run continuously or it may stop completely as a result of an overheated compressor.

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