Is your refrigerator constantly running, causing you to worry about its energy consumption and efficiency? A refrigerator that runs continuously can lead to higher electricity bills and potentially reduce the lifespan of your appliance.
However, the good news is that several easy fixes can help resolve this issue and restore your refrigerator’s optimal performance.
This article will explore eight effective ways to address a constantly running refrigerator.
By understanding the potential causes and implementing the appropriate solutions, you can regain control over your refrigerator’s cooling cycles, reduce energy consumption, and extend its longevity.
From checking temperature settings to cleaning condenser coils, inspecting door gaskets, and addressing faulty components like evaporator fan motors and defrost heaters, we will guide you through the process step-by-step.
Say goodbye to a constantly running refrigerator and say hello to improved efficiency and peace of mind. Let’s dive in and discover how to easily fix your refrigerator and ensure it runs as it should.
Why is your Refrigerator Constantly Running?
If your refrigerator is constantly running, it could be due to a few different reasons:
1. Incorrect Temperature Settings
If the refrigerator’s temperature is set too low or too high, it may run as it tries to reach the desired temperature. Setting the refrigerator to the manufacturer’s recommended temperature range is essential.
2. Insufficient Air Circulation
Proper air circulation may be compromised if the refrigerator is too full or empty. An overly full refrigerator restricts airflow, causing the appliance to work harder and run more often. Conversely, an empty refrigerator leads to frequent on-off cycles of the compressor.
Keeping the refrigerator and freezer three-quarters full helps maintain proper air circulation.
3. Dirty Condenser Coils
Accumulated dust and dirt on the condenser coils can hinder their ability to dissipate heat efficiently. This forces the refrigerator to work harder, leading to increased running time.
Regularly cleaning the coils using a coil brush or vacuum attachment can improve the refrigerator’s performance.
4. Damaged Door Gasket
A faulty door gasket fails to seal the refrigerator door properly, allowing warm air to enter. In response, the refrigerator works harder to maintain the desired temperature, resulting in constant running. Inspecting the gasket for damage and replacing it if necessary can resolve this issue.
5. Faulty Evaporator Fan Motor
When the evaporator fan fails to function properly, it disrupts the proper circulation of cold air within the refrigerator. This may cause warm air to be blown instead of cold air, leading to constant running.
Checking the fan’s operation and ensuring the vents are clear of dust or debris can help address this problem.
6. Faulty Defrost Heater
A malfunctioning defrost heater can cause the refrigerator’s coils to freeze, resulting in continuous running as it tries to maintain the desired temperature. Diagnosis and replacement of the defrost heater may be necessary to resolve this issue.
7. Faulty Condenser Fan Motor
A faulty condenser fan affects the refrigerator’s efficiency by inhibiting proper air circulation and cooling. This can lead to constant running as the appliance struggles to maintain the desired temperature. Replacing a faulty condenser fan motor can rectify this problem.
8. Defrost Termination Thermostat Malfunction
If the defrost termination thermostat malfunctions, it may fail to signal the refrigerator to stop running after a defrost cycle. Consequently, the refrigerator continues to run continuously. Checking the thermostat’s continuity using a multimeter and replacing it if needed can help resolve this issue.
How to Fix a Refrigerator that’s Constantly Running?
If your refrigerator is constantly running and you want to troubleshoot and potentially fix the issue, you can try the following steps:
1. Check and Adjust the Temperature Settings
To ensure your refrigerator operates efficiently, it’s important to check and adjust the temperature settings according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Incorrect temperature settings can cause the refrigerator to run constantly.
If the temperature is too low, the compressor works harder, increasing energy consumption. Conversely, food may not be adequately cooled if the temperature is too high, risking spoilage.
Refer to the refrigerator’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website for the recommended temperature range. Typically, the refrigerator compartment should be set between 37°F and 40°F (3°C to 5°C), while the freezer compartment should be set between 0°F and 5°F (-18°C to -15°C).
Use the control panel or dials provided to make the necessary adjustments. Allow the refrigerator to stabilize for a few hours after changing the temperature settings before assessing its performance.
Regularly monitoring and adjusting the temperature settings will help optimize cooling performance, reduce energy consumption, and prevent the refrigerator from constantly running.
2. Maintain Proper Air Circulation
Proper air circulation is crucial for your refrigerator’s efficient operation and for avoiding excessive running. Overfilling or underfilling the refrigerator can obstruct airflow and cause temperature imbalances.
Keep the refrigerator and freezer compartments approximately three-quarters full to maintain proper air circulation.
Avoid overcrowding the shelves, as it restricts the flow of cool air, leading to uneven cooling and increased energy usage.
On the other hand, keeping the refrigerator too empty can cause the cool air to disperse quickly when the door is opened, leading to frequent temperature fluctuations and prolonged running. Organize items in a way that allows air to circulate freely.
Use airtight containers or sealed bags to store food and prevent moisture from evaporating, which can cause frost buildup and impact the refrigerator’s performance.
By maintaining the optimal fill level and ensuring adequate space for air circulation, you can help the refrigerator operate efficiently, reduce running time, and maintain consistent cooling temperatures.
3. Clean the Condenser Coils
Regularly cleaning the condenser coils at the back of the refrigerator is essential for maintaining its optimal performance. Over time, dust, dirt, and pet hair can accumulate on the coils, impeding heat dissipation and constantly causing the refrigerator to run.
To clean the condenser coils, unplug the refrigerator and locate the protective grill at the back. Remove the grill and use a coil brush or a vacuum attachment to remove the accumulated debris from the coils gently. Pay close attention to removing any dust or dirt buildup.
Cleaning the condenser coils allows for efficient heat transfer and prevents the refrigerator’s compressor from overworking. This not only helps reduce energy consumption but also extends the lifespan of your appliance.
Make cleaning the condenser coils routine every few months or as the manufacturer recommends to ensure optimal cooling performance and prevent unnecessary running.
4. Inspect and Replace a Damaged Door Gasket
The rubber seal, or gasket, that runs along the perimeter of the refrigerator door plays a crucial role in maintaining a proper seal and preventing air leakage. Over time, the door gasket can become damaged or worn out, leading to inefficient cooling and increased running time.
Regularly inspect the door gasket for any signs of damage, such as cracks, tears, or deformities.
If you notice any issues, it’s important to replace the gasket promptly. Consult the refrigerator’s user manual or contact a technician to ensure you have the correct replacement gasket for your specific model.
Replacing a damaged door gasket involves loosening the retainer with a hex driver, removing the old gasket, and installing the new one. Properly align and tighten the retainer to ensure a snug fit.
A well-functioning door gasket creates an airtight seal, allowing the refrigerator to maintain consistent temperatures and reducing the need for constant running. Inspecting and replacing a damaged gasket can improve energy efficiency and optimize cooling performance.
5. Repair or Replace a Faulty Evaporator Fan Motor
The evaporator fan is crucial in circulating cold air throughout the refrigerator. If the fan isn’t running or operates intermittently, it can disrupt proper airflow and cause the refrigerator to run continuously without effectively cooling its contents.
To address this issue, start by inspecting the evaporator fan motor. Look for any visible signs of damage, such as frayed wires or a worn-out motor.
If you notice any abnormalities, replacing the faulty fan motor is advisable. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult a technician for the correct replacement part and installation instructions.
A properly functioning evaporator fan motor ensures proper air circulation and temperature distribution within the refrigerator, reducing the need for constant running. By repairing or replacing a faulty fan motor, you can restore efficient cooling and help extend the lifespan of your appliance.
6. Replace a Faulty Defrost Heater
The defrost heater in a refrigerator prevents the coils from freezing over by periodically melting accumulated frost. If the defrost heater malfunctions, the coils can become excessively frosted, leading to constant running as the refrigerator tries to maintain optimal cooling.
To address this issue, locate the defrost heater within your refrigerator. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines or seek professional assistance for the specific steps required to replace the faulty heater. Typically, this involves removing the cover that shields the coils, disconnecting the wiring, and replacing the defective heater with a compatible replacement.
A properly functioning defrost heater ensures that the coils remain free from excessive frost, allowing the refrigerator to operate efficiently and reducing the need for constant running.
Replacing a faulty defrost heater can restore proper cooling performance and prevent unnecessary energy consumption.
Always prioritize safety and follow proper procedures when dealing with electrical components or seek professional help when needed.
7. Fix or Replace a Faulty Condenser Fan Motor
The condenser fan motor is responsible for drawing in fresh air and cooling the condenser coil, which helps dissipate heat from the refrigerator. If the fan motor is not functioning properly, it can hinder the refrigerator’s heat release, resulting in constant running efficiently.
To address this issue, begin by testing the condenser fan motor. Turn off the power to the refrigerator and try manually rotating the fan blade.
If the blade is difficult to move or doesn’t spin freely, it indicates a faulty motor that requires replacement. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional assistance to ensure you select the correct replacement motor and follow the proper installation process.
By fixing or replacing a faulty condenser fan motor, you can restore proper airflow and heat dissipation, enabling the refrigerator to operate more efficiently and reducing the need for continuous running.
8. Address a Malfunctioning Defrost Termination Thermostat
The defrost termination thermostat is responsible for signaling the end of the defrost cycle in the refrigerator. If this thermostat malfunctions, it may fail to activate the cooling cycle, causing the refrigerator to keep running continuously.
To determine if the defrost termination thermostat is faulty, follow these steps:
- 1. Ensure the refrigerator is turned off and disconnect the power.
- 2. Locate the freezer thermostat, usually found on the evaporator tubing.
- 3. Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the defrost termination thermostat. If there is no continuity, it indicates a faulty thermostat that needs replacement. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional help to accurately replace the defrost termination thermostat.
By addressing a malfunctioning defrost termination thermostat, you can ensure proper defrost cycles and prevent the unnecessary continuous running of the refrigerator, leading to improved energy efficiency and cooling performance.
Remember to exercise caution when dealing with electrical components or seek professional assistance.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
