Are you noticing that your refrigerator runs constantly? This can be a worrying issue, as it not only leads to excessive energy usage but can also affect your appliance’s proper airflow and lifespan. This article will discuss possible reasons why your refrigerator runs constantly and provide tips to fix it.
Understanding How Refrigerators Work
Before we dive into why your refrigerator is cycling too often, let’s first discuss how refrigerators work. Refrigerators remove heat from the unit’s interior and expel it to the outside. The compressor facilitates this process, responsible for circulating refrigerant throughout the system.
Why is my refrigerator running constantly?
There are several reasons why your refrigerator may be running constantly, including:
Dirty Condenser Coils
Over time, the condenser coils on the back or bottom of your refrigerator can become covered in dust and debris. Dirty condenser coils can impede heat transfer and cause your compressor to work harder than it should, resulting in constant running.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature inside your refrigerator. If you have a faulty thermostat, it may cause the compressor to run continuously to maintain the set temperature.
Poor Door Seals
If the door seals on your refrigerator are not functioning properly, cold air may escape from the unit, causing it to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This can result in constant running.
Overstocked Refrigerator
If your refrigerator is overstocked with food and beverages, it may not be able to maintain the desired temperature. This can cause the compressor to work harder, resulting in constant running.
Faulty Compressor
If none of the above issues are present, it is possible that your compressor is faulty and needs to be replaced. A malfunctioning compressor is a more serious issue that a professional should diagnose and repair.
What can I do if my refrigerator is running constantly?
Now that we have discussed some possible reasons why your refrigerator may constantly be running, let’s look at some tips to fix it:
Clean Condenser Coils
- Unplug your refrigerator and locate the condenser coils.
- Use a vacuum cleaner or a specialized coil cleaning brush to remove dust and debris from the coils.
- If dirt or debris is still stuck in the coils, use a soft brush to remove it.
- Once the coils are clean, plug your refrigerator back in and monitor if the constant running has stopped.
Check Thermostat
- Locate the thermostat in your refrigerator, usually found in the fresh food compartment.
- Adjust the thermostat to a different temperature setting.
- Wait for a few hours to see if the compressor turns off.
- If the compressor continues to run constantly, it may indicate a faulty thermostat that needs to be replaced.
Replace Door Seals
- Inspect the door seals on your refrigerator for any wear or damage.
- If there are any cracks or tears in the seals, they need to be replaced.
- Purchase replacement door seals that are compatible with your refrigerator make and model.
- Remove the old door seals and clean the area around the door.
- Install the new door seals according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Reduce Stock
- Remove any excess items from your refrigerator to reduce the workload on the compressor.
- Consider donating or throwing away any expired or unused food and drinks.
- Adjust the temperature settings to a slightly higher temperature to reduce the workload on the compressor.
Check Compressor
- If none of the above solutions work, it may indicate a faulty compressor that needs to be replaced.
- Call a professional technician to provide expert appliance repair service.
- Do not attempt to repair the compressor yourself, as it can be dangerous and may cause further damage to your refrigerator.
However, even if you do all these steps and the refrigerator still runs constantly, it may indicate a more serious issue that requires professional repair or replacement.
Call Viking Repair Crew for Professional Refrigerator Repair and Maintenance Services
If you’ve tried all the DIY solutions to fix your refrigerator and it’s still running constantly, it’s time to call in the experts. At Viking Repair Crew, we offer professional refrigerator maintenance and repair services to help you get your appliance back in working order. Our team of experienced technicians has the knowledge and tools to diagnose and fix any issue with your refrigerator, from faulty thermostats and refrigerant leaks to compressor problems.
We also offer regular maintenance services to help prevent future issues, such as high electricity bills, and extend the lifespan of your refrigerator. So don’t let a malfunctioning refrigerator disrupt your daily routine – call Viking Repair Crew today to schedule your Viking Built-In Refrigerator Repair appointment.
Want to know more? Find solutions to common refrigerator problems in our ‘Refrigerator Troubleshooting‘ and ‘Refrigerator Repair Guide‘ articles. Save money and avoid costly repairs with our expert tips and step-by-step instructions. Check out our other blog posts now to become a refrigerator troubleshooting pro!