How to Fix a Fridge That’s Running All the Time?

If your fridge seems to be running constantly, there are several common causes that you

can check and fix yourself before calling a technician. Here’s a step-by-step guide to

troubleshoot the issue:

Step 1: Check for Blocked Sensors and Air Channels

Ensure that no food is blocking the sensors, air channels, or cooling fan inside your

fridge. Blockages can cause the fridge to work harder, leading it to run continuously to

maintain the set temperature.

Step 2: Avoid Overfilling the Compartments

Do not overfill the fridge, as this can disrupt air circulation and temperature sensing.

Overloading can also prevent the door from closing fully, which forces the fridge to run

constantly.

Step 3: Don’t Put Hot Food in the Fridge

Allow hot food and beverages to cool down before placing them in the fridge. Avoid

placing hot items in the fridge, as this will cause the appliance to work harder to cool

down, resulting in longer run times.

Step 4: Avoid Leaving the Door Open

Ensure that the fridge door is not left open for too long. Open and close the door

quickly to prevent warm air from entering. Warm air forces the fridge to work continuously

to reach the set temperature.

Step 5: Check for Items Blocking the Door

Inspect the items inside the fridge to make sure nothing is blocking the door from closing

properly. If the door is not fully closed, cold air escapes, and the fridge will keep running to

compensate for the loss.

Step 6: Inspect the Door Gasket

Check the door gasket (seal) for any damage or dirt. A worn or dirty gasket can cause cold

air leakage, which forces the fridge to run continuously. Clean or replace the gasket if

necessary.

Step 7: Adjust the Temperature Settings

If your fridge is running constantly, set the temperature to a slightly higher setting.

Sometimes, setting the temperature too low causes the fridge to run longer than

necessary.

Step 8: Clean the Condenser and Fan

Dust and dirt can accumulate on the condenser coils and fan, making your fridge less

efficient. Check the condenser and fan located at the back or bottom of the fridge and

clean them if required. This will improve cooling efficiency and reduce running time.

Step 9: Consider Room Temperature

If the room temperature is high, your fridge will operate for longer periods to maintain the

internal temperature. Consider placing your fridge in a cooler location if possible.

Step 10: Contact a Technician if Needed

If your fridge is still running longer than expected despite following these steps, it’s best

to contact a service technician for further diagnosis and repair.

By following these steps, you can resolve the issue of your fridge running constantly and

ensure that it operates efficiently.