If your refrigerator keeps running and won’t turn off when it should, then it could be one of many issues causing it. If you go through each of the possible causes below, you should be able to find the cause and then fix it. Show
Check the Condenser CoilsThe first step is to check the condenser coils to see if they are dirty. When they get dirty, they must work harder than normal to remove heat, and this can cause the refrigerator to stay on constantly to help it cool down. To check the coils to see if they are dirty:
Defrost TimerOne of the most common causes of a refrigerator constantly running is a faulty defrost timer. After the compressor in the refrigerator has run for 8 to 10 hours over a set period, the defrost timer will start a defrost cycle, which shuts the compressor down to essentially give it time to defrost. When the defrost timer becomes faulty, the compressor will not be able to operate correctly. To check the defrost timer:
Defrost HeaterIf the defrost timer is not the cause of the problem, then the next component to check is the defrost heater. The defrost heater helps to defrost ice off the evaporator coils during the defrost cycle. To check the defrost heater:
Defrost Termination ThermostatAnother possible cause of the refrigerator not turning off is a malfunctioning defrost termination thermostat. This particular thermostat sends a signal to the defrost heater to turn off after a defrost cycle. When it becomes faulty, it won’t operate correctly, and your refrigerator will keep running. To check if it’s faulty, you need to:
Refrigerator and Freezer Door GasketsThe refrigerator and freezer door gaskets are another possible reason your fridge won’t stop running. These gaskets help to make sure that your doors are closed properly and airtight. When they malfunction, your refrigerator may become too warm, which causes the refrigerator to keep running to lower the temperature. To check if they are faulty, you can:
Condenser Fan MotorSome newer refrigerator models are frost-free and have a condenser coil that is cooled down with a fan. The purpose of the fan is to remove heat from the coils, and when the fan fails, your fridge won’t cool down enough, so it will keep running longer than it should. To check the condenser fan motor, you need to:
Evaporator Fan MotorThe final possible cause to check is the evaporator fan motor. This fan motor helps the evaporator fan operate, and you can usually hear it operating from the freezer compartment. To check it:
What makes a refrigerator stop working?Typical causes are: 1) the door is left open frequently, 2) the condenser coils need cleaning, 3) the door doesn't seal against the refrigerator box, 4) the cold control is set too cold, or 5) something is blocking the flow of cold air inside the fridge.
How do I stop my fridge from running?What to Do When Your Fridge Keeps Running?. #1 Clean Your Condenser Coils.. #2 Check Your Temperature Settings.. #3 Faulty Fan Motors.. #4 Frosted Evaporator Coils.. #5 Problems With the Defroster.. #6 Replace Your Door Gasket.. #7 A Broken Main Control Board.. What can damage a refrigerator?6 Habits That Can Cause Refrigerator Damage. Overstocking/Understocking Causing Refrigerator Damage. ... . Forgetting to Clean the Coils. ... . Storing Leftovers Improperly. ... . Placing Your Fridge Too Close to the Wall. ... . Leaving the Door Open Too Long. ... . Not Checking the Drainage Hole.. How do you get rid of a refrigerator that won't stop working?Best Refrigerator Disposal Methods. Ask your appliance dealer to pick it up. ... . Donate the refrigerator if it still works. ... . Call a nearby recycling center. ... . Contact your local trash collector.. |