A refrigerator that won’t stop running can be frustrating and costly. It could be consuming more energy than necessary, leading to higher electricity bills. If you’ve noticed that your fridge is constantly running without turning off, there could be several reasons behind it. Fortunately, fixing this issue is possible with some basic troubleshooting and repairs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your refrigerator back to normal.

1. Check the Thermostat Settings

The thermostat controls the temperature inside your fridge. If it’s set too low, the refrigerator will continue to run in an effort to reach the desired temperature. This can cause it to run constantly.

• How to fix: Adjust the thermostat to a higher temperature. The ideal temperature for a refrigerator is between 37°F and 40°F (3°C - 4°C). If the temperature is set too low, simply turn the dial to a warmer setting and see if the fridge cycles on and off as it should.

2. Inspect the Door Seal

A worn or damaged door seal can cause cold air to leak out of the fridge, forcing the appliance to run continuously to compensate for the lost cool air. If the door seal isn’t sealing properly, the refrigerator will never reach the correct temperature.

• How to fix: Check the door seal for any cracks, tears, or gaps. Close the door on a piece of paper or a dollar bill. If you can easily pull the paper out or feel air escaping, the seal is compromised. Replacing the door seal can solve the problem. You can buy a new seal and install it yourself or call a professional for appliance repair San Diego if you need assistance.

3. Clean the Condenser Coils

The condenser coils release the heat that the refrigerator absorbs from inside. If these coils are dirty, they will not be able to release heat properly, causing the fridge to run continuously to try to cool down.

• How to fix: Turn off the refrigerator and unplug it from the power source. Locate the condenser coils, which are typically at the back or underneath the fridge. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a coil brush to gently remove any dust or debris. Be sure to clean both the coils and the surrounding area. Once the coils are clean, plug the fridge back in and check if it’s cycling properly.

4. Check the Evaporator Fan

The evaporator fan circulates cold air throughout the refrigerator. If this fan is malfunctioning, it can cause the fridge to work harder than necessary, leading to continuous running.

• How to fix: To check the evaporator fan, you may need to remove the back panel inside the fridge. Look for any signs of damage or obstructions. If the fan is faulty, it may need to be replaced. If you’re not sure how to do this yourself, consider reaching out to a commercial appliance repair technician for help.

5. Examine the Defrost System

The defrost system prevents ice from building up on the evaporator coils. If the defrost thermostat, defrost timer, or heater is malfunctioning, frost can accumulate on the coils, causing the fridge to run constantly.

• How to fix: You can test the defrost system by checking for ice buildup inside the freezer. If you notice excessive frost, the defrost timer or thermostat may need replacement. Replacing defrost components can be tricky, so you may want to contact appliance repair San Diego services to handle this repair.

6. Check the Start Relay

The start relay helps the compressor start and stop running. If the start relay is defective, the compressor may keep running nonstop, causing your refrigerator to never stop.

• How to fix: To test the start relay, unplug the fridge and locate the relay, typically near the compressor. Use a multimeter to check for continuity. If the relay is faulty, it will need to be replaced. This is another repair that may be best handled by a professional commercial appliance repair technician.

7. Call for Professional Help

If you’ve tried the steps above and your refrigerator is still running continuously, it may be time to call in a professional. Some issues, such as a malfunctioning compressor or a faulty temperature control board, may require advanced expertise to fix.

A qualified appliance repair San Diego professional can diagnose and repair more complex problems, ensuring your refrigerator works efficiently and stops running nonstop.