13 reasons: Why the refrigerator constantly works and does not turn off

To understand why the refrigerator does not turn off, you need to know the main reasons for its breakdown. The refrigerator operates cyclically: it turns on and off at specified intervals. The ratio of operating and idle periods depends on the selected cooling mode and external temperature, but sometimes they are affected by problems inside the device.

This article is suitable for all models of Russian, Soviet and foreign production - single-, double- and triple-chamber, including built-in ones: Hotpoint Ariston, Ardo, Beko, Bosch, Candy, Daewoo , Electrolux / Electrolux, Gorenje / Gorenje), Haier / Hayer, Hansa / Hansa, Hitachi / Hitachi, Indesit / Indesit, LG / ElDzhi, Liebherr / Liebherr, Polair / Polar, Pozis / Pozis, Samsung / Samsung, Sharp / Sharp, Shivaki / Shivaki, Siemens / Siemens, Snaige / Snow, Stinol / Stinol, Toshiba / Toshiba, Vestel / Vestel, Vestfrost / Westfrost, Whirlpool / Whirlpool, Zanussi / Zanussi, Elenberg / Elenberg, as well as Nord, Biryusa, Yuryuzan, Atlant, Oka Sviyaga, Ocean, Minsk and Don.

Why does the refrigerator constantly work and not turn off?

Here are the main reasons why the refrigerator compressor does not turn off:

Super freezing (super cooling) mode is turned on;
Problems due to summer heat;
The habit of putting hot items in the refrigerator;
The temperature is set incorrectly;
The door is not tightly closed;
Wear of the sealing rubber;
Increased room temperature;
Installing the refrigerator in the wrong place;
The temperature sensor does not work;
Temperature sensor failure;
Freon leak;
Compressor fan (cooler) failure;
Master's incompetence.

If the reason is in the thermostat

As a rule, the thermostat in the refrigerator is located on the front panel or in the chamber of the device, and is designed to set the required temperature. The most common malfunction of this element is the stem sticking out. You just need to put it in place. However, in some cases, the cause of the malfunction may be the failure of the thermostat (for example, due to a short circuit in its housing after water enters due to inaccurate defrosting), and then its replacement is also necessary.

Amateur's mistake

Often we ourselves are the reason for the misunderstanding why the refrigerator does not turn off or why it often and constantly turns on and rarely turns off. We, unwittingly, operate the unit incorrectly, making simple mistakes. For example:

The freezer is set to fast cooling mode or Super Freeze mode. The control options for these modes are manual and/or automatic. The electronics should turn off the compressor after 8 hours, but manual control is just that: manual: you can forget, and then the refrigerator will work until you turn it off;
Summer heat is not a reason to set a lower temperature in all chambers. The refrigerator is assembled as a sealed device and can withstand large temperature differences. But, the wider the temperature spread inside and outside, the less often the thermal relay will turn off the load;
Do not place food that is too hot in any compartment. Hot objects will heat it up, and the blower, accordingly, will work even more intensely and turn off less often.
The standard temperature regime recommended by manufacturers in the main refrigerator compartment should not exceed +4°C; in the freezer, the temperature should be kept at approximately -18°C and lower (-20°C-22°C). In summer, it is recommended to set the temperature 2°C-5°C higher.

What measures to take in case of problems

Self-repair is possible only if you have the skills to work with tools and knowledge of the design of your model. With your own hands you can:

Replace the door seal. The type of part is indicated in the technical documentation. Repair occurs strictly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Install the thermostat and temperature sensor. The circuit is pre-tested with a multimeter. The components are selected only for a specific refrigerator model.
Replace the compressor. Repairs are only possible if the user fully understands the design of the parts and has experience.
Top up the refrigerant, but only with special equipment and professional skills.
Having your refrigerator repaired under warranty will save you money or get your equipment repaired for free.
Call specialists from the brand’s service center who will professionally eliminate simple and complex faults.

Watch the video why the compressor on the refrigerator does not turn off

The refrigerator door is not closed tightly

Why might the door be left open or not closed tightly? Let's start with the fact that the main reason why a two-chamber refrigerator does not turn off is our own carelessness: we simply forgot to close it. An equally simple reason is products that do not fit into the chamber, large dishes, etc.

The next reason: the refrigerator may not be installed in a horizontal plane, but with a slight slope, and a slight push of the door is not enough for it to close spontaneously during movement. Sometimes the door even rolls back (opens by itself).

Even a door fastening that has become loose over time is also an obstacle to sealing. The removable hinge is usually attached to the top right or left of the body and can be adjusted or tightened. As a last resort, remove and bend. The bottom of the canopy is secured by welding or non-adjustable bolting and cannot be reattached or moved.

Removing the top hinge of the refrigerator door.

The main reasons for the continuous operation of the refrigerator

Among the main reasons for the refrigerator to work without stopping are:

Damage to the door seal;
Thermostat failure;
Freon leak;
Capillary tube clogged;
Failure of the fan in the refrigerator compartment;
Incorrect configuration and installation.

Diagnosis is carried out using special tools. Some problems (for example, a worn seal) are revealed by visual inspection. A thorough inspection will allow you to understand exactly why the refrigerator does not turn off and choose the right method to resolve the problem. During diagnostics, each individual unit and component that may be responsible for non-stop operation is inspected.

Depending on the type of fault detected, a decision is made to repair or replace the component. In some cases, repairs can be carried out at home, in others it is necessary to take the refrigerator to a workshop. If you correctly determine what the problem is, repairs will not take much time.

Seal damage

Over time, the seal begins to wear out on almost all refrigerators. This reason is one of the most common during long-term use of the device. As it wears out, more and more heat from the room begins to enter the chamber. This causes the refrigerator to have to work longer to maintain the desired temperature in the refrigerator or freezer compartment.

You can detect this problem yourself. The refrigerator door does not fit tightly to the body or there are gaps. The solution is to repair or completely replace the seal. Repair work takes 30-60 minutes. Wear of the seal is the simplest reason why the refrigerator does not turn off . Despite this, it is not always possible to solve it on your own.

Thermostat failure

A thermostat is a device that allows you to maintain a constant temperature inside a device. It regulates the operation of the refrigerator; when the temperature drops to the required values, the engine turns off. If the thermostat fails, the engine runs continuously and gets very cold. .

In the event of a breakdown of the thermostat or a separate temperature sensor, it is necessary to replace the spare part. It is also recommended to check the control unit at the same time as the thermostat. In some cases, the operating sensor does not respond correctly due to the output of the main control unit. In this case, even when the desired temperature inside the chamber is reached, the refrigerator does not turn off for a long time.

Freon leak

Freon is used as a refrigerant in refrigerators. Under certain circumstances, a freon leak may occur. One of the manifestations of a leak is the operation of the device without stopping. In this way, the refrigerator tries to compensate for the lack of freon. If a leak occurs, it is important to unplug the product as soon as possible. Operation without freon leads to compressor failure. Leakage is considered a fairly common and dangerous reason why the refrigerator constantly works and does not turn off.

To solve the problem, you need to find the place through which the refrigerant is leaking, fix the hole and charge the system with the required amount of freon. Most often, the leak is detected in the steel heating circuit of the freezer, evaporator or dehumidifier. Refilling with refrigerant is carried out at home. After repair, a specialist checks the functionality of the refrigerator. Freon refilling is sometimes required for older devices that have been operating for more than 10 years. During the diagnosis, it will become clear how much refrigerant is missing.

Capillary tube clogged

If the capillary tube is clogged, the efficiency of the product will decrease. If the refrigerator does not turn off or works with rare interruptions, the problem is most likely related to the capillary tube. The blockage is cleared by replacing the dryer tube and filter. After the work is completed, the system is evacuated and refilled with refrigerant.

Clogging usually occurs when the refrigerator is used for a long time. It occurs due to the interaction of oil and freon, which circulate within the system. Most modern refrigerators have protection against clogged capillary tubes. If the product copes with its task, but does not turn off , one of the reasons may be a narrowing of the tube lumen.

Fan failure

Sometimes it is not possible to understand the reason for the incorrect operation. All systems of the device work correctly, but it continues to work continuously. It is necessary to check whether the fan distributes air throughout the chamber.

You should check the operation of the fan under different conditions if you want to find out why the refrigerator does not turn off. If the fan motor fails, a complete replacement will be required. The fan should turn on when the door is closed. You should find and press the button to simulate closing the door and check the operation of the product.

Even if the blades are spinning, this does not mean that the fan is doing its job. The effectiveness of cold air distribution throughout the chamber should be assessed. Sometimes the rotation speed is significantly reduced, so that during visible operation there is a lack of circulation.

Incorrect setting

In some cases, the problem is due to incorrect settings of the refrigerator. If the temperature in the refrigerator compartment is set too low, the device begins to work more intensively. The solution to the problem is to change the parameters.

The refrigerator should be set up in strict accordance with the instructions. First, you need to familiarize yourself with the capabilities of the device, and then configure it based on your personal needs.

Important! Knowing why the product does not turn off, you can solve the problem much faster. If you have the tool at home, you will not need to seek help from specialists.

Wrong location

If placed incorrectly, the device often works without interruption . Among the places near which the product cannot be installed are:

Large heating radiators;
Gas stoves;
Fireplaces.

Any heat source will heat up the metal body of the refrigerator. This in turn will lead to more intense work. There are external reasons that lead to the product not working correctly.

Problems with the rubber seal

Less commonly, the cause of the compressor constantly running due to a loose refrigerator door can be an old or damaged door seal. A deformed part of the rubber gasket may prevent the door from sealing tightly.

Cracks in the seal force the compressor to constantly minimize temperature leakage and operate without shutting down. The old seal may lose its magnetic properties, and the fit of the rubber around the entire perimeter will be loose, with cold air leaking.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

The reasons why the compressor does not turn off and diagnostic methods are described in detail here:

You cannot ignore the situation when the refrigerator stops turning off. As soon as too few interruptions in the operation of the compressor become noticeable, you immediately need to look for problems and try to eliminate them or call a technician.

If the operating conditions are observed, the likelihood of such breakdowns will be minimal.

Please leave comments in the block form below, post photographs related to the topic of the article, and ask questions. Tell us how you dealt with the problem of a refrigerator that wouldn’t turn off. Share useful information that may be useful to site visitors.

The room temperature is constantly elevated

There are an infinite number of reasons why the refrigerator works non-stop, and all of them are not obvious. For example, hot summers or poor ventilation in winter, a gas (electric) stove, an oven, a drying chamber, and even a microwave oven that is constantly on or frequently running (if you have a large family, this is not surprising).

There are two options for solving this problem: arrange good ventilation, or increase the temperature in the refrigerator compartments. We recommend trying to change the temperature in the freezer. If this does not help, then go to the main camera.

Refrigerator duty cycle

The heart of the refrigerator is the compressor. It turns on and off periodically, maintaining the desired temperature. It is measured by a sensor installed inside the main and freezer compartments.

When the temperature rises above the set temperature (the cold goes away), the sensor gives a signal and the compressor turns on. Gradually the chamber and the food in it cool down. When the temperature drops below the set temperature, the compressor stops.

A good example

You set the temperature in the refrigerator to +4 degrees. When it rises to +4.5, the compressor starts working. The refrigerator chamber cools down, the temperature drops to +4.25, then to +4. The compressor stops.

Incorrect installation of the refrigerator

If you have placed the refrigerator very close to the wall, and the panel with the heat exchanger is not blown by natural air currents, if it is located near a hot water pipe, heating line or radiator, if a boiler or air heater, electric fireplace or other device that emits heat is attached next to it – all this negatively affects the temperature shutdown sensor of the compressor.

If you need to install a refrigerator near the stove, you cannot do it as in the photo. There should be free space between them.

The solution is simple - eliminate all these reasons. Take turns: one thing doesn’t work, try another. It's a long process, but as a result, your experiments can save you a lot of money on refrigerator repairs. In addition, improper installation is one of the reasons why the refrigerator makes strange sounds.

Many modern refrigerators are equipped with a condenser on all sides except the front surface. You can learn about this from the instructions for the unit. For such models, it is important to ensure comprehensive and constant air circulation.

Pro tip that works for any refrigerator model:

Move the unit 30-70 cm from any heat source;
If the nearby wall is cold, then the distance between it and the condenser should be more than 50 mm;
The bottom gap between the floor and the bottom of the refrigerator should be as wide as possible. It can be adjusted by unscrewing the threads on the legs of the housing;
There should be no furniture or other bulky items on top of the refrigerator.

The freezer box is freezing, but the refrigerator box is faulty

Constant operation of the compressor is often observed when the positive segment cools slightly (freezes) and the freezer is working properly. In other words, in the sub-zero box the temperature is normal or the cold set is suspiciously effective, but the refrigerator compartment is not working well.

If the freezer has NoFrost, then there is often a problem with the defrost (evaporator), or more precisely in the heating element - there is no heat production for defrosting. The system becomes icy, the mass of ice disrupts the extremely significant circulation of cold flows in the channels.

The impeller begins to cling to the ice, the movement of cold slows down, noise is created, and icing of the air duct progresses. First, normal, then severe frosting is observed in the freezer, and in the positive (cooling) chamber, on the contrary, the temperature rises. But ultimately, the cold also leaves the negative part, so these same circumstances are the reasons why the refrigerator starts and works, but does not freeze, or the freezer does not work.

Diagnostics when the refrigerator compartment is not working well, but the freezer is working properly

Without involving a technician, you can diagnose the breakdown yourself like this:

Do a complete manual defrost.
Ice - an obstacle for the fan - will disappear;
If after this the blades remain motionless, the services of a specialist will be required. If the system works, then a malfunction appears again, usually accompanied by continuous operation of the compressor due to the features described above - a defrost failure will be confirmed. The solution is to change the heating element and evaporator temperature sensor.

With a drip system, you can also try to defrost the refrigerator and see how long it takes for the breakdown to appear. Most often, the reason is a breakdown of the defrost activation timer. Symptom of malfunction: ice, snow coat.

Other reasons

The situation when the plus chamber freezes slightly, but the freezer works well, can also occur with more general breakdowns:

failure of the thermostat, controls, settings;
depressurization of tubes, the system leaks freon;
there is a plug in the capillary tube;
compressor problems;
There is no normal fit of the doors. It is recommended to make sure that the lights go out when they are closed.

The temperature sensor does not work

It is either broken, in which case you need to call a repairman, or a layer of ice has built up on it. You can remove the ice yourself by defrosting the refrigerator. In modern refrigerators, the temperature sensor is a sensor device; in older models, it is an electromechanical thermostat. But the operating principle is similar. To restore the functionality of the mechanism, it needs to be provided with optimal external operating conditions.

The simplest reason regarding the temperature sensor is that you yourself set the wrong (low) relay response level, and the refrigerator stopped turning off. Check the electronic and mechanical settings of the device.

In modern models, the level of sensor response is displayed on the display in the form of temperature readings (they can be changed using buttons on the display). In older devices, the temperature limit is set by turning the control knob to a certain point.

Error due to ignorance:

The inverter-type compressor is always on, but it operates under different conditions with automatic power changes, so when the intensity of cold production is increased, it can make noise, and you may find it strange why the refrigerator runs for a long time and does not turn off.

We repeat - such a unit always works. Vibrations and extraneous sounds appear from friction of poorly secured elements and assemblies. Therefore, it is worth checking all mechanical connections. We wrote more about extraneous noise in the article 30+ reasons: Why does the refrigerator make strange sounds, how to fix the problem.

Two-chamber Atlant

Are you the owner of an Atlant two-chamber refrigerator? Great. Have you noticed any problems with his work before? Fabulous. But today your single-compressor or double-compressor refrigerator began to work incorrectly? Doesn't turn off, ice freezes inside? Let's figure out what the reason is. But first, let's look at the correct mode of operation.

The thermostat (temperature sensor) or thermostat is broken

This is found out by cutting off the possible reasons listed above. There are so many different models of refrigerators and thermostats that it is simply pointless to advise you to repair it yourself - they all work differently.

Only a specialist can know the detailed structure of a specific temperature sensor, so get ready to call a specialist. Repair (replacement of the device) will not cost much, since this part is not the most complicated in the refrigerator.

Thermostat with mechanical temperature control.

FAQ

When connecting a refrigerator to the network (a new refrigerator, a refrigerator after repair, a refrigerator after defrosting, or simply a refrigerator that has been unplugged for a long time), the operating time of the refrigeration appliance before the first shutdown will be determined by the ambient temperature, the number of loaded products and their temperature, the volume of the refrigerator, the performance of the compressor and type of refrigerant. If you want to determine the serviceability of the refrigerator based on the operating time before the first shutdown, it is recommended: turn on the refrigerator empty, without loading food, set the thermostat to the minimum position, and do not open the refrigerator doors during operation. The norm will be considered a shutdown within the next 2 hours; depending on the size of the refrigerator and the factors listed above, this can happen in 30, 40 minutes, an hour or an hour and a half.

How to check the work of a technician when repairing a refrigerator?

It will not be possible to check the progress of work without special knowledge. But we can give general recommendations. There is a technology for repairing a household refrigeration appliance, compliance with which determines the time spent on performing repair operations. So, replacing automation devices and electrical circuit elements, depending on the model, takes from 40 minutes to an hour and a half. Refilling a refrigeration unit, replacing a compressor, taking into account the lifting of equipment and materials to the floor - 1.5 - 2 hours, if the time is significantly lower - the repair is carried out in violation of the technology and skipping mandatory operations. So, when refueling a refrigeration unit, it is necessary to replace the filter-drier, evacuate the unit circuit - done twice, and flush the circuit with a technological dose of freon. If in the workshop prices the replacement of the filter in the schedule for repairing the unit is offered as a separate line, this should already alert you. You can also track the compatibility of installed components and materials. So, if the refrigerator operated on 12 freon, then when replacing the compressor on such a refrigerator, the installed compressor must be designed for 12 freon. If you are supplied with a 134 freon compressor, it will work on your refrigerator for a year - the reason is the incompatibility of the mineral oil left over from the old compressor in the circuit and the synthetic oil for 134 freon in the new compressor. All relevant performance and freon markings are applied to the compressor by the manufacturer.

The contact group in the timers is similar and an emergency will not happen when the refrigerator is turned on. The electromechanical timer counts the operating time of the compressor; as soon as 12 hours have accumulated, the timer switches the refrigeration device to defrost mode. An electronic timer TIM-01 is suitable. What you should not do is use a mechanical timer instead of an electronic one. Refrigerator BIA16NFS instead of timer TEU-01-02, an electromechanical timer AQ-2001-21 is installed - defrost mode - frequency and duration will change, this will affect the operation of the refrigerator and, depending on air humidity, will manifest itself within 1, 2 weeks.

Along the perimeter of the freezer door there is a high-pressure pipeline (heating circuit for the perimeter of the freezer door to prevent the formation of condensation), which is an element of the refrigerator condenser. The operating temperature of the pipeline is 70 -80 C. Purpose - to prevent the formation of condensation around the perimeter of the freezer door. When the compressor is turned off when the set temperature in the refrigerator is reached, the pipeline cools down.

In a refrigerator with a built-in (foamed condenser), the side and back walls of the refrigerator heat up.

The compressor motor or the compressor itself has broken down

The compressor may be running continuously as it tries to reach the set temperature level, but... It could be:

The rotor or stator winding is burnt;
Critical wear of the bearings has occurred;
Drying of lubricant in rubbing units;
Wear of bushings (sometimes installed instead of bearings);
Burnt contact at the terminals;
Wear of piston rings or crankshaft bushings;
Other reasons (you can’t list them all).

The best way out is to call a technician who will accurately determine the cause of the breakdown and identify the failed part in order to replace it. When replacing a compressor, you will have to re-pump freon or another refrigerant, so the repair will not be cheap.

Compressor fault

Only a specialist can diagnose this malfunction. As a rule, the motor fails due to wear. It does not have enough power to apply pressure to the discharge tube, so the temperature set by the program is not reached.

Is it worth changing the compressor? This is a question that many users ask. It should be noted right away that the replacement or repair process is quite complex and largely depends on the type of fault, so most often experts simply recommend replacing it.

However, its cost is almost a third of the price of the entire device. Since to restore normal operation of the device you will have to charge it with freon and run the necessary sensors to maintain a certain temperature, the user will not be able to carry out this process independently without certain knowledge. Accordingly, repairs and specialist services will not be cheap, which really makes you think about purchasing a new refrigerator.

Refrigerant leak

This breakdown is comparable to replacing a compressor - you will have to call a specialist to completely depressurize the old system and pump in a new volume of refrigerant. There is no need to change the compressor without visible visual wear. How to find out why the refrigerator does not turn off precisely because of a freon leak? We wrote about this in an article about finding and eliminating freon leaks in the refrigerator.

One can only draw conclusions that this is so if all other reasons are not clearly identified. That is, the seal is new and airtight, the thermostat works as it should, the refrigerator does not overheat due to the outside temperature in the room, etc.

Frequency on/off refrigerator too intense

A sign of a breakdown or a circumstance that should alert you is excessively frequent on/off switching, for example, the refrigerator turns on and turns off after a few seconds, makes unsuccessful attempts to start, the cycles are excessively short (every 5 minutes).

Possible reasons for the compressor turning on and off frequently:

The temperature is set to a minimum, especially in a warm room;
damage to the seal, distortion of the hinges;
disruption of refrigerant circulation, and incorrect temperature conditions can be observed in certain parts of the cabinet. The thermostat detects an increase in values and calls the compressor to work, the refrigerator often turns on;
The thermostat is broken (this is the most common reason). If the door fits tightly and the set and actual temperatures in the refrigerator compartment are the same, then the thermostat probably does not correctly determine its value. If it was the starting relay that was broken, then starting attempts would be observed for 15–30 seconds. also, the device does not turn on at all;
Compressor defects: insufficient life of a weak, worn-out motor to operate for the required time, the phasing of the cycle is disrupted (the unit cannot move from start-up to operating condition), as well as obvious breakdown when the engine has no stability at all. Often the cause is a short circuit in the winding;
Freon leak.

The last two breakdowns, when the refrigerator compressor turns on and immediately turns off, are excluded if the unit operates for a long time while the temperature rises.

The compressor works, but there is no cold

There is refrigerant, and you are sure of it, but the regenerator is covered with ice: failure is typical for models with 1 heat exchanger. In them, the common motor operating for the freezer and refrigerator compartment is forced to turn on more often than provided for by the specified functionality.

To find out if this is true is quite simple - remove the decorative trim on the back of the exchanger panel, and visually determine the volume of condensation on the shirt. If the layer thickness is more than 1 cm, then it’s time to defrost the unit.

Do you want to speed up defrosting? Do not chip ice or scrape snow to avoid damaging the thin aluminum walls of the evaporator! Just direct a stream of warm air at it. After defrosting, set the operating temperature on the thermostat 1°C-3°C higher than before.

Recommendations for effective prevention

In many cases, problems can be avoided if you use your refrigerator correctly. The advice to read the instructions before starting operation seems banal and obvious, but is not always followed.

Here are a few more recommendations that will help protect your refrigerator from possible breakdowns:

You need to choose the right place for installation at the very beginning and sometimes check the situation for compliance with the instructions, especially if furniture has been rearranged in the room, new heating devices have appeared, etc.
The refrigerator should not be located where it is exposed to intense sunlight, even if this does not happen all year round, but only in certain months.
You should always check how tightly the door seal fits against the body of the refrigerator, whether there is dirt on it, or whether there are other factors that could cause damage or deformation.
There is no need to lean on the door or otherwise impact it, so as not to disrupt the integrity of the fasteners or damage the sealing gasket.
You should not store too much food in the refrigerator, as this may lead to poor air circulation.
It is not recommended to install any heavy objects or household appliances on the top panel of the device.

Defrosting rules are also described in detail in the instructions. Even models with the “No Frost” system need this event. Unless the instructions indicate otherwise, defrosting should be carried out at least once every six months. During the summer, additional procedures may be required.

After defrosting, the refrigerator must be disinfected with a solution of soda or alcohol, and then thoroughly wiped dry to prevent possible breakdowns in the future.

Once all the ice has melted, thoroughly wipe all surfaces to ensure they are dry. It wouldn't hurt to disinfect it first. To do this, wipe the chamber walls and door with a soda or alcohol solution. Before going on vacation, you also need to defrost the refrigerator and properly preserve it for the duration of your absence.

The door of the switched-off appliance should be left open. Some people simply push an object between the frame and the door to create a gap, but this is the wrong strategy.

This can seriously damage the seal, which will then have to be completely replaced. To prevent unpleasant odors from appearing in your refrigerator, you can leave an odor absorber or an open container of baking soda inside.

The compressor air cooler is broken

Older devices do not have such a fan. In new electric refrigerators - not in all. But, if there is a cooler, then it is installed in the compressor compartment. Designed to blow air over the blower motor and ensure air movement within the radius of heat radiation from the condenser.

If the fan is broken, the refrigerant will not be cooled, so the compressor will rarely turn off or even run all the time. You can check if the cooler is working visually - look at it when you hear that the supercharger is working.

If the blades do not spin, the reason may be the bearing, the motor itself, or damaged electrical wiring contacts. If you can find the last reason yourself, then to eliminate the first two you will need to call a refrigeration specialist.

The blower fan (cooler) of the compressor in the refrigerator.

The door seal is damaged

The door seal located along its perimeter often wears out, which is why the engine does not shut down. Consequently, the hermetic closure of the door is broken, and warm air penetrates into the cooled compartment. The engine constantly pumps cooled freon to remove heat and cool the incoming air. What to do in this case? A worn refrigerator seal needs to be replaced. A new seal can be purchased in specialized stores or on the market. To avoid mistakes and buy the necessary seal for the refrigerator, take a piece of the old seal with you.

The reason is the incompetence of the master

If you had a specialist and repaired everything, but the device still continuously produces cold, then almost always the solution can be found in the low level of qualification of the refrigerator operator. The chance that after professional service something accidentally breaks immediately is minimal.

Therefore, demand that the workshop eliminate the real cause of the breakdown. And the best guarantee not to get into such a situation is to call a specialist who has good recommendations, extensive experience and positive customer reviews.

When is this a signal of a breakdown and why is it dangerous?

Continuous engine operation indicates a malfunction. In a properly functioning refrigerator, the compressor is turned off for 20 minutes, and when the temperature in the room increases, the modes are adjusted once an hour. The operating period of the refrigerator is on average 12-20 minutes. The motor will break if the operating mode of the device is constantly disrupted.

Problems are easily identified by the following signals:

Engine knocking and rattling. In older models, the engine is located at the end and almost touches the floor, cooling system and frame casing. The compressor mounts become loose over time, and it begins to hum if the refrigerator is constantly running without stopping.
Electricity. Modern household appliances are equipped with protection against current leakage. In the case of a continuously running compressor, the charge of electricity increases and when you touch the body of the refrigerator with wet hands, a weak discharge is felt.
The freezer compartment is freezing. The “fur coat” appears a week after defrosting, but in a device that does not turn off, a layer of ice forms much earlier.
Food freezes. The purpose of a refrigerator is to cool food. The recommended temperature for the compartment should be +2°C. Freezing products located near the wall indicate improper engine operation.
Increased electricity consumption.

The new compressor is always on

The situation is standard: you called a technician and he replaced the supercharger. Then you loaded the refrigerator with food and turned it on, and the relay does not turn off the motor for a very long time. This is normal - after all, the device was turned off for a long time, the temperature inside the chamber remained above zero for a long time, and the food was also warm. It takes time to cool the interior and food to the set values. The time period for continuous cold injection depends on the following factors:

Set temperature;
Volume of products on all shelves, including the door;
Station performance and engine power;
Temperature in the room where the refrigerator is located;
Model (No Frost or Low Frost, Frost Free or Naturecool, Super Frost). In fact, several dozen modern cooling systems have been developed, and you need to find out which one works in your refrigerator in the documentation. This also includes multi-flow air supply systems (Total No Frost, DoorCooling, etc.).

Manufacturers stipulate the standard time for continuous operation of the electric compressor before the first shutdown of the engine - this is approximately 180 minutes. You can read more in the article: How long should a refrigerator work without turning off - problems and their solutions.

First start after defrosting or idle time

We would like to draw your attention to the fact that a new refrigerator cannot be plugged in immediately. Its system contains compressor oil. After installation, it should drain into the compressor sump. This will take 4-6 hours.

In the refrigerator after transportation, defrosting or long-term inactivity, the inner chamber and everything in it are heated much more than necessary. The compressor will work for a long time without stopping. As soon as the camera cools down to normal, it will turn off. If it doesn't turn off for more than 6 hours, there is a problem.

The time the compressor will operate depends on the load in the refrigerator compartment. If it is empty, then everything will happen quickly. If there is food in it, the compressor can run for more than an hour. After all, he needs to cool not only shelves and drawers, but also food.

Advice

Constant operation of the compressor motor wears it out. Therefore, after defrosting, do not fill the refrigerator to the top. Place perishable food items in it and wait until the compressor stops. After half an hour, place everything you need inside.

Some compartment does not cool when the compressor is running

The reasons depend on the model of refrigeration equipment, its power and performance. So, in a single-circuit unit, the following may occur: any chamber is depressurized, the thermal relay is broken, or the temperature sensor is faulty.

More details about depressurization: warm air from the room entering the refrigerator through an arbitrary gap heats the chamber. The temperature regime is disrupted, and the electric compressor operates until the chamber cools down to the set temperature. If warm air constantly gets inside, then the motor will work around the clock. Tightness is ensured by the door and the seal, so the influx of warm air masses comes from the outside - either the door is poorly closed, or the seal is broken.

A temperature sensor is installed in modern models of refrigerators, and older units are equipped with a thermostat or thermostat. When the refrigerator compartment heats up, the sensor (or relay) turns on the electric compressor. A broken touch sensor may generally issue incorrect, chaotic commands, and if the relay is broken, then there are two options - the refrigerator either works without turning off, or does not work at all.

The thermostat in older units and economy class models regulates the circulation of refrigerant. A thermostat is installed in the heat exchanger tubes, and only a professional with the appropriate equipment can detect its failure.

What functional parts of the refrigerator most often break down?

The functional part of the refrigerator consists of an evaporator, a condenser, a system of tubes with freon, a compressor (motor), a thermostat (thermal relay), a start relay, and a temperature sensor.

A compressor with a container of refrigerant (freon) ensures its circulation at the required pressure and speed in a system of tubes around the perimeter of the chambers. Freon has the property of passing from the liquid to the gaseous phase and vice versa. The copper tubes inside the cabinet are an evaporator, where freon intensively absorbs heat, boils and evaporates, and the environment is cooled. Next, the refrigerant enters the lattice structure on the rear wall - the condenser, where it cools, giving off heat to the surrounding air, and passes into the liquid phase. The cycle repeats.

Problems most often affect the listed elements, and also relate to improper operation and depressurization.

Two refrigerator circuits per compressor

A refrigerator with two evaporators operates on the principle of flow separation - the first device lowers the temperature in the freezer, the second cools the main refrigeration compartment. If the temperature suddenly rises somewhere, and the compressor runs for a long time or does not turn off at all, the reasons may be the following:

The solenoid valve (EMV) is misaligned or broken;
The regenerator is frozen and icy, and snow or ice appears on the walls. The defect is eliminated by defrosting;
The capillary tubes in the heat exchanger are clogged with waste oil. Decomposition products and microdebris accumulate on the walls of the tubes, their diameter decreases, and the throughput of the heat exchanger decreases. As a result, the electric compressor does not push the required amount of refrigerant, and the refrigerator operates for a long time without turning off the motor. Remove the blockage by washing and purging the circuit pipe system. At the same time, the refrigerant and oil in the compressor are changed. The work is carried out by a specialist.

The EMC acts as a regulator and switch of the circuit from the compressor to the heat exchanger. A broken valve incorrectly switches the direction of refrigerant and only partially blocks access to the circuit. To identify this malfunction, you must:

Turn off and unload the refrigerator, wait until it warms up to room temperature;
Turn off the cooling system in the chamber that was not working well;
Turn on the unit and wait half an hour. If the disconnected compartment becomes cold again, then the reason is in the EMC - it does not transfer the refrigerant to the disconnected regenerator. The valve must be repaired or replaced by a technician.

What should a refrigerator owner do in case of a breakdown?

Do not forget that, in addition to all the listed reasons, there may be a human factor. Such as:

incorrect or untimely defrosting;
destruction by means of unintended means;
mechanical damage to the camera surface or other mechanical failures.

All violations of the rules of operation of the refrigerator, as well as any equipment, can lead to serious problems in the operation of the unit. Follow the requirements specified in the refrigerator's operating instructions.

Any malfunctions that arise, the causes of which are not clear to you, require elimination. Failure to do so can result in serious damage to an expensive part. The cost of a compressor for an Atlant brand refrigerator can be equal to half the cost of the entire refrigerator. Moreover, a malfunction in equipment connected to the power supply, despite the breakdown, can lead to problems and accidents.

Important! Remember that if the refrigerator motor runs continuously, it may overheat and burn out. If you discover a malfunction that you could not fix on your own, unplug the refrigerator from the mains. Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself unless you have special knowledge. Is it dangerous.

Twin Cooling Plus refrigerator with two compressors and circuits

Such models operate on a separate principle - one compressor serves one compartment. Each supercharger serves its own circuit. All cameras are completely autonomous, and their settings do not change the modes of other compartments.

If both regenerators work without turning off or turn off too often, then modern electronic components should be blamed for this. Since you can hardly organize such complex repairs on your own, order the services of a professional refrigeration technician or take the device to a service center of your brand.

Twin Cooling Plus cooling system options.

Very cold and constantly buzzing

If, after turning off the freeze mode, the engine still runs without stopping, there is a possibility that the thermostat or motor is faulty.

Why does the engine run continuously? In this case, the cause may be a stuck relay that regulates the open circuit. When, after defrosting, the refrigerator starts to work, after a while it reaches the required temperature and turns off due to the opening of the electrical circuit. If it does not turn off for a long time, it is likely that the contact relays are stuck one to one, and the engine is constantly running.

When a temperature sensor fails, there is simply no signal about the set temperature. The compressor operates continuously, since the relay does not receive a signal to open the circuit and stop the engine. Modern models are equipped with electronic control units that can cause software failure. The signal from the temperature sensor is blocked again and the relay does not break the compressor power supply circuit.

Two cameras of the same circuit work the same

If one compressor operates without shutting down, and the circuit connected to it should cool two compartments at different temperature conditions, but this does not happen, the reasons are as follows:

The heat exchanger line with the refrigerant is clogged;
The temperature sensor for the air has broken down or the thermostat in the freezer has failed;
There is a refrigerant leak somewhere in the system;
Ice has frozen on the outside or sediment has appeared on the internal walls of the evaporator.

Of these four points, only No. 4 can be corrected on your own - if there is ice, but the refrigerator is simply defrosted. After connecting the unit to the network, the temperature in all chambers must be increased by 2°C -3°C. If this is not the reason, call the experts.

Prevention of breakdowns

In order for a two-chamber refrigerator to serve for the maximum period of time, the following rules should be observed when operating it:

Connect the device only through a surge protector;
Defrost regularly;
Avoid direct sunlight on equipment;
Do not set the thermostat to extreme temperatures.

The refrigerator is designed in such a way that after switching on and starting it does not require special maintenance. If you follow simple operating rules, the device will last for a long period of time.

To prevent the motor from burning out in the event of a power surge, it is recommended to connect the product through a surge protector. Even in large cities, voltage surges occur. If an apartment or private house is not equipped with a voltage stabilizer, a surge protector is the best solution.

For quick cooling, you can set the thermostat to a low temperature, but it is not recommended to maintain such settings on a permanent basis. In order for the product to serve the stated period, optimal operating parameters should be used.

Two chambers of the same circuit cool differently

Problem conditions: there are two compressors in one refrigerator, one of which is constantly on, but the chambers are cooled differently. Possible causes of breakdowns and solutions:

Sediment has accumulated in the evaporator;
The compressor blower cooler has failed;
Ice has formed on the evaporator;
The poorly cooled chamber has become depressurized;
The EMC is out of order.

The presence of sediment in a specific area of the evaporator can only be detected by a specialist with the appropriate equipment, and you can only check the operation of the regenerator cooler yourself, if it is provided for in the circuit.

If the fan is not working, the temperature in the compartment will steadily increase due to the mixing of cold air with warm air. That is, the compressor will work constantly or switch on/off frequently. The cooler itself will be perfectly visible if you remove the rear decorative panel.

If snow or ice forms on any part of the evaporator, the refrigerator is defrosted, since a thick and cold layer of ice will force the compressor to work without interruption. To avoid similar situations in the future, follow these rules:

Do not place heated foods and hot food in the refrigerator and side compartments;
It is recommended to store all food only in closed containers - pots with lids, plastic containers. Excess moisture evaporating from food will contribute to the build-up of a layer of ice on the evaporator;
Do not leave the refrigerator door open for long periods of time. In modern models, a sound signal alerts you to this; older refrigerators need to be monitored visually.

The cause of the malfunction is in the relay

The compressor power start-up relay, which controls the thermostat, may have broken down. A similar malfunction often occurs during power surges: the relay contacts “stick” (weld to each other) and therefore constantly supply current to the compressor. To check the power contacts of the refrigerator relay, you should use an ohmmeter, and if a malfunction is detected, replace it.

Read also: 33063Ap1 datasheet in Russian

You should not try to remove the old relay from the refrigerator and install a new one yourself, even if you know exactly where this piece of equipment is located and what is required for its dismantling and installation. Even the slightest mistakes can lead to complete failure of the unit without the possibility of restoring its functionality in the future.

The refrigerator turns on frequently, runs for a long time and does not turn off

If all compartments of a two-chamber refrigerator operate in the same mode, and the unit itself often turns on or works without turning off the compressor, the reasons may be as follows:

Microcracks in the heat exchanger capillary tube system, refrigerant leak;
The relay that turns on the compressor motor has failed;
The automatic control of the refrigerator is broken;
Access to fresh air flow to the condenser is limited by furniture or other foreign objects;
The compressor is not cooled naturally or using a cooler.

If you were unable to solve the problem with a constantly running compressor on your own, call a refrigeration technician or contact a service center for help.

In this article, we described all the reasons why the refrigerator constantly works and does not turn off. We hope you found it useful. Don't forget to save it and share it with your friends!

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How to understand that the device is faulty

The first signal of a malfunction will be non-stop operation of the motor. Working equipment automatically turns off the compressor for 20 minutes, and in case of extreme heat, the modes are adjusted once every 60 minutes.

Interesting to know! Under normal conditions, the average operating cycle of a refrigerator is 12-20 minutes.

When the device breaks down, users note that the refrigerator does not always turn off and is constantly running, and the sound of the compressor becomes very loud. If measures are not taken in a timely manner, the motor may completely fail.

What to pay attention to

The constant functioning of the refrigerator motor does not always have anything to do with problems. The reason for the lack of equipment stopping may be:

improper operation - location near heat sources;
violation of installation conditions - there is no gap for ventilation of 10-15 cm, without which the compressor heats up;
access to sunlight on the back of the device;
natural wear and tear of the thermostat of outdated models.

Important! Under conditions of non-stop operation, the service life of the compressor will be about 6 months.

Rules of operation and care

The lifespan of a refrigerator largely depends on careful use. Incorrect and negligent handling often leads to rapid shutdown of household appliances. Less commonly, physical wear and tear is to blame. The following recommendations will help extend the life of your refrigerator:

During installation of the unit, a certain level must be maintained. We are talking about flooring. It is desirable that the floor is level. Otherwise, it is recommended to place the refrigerator on a stand.
Don't overcrowd the refrigerator compartments with food. Otherwise, there will be poor air circulation in the chambers.
The correct location is the key to long-term operation of the equipment. The refrigerator should not be placed next to the sink or stove. It is better to avoid close contact with heat sources (battery, microwave).
There is no room for hot food in the refrigerator.
Use the instructions that came with your refrigerator. The attached appearances are not waste paper, but a very valuable document. Before you start using the equipment, study the features of its operation. This will help you quickly find a common language with this device.
Regular care. It is important to monitor the health of the refrigerator. Both its external and internal parts need care. Oily fingerprints may remain on the surface. They are easy to clean with a sponge and soda solution. It is recommended to defrost the refrigerator once every 3 months. The ice is carefully broken off with a special spatula, the inner surface is wiped with a wet sponge, and then always with a dry rag. In this way, unpleasant odors will be eliminated.
It is advisable to connect the refrigerator to a separate outlet. The equipment requires an individual power source.
Do not leave the refrigerator door open for a long time. Otherwise, the motor will quickly fail.

The recommendations presented will extend the life of household appliances. As you can see, quickly turning the refrigerator on and off does not appear on its own. There are reasons that cause such inconvenience. Timely detection of a breakdown will allow you to quickly normalize the operation of the refrigerator and eliminate the need to purchase new equipment.

The compressor turns on for a second and turns off. Fresh Danfoss corpse.

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“Weak points” of famous domestic models

Manufacturers of household appliances constantly assure in advertising that their refrigerators are the most reliable and resistant to malfunctions. However, practice shows that each brand has its own characteristic vulnerabilities:

Atlant. A common cause of incorrect freezing mode is a breakdown of the thermostat. Moreover, the malfunction is often easily corrected by returning the tube to its place. Older models do not tolerate summer heat well, so they require moving to the coolest corner.
Biryusa. Refrigerators of this brand operate optimally at temperatures from +16˚C to +32˚C. There are often problems with the relay, thermostat, as well as violations of the compressor operating mode.
Nord. For these models, the starting relay and thermostat often fail, which can be solved by replacing these devices. It is even more profitable that their warranty period is 5 years.

The Belarusian manufacturer's Atlant brand of refrigerators has gained fame as reliable devices with a service life of a decade or more. Currently, 80% of products are varieties of two-chamber models with one and two compressors. There is no technology that lasts forever; breakdowns also happen in the Atlant refrigerator. Let's determine the main causes of malfunctions.

Cases in which continuous operation of the capacitor is not a breakdown

There are completely normal situations in which the compressor works without stopping, but there is no breakdown and there is no need to worry:

Uninterrupted operation after defrosting. The refrigerator needs to reduce the temperature inside to standard readings. Therefore, the compressor hums without stopping. On average, the cooling process after defrosting lasts several hours. Be patient.
It's not the compressor that's humming, it's the fan. In refrigerators with the NoFrost system, a fan is built into the body, which drives cold air around the chamber. Its hum can be confused with the hum of a compressor.
Power surges in the network. They lead to malfunctions of the microprocessors, and the refrigerator “seizes.” Check the display and read the error code. What to do? If the error is not fatal, unplug the refrigerator and turn it on again. And install the stabilizer.