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Home Troubleshooting Refrigerator Runs Constantly Never Shuts Off
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This content was updated 3 days ago with the latest information and recommendations.

Last Updated
3 Oct 2025
🚨 Problem Medium Fix ⏱️ 20-45 minutes 🛠️ Tools: screwdriver, vacuum cleaner, thermometer, flashlight, soft brush
✓ Safety Verified 📖 56 min read

🔧 Fridge Running Constantly? 7 Fixes to Stop Non-Stop Operation

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Problem Overview

A refrigerator that runs constantly without ever cycling off is wasting significant energy and putting excessive wear on the compressor, potentially leading to premature failure. While refrigerators do run frequently to maintain temperature, they should cycle on and off throughout the day. Normal operation means the compressor runs 50-80% of the time (duty cycle), with regular breaks. If your fridge runs 100% continuously—never stopping—this indicates a problem. Common causes include dirty condenser coils blocking heat dissipation, failed door gaskets allowing warm air infiltration, faulty thermostat stuck in cooling mode, low refrigerant preventing efficient cooling, excessive frost buildup in freezer, or high ambient temperature forcing constant operation. The good news? Most of these issues can be fixed with simple maintenance or affordable repairs.

Safety First - Important Precautions

  • !
    Unplug Before Cleaning: Before cleaning condenser coils or inspecting any components, unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet. Some modern fridges have exposed electrical connections near the coils that could cause shock if touched while powered.
  • !
    Ventilation Space Required: Never push a refrigerator completely flush against walls or into tight spaces. Refrigerators need 2-3 inches clearance on sides and back for proper air circulation. Blocking ventilation makes the problem worse and can overheat the compressor.
  • !
    Moving Refrigerator Safely: If you need to pull out the fridge to access rear coils, get help—fridges are heavy (50-100kg). Don't tilt more than 45 degrees or lay flat. Protect flooring with cardboard. Avoid yanking power cord.
  • !
    Refrigerant Warning: If you suspect low refrigerant (not cooling despite running constantly), this requires professional service. Refrigerant is a pressurized gas that needs certified handling. Never attempt to add refrigerant yourself—it requires recovery, vacuum, and precise recharge procedures.
  • !
    Food Safety During Diagnosis: If troubleshooting requires extended power-off time (more than 2 hours), keep doors closed as much as possible. Consider transferring perishables to a cooler with ice. A fully stocked fridge stays cold longer than an empty one.
  • !
    Compressor Heat is Normal: The compressor (motor at back/bottom) gets HOT during operation—up to 80-90°C. This is normal. Don't touch it while running or immediately after shutdown. Wait 15-20 minutes for it to cool before inspection.

🔍 Quick Diagnostic Checks ⏱️ 5-10 minutes

1 Listen for Compressor Cycling

Stand near the fridge for 10-15 minutes. Listen to the compressor (humming/buzzing sound). Does it ever stop? Normal cycle: runs 20-40 minutes, stops 10-20 minutes, repeat. If it runs continuously without ANY break for hours, that confirms the problem.

2 Check Internal Temperature

Place a thermometer in the fridge section (middle shelf, center). Wait 5 minutes. Should read 2-4°C (ideal: 3°C). If it's already at target temp but compressor still runs, thermostat may be faulty. If warmer than 5°C, fridge is struggling to cool.

3 Inspect Door Seal

Close door on a piece of paper—try to pull paper out. Should have firm resistance all around. If paper slides out easily anywhere, gasket is failing. Check for visible gaps, tears, or compressed/hardened rubber along door seal.

4 Check Room Temperature

Measure kitchen temperature. If room is above 32°C (hot kitchen, no AC, direct sunlight), fridge has to work much harder. In extreme heat (35-40°C), continuous running might be normal response to ambient conditions.

⏱️ Understanding Normal Refrigerator Duty Cycles

What's Normal vs. What's Not

Refrigerators use a compressor motor to cool, which cycles on and off to maintain temperature. The "duty cycle" is the percentage of time the compressor runs. Understanding normal patterns helps you identify problems.

Normal Operation Patterns:

  • Typical duty cycle: 50-80% runtime (compressor on 12-19 hours per day)
  • Run period: 20-40 minutes continuous operation
  • Off period: 10-20 minutes rest between cycles
  • New fridge: May run 24-48 hours continuously when first installed (normal)
  • After restocking: 2-4 hours continuous run after adding warm groceries (normal)
  • Hot weather: 80-90% duty cycle in extreme heat 35°C+ (borderline normal)

⚠️ Signs of Abnormal Operation:

  • 100% duty cycle: Compressor NEVER stops—runs 24/7 for days without a single break
  • Very short cycles: Compressor runs 2-5 minutes, off 1-2 minutes, repeat (short cycling—different problem)
  • Never achieving target temp: Runs constantly but internal temp never drops to 3-4°C
  • Recently changed behavior: Used to cycle normally, suddenly started running continuously
  • Excessive heat at coils: Condenser coils so hot you can't touch them even briefly

💡 Common Causes → Solutions

Problem

Dirty condenser coils blocking heat dissipation—most common cause (60-70% of cases)

Solution

Unplug fridge, pull it out, vacuum condenser coils thoroughly. Use coil brush to remove dust/pet hair. Clean twice yearly. Instant improvement in most cases—compressor will start cycling normally within hours

Problem

Failed door gasket allowing warm air to continuously enter fridge

Solution

Test with paper method. If seal fails, clean gasket with warm soapy water first—often sticky residue prevents sealing. If still fails, replace door gasket (₹800-2000). DIY-friendly with just a screwdriver

Problem

Faulty thermostat stuck in "always cooling" mode, not detecting when target temperature reached

Solution

Test by manually turning thermostat to warmest setting—compressor should stop within minutes. If it doesn't, thermostat is faulty. Replace thermostat (₹600-1500). Located inside fridge near temperature dial

Problem

Low refrigerant (gas leak)—compressor runs constantly trying to achieve cooling but can't reach target temp

Solution

Signs: fridge not cold enough despite running, frost only on small section of evaporator, hissing sound. Requires professional refrigerant recovery, leak repair, vacuum, and recharge (₹3000-6000). Not DIY-repairable

Problem

Excessive frost buildup in freezer blocking airflow (in frost-free models with failed defrost system)

Solution

Check freezer for thick frost/ice on back wall or behind panels. Manually defrost: unplug fridge, remove contents, leave doors open 8-12 hours. If frost returns quickly (within weeks), defrost system needs repair (timer, heater, or thermostat)

Problem

High ambient temperature—room temperature above 32°C forcing constant operation

Solution

Move fridge away from windows with direct sunlight, heat-generating appliances (oven, stove), or poorly ventilated areas. Improve kitchen ventilation. Use curtains to block sun. In extreme heat, continuous running may be unavoidable but temporary

Problem

Blocked or insufficient ventilation around refrigerator preventing heat dissipation

Solution

Pull fridge 2-3 inches away from walls. Don't place in tight cabinet enclosures. Ensure back and sides have airflow. Check if condenser fan is running (for models with fan). Remove any items stored on top of fridge blocking vents

🛠️ DIY Fixes You Can Try Now

1

Clean the Condenser Coils (Most Effective Fix)

This is the #1 cause of constant running and the easiest fix. The condenser coils dissipate heat from the refrigeration system. When clogged with dust, pet hair, and debris, heat can't escape efficiently, forcing the compressor to run continuously. Location: Usually at the back (behind fridge) or bottom (behind toe grille). How to clean: (1) Unplug refrigerator from wall outlet. (2) Pull fridge away from wall—get help, they're heavy. (3) Use vacuum cleaner with brush attachment to remove loose dust/debris from coils. (4) Use a condenser coil brush (₹200-400 at hardware stores) to clean between coil fins—work gently to avoid bending fins. (5) Vacuum again to remove loosened debris. (6) While you're there, vacuum the floor area under/behind fridge. (7) Push fridge back, leaving 2-3 inch gap from wall. (8) Plug in and monitor. You should see improvement within 2-4 hours—compressor will start cycling off periodically.

💡 Pro Tip: If you have pets or live in a dusty area, clean coils every 3-6 months instead of annually. Pet hair is a major culprit—it sticks to coils like felt, insulating them and preventing heat transfer. Regular cleaning can improve efficiency by 20-30% and extend compressor life by years.
2

Test and Replace Door Gasket

A failing door seal is like leaving a window open—warm air constantly infiltrates, forcing the fridge to run non-stop. Testing method: "Dollar bill test"—close door on a paper bill or sheet of paper. Try to pull it out. Should have firm resistance all around the door perimeter. Walk the entire perimeter testing at 6-8 locations. If paper slides out easily anywhere, seal is compromised. Visual inspection: Look for cracks, tears, compressed/flattened areas, hardened rubber (should be flexible), or visible gaps when door is closed. Cleaning attempt: Before replacing, try this: Mix warm water with mild dish soap. Scrub entire gasket thoroughly—sticky residue from food/drinks prevents proper sealing. Dry completely. Test again. Replacement: If cleaning doesn't help, order replacement gasket (search by fridge brand/model—₹800-2000). Installation: Remove old gasket (usually held by screws or friction fit), install new gasket starting from top corners, tighten screws gradually in sequence (don't overtighten). Close door and test seal.

⚠️ Common Mistake: Don't use petroleum-based products (Vaseline, oil) to soften gaskets—these degrade rubber over time. Use only warm soapy water. If gasket is hardened/cracked, it needs replacement, not lubrication.
3

Check and Adjust Temperature Settings

Sometimes the problem is simply incorrect temperature settings. Optimal settings: Fridge section: 3-4°C (37-40°F). Freezer section: -18°C (0°F). How to check: Place refrigerator thermometer (₹100-300) in middle of fridge on center shelf. Leave for 4-6 hours without opening door. Read temperature. If below 2°C, you're overcooling—turn dial toward warmer (lower number). If above 5°C, turn toward cooler (higher number). Thermostat location: Usually inside fridge with numbered dial (1-5 or 1-7) or digital display. Most fridges: "3" or "medium" is correct for normal conditions. Seasonal adjustments: Summer (hot weather): May need "4" setting. Winter (cool climate): "2" may suffice. Wait time: After adjusting, wait 6-8 hours before rechecking—fridge takes time to stabilize. If fridge is already at correct temperature but still runs constantly, the thermostat itself may be faulty (see next step).

💡 Energy Saving Tip: Every degree colder than necessary increases energy consumption by 5-8%. A fridge set at 1°C instead of 3°C wastes ₹400-800 annually in electricity for no benefit. Food safety only requires 4°C or below.
4

Test Thermostat Function

The thermostat tells the compressor when to run and when to stop. If it's stuck in "cooling" mode, compressor never gets the signal to shut off. Simple test: Turn temperature dial to warmest setting (lowest number or "1"). Wait 10-15 minutes. Compressor should stop running—you'll hear the humming stop. If compressor continues running even at warmest setting, thermostat is faulty and needs replacement. Replacement procedure: (1) Unplug fridge. (2) Remove temperature control knob (usually pulls straight off). (3) Remove screws holding thermostat housing inside fridge. (4) Carefully pull out thermostat—note wire connections (take photo). (5) Disconnect wires from old thermostat terminals. (6) Connect wires to new thermostat matching same positions. (7) Reinstall housing and knob. (8) Plug in and test. Cost: Replacement thermostat ₹600-1500 depending on model. Parts sourcing: Get exact model number from inside fridge door and order OEM (original equipment) replacement for guaranteed compatibility.

⚠️ Safety Note: Some thermostats contain mercury (silver liquid in glass tube). If yours does, handle carefully—don't break it. If broken, ventilate area and contact local waste disposal for mercury cleanup guidance. Newer thermostats use electronic sensors (safer).
5

Improve Ventilation and Placement

Refrigerators need to breathe. Heat generated by the cooling process must dissipate into the surrounding air. Blocked ventilation = overworking compressor. Clearance requirements: Sides: 2 inches minimum. Back: 2-3 inches minimum. Top: 12 inches minimum (for fridges with top-mounted coils). Don't push flush against walls or into tight cabinet spaces. Location considerations: (1) Keep away from direct sunlight—window location can add 5-10°C heat load. (2) Keep away from heat sources: ovens, stoves, dishwashers, direct sunlight through windows. (3) Ensure adequate room ventilation—stuffy kitchens make fridges work harder. (4) Don't place in unventilated spaces like closed pantries or cabinet enclosures without ventilation cutouts. Condenser fan check: Some models have a fan near the condenser coils (usually at bottom back). Listen/feel for airflow. If fan not running, compressor overheats and runs constantly. Fan motor failure requires replacement (₹800-2000).

💡 Quick Test: Feel the sides and back of your fridge while it's running. Should be warm but not too hot to touch for more than 2-3 seconds. If it's uncomfortably hot, you likely have ventilation or coil cleaning issues. Address these first—often solves the problem immediately.
6

Check for Frost Buildup and Manual Defrost

Excessive frost acts as insulation, blocking cold air circulation and forcing the compressor to work overtime. For frost-free models: Open freezer and look behind any removable panels/covers (may need to unscrew). Look for thick ice buildup on evaporator coils or back wall—should be minimal frost only. If you see solid ice, the automatic defrost system has failed. For manual defrost models: If you haven't defrosted in 6+ months and see >1cm thick frost anywhere, it's time. Manual defrost procedure: (1) Remove all food to cooler with ice. (2) Unplug refrigerator. (3) Open all doors. (4) Place towels on floor to catch water. (5) Let ice melt naturally (8-12 hours) OR speed up with fan (don't use hair dryer or heat gun—can damage plastic). (6) Remove water with towels/sponge. (7) Clean interior. (8) Plug in and wait 2-3 hours before restocking. If frost returns quickly: Defrost system (timer, heater, or thermostat) needs professional repair.

⚠️ Warning: Never use sharp objects (knives, ice picks) to chip away ice—you can puncture refrigerant lines, causing expensive damage and refrigerant leak. Always use natural melting or fan-assisted melting only.
7

Reduce Internal Load and Door Openings

User behavior significantly affects fridge operation. Every time you open the door, warm humid air enters. Too many openings = constant cooling demand. Best practices to reduce runtime: (1) Minimize door openings: Know what you want before opening. Don't stand with door open deciding. Each opening adds 2-5 minutes of compressor runtime. (2) Don't overload: Packed-full fridges restrict airflow. Leave space between items for cold air circulation. Conversely, very empty fridges cycle more (less thermal mass). Ideal: 75% full. (3) Cool food before storing: Never put hot food directly in fridge. Let it cool to room temp first (within food safety guidelines—2 hours maximum). Hot food adds significant heat load. (4) Cover liquids and produce: Uncovered items release moisture, increasing humidity and frost formation, making compressor work harder. (5) Organize efficiently: Use clear containers, label sections. Quick access = less door-open time. (6) Check door alignment: If door doesn't close automatically due to poor leveling, you may be leaving it slightly ajar without realizing. Level the fridge front-to-back with adjustable feet.

💡 Energy Insight: Studies show that reducing door openings from 30 to 15 times per day can reduce energy consumption by 10-15%. In a household with kids constantly opening the fridge, this is low-hanging fruit for reducing runtime and electricity bills.

📞 When to Call a Professional

Immediate Professional Help Needed:

  • • Fridge runs constantly but temperature never drops below 8°C
  • • Hissing or bubbling sounds (refrigerant leak)
  • • Frost only on small section of evaporator coil (refrigerant issue)
  • • Compressor extremely hot—too hot to touch even briefly
  • • Burning smell from compressor area
  • • Clicking sounds with compressor failing to start (electrical issue)
  • • Water pooling under fridge with no visible source

🔧 Professional Service Recommended:

  • • DIY fixes attempted but problem persists
  • • Automatic defrost system failure (recurring frost)
  • • Suspected refrigerant leak or low refrigerant
  • • Condenser fan motor not running
  • • Compressor makes loud grinding/rattling noises
  • • High-value fridge (₹50,000+) worth professional diagnosis
  • • Fridge under warranty (DIY work may void warranty)

💰 Typical Repair Costs in India

  • Service Call & Diagnosis: ₹300-800
  • Door Gasket Replacement: ₹1200-2500 (parts + labor)
  • Thermostat Replacement: ₹1000-2000 (parts + labor)
  • Condenser Fan Motor: ₹1500-3000 (parts + labor)
  • Defrost System Repair: ₹1500-4000 (timer/heater/thermostat)
  • Refrigerant Leak Repair + Recharge: ₹3000-6000 (leak location, parts, refrigerant, labor)
  • Compressor Replacement: ₹7000-15000 (usually not economical for fridges >7 years old)

Get written estimates from 2-3 technicians. Ask about warranty on parts and labor (minimum 30 days standard). For compressor work, verify technician has refrigerant handling certification.

💸 Energy Waste & Compressor Damage Concerns

The Financial Impact of Constant Running

A refrigerator running 100% of the time instead of the normal 50-80% duty cycle has serious cost implications that go beyond just electricity bills.

Energy Consumption Analysis:

  • Normal operation (70% duty cycle): Typical 250L fridge uses 1.2-1.5 units/day = ₹450-600/month
  • Constant running (100% duty cycle): Same fridge uses 1.7-2.1 units/day = ₹650-850/month
  • Extra cost: ₹200-250/month or ₹2400-3000/year wasted on electricity
  • 3-year cost: ₹7200-9000 wasted—enough to buy a new entry-level fridge

Compressor Wear and Failure Risk

Compressors are designed for intermittent duty—they NEED rest periods to cool down and for oil to circulate properly. Continuous operation causes:

  • 1. Overheating: Compressor runs hotter than design specs, degrading motor windings and internal components. Normal temp: 60-70°C. Continuous operation: 80-95°C.
  • 2. Oil circulation issues: Some oil stays trapped in coils during continuous operation instead of returning to compressor, leading to lubrication starvation.
  • 3. Shortened lifespan: A compressor rated for 15-20 years with normal cycling may fail in 8-10 years under continuous operation.
  • 4. Sudden failure risk: Overworked compressors fail suddenly—one day it stops and won't restart. No warning, just dead.
  • 5. Repair economics: Compressor replacement (₹7000-15000) often exceeds replacement value of fridges over 5-7 years old.

⚠️ Bottom Line: Fixing a constantly-running fridge isn't optional—it's economically essential. The ₹500-2000 cost of DIY repairs (coil cleaning, gasket replacement, thermostat) will pay for themselves in 2-3 months through reduced electricity bills alone, while preventing a ₹10,000-20,000 compressor failure or full fridge replacement.

🛡️ Preventive Maintenance to Avoid Continuous Running

🧹

Regular Cleaning

Clean condenser coils every 6 months (3 months if pets/dusty area). Vacuum behind/under fridge. Clean door gaskets monthly with warm soapy water.

📏

Proper Placement

Maintain 2-3 inch clearance on all sides. Keep away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Ensure level installation using adjustable feet.

🌡️

Temperature Monitoring

Keep fridge thermometer inside. Check weekly—should be 3-4°C. Adjust settings seasonally. Don't overcool unnecessarily.

📋 Monthly/Quarterly Maintenance Checklist

  • Monthly: Clean door gaskets, check temperature, test door seal, wipe down interior, check for frost buildup.
  • Quarterly: Vacuum condenser coils, check drain pan for overflow, inspect power cord for damage, verify level installation.
  • Bi-annually: Deep clean interior, check all seals and hinges, test thermostat calibration, inspect condenser fan operation.
  • Annually: Professional service check (if budget allows), replace water filters (if equipped), inspect defrost system operation.
  • As needed: Manual defrost (manual defrost models: every 3-6 months or when frost exceeds 5mm thickness).
  • After power outages: Check temperature, inspect for water leaks from melted ice, verify normal operation resumes within 2-3 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How can I tell if my fridge is running constantly vs. just running a lot?

Use the listening test: Stand near your fridge and listen to the compressor (steady humming/buzzing sound). Set a timer for 45 minutes. If the compressor runs continuously for the entire 45 minutes without a single break, it's running constantly. Normal operation: you should hear the compressor stop at least once during this period, with 10-20 minutes of silence. You can also track it over several hours—mark when you hear it stop and start. If it never stops for 4-6 hours straight, that's continuous operation. Another method: Feel the sides of the fridge—if they're consistently warm/hot for hours without any cooling period, the compressor isn't cycling off.

Q2: Is it normal for a new refrigerator to run constantly for the first 24-48 hours?

Yes, this is completely normal and expected. When a refrigerator is first installed or after being unplugged for extended periods, it runs continuously to bring the entire cabinet and contents down to operating temperature. The insulation, shelves, walls, and air all need to cool from room temperature (25-30°C) to refrigeration temperature (3-4°C). This can take 24-48 hours depending on ambient temperature, how full the fridge is, and door opening frequency. After this initial pulldown period, the fridge should settle into normal cycling (on/off pattern). If it continues running constantly after 48 hours, check temperature settings—you may have set it too cold. If settings are correct but still running constantly, there may be an issue (dirty coils from storage, door seal problem, etc.).

Q3: Can hot weather make my fridge run constantly, or is that always a problem?

Hot weather significantly increases fridge runtime, and in extreme conditions, constant running may be unavoidable but temporary. Here's the breakdown: Normal hot weather (28-32°C): Duty cycle increases from 60-70% to 80-90%, but fridge should still cycle off periodically. Extreme heat (35-40°C): In very hot, poorly ventilated kitchens, especially with direct sunlight on the fridge, constant running can occur temporarily. This is stressful for the appliance but may be unavoidable short-term. Year-round constant running: This is always a problem regardless of weather. If your fridge runs constantly even in mild weather (20-25°C), there's definitely an issue. Solutions for hot weather: Improve kitchen ventilation, use curtains to block direct sunlight, clean condenser coils extra frequently in summer, ensure maximum clearance around fridge, consider moving fridge to cooler location if possible.

Q4: How much does it really cost in electricity if my fridge runs constantly?

Let's calculate for a typical 250L refrigerator: Normal operation (70% duty cycle): Rated at 150W when running × 0.70 duty cycle × 24 hours = 2.52 kWh/day. At ₹6/unit = ₹15/day or ₹450/month. Constant operation (100% duty cycle): 150W × 1.0 × 24 hours = 3.6 kWh/day. At ₹6/unit = ₹22/day or ₹660/month. Difference: ₹210/month or ₹2520/year extra. Larger fridges (350L+) with higher wattage can waste ₹300-400/month. Over 5 years, that's ₹12,600-24,000 wasted—enough to buy a new energy-efficient refrigerator. Plus compressor wear means potential ₹10,000-15,000 replacement cost. The math is clear: fixing the problem pays for itself very quickly.

Q5: I cleaned the condenser coils but the fridge still runs constantly—what next?

If coil cleaning didn't help, proceed systematically through other causes: Next steps in order: (1) Test door seal thoroughly—do the paper test all around the door at multiple points. A failing seal is the second most common cause. (2) Check temperature setting—verify you're not overcooling (should be 3-4°C, not 0-1°C). (3) Test thermostat by turning to warmest setting—compressor should stop within 10 minutes. (4) Check for frost buildup in freezer—may need manual defrost or defrost system repair. (5) Verify adequate ventilation—measure clearances, check if condenser fan is running (if equipped). (6) Assess refrigerant—if fridge isn't getting cold despite running constantly, you likely have a refrigerant leak requiring professional service. Most DIY fixes focus on first 5 items. If all check out, it's likely refrigerant or compressor issue requiring professional diagnosis.

Q6: Will a constantly running fridge damage the compressor or cause it to fail sooner?

Yes, absolutely. Compressors are rated for intermittent duty, not continuous operation. Here's what happens: Heat accumulation: The compressor motor generates heat. During normal off-cycles, it cools down and oil circulates properly. Without off-cycles, heat accumulates faster than it can dissipate, running 10-20°C hotter than design temperature. Oil breakdown: Compressor oil degrades faster at elevated temperatures, reducing lubrication effectiveness. Mechanical stress: Moving parts (pistons, valves, bearings) wear faster under continuous operation without rest periods. Electrical stress: Motor windings degrade faster due to sustained heat. Typical result: A compressor that should last 15-20 years with normal cycling may fail in 8-12 years with continuous operation. The failure is often sudden—compressor overheats, windings short out or seize, and it stops permanently. Replacement cost ₹7000-15000 makes this very expensive damage to ignore.

Q7: Can I just leave it running constantly if the temperature is still correct and food is safe?

Technically your food remains safe as long as temperature stays below 4°C, but leaving it running constantly is a bad idea for multiple reasons: Financial waste: You're throwing away ₹200-400/month on unnecessary electricity—₹2400-4800/year. That's money you could save or spend on literally anything else. Environmental impact: Wasting 30-50% more electricity than necessary increases your carbon footprint significantly. Compressor failure risk: You're accelerating wear that will lead to expensive failure (₹10,000-15,000 compressor replacement) much sooner than necessary. Symptom of underlying problem: Constant running indicates something is wrong—ignoring it means the problem gets worse (refrigerant leak slowly worsens, failing gasket continues deteriorating, etc.). Better approach: Invest 2-3 hours and ₹500-2000 to properly diagnose and fix the root cause. You'll save money, extend appliance life, and have peace of mind that your fridge is operating correctly.

Q8: My fridge temperature is correct (3-4°C) but it still runs constantly—what does this mean?

If the fridge is maintaining correct temperature but compressor never cycles off, this points to a faulty thermostat or temperature control system. Here's why: The thermostat's job is to (1) sense internal temperature, and (2) turn off the compressor when target temperature is reached. If temperature is correct but compressor keeps running, the thermostat has failed in its second function—it's not sending the "stop" signal even though temperature is achieved. Diagnosis: Turn thermostat dial to warmest setting. Compressor should stop within 5-10 minutes. If it doesn't, thermostat is definitely faulty. Solution: Replace thermostat (₹600-1500). In digital/electronic control models, the control board might be faulty instead—more expensive (₹2000-5000) but less common. This is actually one of the easier problems to fix—thermostat replacement is straightforward DIY for most people with basic tools and careful wire management.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide provides general troubleshooting information for educational purposes. While many fixes are DIY-friendly, refrigerator repair can involve electrical components and refrigerant systems that may require professional service. Always unplug the appliance before performing any maintenance or repairs. If you're uncomfortable with any diagnostic or repair procedure, contact a qualified appliance technician. Refrigerant work must be performed by certified technicians only—it's illegal and dangerous to handle refrigerants without proper certification. Improper repairs can damage your refrigerator, void warranties, waste refrigerant (environmental hazard), and create safety risks. When in doubt, seek professional help. The cost of professional service is far less than the cost of appliance damage or replacement.

Important Safety Reminder

If you're not comfortable with any step, or if the problem persists after trying these solutions, please contact a qualified technician. Safety should always be your first priority when dealing with electrical appliances.

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