The refrigerator works without stopping (“runs”): what to do and how to fix the breakdown

Did you notice that the refrigerator began to work almost around the clock, rarely turning off or not turning off at all? People call this “the refrigerator is running" - the compressor hums continuously, the motor is hot, and too much ice forms in the freezer. This problem not only increases the electricity bill, but also signals a possible breakdown. In 80% of cases, the cause can be eliminated on your own - without calling a technician.

In this article we will look 7 main reasonswhy the refrigerator does not turn off, and we will give step-by-step diagnostic instructions. You'll learn how to check your thermostat, seals, and No Frost system, and when professional repairs are truly needed. Important: some actions (for example, defrosting or cleaning the condenser) take only 10-15 minutes, but can save thousands of rubles on replacing parts.

Why the refrigerator works without stopping: the main reasons

Before starting repairs, you need to understand why the refrigerator “runs.” The reasons are divided into two groups: technical faults (breakage of parts) and external factors (improper operation). Let's look at each in detail.

The most common reason is condenser contamination (grids on the back wall). Dust and pet hair interfere with heat transfer, causing the compressor to wear out. Another common problem is on the door: even a small gap leads to loss of cold and continuous operation of the motor. Also, the culprits may be: wear of the sealing rubber on the door: even a small gap leads to loss of cold and continuous operation of the motor. The following may also be the culprits:

• 🔧 Faulty thermostat —the temperature sensor “lies”, and the refrigerator does not “understand” that it has already cooled down enough.
• ❄️ No Frost system failure —the fan freezes, the air does not circulate, and the compressor tries to compensate for this.
• 🔌 Freon leak —the refrigerant has leaked and the refrigerator cannot reach the desired temperature.
• 📉 Overload with products —if the shelves are clogged to capacity, air does not circulate, and the motor runs longer.

In models with electronic control (for example, Samsung RB37J5240SA or LG GA-B489YGQZ), the problem may lie in a failure of the control board. And in old refrigerators (like Atlant XM-4021), the mechanical thermostat is most often to blame. To accurately determine the cause, you need to carry out diagnostics - more on this later.

How to check the sealing gum: leak test

If it’s a refrigerator runs without stopping, first of all inspect the seal on the door. Over time, the elastic band loses elasticity, cracks or moves away from the body, allowing warm air to pass through. It’s easy to check:

1. Take a sheet of A4 paper.
2. Close the door, holding the sheet between the seal and the body.
3. Pull the sheet towards you - if it slides out without effort, the seal is tight broken.

Repeat the test in several places: in the corners and in the middle. If the sheet holds tightly, the seal is in order. If it falls out, the rubber band needs to be cleaned, adjusted or replaced.

Clean the rubber band from dirt and grease with a soap solution|

Check the fastening - sometimes it is enough to tighten the screws|

Apply silicone grease to restore elasticity|

Replace the seal if it is torn or deformed -->

In some cases, the problem is solved by adjusting the door. If the refrigerator is not level, the door may not fit tightly. Check the floor level and adjust the legs.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use vegetable oil or Vaseline to lubricate the seal - they damage the rubber. Only special silicone compounds!

Diagnostics of the thermostat: how to understand that it is broken

The thermostat (or thermostat) is the “brain” of the refrigerator that controls the temperature. If it fails, the compressor either does not turn on or runs without stopping. You can check the thermostat in two ways:

Method 1: Test with a multimeter (for mechanical models)

Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains, remove the thermostat protective cover (usually it is located inside the chamber, next to the lamp). Find two contacts and check their resistance:

• 🔌 At room temperature, the resistance should be 0 Ohm (closed).
• ❄️ If you place the sensor in ice, the resistance should become infinity (open).

If the readings do not change, the thermostat is faulty and requires replacement.

Method 2: Test "by ear" (for electronic models)

In refrigerators with electronically controlled (for example, Bosch KGE39XW2AR or Indesit DF 5200 W) the thermostat is built into the board. If the compressor works without pauses for more than 2-3 hours, and the temperature in the chamber does not drop below +10°C, most likely the sensor or board is to blame.

How to temporarily fool a faulty thermostat?

If the refrigerator works but does not turn off, you can manually set the minimum temperature (for example, +2°C instead of +5°C) through the control panel. This will reduce the load on the compressor before repair.

In models with No Frost system the problem may lie in defrost sensor or timer. If the fan freezes and ice builds up on the back wall of the freezer, this is a sure sign of a malfunction.

Cleaning the condenser: why it is important and how to do it correctly

The condenser (grid on the back wall of the refrigerator) is responsible for removing heat. If it is clogged with dust, heat exchange is disrupted, and the compressor is forced to work longer to cool the chambers. According to statistics, a dirty condenser increases energy consumption by 20-30% and reduces the service life of the motor by 3-5 years.

Cleaning must be carried out at least once every 6 months. Here's how to do it:

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Move it away from the wall (you need at least 30–40 cm of space).
3. Take a vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle or a soft brush.
4. Carefully remove dust from the grille, moving from top to bottom.
5. Wipe the back wall with a damp cloth.

In some models (for example, Liebherr CNes 4355) the capacitor is hidden under the panel - to access it you will have to remove the bottom cover. If you are not sure, it is better to contact a specialist.

Problems with the No Frost system: what breaks most often

Refrigerators with No Frost system (for example, Samsung RL-34 MERS or Beko GNE 114620 X) are automatically defrosted, but sometimes this mechanism fails. If the fan freezes and ice builds up on the back wall of the freezer, this is a sign of one of three problems:

• 🌀 The fan is faulty - if it does not spin, the cold is not distributed throughout the chamber.
• ⏱️ The defrost timer is broken - does not turn on heater for removing ice.
• 🔥 The heating element has burned out —the ice does not melt and the system becomes clogged.

For diagnostics, turn off the refrigerator for 12-24 hours so that the ice melts. Then turn it on and listen: if the fan does not make noise, it is broken. If ice appears again after a day, the problem is in the timer or heater.

In some cases it helps forced defrosting:

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Take out all the food and shelves.
3. Leave the doors open for 24 hours.
4. Wipe the internal surfaces with a dry cloth.
5. Turn on the refrigerator and check operation.

⚠️ Attention: Never use a hairdryer or hot water to speed up defrosting - this can damage the plastic parts and seals!

Freon leak: how to recognize and what to do

Freon is a refrigerant that circulates through the refrigerator system and provides cooling. If this happens leak, the compressor starts working without stopping, trying to compensate for the lack of cold. Signs of a leak:

• 🔊 The compressor hums, but the refrigerator does not freeze.
• 🧊 The condenser (grid at the back) remains cold.
• 💧 Appearances appear on the floor under the refrigerator oily stains (freon mixed with oil).

Fix the leak yourself impossible —special equipment is required to charge the refrigerant. However, you can check whether capillary tube (the thin copper tube running from the compressor to the evaporator) is damaged. Sometimes it is rubbed when moving the refrigerator.

If you suspect a leak, do not turn on the refrigerator this can damage the compressor. It’s better to call a specialist right away. The average cost of repairs (filling freon + soldering the tube) is from 3,000 to 6,000 rubles.

When to call a technician: 5 signs of a serious breakdown

Some faults can be fixed on your own, but there are situations when you cannot do without professional help. Call a technician, if:

• ⚡ The compressor turns on for a few seconds and immediately turns off (the start relay may have burned out).
• 🔥 Traces of melting or burning appeared on the back wall of the refrigerator.
• 💸 After cleaning and defrosting, the problem did not disappear, but the compressor is still works without stopping.
• 🔧 The refrigerator makes uncharacteristic sounds: knocking, grinding or loud buzzing.
• 📊 An error is displayed on the electronic display (for example, E1, F2 or H1).

The average cost of diagnostics is from 500 to 1,500 rubles. If the technician discovers a breakdown, he will immediately name the price of repair. In some cases (for example, if there is a freon leak or a burnt-out compressor), it is cheaper to buy a new refrigerator than to repair an old one.

Before the technician's visit prepare the following information:

• Refrigerator model (located on a sticker inside the chamber or on the back).
• When the problem appeared and what preceded it (for example, moving or turning off the lights).
• What actions have you already taken (cleaning, defrosting, etc.).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about refrigerator that “runs”

Is it possible to use the refrigerator if it does not turn off?

Short-term - yes, but this is fraught with consequences. The compressor is not designed for continuous operation: it overheats, parts wear out, and the risk of breakdown increases by 3-4 times. If the refrigerator freezes, but does not. turns off for more than a day - it’s better to turn it off and figure out the reason.

How long should the refrigerator work?

In normal mode, the compressor operates in cycles: on for 10-20 minutes, then rests for 20-40 minutes. The ratio depends on the model, load and room temperature. If the refrigerator runs for more than 1 hour without pauses, this is a reason for it. concerns.

Why does the new refrigerator work without stopping?

In the first 2-3 days after purchase, this is normal: the refrigerator gains temperature. Also check if the mode is turned on Super Freeze or Fast Cool (in some models it is turned off manually. If the problem persists for more than a week, contact the service center). guarantees.

Is it possible to refill freon yourself?

No. Refilling requires a special tool (vacuum pump, pressure gauges) and certified refrigerant. Incorrect refilling can lead to an explosion or poisoning by freon vapors.

What to do if. does the refrigerator run after defrosting?

You may not have dried the chambers enough and moisture has frozen on the evaporator. Turn off the refrigerator for another 12 hours, wipe all surfaces dry and turn it on again. If the problem persists, check the thermostat or sensors.