Buying a new refrigerator is always a joyful event, marking the beginning of comfortable operation of the equipment. However, immediately after delivering the unit to the apartment and unpacking, many users are faced with a frightening situation: compressor it has been buzzing for several hours in a row and does not think of stopping. A natural question arises as to whether this is the norm or whether the equipment is faulty. There is no need to panic in such a situation, since the first start has its own technical features.
The duration of the motor at the very beginning of operation directly depends on transportation conditions and ambient temperature. If the device was transported in winter or lay horizontally, it requires time not only to cool the chambers, but also to restore normal oil circulation in the system. It is these factors that dictate how long the refrigerator should work without interruption for the first time.
In this article we will analyze in detail the time frame for normal operation, the reasons for long operation and an action algorithm that will help you avoid breakdowns of expensive equipment. Understanding the physics of the processes occurring inside refrigeration circuitwill allow you to correctly assess the condition of your new assistant in the kitchen.
Why the refrigerator does not turn off for a long time after purchase
The main reason for the long operation at the first start lies in the need to stabilize the temperature regime inside the cameras. When you have just connected an empty unit to the network, its internal walls and shelves are at room temperature. Refrigerant It takes considerable time to freeze this volume of air and cool the structural elements to the specified values.
In addition, the temperature difference plays an important role. If the room is hot and you have set the minimum cooling temperature, the motor will operate under increased load. Modern models with inverter compressors can operate almost constantly, but at low speeds, maintaining the temperature, which is often mistakenly perceived by users as a malfunction.
It is also worth considering that the thermostat or electronic sensor is triggered only when the desired temperature is reached at all points of the chamber. Until this moment, the control system will keep compressor on. This is the normal operating mode necessary for the initial entry into the operating cycle.
⚠️ Attention: If after 24 hours of continuous operation the refrigerator does not turn off and it does not become cold inside, this may indicate a freon leak or a compressor malfunction. In this case, you must contact the service center.
How long should the refrigerator operate for the first time
The specific time specified in There is no GOST for all models, since the volume of the chambers and the power of the motors are different for everyone. However, experienced craftsmen and manufacturers of household appliances have formed average time frames that owners should focus on. Typically, the primary cooling process takes from 3 to 8 hours.
If we are talking about large two-chamber models or devices with a system No Frost, the time can increase to 10-12 hours. In winter, when equipment is delivered in unheated transport, the first start-up time can last up to a day. This is necessary so that the refrigerant and oil warm up and begin to circulate with normal viscosity.
It is important to understand the difference between operating until the first shutdown and establishing a stable mode. The first cycle may be long, but after it there should be a break. If the motor hums for days without stopping, this is already beyond the norm and requires diagnostics.
The table below shows the approximate operating time depending on the type of cooling system and volume:
| System type | Chamber volume | Approximate operating time | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drip | Up to 200 l | 2-4 hours | Fast cooling of small volume |
| No Frost | 200-300 l | 4-8 hours | It takes time to defrost the evaporator |
| No Frost (Side-by-Side) | 400+ l | 8-15 hours | Large volume of air for cooling |
| Inverter | Any | Constantly (quiet) | Operate without obvious on/off cycles |
The influence of transportation on the first start
One of the critical factors influencing the duration of the first switch-on is the correctness of transportation. When transported horizontally, oil from the compressor often drains into the refrigerant circuit. If you turn on such a refrigerator immediately, the compressor will run “dry” or pump oil, which can lead to water hammer and breakdown.
This is why it exists golden rule: after horizontal transportation, the refrigerator must stand in a vertical position for at least 4-8 hours. During this time, the oil will drain back into the compressor crankcase. If you ignore this stage, the first start may be the last for the unit.
In winter, the situation gets worse. Cold oil thickens, and temperature changes cause condensation inside the electronics. Therefore, after being brought from the cold into a warm room, you need to wait even longer - up to 24 hours. This will allow all components to warm up and moisture to evaporate.
What will happen if you do not let it settle?
If you turn on the refrigerator immediately after horizontal transportation, the oil may clog the capillary tube. This will lead to the compressor humming, but there will be no cold, or the thermal protection relay will work.
Do not rush things. Let the equipment adapt to the microclimate of your home. This will save you money on repairs and nerves in the future.
The correct algorithm of actions when you turn it on for the first time
In order for the first start to be successful and the equipment to serve for a long time, you must follow a certain sequence of actions. Chaotic connection and instant loading of products is the main mistake of impatient users. Follow the proven algorithm.
First, make sure that the refrigerator is installed level, with clearances for ventilation. Then connect it to the network, but do not load it with products. Let it run idle. Only after it reaches the temperature and turns off (or enters the operating mode), you can start loading.
☑️ Checklist for the first start
It is better to load products gradually. If you place a large amount of food at room temperature into warm chambers at once, the load on the compressor will increase many times over. It will be forced to work longer to cool not only the air, but also warm foods.
⚠️ Attention: Never place hot or warm foods in the refrigerator that has just been turned on. This disrupts the temperature regime and causes the motor to wear out.
Features of operation of inverter compressors
Owners of modern models with inverter motors are often surprised that their refrigerator almost never turns off. Unlike classic linear compressors, which operate on the “on-cool-off” principle, inverter models maintain the temperature constantly.
They do not stop completely, but only reduce the speed to a minimum, switching to an economical mode. Therefore, it is pointless to look for a moment of complete silence and engine stop in such models. The norm for them is a quiet, uniform hum in the background.
This technology allows you to avoid temperature surges and save energy. If your refrigerator with an inverter operates 24 hours a day, but the temperature inside is cold and the food does not spoil, then it is working.
Typical user mistakes
Many problems with refrigerators arise due to a banal failure to follow the instructions. The most common mistake is setting the minimum temperature immediately after turning it on. Users turn the regulator to maximum, expecting instant results, but overload the system.
Another mistake is tight installation to the wall. If the rear grille does not have air access, heat will not be dissipated. The compressor overheats and runs non-stop, trying to compensate for poor heat transfer. This is a direct path to failure.
Also, users often ignore sound signals. If the refrigerator has been running for too long, you should listen to see if there are any extraneous knocks, hissing or too loud humming. These sounds may suggest that the problem is not in operating time, but in a mechanical malfunction.
Remember that correct operation from the first minutes prolongs the life of the equipment. Do not neglect the manufacturer’s recommendations, even if they seem excessive.
Is it possible to open the refrigerator during the first cooling cycle?
Opening the door during the first set of temperatures is extremely undesirable. Every time you open the door, warm air comes in, and the compressor has to re-use its resources to cool it. This significantly increases the time of the first cycle.
Is it normal that the side walls of the refrigerator get very hot?
Yes, this is normal. In modern models, the condenser (heat exchanger) is often built into the side walls. During active operation, especially when first turned on, they can heat up to 40-50 degrees. This is a sign that the system removes heat from the chambers to the outside.
What to do if the refrigerator does not turn off for the second day?
If more than 24 hours have passed and the compressor does not stop and it is not cold inside, check the tightness of the door. If the seal is intact and the door is closed hermetically, but there is no cold, there is probably a freon leak. A call to the technician is required.
Does the number of products affect the time of first switching on?
Yes, it does directly. An empty refrigerator will cool down faster. If you load it completely with warm products at once, the operating time before the first shutdown can increase by one and a half to two times. It is recommended to load the chambers gradually.