You just purchased a new refrigerator, connected it to the network, but it has been running for several hours in a row - and does not turn off. Is this normal? How long the refrigerator should work continuously when first startedbefore normal operation returns? These questions concern many owners, especially if we are talking about expensive equipment with a system No Frost or an inverter compressor.
In this article we will figure out why the refrigerator does not turn off after the first turn on, what factors affect the duration of its operation, and when to sound the alarm. You will also learn how the behavior of equipment of different brands differs - from budget Indesit and Atlant to premium Liebherr and Samsung.
Spoiler: in 90% of cases, long work at the first start is the norm. But there are nuances that manufacturers often keep silent about in the instructions.
Why does the refrigerator not turn off after the first start?
When turned on for the first time, the refrigerator runs longer than usual for three key reasons:
- 🔹 Set operating temperature. The compressor must cool all chambers to the specified parameters (usually +4...+6°C in the refrigeration zone and −18°C in the freezer). In an empty refrigerator, this process goes faster, but even then it can take 4–8 hours.
- 🔹 Start the system No Frost (if any). Defrosting fans and heating elements are included in the cycle, which increases the time of continuous operation.
- 🔹 Electronics adaptation. Modern models with inverter compressors (LG, Samsung) work at increased power for the first hours in order to “learn” to maintain the temperature in specific conditions.
In addition, the duration is influenced by external factors:
- 🌡️ Room temperature. If the room is hot (above +25°C), the compressor will have to work longer.
- 📦 Chamber load. Warm products (especially liquids in open containers) increase the cooling time.
- 🔌 Power supply quality. Voltage surges can disrupt the operating algorithms of inverter models.
Important: if the refrigerator is works without stopping for more than 24 hours with empty chambers and room temperature +20...+22°C, this is a reason to check the settings or call a technician. But in the first 12–15 hours there is no need to panic.
How long should a refrigerator work when first started: standards by type
Continuous operation time depends on compressor type, cooling system i chamber volume. Below are averaged data for different categories of equipment:
| Refrigerator type | Continuous operation time at first start | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single-chamber (without No Frost) | 2–4 hours | Low-power compressor, small volume. Quickly reaches mode. |
| Double-chamber with drip system | 4–6 hours | Example: Atlant, Biryusa. Cools the freezer longer. |
| Two-chamber with No Frost | 6–12 hours | Fans and heating elements increase cycle. Typical for Samsung, LG. |
| Inverter compressor | 8–24 hours | Works at increased power for “training”. data-i="103">12–24 hours Liebherr, Bosch. |
| Side-by-Side (large volume) | 12–24 hours | Massive chambers require long-term cooling. Example: Samsung RS62R5001. |
Please note: inverter models can work without stopping for up to a day - this is not a breakdown, but a feature of the algorithm. For example, refrigerators LG Door-in-Door are the first. The chambers are continuously cooled for 12–18 hours to stabilize the temperature in all zones.
What to do if the refrigerator runs for too long?
If more than 24 hours have passed and the refrigerator still does not turn off, check this checklist:
Check that the doors are closed (even a small gap interferes with cooling)|
Make sure that the thermostat is set to +4...+6°C (not lower!)|
Turn off the modes Super Cool/Holiday (if any)|
Check whether the freezer is overloaded warm foods|
Measure the temperature in the room (at +30°C and above the compressor may not turn off)-->
If all points are in order, but the refrigerator continues to work without stopping, the following problems are possible:
- 🔧 Thermostat malfunction. The sensor does not record the achievement of the set temperature.
- ❄️ Freon leak. The compressor runs idle without cooling the chambers.
- ⚡ Problems with electronics. Control board failure (relevant for Samsung, Indesit with display).
How to check if the refrigerator is cooling?
Put an outdoor thermometer in a glass of water and place it in the center of the refrigerator. After 2 hours, check the readings
- Below +4°C - the refrigerator is working normally.
- Above +6°C - there may be a freon leak or a compressor malfunction.
- The temperature has not changed - the compressor does not turn on (check the power supply and settings).
⚠️ Attention: if the refrigerator is hums, but does not freeze, immediately disconnect it from the network. This is a sign. data-i="136">or jammed compressor or blockade in freon circulation system —further work may lead to breakdown.
Features of the first launches of popular brands
Manufacturers often do not indicate in the instructions how long the refrigerator should work when first turned on. However, based on reviews from service centers and owners, characteristic patterns can be identified:
- 🔹 Atlant and Biryusa: 4–6. hours (drip system, simple compressor).
- 🔹 Indesit and Ariston: 6–8 hours (frequent problems with thermostats in budget models).
- 🔹 LG and Samsung s No Frost: 8–12 hours (fans increase the cooling time).
- 🔹 Liebherr and Bosch: up to 24 hours (inverter compressors “learn” in the first day).
- 🔹 Gorenje and Beko: 5–10 hours (depending on the model, there are often complaints about electronics).
For example, refrigerators Samsung RB37J5200 with a system Twin Cooling Plus when first started can work for up to 15 hours in a row - this is the norm, since two independent cooling systems (for the refrigerator and freezer compartments) are configured separately.
⚠️ Attention: if you bought a refrigerator with transport bolts (fix the compressor during transportation), them must be removed before the first use! Otherwise, the compressor will wear out, which will lead to breakdown within a week. The bolts are usually located on the rear panel (see instructions).
What happens if you interrupt the first cycle of operation?
Many owners are worried: is it possible to unplug the refrigerator from the outlet if it runs for too long when first started? The answer depends on the situation:
- ✅ You can turn it offif:
- Less than 2 hours have passed, but you noticed extraneous sounds (knocking, grinding).
- Refrigerator heats beyond measure (the body is hot, not warm).
- There is an unpleasant burning smell coming from the chambers data-i="176">if:.
- ❌ Cannot be turned off, If:
- The refrigerator operates quietly, but for a long time (up to 24 hours).
- The temperature in the chambers gradually decreases (check with a thermometer).
- This is a model with inverter compressor (LG, Samsung, Liebherr).
If you interrupt the first cycle no emergency, the refrigerator will take another 1-2 hours after turning it back on to return to mode. In some cases (for example, Bosch KGN39XL30) this may cause a malfunction of the electronics - you will have to reset the settings.
How to speed up the refrigerator's return to normal. mode?
If you need the refrigerator to return to normal operation faster (for example, to reduce energy consumption), use these tips:
- Do not load food immediately.. Let the refrigerator run empty for 2-3 hours so that it cools the chambers.
- Set the average temperature. Optimal: +5°C in the refrigerator and −18°C in the freezer. Modes
Super FreezeorMax Coolincrease operating time. - Check the ventilationMove the refrigerator from the wall by 5-10 cm. to prevent the condenser from overheating.
- Use a fan. Direct the air flow to the rear grille (if the room is hot).
For models with No Frost (for example Samsung RL60T6L41) it is useful to manually turn on the defrost mode for 10-15 minutes after 6 hours of operation. This will help the system relieve excess load. How to do this:
- Press the button
Fridge(orFreezer, depending from the model). - Hold it for 5-7 seconds until the indicator flashes.
- Select mode
Defrost(if available) or simply unplug the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
⚠️ Attention: do not use this method for refrigerators with drip system (Atlant, Indesit) - forced defrosting can disrupt the work cycle.
When should you contact the service?
You should call a technician if the following symptoms are observed after the first start:
- 🔊 The compressor operates without stopping for more than 36 hours, and the temperature in the chambers does not fall below +10°C.
- ❄️ A formation is formed on the back wall a thick layer of ice (for models with No Frost this is a sign of a malfunction of the defrosting heating element).
- ⚡ The refrigerator turns off 1-2 minutes after turning on (overheating protection may be triggered).
- 💥 Clicking noises are heard relay, but the compressor does not start (problem with the starting capacitor).
The cost of diagnostics in service centers starts from 1,500 rubles. Average repair prices:
- Replacement of the thermostat - 2,000–3,500 RUR.
- Elimination of freon leaks - 3,500–6,000 RUR.
- Repair of the control board – 4,000–8 000 ₽.
If the refrigerator is under warranty, Do not try to repair it yourself this will void the warranty. Contact the brand's authorized service center (the list is usually in the product documents).
How to check the warranty?
Find the serial number of the refrigerator (usually on a sticker inside the chamber or on the back wall) and check it
- On the manufacturer's website (section "Checking the warranty").
- By calling the brand's hotline.
- In the mobile application (for example, Samsung SmartThings or LG ThinQ).
If the warranty is valid, repairs will be free (except in cases of mechanical damage).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the first start of the refrigerator
My refrigerator has been running for 18 hours without stopping. Is this normal?
For inverter models (LG, Samsung, Liebherr) - yes, this is normal in the first day. If this is a regular compressor. check:
- Room temperature (at +30°C and above, the operating time increases).
- Door closure tightness.
- Modes
Super FreezeorFast Cool(they need to be turned off manually).
If the refrigerator does not turn off after 24 hours, call a technician.
Do you need to wash the refrigerator before turning it on for the first time?
Yes, but without detergents! It is enough to wipe the shelves and walls with a damp cloth with a soda solution (1). tablespoon per 1 liter of water). This will remove industrial dust and odors. Do not use aggressive chemicals - it can damage the plastic or remain in microcracks, spoiling the products.
Why does a new refrigerator get very hot? on the sides?
This is normal! Heat is dissipated through the condenser (grid on the back wall) and can heat the side panels. This is especially noticeable in models with No Frost and built-in refrigerators (due to the tight fit to the furniture).
Is it possible to turn on the refrigerator after transporting it lying down?
No! If the refrigerator was transported in a horizontal position, you need to wait 6–12 hours before turning it on, it takes time for the oil to drain back into the crankcase. Otherwise, it is possible. data-i="261">is one of the most expensive breakdowns (repair costs 8,000–15,000 rubles). water hammer - one of the most expensive breakdowns (repair costs 8,000–15,000 rubles).
How to understand that the refrigerator has returned to normal mode?
Signs of normal operation:
- The compressor turns off for 10-20 minutes every 1-2 hours.
- The temperature in the refrigerator compartment is stable at +4...+6°C.
- On the back wall (in models with a drip system) there is no excess condensation.
- The refrigerator emits a uniform low-frequency hum without clicks or knocks.
To make sure, put the thermometer in a glass of water on the middle shelf for 2 hours. If the temperature is +4...+5°C, everything is fine.