The first turn on of the refrigerator: how long should it work without stopping?

You just purchased a new refrigerator, connected it to the network - and it started working without stopping. Is this normal? How long the compressor may not turn off on first launch, and when should you start worrying? These questions concern many owners, especially when it comes to expensive equipment with a system No Frost or an inverter motor.

In fact, first turn on of the refrigerator is a critical stage that differs from normal operation. At this time, the equipment goes through several key processes: injection of refrigerant, stabilization of the temperature in the chambers and testing of systems. Depending on the model, volume and external conditions, the continuous operation time may vary from 2 to 24 hours. But there are nuances that manufacturers often keep silent about.

In this article we will look at:

✔ Why the refrigerator does not turn off after the first turn on - the physics of the process.

✔ Standards for different types of compressors (regular, inverter, linear).

✔ When continuous operation becomes a reason to contact service.

✔ What to do if the refrigerator runs for days and does not cool.

Why does the refrigerator not turn off after the first start?

At the first When turned on, the refrigerator behaves differently than in normal mode. Here's what's happening inside:

• 🔹 Filling the system with refrigerant. Even if the refrigerator is charged at the factory, freon may be redistributed during transportation. The compressor needs time to distribute it evenly throughout the circuit.
• 🔹 Cooling of all zones. In an empty refrigerator, the temperature rises to room temperature - the compressor operates at maximum to quickly reduce it to the set +4...+5°C (in the refrigerator) and -18°C (in the freezer).
• 🔹 Testing sensors. Modern models (for example, Samsung RB30A3200SA or LG GA-B409SLGL) check the performance of thermostats, fans and defrosting systems.
• 🔹 Adaptation to conditions. If the refrigerator is turned on in a hot room (above +30°C), the compressor will take longer to reach the target temperatures.

During this period the thermostat can ignore shutdown signalsuntil the set temperature is reached in all zones. Models with freshness zones (for example, Bosch KAN92VI30R), where it is necessary to maintain different temperature conditions.

⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator was transported lying down (not standing), before turning it on for the first time, it must be kept at least 4-6 hours in an upright position. Otherwise, the risk of compressor jamming due to oil getting into the refrigerant circuit increases 3 times.

How long should a refrigerator operate without stopping?

There is no universal answer - it all depends on the type of compressor, the volume of the chambers and external conditions. However, there are average standards:

* For models with dynamic cooling (for example Bosch KAN92VI30R) operation is allowed for up to 36 hours if the freshness chamber is set to 0°C.

If your refrigerator falls within these limits, there is no need to worry. But there are exceptions:

• 🔴 The compressor has been running for more than 24 hours, and in. the chambers have still not reached the required temperature.
• 🔴 The refrigerator body gets very hot (hot to the touch, especially at the back).
• 🔴 Extraordinary sounds are heard: knocking, grinding, hissing (except standard hum).

Inverter vs regular compressor: what is the difference when you first turn it on?

The type of compressor greatly influences how the refrigerator behaves when first started. Let's look at the key differences:

Conventional (linear) compressor

It works on the “on/off” principle: it pumps in cold until the set temperature is reached, then turns off. When you turn it on for the first time:

• 🔹 Can work continuously 6–12 hours (for models with a volume of 250–350 l).
• 🔹 Louder than an inverter —relay clicks and humming are heard.
• 🔹 Sensitive to voltage surges - if there are surges in the network, the protection may work and the compressor will turn off ahead of time.

Inverter compressor

Works smoothly, regulating power without complete shutdowns. At first start:

• 🔹 It can do not turn off 2–8 hours, but it works quieter.
• 🔹 Comes to mode faster (20–30% faster than linear).
• 🔹 Consumes less electricity, but is sensitive to correct installation (must stand level, without distortions).

Example: a refrigerator LG GA-B409SLGL with an inverter compressor, when first turned on, works 3–5 hours without stopping, while ATLANT XM 4021-000 with a conventional compressor it can hum 8–10 hours.

What to do if the refrigerator runs for days and does not turn off?

If more than 24 hours have passed and the compressor still has not stopped, follow the algorithm:

Check whether the door is closed (even a small gap interferes with cooling)|

Make sure that the mode is not turned on Super Cool/Freeze|

Measure the temperature in the chambers (should be +4...+5°C i -18°C)|

Listen to the compressor - are there any extraneous sounds (knocking, grinding)|

Check that there are no Are the error indicators lit (on the display or panel)-->

If everything is in order, but the refrigerator does not turn off:

1. Disconnect it from the network for 10-15 minutes, then turn it on again. Sometimes the thermostat settings are lost.
2. Check the voltage in the outlet — if it is lower 200V or higher 240V, the compressor may not work correctly.
3. Inspect the back wall —if the capacitor (grid) is hot, this is a sign of overload.

⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator does not coolbut the compressor works without stopping, this may indicate: leakage freon (refilling required), clogged capillary tube (needs repair), thermostat malfunction (sensor replacement).

In these cases, self-repair is dangerous - contact service!

Do external conditions affect the time of first switching on?

Yes, and very strongly. Here are the key factors:

• 🌡️ Room temperature. If the room +30°C and above, the compressor will need 30–50% more timeto cool the chambers.
• 📦 Refrigerator load. If you immediately put in warm foods, the operating time will increase by 2-4 hours.
• 🔌 Power supply quality. At low voltage, the compressor wears out, but cools worse.
• 🚪 Frequency of door opening. Every time you open, warm air enters the chamber, and the refrigerator has to start all over again.

Example: refrigerator Indesit DF 4200 W in a room with a temperature +25°C will work when first turned on 4–6 hours, and when +35°C - already 10–12 hours.

What happens if you turn on the refrigerator immediately after delivery?

If you don’t wait 4–6 hours after transportation (especially lying down), oil from the compressor may enter the refrigerant circuit. This leads to:

✔ Compressor jamming (replacement required, cost - 50–70% of the price of the refrigerator).

✔ Increased noise and vibration during operation.

✔ Reduced service life by 30–40%.

When can you load food after the first turn on?

Many people mistakenly believe that the refrigerator is ready for use immediately after connection. In fact:

• 🥩 Meat, fish, dairy products - can be placed only after the temperature in the refrigerator compartment is stable at +4...+5°C (usually after 4-6 hours).
• ❄️ Ice cream, semi-finished products - only when the freezer has cooled down to -18°C (through 6–12 hours).
• 🍎 Fruits, vegetables - can be loaded earlier, but not earlier than 2-3 hours (they are less sensitive to temperature).

If you load the products too early:

• 🔴 Spoiling of perishable foods (meat, fish, milk).
• 🔴 Increasing the operating time of the compressor (can lead to overheating).
• 🔴 Education ice in the freezer due to a sharp temperature difference.

Frequent errors when first turned on. refrigerator

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to incorrect operation of the equipment:

• ❌ Switching on immediately after transportation (you need to wait 4–6 hours to stabilize the oil in the compressor).
• ❌ Connection via an extension cord —this can cause a voltage drop and malfunction of the electronics.
• ❌ Installation close to the wall (gap is needed 5–10 cm for ventilation of the capacitor).
• ❌ Ignoring instructions — some models (Samsung RS50N3513SA) require manual start cooling mode.
• ❌ Loading warm products - this increases the operating time of the compressor by 30–50%.

If you made one of these mistakes, do not panic. In most cases, it is enough to turn off the refrigerator for 30 minutesthen turn it on. again, following all the rules.

⚠️ Attention: Details of the first turn-on process may vary depending on the model and year of manufacture of the refrigerator. For accurate information, check manufacturer's instructions or check the parameters in your personal account on the brand’s website.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

My refrigerator has been running for 18 hours without stopping. Is this normal?

For most models - NoThe exceptions are:

• 🔹 Refrigerators Side-by-Side with a volume of 400+ liters (can work up to 24 hours).
• 🔹 Models with fresh zone is enabled (for example, Bosch KAN92VI30R), if the mode 0°C.
• 🔹 Equipment installed in a room with a temperature higher +30°C.

In all other cases diagnostics is needed.

Why does a new refrigerator hum a lot when you first turn it on?

This is normal if:

• 🔹 The hum is uniform, without rattling or knocking.
• 🔹 The noise subsides through 1–2 hours (compressor returns to normal mode).
• 🔹 The noise level does not exceed 45–50 dB (can be checked with a sound meter application).

If the noise does not decrease or extraneous sounds appear - unplug the refrigerator and call a technician.

Is it possible to connect the refrigerator to the network through a voltage stabilizer?

Not only is it possible, but also recommendedif:

• 🔹 There are voltage surges in your network (lower 200V or higher 240V).
• 🔹 Refrigerator with inverter compressor (LG, Samsung, Haier).
• 🔹 You live in a private house or area with unstable power supply.

The stabilizer will protect the electronics from failures and extend the life of the compressor.

What to do if the refrigerator turned off 5 minutes after the first turn on?

Probable reasons:

• 🔹 Overheat protection triggered (if the refrigerator was turned on immediately after delivery).
• 🔹 Low voltage in network (the compressor could not start).
• 🔹 Malfunction of the start relay (replacement required).

Actions:

1. Turn off the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
2. Check the voltage in the socket (it should be 220–230V).
3. Repeat. If the problem persists, call a technician.

Do you need to defrost a new refrigerator before turning it on for the first time?

Noif:

• 🔹 Refrigerator with No Frost or Frost Free.
• 🔹 There is no ice or frost in the chambers (check when unpacking).

Defrost needif:

• 🔹 Ice or condensation is visible inside (this happens when improperly stored in a warehouse).
• 🔹 Refrigerator with a drip system and there is moisture.

In other cases, it is enough to wipe the chambers with a dry cloth.