Refrigerator Running Constantly? Try These 3 Easy Tips

Ever walked into your kitchen and noticed a constant humming sound? If you’re in western North Carolina during humid summers like me, you could be forgiven for thinking that might just be one of those darn mosquitoes following you into the house but you might actually want to check out your refrigerator for the sound! If you have a frige that is constantly humming without ever taking a break, it can be pretty frustrating. And a fridge that won't turn off isn't just annoying either, it can skyrocket your electric bill and wear out the compressor completely!

But before you assume you need a brand-new refrigerator, there are actually a few common, hidden culprits that homeowners can usually check themselves

The Hidden Dust Trap: Dirty Condenser Coils

This is the number one cause of a refrigerator running non-stop and yet the easiest to overlook! Your fridge uses condenser coils to release heat. Over time, these coils collect dust, pet hair, and kitchen grease. If they get coated, the fridge can’t cool itself efficiently, forcing the motor to work double-time.

• The Fix: Unplug the fridge, pull it out from the wall, and check the bottom or back. Use a vacuum hose attachment or a cheap coil brush to gently clear away the dust. Doing this twice a year can add years to your appliance's lifespan and at least a few extra days to your peace of mind.

Our service technician was working on a different repair here but took the opportunity to explain to the homeowner why it’s important to check this area for build up.

The Dollar-Bill Door Seal Test

This one might sound a little crazy at first but just stick with me! If your refrigerator door isn't sealing tightly, cold air is constantly escaping, and warm kitchen air is leaking inside. Your fridge will run non-stop trying to keep up.

• The Fix: Clean the rubber door gaskets with warm, soapy water to remove sticky food residue. To see if the seal is worn out, shut a dollar bill in the door. If you can pull the dollar bill out easily with zero resistance, your gasket is compromised and needs to be replaced.

Too Close to the Wall

We saved the best for last - or at least, the simplest. You see, refrigerators need room to breathe. If your fridge is shoved too tightly into its cabinetry or pressed right against the drywall, heat gets trapped behind it. Just like that it’s getting too warm and making that compressor work harder than ever.

• The Fix: Ensure there is at least an inch of breathing room on the sides and back of the refrigerator to allow proper airflow.

Need an Expert Hand? If you’ve cleaned your coils and checked your seals but the fridge is still running hot or humming constantly, it could be a faulty thermostat or a defrost cycle issue. Bargain House Appliance has been providing reliable refrigerator repair from Burke County to McDowell and surrounding areas since 1988. Give us a call today to get it fixed fast!

(Sorry, we don’t handle mosquitoes).