Refrigerator Running Constantly? Causes and Fixes

A compressor that never shuts off drives up your power bill and shortens the fridge's life. These are the usual reasons.

By Priya RamanMarch 4, 20263 min read read

Written by Wade Holbrook, Lead Technician — True Fix Dallas. Factory-trained, EPA-certified, 9 years servicing Dallas–Fort Worth.

A fridge should cycle on and off. If yours runs non-stop, it is struggling to hold temperature — here is why.

Dirty Condenser Coils

Dust-caked coils cannot shed heat, so the compressor runs continuously to compensate.

Fix: Vacuum the coils underneath or behind the fridge every 6–12 months.

A leaking seal lets warm air in around the clock.

Fix: Test with a dollar bill — if it slides out freely, replace the gasket.

If frost blocks the evaporator, airflow drops and the compressor runs flat out without cooling well.

Fix: A technician can confirm a failed defrost heater or thermostat.

Not sure what's wrong? Book online — every visit includes a free diagnosis.

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