When your fridge never stops running but the inside still feels warm, it can be frustrating. You hear the hum of the compressor and the fan, yet food slowly spoils. In most cases, the problem comes down to heat transfer. Either the system cannot get rid of the heat through the condenser coils, or air is not circulating properly inside the fridge. Both issues often trace back to dirty coils or a failing fan motor. Understanding how these parts work and how to inspect them can help you decide what to do next.
How the Cooling Cycle Works
Every refrigerator removes heat rather than creates cold. The compressor pushes refrigerant through a closed loop that absorbs warmth from inside the fridge and releases it through the coils at the back or bottom. The condenser coils are responsible for dispersing that heat into the surrounding air. A fan pulls air across these coils to improve cooling efficiency.
If either the fan or the coils stop doing their job, the compressor keeps running, trying to reach the target temperature. That constant operation wastes electricity, overheats the system, and still fails to cool the contents properly.
Signs of Trouble Before a Complete Breakdown
A fridge that runs constantly but remains warm usually gives off early warning signs. You might notice that the sides of the appliance feel hot or that the back panel radiates more heat than usual. The motor sound may become louder, and your energy bill can start climbing.
Sometimes you may even smell a faint burning or dusty odor from behind or underneath the unit. That smell often comes from accumulated dust baking off the coils. If ignored, this buildup can cause the compressor to overwork and eventually fail, leading to a much more expensive repair.
Checking the Condenser Coils
The condenser coils are often located either behind the fridge or underneath it, depending on the model. Over time, dust, pet hair, and lint cling to these coils and form a thick layer of insulation. That layer prevents heat from escaping, forcing the compressor to run continuously.
To check the coils, unplug the fridge and pull it gently away from the wall. Use a flashlight to inspect the coils. If they appear gray or covered in fuzz, they need cleaning. A vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment usually removes most of the debris. For tight spots, a condenser coil brush works best because it fits between the coils without bending them.
We recommend cleaning the coils twice a year, or more often if you have pets. This simple maintenance task often brings the fridge back to normal operation in less than an hour. It also reduces wear on the compressor and helps keep your energy consumption stable.
If you are unsure where the coils are located or how to access them safely, it may be wise to schedule appliance repair services in Leduc. A professional technician can clean the coils thoroughly and inspect for other causes of poor cooling.
Inspecting the Condenser Fan Motor
Even when the coils are spotless, the fridge will not cool efficiently if the condenser fan is not running properly. The fan’s job is to draw air across the coils and compressor to release heat. When it slows down, gets blocked, or burns out, the system overheats.
To inspect the fan, unplug the appliance and look behind the lower back panel. Dust buildup, a piece of insulation, or a small object may be blocking the fan blades. Try to spin the blades manually. They should rotate freely. If they feel stiff or produce a scraping sound, the motor bearings might be wearing out.
In some cases, the fan motor itself fails electrically. If you notice that the compressor is running but the fan is silent, you can test the motor with a multimeter for continuity. However, if you are not comfortable working with electrical components, it is safer to have a technician handle it.
A damaged fan motor can make the fridge run endlessly without reaching proper temperatures. Replacing the fan usually restores the cooling function immediately.
Why the Compressor Keeps Running
The compressor acts as the heart of the refrigeration system. It runs until the temperature sensors signal that the set cooling point has been reached. If the coils or fan cannot release heat efficiently, the compressor never receives that signal. As a result, it keeps operating without rest.
Continuous operation can shorten the compressor’s lifespan. The internal windings and valves heat up and eventually fail. Once that happens, the entire sealed system may need to be replaced, which is one of the most expensive refrigerator repairs.
That is why cleaning coils and ensuring proper fan operation are not just quick fixes but preventive steps that protect the most expensive part of your fridge.
Checking Airflow Inside the Fridge
If the back of the fridge feels hot but the interior is still warm, the issue may also involve airflow inside the compartments. Frost buildup on the evaporator coils can block air circulation. You may also have a malfunctioning evaporator fan, which distributes cold air from the freezer into the fridge section.
Listen for the sound of the fan when you open the freezer door. If you do not hear it running, try pressing the door switch to simulate the door being closed. No sound could mean the fan has failed or ice has jammed it. Defrosting the unit for 24 hours can help determine if frost is the cause. If it cools normally after defrosting but the issue returns, the automatic defrost system may need attention.
Preventive Maintenance for Reliable Cooling
Keeping your refrigerator clean and well ventilated is the easiest way to prevent it from running continuously. Make sure there are at least two inches of space behind and above the unit for air to circulate. Avoid storing items directly against the air vents inside the fridge.
Every few months, remove the grille at the bottom and vacuum underneath. Check the door gaskets for cracks or gaps that could let warm air leak inside. Even a small leak forces the compressor to run longer than necessary.
Temperature settings also matter. For most fridges, the recommended range is around 37°F (3°C) for the refrigerator and 0°F (-18°C) for the freezer. Lower settings do not make the fridge colder; they only increase energy use and wear.
When to Call for Help
If cleaning the coils and checking the fan do not solve the problem, further diagnosis may be required. A faulty thermostat, defrost timer, or temperature sensor can also cause the same symptoms.
Technicians have the tools to test these components accurately. In some situations, they can also measure refrigerant pressure to see if there is a leak in the sealed system. That type of repair requires professional handling and specialized equipment.
If your fridge still runs constantly after basic cleaning, scheduling a fridge repair in Leduc service may save you both energy and money in the long run.
Energy Impact of a Constantly Running Fridge
A refrigerator that never stops running consumes much more electricity than it should. Over the course of a month, that can add a noticeable increase to your utility bill. The compressor and fans are among the highest energy consumers in a home appliance, and when they run continuously, they waste energy that produces no cooling benefit.
By addressing the root causes early—such as dirty coils, poor airflow, or failing fan motors—you reduce your overall operating cost and extend the life of the appliance. Regular maintenance is an investment that pays off over time.
A Simple Step Most People Forget
One often-overlooked detail is the temperature sensor or thermistor. This small part monitors internal temperature and tells the control board when to turn the compressor on or off. If it reads incorrectly, the fridge may think it is warmer or colder than it actually is. A faulty thermistor can make the compressor run constantly without improving cooling.
Testing it usually involves checking resistance with a multimeter at different temperatures. Replacing a defective thermistor is a quick and inexpensive repair compared to the damage caused by continuous compressor operation.
Making Maintenance a Habit
Taking five minutes every few months to look behind or underneath the refrigerator can prevent these problems entirely. Dust accumulates gradually, so you rarely notice it until the appliance starts behaving differently. Marking coil cleaning and gasket checks on your seasonal to-do list can make a real difference.
You can also improve airflow by keeping the area around the fridge clear and ensuring room temperature stays moderate. In hot kitchens or enclosed spaces, the appliance has to work harder to release heat. Simple actions like improving ventilation or installing a small fan nearby can reduce strain on the system.
What We Usually See in Homes
From our experience, most refrigerators that run continuously but fail to cool come from neglected condenser coils or worn-out fans. Homeowners often assume the compressor is bad when the fix is actually much simpler. Once the coils are cleaned and the fan replaced or lubricated, the fridge returns to normal operation almost immediately.
In older models, replacing both the fan motor and the start relay together can prevent recurring issues. For newer units, cleaning and proper ventilation are often enough.
If you suspect your fridge needs attention or you are unsure how to check these components safely, you can contact us to schedule a technician visit. A short inspection can confirm the cause and prevent further damage.
FAQ
Why does my fridge run constantly even when the door is closed?
The compressor may not be able to remove heat efficiently due to dirty coils or poor airflow. It keeps running to compensate for lost cooling performance.
How often should I clean the condenser coils?
At least twice a year. Homes with pets or heavy dust buildup may need quarterly cleaning.
Can I lubricate a noisy condenser fan motor?
Some motors are sealed and cannot be lubricated. If the noise persists, replacement is usually the best solution.
Does a constantly running fridge use more electricity?
Yes. It can consume several extra kilowatt-hours per day, leading to a noticeable rise in your energy bill.
Is it safe to vacuum around the compressor and fan?
Yes, as long as the fridge is unplugged. Use a brush attachment and avoid touching electrical connections or sharp components.