The refrigerator often turns on and off: what could be wrong, what to do, solutions, expert advice

Everyone wants their favorite things to last as long as possible. But household appliances tend to break down and fail. This also applies to refrigerators that we use every day. A common situation is the device suddenly turning off a few seconds after turning it on. If this happens systematically, then immediately start looking for the problem and find out how to fix it.

If the refrigerator systematically turns off after a few seconds of operation, then you definitely need to find ways to solve this problem before the device completely fails.

Features of self-shutdown of the refrigerator

Many people wonder why the refrigerator may turn off. Do not immediately panic and look for the causes of the breakdown. The fact is that such switching on and off is systemic, because equipment also needs to rest.

It all depends on the temperature inside and outside the chamber. Sudden changes in external and internal temperatures create additional stress on the parts of the device. Therefore, continuous operation is contraindicated for it, otherwise it will overheat.

Continuous operation of the refrigerator can lead to permanent equipment failure.

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Description of problems and their characteristics

If you experience that the device turns off immediately after turning it on, this indicates its abnormal operation. There are several reasons for this “behavior” of the unit.

In addition to the main ones, there are indirect causes of refrigerator failure:

Thermostat malfunction. The reason here may be not only its breakdown, but also incorrect configuration. The temperature setting inside the freezer may be too low for the system to handle.
The device quickly loses its temperature. Check to see if the door is depressurized, which allows cold to escape outside.
The compressor is overheating. In this case, the temperature regime is not maintained as expected.
The amount of refrigerant is insufficient for normal operation. Check the system for leaks. If they are found, refill the device with freon and fix the leaks.

The main cause of failure may be overheating of the compressor.

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Failures and power surges

Before looking for faults in the device, check if you have voltage failures. This can be done easily using an incandescent lamp. If it blinks, then the reason that the refrigerator often turns on and off is not a breakdown, but an unstable voltage.

In this case, all equipment is disconnected from the network to prevent its breakdown.

Those who experience voltage fluctuations in their home as a frequent occurrence should think about purchasing an electricity stabilizer, surge protector, and fuses. It is advisable to install a transformer that optimizes the supply of electricity to the premises.

To prevent equipment from malfunctioning due to voltage failures in the electrical network, it is worth purchasing a voltage stabilizer.

In older refrigerators, the compressor is controlled using a start-up relay. It regulates turning the motor on and off to avoid overheating. When the relay breaks, the device begins to turn on spontaneously and then turn off.

Upon visual inspection of the parts, such damage is immediately visible. It is easy to fix on your own, especially since it is a very common problem.

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Problems with the control unit

If you have a modern refrigerator at home, then check its electronic board (control unit). She is responsible for turning the refrigerator on and off. When it fails, commands to stop and resume work are issued chaotically.

The refrigerator control board is responsible for turning the device off and on.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to diagnose such a breakdown without specialized equipment. The unit can be repaired by reprogramming, or it may need to be completely replaced. Both can be done only in repair shops.

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What are the dangers of running a refrigerator continuously?

The problem of continuous operation has a number of consequences for the refrigerator. If the malfunction is not corrected, the engine overheats and fails faster. With such a malfunction, depending on the brand/model, the refrigeration equipment may last about six months.

To avoid the problem, it is important to immediately repair the breakdown and return to the optimal operating mode with the compressor stopping and starting cycle.

The compressor has failed

If the previous two points are excluded, then it is worth checking the very “heart” of the device. The compressor, unfortunately, has a tendency to fail, and replacing it will be quite expensive. If you have an old device, then it would be more advisable to buy a new one rather than purchasing a compressor separately.

Buying a new refrigerator will cost less than replacing a compressor.

The compressor is the main part of the refrigerator. It is thanks to him that freon circulates. Without it, the refrigerator cannot operate.

To determine if a compressor is faulty, measure the resistance of its windings. If the measurements show a normal value, then the cause of the breakdown must be looked for elsewhere.

Why a compressor may break:

Closing the winding turns.
Winding damage.
Motor jamming.

It is impossible to repair the compressor, you can only replace it.

These reasons contribute to the load on the motor, which, in turn, leads to overheating. Therefore, the relay turns it off a few seconds after it is turned on.

The compressor cannot be repaired - it is only possible to replace the part.

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Why does the refrigerator turn off after turning on?

If the working time coefficient is less than 0.2 and the voltage is normal , look for more serious equipment failures. To understand which part is broken, listen to the sounds that the unit makes when turning on and off. If you heard a clicking sound before shutting down and the engine was louder than usual, the problem is most likely in the compressor. At the same time, it gets very hot.

The motor fails due to winding breakage, interturn short circuit, mechanical damage or jamming. A faulty compressor becomes very hot during operation, the start-up relay is activated, and the refrigerator turns off.

Since
the compressor is one of the most important parts in technology that ensures the circulation of freon, without it further operation of the device is impossible.
To independently check the part for serviceability, use a multimeter. First, they measure the voltage in the outlet (it must be at least 200 V). Modern models of refrigerators or freezers will not operate at lower voltages. To check the motor, it is removed and disconnected from the relay . Then measure the resistance with a tester. Readings above or below acceptable levels indicate a broken part. A burnt out compressor is easier to replace with a new one than to repair. To do this, select a part of the same power and type and connect it using an electronic circuit. Rely on a specialist to fix the problem.

Attention! Self-repair can lead to more serious equipment breakdowns.

Start protection relay malfunction

The start-up relay fails as a result of physical wear or overheating during operation . If it breaks down, the refrigerator turns off a few seconds after it is turned on. At the same time, a characteristic click is heard.

The part controls the start of the motor and protects it from overloads . Switching on and off occurs due to the closing and opening of the bimetallic plate. It heats up from the passing current and bends, making a click - it turns off. In a faulty part, the conductivity changes, the process is disrupted, and the compressor turns off almost immediately. The relay fails due to burnout, wear of the spring bimetallic plate, or jamming of the moving contacts that are responsible for closing the core.

Reference. The refrigerator can operate even with a faulty relay for 10 to 15 minutes. However, it is not recommended to ignore the breakdown - it negatively affects the operation of the compressor.

This malfunction is considered simpler than a breakdown of the compressor or control unit . The part is replaced with a new one or repaired. First, check the health of the cardiac solenoid. Some people instead insert a wire of the same size or a metal rod from a ballpoint pen, but this option is suitable for older models. In modern coils, the conductor is shaped like a tablet.

Incorrect operation of the electronic control unit

The electronic control unit does not tolerate voltage surges or contact with water . If the program is violated, commands begin to arrive at different intervals, the compressor starts and turns off in chaotic mode. To eliminate the malfunction, the plateau is reprogrammed or replaced with a new one. Repairs are carried out only by a specialist who has diagnostic equipment.

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The start-protection relay is malfunctioning

Physical wear and tear of this part becomes a frequent cause of its failure. This breakdown is easily repairable, and the cost of such work will not break the bank.

Before replacing this part, you can try to fix it yourself. Check the core. Craftsmen recommend installing a regular ballpoint pen refill in place of the failed core.

Repair of the start-up relay of the refrigerator.

Keep in mind that the method only works on older refrigerator models. The new ones have a slightly different structure, having a tablet-shaped solenoid.

If you don’t want to take risks, then call a specialist to your home. He must have some spare parts with him, so repairs and replacements are done at home.

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Troubleshooting methods

Refrigerators and freezers are types of household appliances found in almost every kitchen. Few people are happy about their breakdown, except perhaps those who like to do their own repairs.

A burnt out compressor should be replaced with a new one.

If a compressor burns out, it is easier to replace it with a new one than to repair it. To do this, select a similar part, of the same power and type, and connect it, following the electronic circuit.

There is also no need to stand on ceremony with the start-protection relay. Of course, the part is easier to repair, but it is not expensive, so it is better to replace it with a new one.

If the control board fails, it’s good if the situation is corrected by flashing it.

But the feasibility of such intervention must be determined by a repairman. This part is the “brain” of the refrigerator, so the work must be precise.

There are services that repair refrigerators. You should contact them if your own skills and knowledge are not enough. Our specialists will do all the work quickly, using high-quality components. The work done is confirmed by a warranty card.

How to Diagnose the Problem

The refrigerator is not designed for trouble-free operation. Therefore, its shutdowns are not sudden, and occur only for a short period of time to give the compressor a rest. The difficulty lies in determining whether the refrigerator is really faulty, or whether such outages are considered normal.

When the refrigerator is turned off, the compressor rests.

Let's try to resort to mathematics to solve this problem. Let’s say the compressor can work for 2 minutes, and then rest for the next 10 minutes. Normal operation is assessed by a numerical coefficient value from 0.2 to 0.9. If we take our example, the coefficient is 0.166, according to the formula 2: (2+10).

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More about refrigeration modes

What is the compressor switching frequency?

In other words, what is the normal cycle time?

The frequency at which the compressor is turned on directly depends on the degree of cold loss. The refrigerator will turn on more often if more heat enters it.

Causes of loss of cold:

Poor thermal insulation of the walls of the unit;
The unit door is not closed tightly;
Damage to the seal (displaced, cracked, worn out);
Frequently opening the refrigerator door;
Placing hot foods in the refrigerator.

Refrigerator maintenance and repair specialists calculate the refrigerator efficiency coefficient using a formula that you can also easily use:

K = Tr / Tp,

Where Тп – downtime); Тр – operating time; K – efficiency coefficient.

The ideal value is considered to be 2. However, if your refrigerator is in a room with a low air temperature or you have set the temperature in the refrigerator too high, then this value will most likely be lower. If this indicator is more than 2, most likely your unit needs repair.

You can also evaluate the efficiency of the refrigerator/working time coefficient using the formula:

K = Vrts/ (Vrts+Vo), where: Vrts - operating cycle time; During - time of rest.

Based on the results of applying this formula, you can conclude that the refrigerator is operating normally if you get a result in the range from 0.2 to 0.6.

The reasons for the refrigerator to turn on frequently may also be due to a malfunction of any of the units or parts of the unit:

Temperature sensor malfunction. It is better to entrust the troubleshooting of this problem to a specialist.
Thermal protection relay is faulty. The purpose of the relay is to prevent overheating of the compressor above the maximum operating temperature; it operates automatically. If the relay malfunctions (broken contacts, short circuit), the temperature will be determined incorrectly, which means the compressor will also turn on incorrectly.

What determines the continuous operation time of a compressor?

From the type of freon, since all refrigerants have different characteristics;
Whether your refrigerator was operating normally, or whether you turned it off (for example, for the purpose of transportation or defrosting);
From the volume of the refrigerator and working chambers;
From the chamber being filled with products;
From the temperature set in the refrigerator. The higher the temperature set, the less time is required for the compressor operating cycle. Therefore, the greater the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the refrigerator, the longer it takes the compressor to cool.

ON A NOTE:

The average temperature in the main compartment should not be lower than +2 degrees, in the freezer - minus 15-18 degrees.

The maximum time for non-stop operation of a refrigerator is considered to be 8 hours, provided the air temperature is high and the refrigerator is fully loaded. If the refrigerator is empty and runs for more than 1 hour, you need to seek help from specialists.

ON A NOTE:

In normal mode, it is acceptable to turn on the refrigerator 2-8 times per hour. The normal ratio of downtime to operating time is 2 to 1.

It is very easy to measure how long the refrigerator works and how long it rests. And if the rest time is less than the working time, or the specified ratio is disproportionately violated, this should be taken as a signal of a malfunction of the unit.

Reasons for non-stop operation of the compressor

Insufficient amount of freon, which can in turn be caused by an error when filling the refrigerant, its leakage or decomposition due to dirt and impurities;
Fast freezing mode enabled;
Problems with the control board;
Charging with non-standard refrigerant;
Technical malfunction of units or parts of the unit;
Blockage of the system through which freon circulates: when the cross-section of one of the units (evaporator, capillary tube, condenser) is reduced, its passage through the system becomes difficult;
Evaporator icing. To eliminate this reason, it is enough to defrost the refrigerator;
Incorrect installation of the refrigerator. Manufacturer's recommendations must be used.

IMPORTANT!
Maintain distances from the device to walls or furniture;
Do not install the refrigerator near the stove;
Do not install the refrigerator near radiators or other heating devices.

It is possible that the refrigerator turns off immediately after being turned on.

Reasons for this disconnection:

Breakdown of the start-protection relay. This can be signaled by characteristic clicks;
Compressor failure. This can be indicated by intense heating and buzzing, clicking sounds.
Failure in the control unit. This may be indicated by the refrigerator turning off at irregular intervals.

If the control unit malfunctions, the refrigerator stops freezing. The technician will fix minor faults on the spot; in case of serious faults, the chip will most likely need to be replaced.

How to determine a malfunction by sound

You can understand the cause of the breakdown through sound analysis. Listen to the device as it turns on and off. Was there a clicking sound before it turned off? Another important point: the volume of the engine sound. If it “buzzes” louder than before, then there is clearly something wrong with it. It could be a relay or a compressor. Another possible cause is a faulty electronic board.

You can determine a refrigerator malfunction yourself using sound analysis.

How to fix the problem:

If the compressor burns out, it needs to be replaced. It is important to choose a model that meets the technical specifications for your freezer. Connect it correctly. If you don’t know how to do this, look at the guides, or call a specialist.
The same manipulations are carried out with the relay.
If the problem is in the control unit, use the services of a specialist. They will reprogram it for you or replace it completely.

A qualified technician can determine the exact cause of the refrigerator breakdown.

In some cases, it is easier to buy new equipment than to repair old equipment. Every year, models are equipped with new functions, so why repair old “junk” when there are so many new and “advanced” things in stores.

Recommendations and advice from the experts:

The average person only reads a device's manual when something goes wrong. This is a big mistake. You need to read the instructions carefully before you turn on the refrigerator.
Install the refrigerator strictly level. If you have a crooked floor, place something under the legs of the refrigerator.
The location of the device is of great importance. Ideally, it should be located away from the sink, stove and radiator. Also, you can’t place it close to the wall. A distance of at least 3-5 cm is needed to ensure air circulation.
The device must have its own outlet. If shared, it may cause a fire.

To make your refrigerator last much longer, you need to close the door tightly every time.

Here's what experts advise on caring for your equipment so that it serves you for many years.

Close the door tightly and do not keep it open for long. Modern devices for these purposes have a special signal indicating that the door has been open for too long.
If the device does not have the No Frost function, then you will have to defrost the freezer section regularly. This is done once a month.
Keep the rubber gasket clean, because it prevents depressurization.
Hot foods are not placed in the refrigerator. Only cooled to room temperature.
Do not fill the refrigerator to capacity. This creates additional stress for him.
Do not cover the shelves with anything. This way you allow air circulation inside the cabinet.

The location of the refrigerator can play a big role.

Additional Information. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with tips for organizing proper food storage:

The freezer is used exclusively for food, but not for bottles. They may split.
All products are stored in packaging. This will prevent the appearance of mold, which can not only harm your health, but also affect the functioning of the cabinet.
Eggs, juices and other drinks are stored on the side doors.
The middle shelves store prepared meals, as well as cheese and meat.
If you store medications in the refrigerator, follow the temperature range indicated on the package.

Glass bottles and jars cannot be left in the freezer.

Rules of operation and care

The lifespan of a refrigerator largely depends on careful use. Incorrect and negligent handling often leads to rapid shutdown of household appliances. Less commonly, physical wear and tear is to blame. The following recommendations will help extend the life of your refrigerator:

During installation of the unit, a certain level must be maintained. We are talking about flooring. It is desirable that the floor is level. Otherwise, it is recommended to place the refrigerator on a stand.
Don't overcrowd the refrigerator compartments with food. Otherwise, there will be poor air circulation in the chambers.
The correct location is the key to long-term operation of the equipment. The refrigerator should not be placed next to the sink or stove. It is better to avoid close contact with heat sources (battery, microwave).
There is no room for hot food in the refrigerator.
Use the instructions that came with your refrigerator. The attached appearances are not waste paper, but a very valuable document. Before you start using the equipment, study the features of its operation. This will help you quickly find a common language with this device.
Regular care. It is important to monitor the health of the refrigerator. Both its external and internal parts need care. Oily fingerprints may remain on the surface. They are easy to clean with a sponge and soda solution. It is recommended to defrost the refrigerator once every 3 months. The ice is carefully broken off with a special spatula, the inner surface is wiped with a wet sponge, and then always with a dry rag. In this way, unpleasant odors will be eliminated.
It is advisable to connect the refrigerator to a separate outlet. The equipment requires an individual power source.
Do not leave the refrigerator door open for a long time. Otherwise, the motor will quickly fail.

The recommendations presented will extend the life of household appliances. As you can see, quickly turning the refrigerator on and off does not appear on its own. There are reasons that cause such inconvenience. Timely detection of a breakdown will allow you to quickly normalize the operation of the refrigerator and eliminate the need to purchase new equipment.