Refrigerator Running Constantly? 9 Causes & Fixes for Toronto Homeowners

Quick Answer: A refrigerator that runs constantly is usually caused by dirty condenser coils, faulty door seals, blocked air vents, thermostat problems, or low refrigerant levels. Normal refrigerators cycle on and off, running 4-8 hours per day total. A constantly running refrigerator increases energy bills by 25-50% and shortens compressor life. Most causes can be diagnosed at home, but persistent issues require professional repair. Contact JK Appliances for same-day refrigerator repair in Toronto and the GTA.

Is Your Refrigerator Running Too Much?
9 Common Causes of Constant Running
DIY Troubleshooting Guide
When to Call a Professional
Repair Costs in Toronto
Energy Impact and Cost Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
Toronto & GTA Service Areas

Is Your Refrigerator Running Too Much? {#is-your-refrigerator-running-too-much}

Before troubleshooting, understand what normal refrigerator operation looks like:

Normal Refrigerator Cycling

| Factor | Normal Operation | Problem Indicators | |--------|-----------------|-------------------| | Run time per cycle | 30-60 minutes | Running 2+ hours continuously | | Off time per cycle | 30-45 minutes | Never stops or short 5-10 min breaks | | Total daily run time | 4-8 hours | 12+ hours per day | | Compressor sound | Steady hum when running | Constant running, clicking, or struggling |

How to Check If Your Refrigerator Runs Constantly

Method 1: Listen Test

Stand near your refrigerator for 2-3 hours
Note when compressor kicks on (humming starts)
Note when it turns off (humming stops)
Healthy refrigerators cycle every 30-90 minutes

Method 2: Feel the Compressor

Locate compressor at bottom rear
If always warm/vibrating, it's always running
Should be cool/still during off cycles

Method 3: Monitor Energy Usage

Smart power meters show real-time usage
Constantly running refrigerator draws power 24/7
Normal operation shows cycling pattern

9 Common Causes of Constant Running {#9-common-causes}

Cause 1: Dirty Condenser Coils (Most Common)

Dirty condenser coils are the #1 reason refrigerators run constantly. At JK Appliances Toronto, we see this in over 60% of constant-running cases.

Why dirty coils cause constant running:

Coils can't release heat efficiently
Refrigerant stays too warm
Compressor works overtime to compensate
System never reaches target temperature

Signs it's your condenser coils:

Refrigerator runs constantly but still doesn't cool well
Back of refrigerator is excessively warm
Higher than normal energy bills
Visible dust/debris on coils

The Fix: Clean condenser coils every 6 months (see DIY section below)

Cause 2: Faulty or Damaged Door Seals

Poor door seals let cold air escape constantly, triggering continuous compressor operation.

Signs of bad door seals:

Visible gaps, cracks, or tears in gasket
Condensation around door edges
Dollar bill slides out easily when closed in door
Refrigerator more efficient when door is held shut

Energy impact: Bad seals can increase running time by 25-40%

Related Reading: Refrigerator Door Not Sealing: Fix Guide

Cause 3: Blocked or Covered Air Vents

Air vents circulate cold air from the freezer to the refrigerator. Blocked vents disrupt this flow.

What blocks air vents:

Food containers pushed against vents
Ice buildup from defrost problems
Overpacked refrigerator/freezer
Items fallen behind drawers

How to check:

Locate vents (usually on rear wall or ceiling)
Ensure minimum 1" clearance around all vents
Check for ice blocking vent openings

Cause 4: Temperature Set Too Cold

Sometimes the solution is simple: temperature settings.

Optimal settings:

Refrigerator: 37°F (3°C)
Freezer: 0°F (-18°C)

Common mistakes:

Setting to coldest after loading groceries
Accidentally bumping dial/controls
Children changing settings

Why too-cold settings cause constant running:

Compressor works harder to reach extreme temps
Can't maintain very cold temps efficiently
May never reach target, never cycling off

Cause 5: Thermostat or Temperature Sensor Problems

A faulty thermostat can't properly signal the compressor to stop.

Thermostat failure symptoms:

Refrigerator too cold despite normal settings
Temperature varies wildly
Compressor never cycles off
Compressor never turns on (opposite problem)

Testing the thermostat:

Turn thermostat to warmest setting
Compressor should stop within several minutes
Turn to coldest setting
Compressor should start within several minutes
No change = likely thermostat failure

Cause 6: Low Refrigerant Levels (Refrigerant Leak)

Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your cooling system. Low levels force constant operation.

Signs of low refrigerant:

Refrigerator runs constantly but doesn't cool well
Frost on evaporator coils but warm fridge
Hissing sound from refrigerator
Oily residue near compressor or coils

Important: Refrigerant repairs are regulated in Canada and require certified technicians. Contact JK Appliances for safe, legal refrigerant service.

Cause 7: Defrost System Failure

Modern refrigerators automatically defrost. When this fails, ice builds up and blocks cooling.

Signs of defrost problems:

Excessive frost in freezer
Ice buildup on back wall
Refrigerator warm, freezer very cold
Water pooling under crisper drawers

Defrost components that can fail:

Defrost heater
Defrost thermostat
Defrost timer or control board

Related Reading: Refrigerator Not Defrosting: Complete Guide

Cause 8: Condenser or Evaporator Fan Motor Problems

Your refrigerator has fans that circulate air. Failing fans reduce efficiency.

Condenser fan (at compressor):

Cools condenser coils and compressor
Failure causes overheating and constant running
Located near compressor at bottom rear

Evaporator fan (in freezer):

Circulates cold air through compartments
Failure causes uneven cooling and constant running
Located behind freezer back panel

Related Reading: Refrigerator Making Unusual Noises

Cause 9: Compressor Problems

An aging or failing compressor loses efficiency and runs constantly to compensate.

Signs of compressor issues:

Compressor hot to touch
Vibration or unusual noises
Clicking sound at startup
Running constantly without adequate cooling

Related Reading: Refrigerator Compressor Issues: Complete Guide

DIY Troubleshooting Guide {#diy-troubleshooting-guide}

Step 1: Clean the Condenser Coils

Time required: 20-30 minutes Tools: Vacuum with brush attachment, coil cleaning brush, flashlight

Instructions:

Unplug the refrigerator
Locate coils (behind grille at bottom or behind refrigerator)
Remove grille cover if applicable
Vacuum loose dust and debris
Use coil brush to loosen stubborn buildup
Vacuum again thoroughly
Replace grille and plug in

Pro tip: Clean coils every 3 months if you have pets.

Step 2: Check and Adjust Temperature Settings

Optimal settings:

Refrigerator: 3 (on 1-5 scale) or 37°F
Freezer: 0°F

After adjusting: Wait 24 hours before evaluating

Step 3: Clear Air Vents

Remove all items from refrigerator
Locate all air vents
Remove any ice with hair dryer on low
Ensure nothing will block vents when reloading
Leave 1" clearance around vents

Step 4: Inspect and Clean Door Seals

Visually inspect for cracks, tears, gaps
Clean with warm soapy water
Apply thin layer of petroleum jelly
Perform dollar bill test
If test fails, seals likely need replacement

Step 5: Check Refrigerator Position

Proper ventilation clearances:

Back: 2 inches minimum
Sides: 1 inch minimum
Top: 2 inches minimum (unless counter-depth)

Step 6: Don't Overload the Refrigerator

Proper loading:

Fill to 70-80% capacity
Allow air to circulate between items
Don't block vents with containers

Step 7: Let Hot Food Cool First

Hot food raises interior temperature, triggering extended run cycles:

Let food cool to room temperature
Then place in refrigerator
Use shallow containers for faster cooling

Step 8: Check the Defrost System

Signs you need defrost:

Frost buildup over ¼" thick
Ice blocking air vents
Frost on back wall of freezer

Manual defrost if needed:

Transfer food to cooler
Unplug refrigerator
Leave doors open
Place towels to catch water
Wait 4-8 hours
Clean and restart

When to Call a Professional {#when-to-call-professional}

Signs You Need Professional Help

Contact JK Appliances when:

❗ Condenser coils are clean but refrigerator still runs constantly
❗ Thermostat doesn't respond to adjustments
❗ You suspect refrigerant leak
❗ Unusual noises from compressor or fans
❗ Refrigerator runs constantly AND doesn't cool properly
❗ Defrost system components need replacement
❗ Door seals need professional replacement
❗ DIY troubleshooting hasn't solved the problem

Why Choose JK Appliances Toronto

| Benefit | What You Get | |---------|--------------| | Same-day service | Fast response across Toronto & GTA | | Certified technicians | Expertise in all major brands | | Upfront pricing | Know the cost before repair | | 90-day warranty | Peace of mind guaranteed | | Licensed & insured | Professional, safe repairs |

Book Your Repair

Online: Schedule Service
Phone: +1 (647) 560-8966
Email: services@jkappliances.ca

Repair Costs in Toronto {#repair-costs}

Common Repairs for Constantly Running Refrigerators

| Repair | Cost Estimate | Time | |--------|--------------|------| | Diagnostic fee | $89-$120 (waived with repair) | 30-60 min | | Condenser coil cleaning | $89-$150 | 30-45 min | | Door seal replacement | $150-$300 | 45-90 min | | Thermostat replacement | $200-$350 | 45-90 min | | Condenser fan motor | $150-$300 | 1-2 hours | | Evaporator fan motor | $150-$300 | 1-2 hours | | Defrost system repair | $200-$400 | 1-2 hours | | Refrigerant recharge | $300-$500 | 2-3 hours | | Compressor replacement | $600-$1,200 | 3-5 hours |

Energy Impact and Cost Calculator {#energy-impact}

How Constant Running Affects Your Energy Bills

A refrigerator that runs constantly uses significantly more electricity:

| Scenario | Daily Run Time | Monthly kWh | Monthly Cost* | |----------|---------------|-------------|---------------| | Normal operation | 4-6 hours | 30-50 kWh | $4-$7 | | Slightly overworking | 8-12 hours | 50-80 kWh | $7-$11 | | Running constantly | 18-24 hours | 100-150 kWh | $14-$21 |

*Based on Toronto Hydro rates (~$0.14/kWh average)

Annual Savings from Repair

| Problem | Extra Cost/Year | Repair Cost | Payback Period | |---------|----------------|-------------|----------------| | Dirty coils | $80-$150 | $89-$150 | 6-12 months | | Bad door seals | $100-$200 | $150-$300 | 12-18 months | | Thermostat issue | $100-$180 | $200-$350 | 18-24 months | | Fan motor failure | $80-$150 | $150-$300 | 12-24 months |

Frequently Asked Questions {#faqs}

Is it normal for a refrigerator to run all the time?

No, it's not normal for a refrigerator to run constantly. Healthy refrigerators cycle on and off, running for about 4-8 hours total per day. If your refrigerator never seems to shut off, there's likely an underlying issue that needs attention. Common causes include dirty condenser coils, faulty door seals, or thermostat problems.

Why does my fridge run constantly but doesn't cool?

A refrigerator that runs constantly without cooling properly typically has a serious issue such as low refrigerant, a failing compressor, or blocked condenser coils. This combination of symptoms requires professional diagnosis. Contact JK Appliances for expert refrigerator repair in Toronto.

How long should a refrigerator run between cycles?

A normal refrigerator runs for 30-60 minutes, then turns off for 30-45 minutes before starting again. This cycle repeats throughout the day. If your refrigerator runs for hours without stopping, or only turns off for a few minutes before restarting, something is wrong.

Can dirty condenser coils cause a refrigerator to run constantly?

Yes, dirty condenser coils are the #1 cause of constantly running refrigerators. When coils are covered in dust, pet hair, or debris, they can't release heat properly. This forces the compressor to work overtime to maintain temperature, often running constantly. Clean your coils every 6 months for optimal performance.

Will a refrigerator running constantly damage it?

Yes, constant running significantly shortens your refrigerator's lifespan. The compressor is designed for cycling operation, not continuous use. Running constantly causes compressor overheating, increased wear on components, higher energy consumption, and eventual premature failure. Addressing the underlying cause protects your investment.

How much does it cost to fix a refrigerator that runs constantly in Toronto?

Repair costs in Toronto range from $89 for condenser coil cleaning to $600+ for compressor-related issues. Most common repairs (thermostat, fan motors, door seals) cost $150-$400. JK Appliances provides upfront pricing after diagnosis so you know the exact cost before approving repairs.

Why does my refrigerator run more in summer?

Refrigerators work harder in warmer ambient temperatures. Running time typically increases 10-20% during Toronto summers. However, if your refrigerator runs constantly during summer, there may be an underlying issue exacerbated by heat. Ensure proper ventilation and clean condenser coils before summer begins.

Should I be worried if my new refrigerator runs constantly?

New refrigerators often run constantly for the first 24-72 hours as they reach optimal temperatures. If constant running continues past 72 hours, verify temperature settings, door seal integrity, and proper ventilation. Persistent issues in new refrigerators should be reported to the retailer or manufacturer while under warranty.

Toronto & GTA Service Areas {#service-areas}

JK Appliances provides expert refrigerator repair across the Greater Toronto Area:

Toronto (Primary Service Area)

Downtown Toronto - Financial District, Entertainment District, Yorkville
North York - Including Willowdale, Don Mills, Bayview
Scarborough - Including Agincourt, Malvern, Scarborough Town Centre
Etobicoke - Including Mimico, Islington, Rexdale
East York, York, Old Toronto

Mississauga

Mississauga - Port Credit, Streetsville, Meadowvale, Square One, Erin Mills

Brampton

Brampton - Bramalea, Heart Lake, Springdale, Downtown Brampton

Markham

Markham - Unionville, Cornell, Markham Village, Markville

Wider GTA

Richmond Hill
Vaughan - Woodbridge, Maple, Kleinburg
Oakville, Burlington, Milton
Ajax, Pickering, Oshawa

Stop Wasting Energy - Fix Your Refrigerator Today

A constantly running refrigerator wastes energy, increases your bills, and shortens your appliance's life. JK Appliances offers professional diagnosis and repair to get your refrigerator running efficiently again.

Why Toronto Homeowners Trust JK Appliances

✅ Same-day service across the GTA
✅ Certified technicians for all major brands
✅ 90-day warranty on all repairs
✅ Upfront pricing - no hidden fees
✅ Licensed and insured

Contact Us Now

Book Online: Schedule Your Repair
Call: +1 (647) 560-8966
Email: services@jkappliances.ca

Last updated: December 2025 | JK Appliances - Toronto's Trusted Appliance Repair Service