Is Your Refrigerator Short Cycling? Here’s Why
Refrigerators short cycling is a common issue, and it can be a costly problem when your food spoils. The natural cooling cycle can be disrupted by certain actions or mechanical issues. We’ll explain how to troubleshoot the most common problems.
The Door Is Left Open Too Long
Remember when you were told to stop leaving the fridge door open as a kid? It turns out your parents were right! Leaving the door open for too long affects the temperature balance. When the fridge door is left open for longer, it can cause the compressor to turn on and off more frequently.
The compressor is the part of the refrigerator that makes air cool. When it turns on and off multiple times, this is due to a temperature imbalance. Holding the fridge door open too long will affect the internal temperature and possibly lead to short cycling.
Too Much Food in the Fridge
Refrigerators are best kept two-thirds full for maximum airflow and energy efficiency. While seeing a fully stocked fridge might seem satisfying, chances are it’s putting a large strain on your appliance. It’s harder for a fridge to maintain a stable temperature when it has too much food in it, especially if food is packed against the back.
Overstuffing your fridge can make it work harder and cycle more frequently. Be mindful of how much food you store, and avoid overloading your fridge or freezer.
The Thermostat Is Set Too Low
When you set the thermostat too low, your fridge has to work harder to maintain that temperature, especially if the room is warmer. This can lead to more frequent short cycling as it struggles to keep up.
For food safety, keep the fridge at 40 degrees. You can go a degree or two lower if necessary. But if your fridge isn’t consistently cooling food at 40 degrees, you need to speak with a professional.
Several issues could be causing your fridge to struggle with maintaining the correct temperature, including:
- Issues with condenser coils
- Faulty compressor
- Low refrigerant
- Blocked air vents
- Weak door seal
- Frost buildup
Remember, your freezer plays a role in your refrigerator performance, so make sure not to overload it or set it too cold. Don’t allow these problems to go unchecked, or they could get bigger and cost you more to repair.
If you’re experiencing refrigerator or freezer issues in Queen Creek, AZ, contact the experienced team at East Valley Super Techs for expert repair and support!
