Refrigerator Running Constantly
Common causes, what you can check yourself, and when to call a professional — a practical guide for New York homeowners and property managers.
Most likely causes
When we get service calls in Brooklyn and Manhattan for this issue, one of these is almost always the culprit:
- Dirty condenser coils
- Weak or torn door gasket letting cold air escape
- Failed defrost heater — evaporator icing over and blocking airflow
- Ambient kitchen temperature above 90°F (common in NYC summers)
What to check before calling a professional
Work through these in order. If none resolves the problem, it's time to schedule service.
- Vacuum coils and clear the airflow path around the unit
- Test the gasket with a dollar bill — it should grip when you close the door
- Check for frost buildup on the back wall of the freezer
- Confirm the fridge isn't jammed against a cabinet or wall
When to call Appliance Flix
Appliance Flix provides appliance repair services throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan. We repair refrigerators, washers, dryers, dishwashers, ovens, ranges, and cooktops for homeowners, landlords, and property managers. If you've tried the basic troubleshooting steps above and the problem continues, contact us to schedule a service visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should the compressor run all the time?+
Modern variable-speed compressors do run near-constantly at low power — that's normal. A traditional compressor cycling on for hours without a break is not.
