You may hear the quiet sound of your GE refrigerator running intermittently throughout the day. But should a refrigerator run all the time? While modern models may run for 80-90% of the day, they shouldn’t run constantly. Make sure the temperature is programmed to GE’s recommended settings to avoid overworking the refrigerator. Learn the top 4 reasons for a GE refrigerator running all the time and how to solve the problem.
Is Your GE Refrigerator Running All The Time?
This Could Be Why…
If your GE refrigerator runs all the time, regular maintenance or a simple adjustment usually solves the problem. However, timely intervention is crucial to avoid bigger issues. Our list troubleshoots the most likely causes that can prevent a large repair.
GE Refrigerator Temperature is Too High
If your GE refrigerator runs constantly, first check its temperature settings. If the internal temperature is set too high, the refrigerator has to run constantly to keep cool. GE recommends setting the refrigerator’s internal temperature within the range of 34-42℉ and the freezer between -5-8℉. This enables the refrigerator to run slower and less often.
Refrigerator is Too Full or Too Empty
Having the right amount of food in your fridge can help maintain its temperature, preventing a GE refrigerator running all the time. If the refrigerator is too full, cool air won’t have room to circulate between items, making the refrigerator run harder and longer to maintain its temperature. Similarly, too many items may also block air vents that are necessary to deliver cool air.
Too few items can also create a problem. When enough cool food is stocked in the refrigerator, it helps maintain a consistent temperature. A refrigerator won’t stop running if there aren’t enough cool items to help it function. How much food should be in your refrigerator? Keeping it ¾ of the way full should allow for enough cool items to keep the temperature low while permitting adequate circulation.
Condenser Coils Need Cleaning
A refrigerator’s condenser coils help remove heat from the refrigerant, keeping a cool and consistent temperature. If the coils become coated in dust and dirt, the refrigerator has to work harder to remove heat. At this point, you may notice the refrigerator never stops running or turns on and off more frequently. If you clean refrigerator coils regularly, you can prevent the overworking that leads to temperature issues and breakdowns.
Follow these steps to clean GE refrigerator coils:
- Unplug the refrigerator or cut off power at the circuit breaker or fuse box
- Locate the condenser coils. Depending on your model refrigerator, they can be found on the back or in the front, behind a lower or upper grille.
- With an appliance brush or other soft-bristle brush, remove as much dirt, dust, and debris as possible.
- Brush, sweep, or use a narrow vacuum hose attachment to remove any dust and debris from around the coils or on the floor.
- Replace the grille or reposition the refrigerator as needed.
- Restore power.
Door Gaskets Are Dirty or Damaged
When the refrigerator doors are closed, the rubber gasket around their perimeters provides a tight seal, keeping warm air out and cool air enclosed. If the gasket becomes dirty or damaged, the seal can be compromised, increasing the internal temperature. You’ll then find your GE refrigerator running all the time as it struggles to maintain a cool interior. A gasket that’s loose or ripped must be replaced. However, a dirty gasket may be cleaned to restore a proper seal.
Clean refrigerator door gasket with these simple steps:
- Make a mixture of 1-quart warm water and 1 Tbsp baking soda.
- Dip a clean cloth in the mixture and wipe down the gasket.
- Rinse with another cloth dipped in clean, warm water and dry thoroughly.
Is your GE refrigerator running all the time, even after these interventions? It may be time for a professional assessment. Call Dave Smith Appliance to schedule your service today!
