If your refrigerator turns off by itself and doesn’t restart, it could be due to several underlying issues. A faulty control thermostat, a malfunctioning defrost timer, or a worn-out door seal may be affecting its performance. Problems with the energy-saving mode or a defective start relay can also cause unexpected shutdowns. Understanding the root cause is key to finding the right solution. In this article, we’ll break down the most common reasons your fridge might be shutting off and how to troubleshoot them.
Main Issues When Fridge Turns Off
Description and Troubleshooting of Problems
Faulty Control Thermostat
A faulty control thermostat can be the reason your refrigerator shuts off unexpectedly. If you’re able to get the fridge running again by turning the thermostat off and on, it’s likely the thermostat that’s malfunctioning. To check, when your refrigerator stops, turn the thermostat knob all the way off, then turn it back on. If the fridge starts working again, it’s a clear sign that the thermostat needs replacing. A malfunctioning thermostat fails to regulate the temperature correctly, causing the fridge to turn off.
Defrost Timer Is Not Working
There are several reasons why a refrigerator may run briefly and then shut off, but one common issue could be a malfunctioning defrost timer. A refrigerator operates in cycles, with the compressor turning off periodically as part of the defrost process. However, if the defrost timer fails to signal the compressor to restart after the defrost cycle, the fridge will stay off. This can lead to temperature problems and inefficient cooling.
Door Seal Issues
A damaged or dirty door seal can cause cold air to escape, making your refrigerator work harder to maintain the right temperature. This leads to frequent cycling on and off and increased energy usage. Not only does it put unnecessary strain on the fridge’s components, but it also leads to temperature instability, which could cause food to spoil.
Faulty Energy Saving Mode
If your refrigerator seems to stay off for extended periods, it could be an issue with the Energy Saving Mode. While this feature is designed to save energy by turning off the compressor after a period of inactivity, if it malfunctions, the compressor may fail to turn back on when needed. This can lead to improper cooling.
Malfunctioning Start Relay
A malfunctioning start relay in your refrigerator can prevent the compressor from starting up. If it fails, the compressor won’t turn on, and your refrigerator may fail to cool properly. This issue often results in the refrigerator shutting off and not restarting.
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Repair Cost
| Thermostat replacing | $230 – $375 |
| Defrost timer replacing | $250 – $380 |
| Door seal replacing | $230 – $380 |
| Energy-efficient parts replacing | $200 – $450 |
| Start relay replacing | $250 – $430 |
The price of refrigerator repair varies based on the brand, model, and the extent of the issue.
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8 Comments
I noticed my fridge shuts off randomly and doesn’t always turn back on right away. I checked the door seals, and they seem fine. My husband is usually busy, so I’d like to understand if there’s something I can do before calling a technician. Could the defrost timer be the issue?
If your fridge keeps shutting off unpredictably and doesn’t come back on right away, the defrost timer might not be cycling properly. You can try locating the defrost timer (usually behind the control panel or near the base) and manually advancing it using the small dial. If the fridge restarts after that, the timer could be failing. If you need any help, feel free to contact me: Contacts
Our fridge has started turning off unexpectedly a few times a day. It usually comes back on, but I’m concerned it might stop completely at some point. I read that it could be the start relay—how do I check if that’s the problem
If your fridge powers down multiple times a day but eventually starts running again, there’s a chance the start relay is failing. A common sign is a clicking noise from the back of the fridge when it attempts to turn on. If you want to check it yourself, unplug the fridge, remove the start relay from the compressor, and gently shake it. If you hear rattling, it’s likely defective.
Can a dirty condenser coil cause my fridge to shut off?
Yes, it can cause your fridge to shut off. When the coils are clogged with dust or debris, they can’t release heat efficiently, causing the compressor to overheat. As a safety measure, the system may shut down to prevent damage. Cleaning the coils regularly—every 6 to 12 months—can help prevent this issue.
Is it normal for a refrigerator to turn off during the night?
Yes, it’s normal for a refrigerator to turn off periodically during the night. Fridges run in cycles, turning off when the set temperature is reached and turning back on when cooling is needed again. However, if it stays off for too long or doesn’t turn back on, that could indicate a problem with the thermostat, defrost timer, or another component.