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How Often Should a Refrigerator Compressor Cycle?

Drew Nelson

The refrigerator compressor should cycle four or five times a day depending on how often the refrigerator door is opened each day. If it seems to cycle too often try cleaning the coil on the back of the refrigerator. Dirt and grime on the coil will cause the compressor to cycle on and off more often.

Overview

Cycle a Couple of Times Per Day

Big Family with Kids

If you have a big family with kids it may seem like it is cycling on and off too often, but it is probably because the refrigerator door is being opened and closed many times per day.

Bottom Line

Four or five times a day is normal, but if the refrigerator door is being opened and closed often it will recycle more often.