In most cases, your refrigerator is just fine. It's probably not over-heating and that heat is a normal part of the cooling function. The condenser coils that create cold for your fridge do this by removing heat, and that heat has to go somewhere. That somewhere is a vent at the bottom of your fridge.

Is it normal for fridge to be hot?

You may notice that the outside of your fridge feels warm. This is normal and is caused by the heat dissipated from the refrigeration process.

Why is refrigerator hot between doors?

Normal warmth is created by the automatic energy saver system circulating warm liquid around the front edge of the of the freezer compartment (area between the doors) to help prevent condensation on the outside of the refrigerator, especially in hot, humid weather.

Can a refrigerator overheat?

There's no need to worry if the lower vent or the back of your fridge is warm unless it is actually quite hot to the touch. It is possible for refrigerators to overheat, but a few simple maintenance steps can keep your fridge and condenser in good shape.

Can a fridge catch fire?

Yes, your fridge can catch fire and explode. Capacitator failure is a common cause, leakage of gas along with faulty power supply is a dangerous recipe for disaster. Our 15 safety tips during installation and usage will help in preventing disaster.

My Refrigerator is Getting Hot on the Outside!

18 related questions found

How does a fridge catch fire?

A fridge can catch fire in multiple ways and due to different factors. The most distinct triggers are faulty electronic components, relay switch short-circuiting, a lightbulb remaining on while the fridge door is closed, and plastic components that could provide a fuel source.

How hot should fridge compressor get?

Safe Temperature Range

It's normal for this temperature to be as high as 300 degrees Fahrenheit, but it should never be higher. If the temperature rises to 320 degrees, the refrigerant will start to break down. If it gets hotter than 350 degrees, the lubricating oil inside the compressor will start degrading.

Why is my fridge compressor so hot?

A compressor can run hot for a variety of reasons, including lack of refrigerant in the appliance or a refrigerator thermostat that is set too low, thus causing the compressor to work too hard. Check your refrigerator thermostat to be sure it is set at an appropriate temperature.

What are the signs of a bad refrigerator compressor?

You'll know that your compressor is bad when it starts making abnormal noises, the compressor overheats or not providing proper cooling, or when the fridge compressor clicks on and off too frequently.

How do you cool down an overheated compressor?

1. Pull the disconnect or turn off the breaker now.
2. Remove the lid from the air conditioner so we can access the top of compressor.
3. Run a garden hose over the compressor for 10-15 minutes straight to cool it off.
4. After 10-15 minutes has elapsed shut off water and put the lid securely back on.

Should a refrigerator compressor fan run all the time?

Air Flow. The condenser in a refrigerator is a motor, and like the one in your car it needs constant airflow to remain cool enough for the working parts to remain in working condition. ... This forces the condenser fan to work continually to try and disperse the heat.

Should a refrigerator condenser be hot?

The condenser coils should be warm/hot as this is where the refrigerant condenses back from a gas to a liquid (releasing absorbed heat from the fridge / freezer cabinets) before going back into the compressor, to start the cycle again.

Why is my refrigerator not cooling?

Problem: Fridge Not Cooling

Be sure the fridge is plugged in and getting power. ... Vacuum the coils under or behind the fridge. Clogged coils can cause poor cooling. Check to make sure nothing is stuck in the condenser fan and that it spins freely (models with coils on the back won't have a fan).

What happens if a refrigerator overheats?

In the worst-case scenario, an overheating and buzzing fridge compressor can cause a fire. The fridge might stop working due to a complete system breakdown, requiring expensive repairs and tainting any food stored inside. It is best to be safe and call a professional for repairs early on before any accidents occur.

What appliance causes the most house fires?

6 Appliances that Cause the Most Fires

1. Refrigerator. A refrigerator is cold, making it unthinkable that the appliance can catch fire. ...
2. Dishwasher. A dishwasher is built with heating elements that dry clean dishes. ...
3. Dryer. ...
4. Stove. ...
5. Microwave. ...
6. Toaster.

What to check if your refrigerator stops cooling?

Depending on the cause of your refrigerator not cooling, the following procedures might help.

1. Make sure your fridge is getting power. ...
2. Take a look at your owner's manual. ...
3. Check the refrigerator thermostat. ...
4. Test the seals on your fridge doors. ...
5. Determine whether the refrigerator is level. ...
6. Clean the condenser coils.

Why is my refrigerator warm but freezer cold?

Common solutions for: Refrigerator freezer is cold but refrigerator is warm. ... If the evaporator fan is not working, the freezer or refrigerator will not cool adequately. To determine if the evaporator fan motor is defective, try turning the fan blade by hand. If the fan blade does not turn freely, replace the fan motor.

Can Dirty coils affect cooling in a refrigerator?

When coils are dirty with dust or pet hair, the refrigeration process is hindered, which can prevent the appliance from cooling properly and efficiently. ... Soon, food spoils, energy bills for running your fridge can rise up to 35%, and the appliance that should last for 12 to 14 years breaks down early.

What does a bad refrigerator compressor sound like?

Compressors make low humming or buzzing sounds as part of their normal operation. But if the refrigerator noise gets louder and louder to the point where you can hear it from the next room, contact a licensed technician.

How long should a refrigerator run before shutting off?

It is typical for a refrigerator compressor to run anywhere between 4 to 8 hours straight before shutting off. In fact, newer refrigerators are expected to constantly run 80-90 percent of their lifetime.

What is the average life expectancy of a refrigerator?

The average lifespan of a refrigerator

According to a study from the National Association of Home Builders and Bank of America (NYSE: BAC), the typical standard fridge lasts 13 years. For compact refrigerators, often called mini fridges, the lifespan is slightly less at nine years.

What happens when a compressor overheats?

If you have an overheating compressor in your central A/C or heat pump, it might still cool your home temporarily. But if the overheating continues or gets worse, it will result in a potentially expensive system breakdown. Having to replace the compressor is among the most expensive fixes for a central A/C.

How long does it take for a refrigerator compressor to cool down?

On average, full-size refrigerators take 12 hours to cool to the FDA-recommended food-safe temperature of 40°F.

How do I stop my compressor from overheating?

How Can I Prevent My Air Compressor from Overheating?

1. Improve Internal and External Ventilation. Check on your compressor's vents and ensure that they are not only clean, but are sized appropriately to the demands of the machine. ...
2. Inspect Oil and Lubrication Levels. ...
3. Routine Maintenance.