Refrigerator - Normal Cycle Times

The amount of time a refrigerator is running or cycling on and off depends upon various factors. It is important to note that modern refrigerators have compressors that are designed to run 80% to 90% of the time. This makes them more energy efficient because the greatest amount of energy is used when the compressor cycles on as opposed to when the compressor is actually running.

Understanding the Normal Cycle Times on a Refrigerator

It is normal for the refrigerator motor to stop during the defrost cycle. While in this mode, no matter where you set the thermostat, the compressor will not come on. The motor will start again upon completion of the automatic defrost cycle which is typically about 35 minutes. It is also normal for the compressor to start and stop often as the temperature control tries to maintain even temperatures (much like an air conditioner's thermostat).

The refrigerator may run 80% to 90% of the time, and in hot, humid areas, may even approach 100% run time.

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