If your refrigerator is not cycling on and off even when the thermostat is set above 3, there could be a few potential reasons for this issue:
Thermostat Problem: The thermostat itself might be faulty or malfunctioning, preventing it from accurately sensing the temperature and signaling the compressor to cycle on and off. In this case, the thermostat may need to be replaced or recalibrated.
Compressor Issue: The compressor is the heart of the refrigeration system, responsible for cooling the fridge. If the compressor is faulty or not functioning correctly, it won't receive the signal from the thermostat to turn on and off. Compressor problems could be due to electrical issues, motor failure, or a lack of refrigerant.
Defrost Timer or Control Board: Refrigerators have defrost timers or control boards that manage the defrost cycle. If the defrost timer or control board malfunctions, it might interfere with the refrigerator's regular cooling cycle, preventing it from cycling on and off properly.
Temperature Sensors: Modern refrigerators may have temperature sensors that provide feedback to the control board or thermostat. If these sensors are not functioning correctly, the refrigerator might not receive accurate temperature readings, leading to irregular cycling.
Condenser Coils and Airflow: If the condenser coils are dirty or blocked, the refrigerator's cooling efficiency may be affected, making it harder for the thermostat to reach the desired temperature. Insufficient airflow around the refrigerator can also impact cooling performance.
Frequent Door Opening: Frequent opening of the refrigerator door can introduce warm air, making it difficult for the unit to maintain the desired temperature and leading to continuous operation.
To troubleshoot the issue, you can take the following steps:
Check the thermostat setting: Ensure that the thermostat is set to the desired temperature and not set to "OFF" or the coldest setting.
Clean the condenser coils: If the coils are dirty, clean them carefully to improve the refrigerator's cooling efficiency.
Check for obstructions: Ensure that there are no obstructions blocking the vents or preventing proper airflow around the refrigerator.
Inspect the compressor: If you suspect an issue with the compressor, it's best to have a professional technician inspect and diagnose the problem.
Test the defrost timer or control board: If possible, test or replace the defrost timer or control board if it is suspected to be causing the problem.
If you are unsure or uncomfortable performing these troubleshooting steps yourself, it's advisable to contact a qualified appliance repair technician to diagnose and fix the issue. Refrigerators are complex appliances, and improper repairs can lead to further problems.