If a refrigerator is plugged in before the compressor has started, nothing significant would happen immediately. When you first plug in a refrigerator, it doesn't immediately start running the compressor or cooling system. Instead, it takes a little time for the appliance to initialize and go through its startup process.
When you plug in the refrigerator, the following typical sequence of events occurs:
Power Supply: When you plug in the refrigerator, it receives electrical power.
Startup Delay: Most refrigerators have a built-in startup delay. This delay allows the refrigerant pressure to equalize before the compressor starts. It prevents the compressor from experiencing excessive strain, especially if it was recently turned off or transported.
Compressor Start: After the startup delay, the compressor will kick in and start running. It's responsible for compressing the refrigerant and beginning the cooling cycle.
Cooling Cycle: Once the compressor starts, the cooling cycle begins. The refrigerant is compressed, circulated through the condenser coils (where it releases heat), and then flows through the evaporator coils (where it absorbs heat from the refrigerator's interior).
Cooling the Interior: As the cooling cycle progresses, the refrigerator's interior starts to cool down, and the desired temperature is reached.
If you plug in the refrigerator and nothing happens even after a few minutes, it's possible that there may be an issue with the refrigerator's power supply, a faulty component, or a problem with the compressor. In such cases, it's best to have a qualified appliance technician inspect and diagnose the refrigerator to ensure it functions properly and safely.