Refrigerators turn off and on during use because of the way their cooling system works. The main component responsible for cooling inside the fridge is the compressor, which maintains the desired temperature by compressing and expanding a refrigerant gas. Here's how the process works:
Cooling Cycle: The cooling cycle begins when the thermostat inside the refrigerator detects that the temperature inside the fridge has risen above the set level. When this happens, the compressor is activated.
Compressor On: The compressor starts running and compresses the refrigerant gas. This compression causes the gas to become hot and high-pressure.
Condenser Coils: The hot, high-pressure gas is then passed through the condenser coils at the back or bottom of the refrigerator. These coils release the heat, and as a result, the refrigerant gas condenses and transforms into a high-pressure liquid.
Expansion Valve: The high-pressure liquid refrigerant then passes through an expansion valve, which reduces its pressure. As a result, the refrigerant becomes cold and turns into a low-pressure gas.
Evaporator Coils: The cold, low-pressure gas is then sent through the evaporator coils located inside the refrigerator's main compartment. These coils absorb the heat from the air inside the fridge, causing the temperature to drop.
Cooling the Fridge: The cold air from the evaporator coils circulates inside the fridge, cooling its contents. As the temperature inside the fridge reaches the desired level, the thermostat senses this and signals the compressor to turn off.
Compressor Off: Once the compressor turns off, the cooling cycle stops temporarily until the temperature inside the fridge starts to rise again.
This cycling process repeats whenever the refrigerator needs to maintain the desired temperature. The on-off cycling is a normal operation of the fridge's cooling system and is designed to regulate the temperature efficiently. However, if you notice that the refrigerator is cycling too frequently or for prolonged periods, it could be an indication of an issue with the appliance, such as a faulty thermostat, dirty condenser coils, or inadequate ventilation around the fridge. In such cases, it's best to have the refrigerator inspected by a qualified technician to ensure its proper functioning.