Unplugging and immediately plugging in a new refrigerator multiple times within a short period is not an ideal practice, but it's also not likely to cause severe damage in most cases. Refrigerators are designed to handle power fluctuations and occasional power interruptions without significant harm.
However, there are a few potential issues you may encounter due to this action:
Compressor Stress: The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator, responsible for cooling the unit. Frequent power cycling can put some stress on the compressor, but modern compressors are generally built to handle this to some extent.
Temperature Fluctuations: Rapidly turning the fridge on and off can lead to temperature fluctuations inside the unit. This might affect the freshness and longevity of the stored food, as temperature stability is crucial for food preservation.
Condensation Buildup: When the refrigerator is unplugged, moisture can accumulate inside the fridge. If the unit is immediately plugged back in, the accumulated moisture might cause condensation issues, potentially leading to mold or mildew growth.
Energy Efficiency: Frequent power cycling can impact the energy efficiency of the refrigerator, leading to slightly higher energy consumption over time.
While these are potential issues, many modern refrigerators have safety features to protect against power fluctuations. To minimize any problems, avoid repeating this action and allow the refrigerator to settle into its normal cooling cycle. If you notice any abnormal behavior in the fridge's performance, such as strange noises, unusually high temperatures, or constant cycling on and off, it would be best to contact the manufacturer or a professional technician to inspect and address the situation.