Kenmore Refrigerator: compressor cycling frequently

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Are you noticing your Kenmore refrigerator's compressor cycling frequently? This symptom indicates that the compressor is turning on and off more often than normal, causing short run times and unstable cooling. This can lead to warm interior temperatures and increased energy usage, signaling potential issues that need to be addressed.

Urgency: Medium

Possible Causes

Faulty start relay or capacitor

How to Identify: Rapid short cycling (on for seconds then off, clicking noise, compressor not running continuously, test start relay for burn marks or noise

Part: Start relay / capacitor (on compressor)

Faulty thermostat or temperature sensor

How to Identify: Incorrect temperature control, misreading internal temperature causing premature compressor shutdown and restart

Part: Thermostat / temperature sensor

Dirty or obstructed condenser coils

How to Identify: Dusty/dirty coils visible at rear/bottom, warmer exterior compressor area, reduced cooling efficiency, frequent cycling

Part: Condenser coils

Door gasket seal issues

How to Identify: Warm air ingress, visible gaps or loose seals, frequent door opening triggering cooling demand

Part: Door gasket / seal

Incorrect temperature settings

How to Identify: Temperature set excessively cold leading to short cycles, adjusting setting changes cycling behavior

Part: User-set thermostat

Obstructed airflow inside refrigerator

How to Identify: Items blocking vents, uneven cooling, frequent compressor demand due to stagnant air

Part: Internal air pathways/fans

Preventive Maintenance

Clean condenser coils: Overheating and excessive cycling
Frequency: every 6 months
Check door gasket seal: Warm air ingress causing frequent cycling
Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Refrigerator compressor cycling frequently?

Common causes include a faulty start relay, thermostat issues, dirty condenser coils, or door gasket problems.

How do I fix Kenmore Refrigerator compressor cycling frequently myself?

No DIY solutions are recommended for this issue.

How much does it cost to fix compressor cycling frequently?

Costs can vary based on the specific repairs needed; contact a technician for an estimate.

When should I call a technician for compressor cycling frequently?

If the issue persists or you notice warm temperatures, it's best to contact a technician promptly.

References & Sources

Fix Fridge Cycling Too Frequently Repair-Blog

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

Dirty condenser coils restricting airflow
Faulty temperature control thermostat
Low refrigerant levels due to a leak

User Suggested Solutions

Clean the condenser coils. Unplug the refrigerator, locate the coils (usually at the back or underneath), and use a vacuum or brush to remove dust and debris. Plug the refrigerator back in and monitor the compressor's behavior.
Test and replace the temperature control thermostat. Use a multimeter to check for continuity. If faulty, replace it with a compatible part. Ensure the refrigerator is unplugged during this process.
Check for refrigerant leaks. If you suspect low refrigerant levels, contact a professional technician to perform a leak test and recharge the refrigerant, as handling refrigerants requires certification.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

Fridge compressor turning on and off every minute! Help!

Community Discussions

compressor turning on and off every minute

Start device on the compressor may be failing; worst case, the compressor itself is failing.