Understand Normal vs Problematic Cycling
Refrigerators naturally cycle to balance temperature, but Cape Town residents often notice unusually short or long cycles after windy, salty days. When a compressor kicks in every few minutes or drones for hours, the appliance wastes electricity and risks a full failure. Start by confirming the thermostat is set between 2 °C and 4 °C for the fridge cavity, because settings below freezing force the compressor to overwork.
Reason 1: Dust-Clogged Condenser Coils
Homes near the N1 and industrial hubs collect sticky dust that mats condenser coils. Unplug the fridge, pull it 30 cm away from the wall, and brush the coils with a soft, dry paintbrush. If the fins are oily, book a professional so that the sealed system is not punctured.
Reason 2: Poor Ventilation During Heatwaves
Summer in Cape Town regularly exceeds 30 °C, and fridges installed flush against cabinets cannot release heat. Aim for at least 5 cm clearance on the sides and 10 cm at the back. Restaurant kitchens should also check that extractor fans are working before blaming the fridge.
Reason 3: Failing Door Gaskets
Sea breeze corrosion hardens rubber seals. Close the door on a strip of paper; if it slides out with no resistance, the gasket is leaking. Replace the seal to prevent warm air intrusion that triggers constant cycling.
Reason 4: Blocked Air Vents Inside the Cavity
Stacked Tupperware often blocks cold-air return vents, leading to hot spots that mislead sensors. Keep 2–3 cm of space between shelves and vents, and remind staff unloading deliveries to rotate stock rather than piling it in one corner.
Reason 5: Faulty Thermistor or Thermostat
If temperature readings jump wildly, the control board receives inconsistent data. A technician can test the thermistor’s resistance with a multimeter and replace it without disturbing the rest of the wiring harness.
Reason 6: Compressor Relay Issues
Cape Town’s load-shedding surges sometimes weld contacts inside the start relay. Listen for a clicking sound followed by silence; that indicates the compressor is not starting. Replace the relay quickly to prevent compressor burnout.
Reason 7: Low Refrigerant Charge
Pinhole leaks from coastal corrosion slowly release refrigerant, forcing the compressor to run longer cycles with little cooling effect. Only licenced refrigeration mechanics may recharge the system, and they should also fix the leak source.
When to Call Cape Fridge Doctor
If two or more of these symptoms appear together, schedule a professional visit. Provide the model number, age, and a log of cycle times so the technician can dispatch the correct parts on the first trip, saving your household both time and energy costs.
Need professional help? Offer a same-day diagnostics visit for households along the Atlantic Seaboard and Southern Suburbs. Contact Cape Fridge Doctor today.