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Why Does My Subcold INTEGRA Switch On and Off?

Updated 29 September 2026
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If your Subcold INTEGRA appears to switch on and off during operation, this is generally part of the normal operation of its compressor cooling system.

The INTEGRA30, INTEGRA60 and INTEGRA60-DZ all use compressor refrigeration.

Why the Compressor Starts and Stops

The cooler does not need to run continuously.

The temperature control monitors the cabinet temperature and the cooling system operates as required to maintain the selected setting.

During normal use, the compressor may:

  • Start when additional cooling is required

  • Run while the cabinet temperature is being reduced

  • Stop after sufficient cooling has been achieved

  • Restart later as the temperature naturally rises

The amount of time between cycles will vary.

What Can Affect the Cooling Cycle?

The compressor may run more frequently when:

  • The appliance has recently been switched on

  • Room-temperature bottles have been added

  • The door is opened frequently

  • The room is warm

  • A colder temperature has been selected

  • Ventilation around the appliance is restricted

It may remain off for longer once the cabinet and bottles have reached the selected temperature.

Sounds When the Compressor Starts or Stops

It is normal for a compressor refrigeration system to produce some operating noise.

You may notice:

  • A brief click as cooling starts or stops

  • Low humming while the compressor runs

  • Slight vibration

  • Bubbling, gurgling or refrigerant-flow sounds

These sounds may be more noticeable when the room is quiet.

When Start-and-Stop Operation May Need Checking

Contact Subcold Customer Service if:

  • The compressor attempts to restart every few seconds

  • The appliance is not cooling

  • The compressor never appears to start

  • The appliance runs continuously without reaching the selected temperature

  • You hear repeated loud clicking, grinding or scraping

  • The display shows E1 or E3

If the cooler is maintaining the selected temperature and periodically starting and stopping, this would normally be consistent with normal temperature regulation.


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