How do you know if your refrigerator is running?

To verify that a refrigerator is running, feel some of the contents to determine whether they are cold. Even if the food's temperature is normal, it is also important to check the power and sounds the refrigerator makes.

To check for power, pull the refrigerator away from the wall and listen for a humming sound to see whether the compressor is running. Opening the door and looking for a lit light can also tell you whether the refrigerator has power. If the light does not go on when the door is open, test the outlet with a lamp or other electrical device to find out whether the source of the problem is the light bulb or the outlet.