Yes, it is entirely normal and intentionally engineered for the outer metal side panels and the front cabinet frame perimeter of a modern residential refrigerator to feel quite warm or hot to the touch during regular daily operation. Appliance manufacturers deliberately route hot high-pressure liquid refrigerant lines through these exterior perimeter areas to create a thermal barrier that prevents moisture and condensation droplets from forming on the outside of the fridge in humid kitchen environments. However, it is never normal for the interior food storage compartments or the compressor motor housing behind the lower rear panel to become excessively hot. You can troubleshoot exterior warmth easily by checking room humidity. You can verify normal operation when warm cabinet sides are paired with properly chilled interior food compartments and functional cooling cycles.
1 votes
Marked as accepted