A:Answer Hello, thank you for sharing your experience. It's normal if the sides get hot. In the insulated walls of the refrigerator there is a heat exchanger coil. This will produce heat. The longer your refrigerator runs the warmer the sides and top will get. However, the sides shouldn't get extremely hot. If you need further assistance with your mini fridge, please feel free to contact us at https://www.insigniaproducts.com/contact-us
Deneb M.- Insignia Support