What To Do If Your Fridge Compressor Is Not Working
Having issues with your refrigerator not cooling properly can be extremely frustrating. Upon opening the doors you are met with Warm air instead of crisp, cool air. Popping open the freezer reveals limp frost and soft ice cream--not an ideal discovery.
In many cases, lack of cold air points to a compressor failure. But before you despair thinking about costly repairs or replacement, there are several troubleshooting steps you can try yourself to get your fridge back up and running.
Confirm The Compressor Is Not Running
First, verify that the compressor is in fact not operating. The compressor emits a light hum or buzzing vibration when operating normally. Place your hand along the back panel or lower rear of the fridge to feel for these signs of operation.
You should also double check that the refrigerator is properly plugged in and receiving power. Ensure any GFCI outlets have not tripped. Listen closely to detect if the compressor tries starting up and quickly clicks off, indicating a fault.
Rule Out Other Potential Culprits
Several issues can mimic a broken compressor. Start by inspecting the condenser coils, located along the lower back of cabinet. Over time, dust and pet hair can accumulate here, obstructing airflow over the coils.
Use a stiff bristle brush attachment on your vacuum to dislodge and clear out any debris trapped within the condenser coils. Improve access by detaching the lower access panel. With unimpeded airflow restored, a previously struggling compressor may restart normal operation.
Check the Evaporator Fan
The evaporator fan circulates air from the fresh food and freezer compartments across the evaporator coils to create chilled air. If the fan blade is obstructed or motor fails, the lack of circulation can essentially choke the cooling system.
Verify the fan rotates freely and shows no signs of ice buildup behind the interior rear panel preventing it from turning. Use a cooling spray like Dust-Off upside down to freeze and stop the fan briefly to detect if it seizes up.
Test the Start Relay and Run Capacitor
While you have the access panel off, check the start relay and run capacitor. The capacitor provides an initial jolt of power to the compressor motor windings while the relay connects electricity from the control circuit.
Use a multi-meter to check microfarads/capacitance rating against factory specifications. Signs of a faulty capacitor include bulging at the top or oil leaks. A bad relay may show signs of overheating discoloration or make clicking noises trying to engage.
Diagnose Why The Compressor Is Not Starting
If the previous troubleshooting steps fail to restart the compressor, it's helpful to understand some reasons why it will not kick on.
- An internal overload kills power if motors overheat from strain
- Electrical windings short out over time
- Run capacitor cannot provide enough oomph to start
- Start relay and capacitor fail in tandem
- Loss of refrigerant indicates leaks in the sealed system
- Control board stops signaling compressor to operate
When To Call A Professional Repair Technician
Once you've ruled out drainage obstructions and verified electrical continuity to the compressor, any remaining fault likely lies within the hermetically sealed refrigeration system.
Attempting to cut into these components often necessitates replacing the entire fridge. Instead, a professional appliance technician has the tools and qualifications to properly diagnose issues in the sealed system.
They can also determine if attempting repair is advisable based on the compressor age and cost-benefit analysis of investing in a brand new refrigerator.
Preventative Maintenance To Extend Compressor Life
While many cumulative factors affect compressor lifespan, following best practices helps safeguard its vulnerable components:
- Regularly clean condenser coils free of debris
- Maintain door seals to prevent escaping cool air
- Allow adequate spacing for airflow around the housing
- Avoid overpacking the fridge or blocking internal vents
- Set temperature only as low as necessary for proper food storage
- Consider installing a compressor voltage monitor/saver
Is It Time To Replace The Refrigerator?
If the cost of repairs outweighs the expense of buying a similar replacement fridge, purchasing new may make sense financially.
Some homeowners choose to repair the old unit to extend its usefulness and donate it to charity or move it to the garage for extra cold storage.
Before discarding an expired refrigerator, always follow proper procedures and regulations regarding refrigerant reclamation and recycling of old appliance components.
Before making any hasty decisions about an expensive compressor replacement, attempt basic troubleshooting to revive your old faithful fridge.
DIY maintenance solutions can successfully resolve many common issues hindering cooling performance. In the event of unavoidable compressor failure, count on your technician's repair versus replace guidance.