How To Find Low Side Of Refrigerator Compressor

A refrigerator compressor is a device that compresses and circulates refrigerant gas through the cooling system of the refrigerator. The compressor has two sides: the high side and the low side. The high side is where the refrigerant gas is compressed and discharged to the condenser coil, where it releases heat and turns into a liquid. The low side is where the refrigerant liquid is expanded and evaporated in the evaporator coil, where it absorbs heat and turns back into a gas.

The low side of the refrigerator compressor is an important part of the refrigeration cycle, as it regulates the flow and pressure of the refrigerant to cool the refrigerator. The low side of the compressor is also where you can connect a pressure gauge or a service valve to check or adjust the refrigerant level in the system. However, to do this, you need to know how to find the low side of the refrigerator compressor.

In this post, we will explain how to easily identify the low side of the refrigerator compressor and why it matters.

How to easily identify the low side of the refrigerator compressor

To find the low side of the refrigerator compressor, you need to locate two components: the compressor itself and the suction line. The suction line is a large copper tube that connects the evaporator coil to the compressor. The suction line carries the refrigerant gas from the evaporator coil to the compressor, where it is compressed and sent to the high side.

The compressor is usually located at the bottom of the refrigerator, behind a removable panel or cover. It looks like a small metal cylinder with two copper tubes attached to it: one for the high side and one for the low side. The low side tube is usually larger in diameter and has a lower pressure than the high side tube.

To identify the low side of the refrigerator compressor, you need to follow these steps:

1. Unplug your refrigerator: Before you start working on your refrigerator, make sure to unplug it from the power outlet to avoid any shocks or injuries.
2. Locate and access your compressor: Depending on your refrigerator model and type, you may need to remove some screws or clips to access your compressor. Refer to your refrigerator’s manual or check online for specific instructions on how to locate and access your compressor.
3. Locate and follow your suction line: Find the suction line that runs from the evaporator coil to the compressor. It is usually a large copper tube that may have some insulation around it. Follow it with your hand until you reach the compressor.
4. Identify your low side tube: The low side tube is usually larger in diameter and has a lower pressure than the high side tube. It may also have a service valve or a cap on it that you can use to connect a pressure gauge or a service hose. The low side tube is connected to the suction line that you followed earlier.

Why finding the low side of the refrigerator compressor matters

Finding the low side of the refrigerator compressor matters for several reasons, such as:

• Checking or adjusting the refrigerant level: The refrigerant level in your refrigerator affects its cooling performance and efficiency. If there is too much or too little refrigerant in your system, it can cause problems such as frost buildup, warm temperatures, or compressor damage. To check or adjust your refrigerant level, you need to connect a pressure gauge or a service hose to your low side tube and follow some procedures that vary depending on your refrigerator model and type.
• Diagnosing or repairing a faulty compressor: The compressor is one of the most vital and expensive components of your refrigerator. If it fails or malfunctions, it can cause your refrigerator to stop cooling or make loud noises. To diagnose or repair a faulty compressor, you need to measure its pressure and electrical resistance using a multimeter and a pressure gauge connected to your low side tube.
• Replacing or installing a new compressor: If your compressor needs to be replaced or installed, you need to know which tube is which on your new or old compressor. You also need to make sure that you connect them correctly to avoid any leaks or damage.

Conclusion

The low side of the refrigerator compressor is where you can check or adjust your refrigerant level, diagnose or repair your compressor, or replace or install a new compressor. To find it, you need to locate and follow your suction line until you reach your compressor, then identify your low side tube by its size and pressure.