How To Tell If Refrigerator Compressor Is Bad

The refrigerator compressor is one of the most important parts of your appliance. It is responsible for pumping refrigerant through the coils and creating the cooling effect that keeps your food fresh. However, like any other mechanical device, the compressor can wear out or malfunction over time. If your refrigerator compressor is bad, you may notice some symptoms that affect the performance and efficiency of your fridge. Here are some ways to tell if your refrigerator compressor is bad and what to do about it.

A refrigerator compressor is bad when it makes unusual or loud noises, cycles on and off too frequently or too soon, fails to cool the refrigerator properly, or overheats and emits a burning smell. A bad compressor can also cause the refrigerator to leak refrigerant or oil.

Check for Unusual or Loud Noises

One of the most obvious signs that your refrigerator compressor is bad is when it makes abnormal or loud noises. A normal compressor should make a low humming or buzzing sound when it runs. However, a bad compressor may make noises such as:

• Knocking
• Clunking
• Rattling
• Clicking
• Grinding
• Squealing

These noises indicate that there is something wrong with the motor, the valves, the bearings, or the pistons inside the compressor. A bad compressor may also vibrate excessively and cause the refrigerator to shake or rattle.

Check for Frequent or Premature Cycling

Another sign that your refrigerator compressor is bad is when it cycles on and off too often or too soon. A normal compressor should cycle on and off periodically throughout the day to maintain the desired temperature inside the refrigerator. However, a bad compressor may cycle on and off:

• Too frequently: This means that the compressor is struggling to cool down the refrigerator and has to run more often than usual. This can cause the compressor to overwork and wear out faster. It can also increase your energy bills and reduce the lifespan of your fridge.
• Too soon: This means that the compressor turns off before reaching the optimal temperature and pressure inside the refrigerator. This can cause the refrigerator to be too warm and spoil your food. It can also cause ice buildup on the evaporator coils and reduce the airflow inside the fridge.

Check for Poor Cooling Performance

One of the most obvious signs that your refrigerator compressor is bad is when it fails to cool down your refrigerator properly. A normal compressor should be able to maintain a consistent temperature between 35°F and 40°F in the fresh food compartment and between 0°F and 5°F in the freezer compartment. However, a bad compressor may cause:

• The refrigerator to be too warm: This means that the compressor is not pumping enough refrigerant through the coils or that there is a refrigerant leak somewhere in the system. This can cause your food to spoil faster and increase the risk of bacterial growth.
• The refrigerator to be too cold: This means that the compressor is pumping too much refrigerant through the coils or that there is a problem with the thermostat or the temperature sensor. This can cause your food to freeze or get frostbitten in the fresh food compartment.

Check for Overheating or Burning Smell

Another sign that your refrigerator compressor is bad is when it overheats or emits a burning smell. A normal compressor should be warm to the touch but not hot enough to burn you. However, a bad compressor may overheat due to:

• Lack of lubrication: The compressor needs oil to lubricate its moving parts and reduce friction and heat. If there is not enough oil in the system or if there is an oil leak, the compressor can overheat and seize up.
• Electrical problems: The compressor needs electricity to run its motor and valves. If there is a short circuit, a power surge, a faulty wiring, or a blown fuse, the compressor can overheat and catch fire.

If you notice that your compressor is very hot or that there is a burning smell coming from your refrigerator, you should turn off your fridge immediately and call a professional technician for help.

FAQs

• How do I test my refrigerator compressor? To test your refrigerator compressor, you need a multimeter and some basic electrical skills. You need to:
  • Unplug your refrigerator from the power source and pull it away from the wall
  • Locate the compressor at the back of your fridge and remove its cover
  • Find the start relay on the side of the compressor and disconnect it from its terminals
  • Set your multimeter to ohms mode and test each pair of terminals on the start relay for continuity
  • If there is no continuity between any pair of terminals, replace the start relay
  • If there is continuity between all pairs of terminals, test each pair of terminals on the compressor for resistance
  • If there is no resistance between any pair of terminals, replace the compressor
  • If there is resistance between all pairs of terminals, test the capacitor on the compressor for capacitance
  • If there is no capacitance or if the capacitance is out of range, replace the capacitor
  • If there is capacitance and if it is within range, reconnect the start relay and the capacitor to the compressor and plug in your refrigerator
• How much does it cost to replace a refrigerator compressor? The cost to replace a refrigerator compressor depends on several factors, such as:
  • The brand and model of your refrigerator
  • The type and size of the compressor
  • The availability and quality of the replacement part
  • The labor and service fees of the technician

On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $600 for a new refrigerator compressor, plus another $200 to $400 for the installation. However, the cost can vary widely depending on your specific situation.

• Can I replace a refrigerator compressor myself? Replacing a refrigerator compressor is not a DIY project for most homeowners. It requires specialized tools, skills, and knowledge of refrigeration systems. It also involves working with high-pressure refrigerant, which can be dangerous if not handled properly. If you attempt to replace a refrigerator compressor yourself, you may:
  • Void your warranty
  • Damage your refrigerator or other appliances
  • Cause a refrigerant leak or explosion
  • Injure yourself or others
  • Violate local or federal regulations

Therefore, it is best to leave this job to a licensed and certified technician who can do it safely and correctly.

Conclusion

A refrigerator compressor is a vital component that keeps your fridge running smoothly and efficiently. However, if your compressor is bad, you may notice some signs that affect the performance and quality of your fridge. Some of these signs are:

• Unusual or loud noises
• Frequent or premature cycling
• Poor cooling performance
• Overheating or burning smell

If you suspect that your refrigerator compressor is bad, you should test it with a multimeter or call a professional technician for help. You should also avoid using your fridge until the problem is fixed, as a bad compressor can cause more damage or pose a safety hazard.