A refrigerator compressor is a vital component of your refrigerator that keeps your food and drinks cold and fresh. But what does a refrigerator compressor do exactly? And how does it work? In this post, we’ll explain the function and operation of a refrigerator compressor, and why it’s important to maintain it properly.
A refrigerator compressor is a motor and a pump that compresses the refrigerant in the refrigerator and moves it through the system. The compressor plays an important role in producing cooling in the refrigerator, which helps preserve food for a long time. The compressor is also called the “heart” of the refrigerator.
How Does A Refrigerator Compressor Work?
A refrigerator compressor works by following a basic refrigeration cycle that involves four main stages: compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation.
- Compression: The compressor receives low-pressure refrigerant gas from the evaporator and compresses it into high-pressure refrigerant gas. This increases the temperature and energy of the refrigerant gas.
- Condensation: The high-pressure refrigerant gas flows through the condenser coils, which are located on the back or bottom of the refrigerator. The condenser coils release heat to the surrounding air, causing the refrigerant gas to condense into liquid form.
- Expansion: The high-pressure refrigerant liquid passes through an expansion valve, which reduces its pressure and temperature. The expansion valve also controls the amount of refrigerant that enters the evaporator.
- Evaporation: The low-pressure refrigerant liquid enters the evaporator coils, which are located inside the freezer and refrigerator compartments. The evaporator coils absorb heat from the air inside the compartments, causing the refrigerant liquid to evaporate into gas form. This creates a cooling effect that lowers the temperature of the compartments.
The cycle repeats as long as the refrigerator is running. The compressor is controlled by temperature sensors that monitor the temperature inside the compartments and turn on or off the compressor accordingly.
Why Is A Refrigerator Compressor Important?
A refrigerator compressor is important because it is responsible for creating and maintaining the cooling in the refrigerator. Without a functioning compressor, the refrigerant would not circulate through the system, and the refrigerator would not cool properly.
A refrigerator compressor is also important because it affects the efficiency and performance of your refrigerator. A well-maintained compressor can save you energy and money by reducing your electricity consumption and preventing food spoilage. A poorly-maintained or damaged compressor can waste energy and money by increasing your electricity consumption and causing food spoilage.
How To Maintain A Refrigerator Compressor?
To maintain a refrigerator compressor, you should:
- Clean the condenser coils regularly to remove dust and dirt that can reduce their heat transfer efficiency and cause overheating of the compressor.
- Check the seal of the refrigerator door to ensure that it is tight and not letting cold air escape or warm air enter, which can make the compressor work harder than necessary.
- Avoid overloading or underloading your refrigerator, as this can affect its airflow and cooling capacity, which can also make the compressor work harder than necessary.
- Avoid placing hot or warm items inside your refrigerator, as this can raise its temperature and make the compressor work harder to cool them down.
- Replace or repair any faulty components, such as the thermostat, fan motor, relay, capacitor, or sensor, that can affect the operation of your compressor.
FAQs About Refrigerator Compressor
Q: How do I know if my refrigerator compressor is bad?
A: Some signs that your refrigerator compressor is bad are:
- Your refrigerator is not cooling enough or at all
- Your refrigerator is making loud or unusual noises
- Your refrigerator is leaking water or refrigerant
- Your refrigerator is tripping the circuit breaker or blowing fuses
- Your refrigerator is consuming more energy than usual
Q: How much does it cost to replace a refrigerator compressor?
A: The cost to replace a refrigerator compressor depends on several factors, such as:
- The type and model of your refrigerator
- The type and size of your compressor
- The availability and quality of your replacement parts
- The labor fees and charges of your technician
According to some sources, the average cost to replace a refrigerator compressor ranges from $200 to $600.
Q: How long does a refrigerator compressor last?
A: The lifespan of a refrigerator compressor depends on several factors, such as:
- The quality and design of your compressor
- The usage and maintenance of your refrigerator
- The environmental conditions and power supply of your location
According to some sources, the average lifespan of a refrigerator compressor ranges from 10 to 20 years.
Conclusion
A refrigerator compressor is a key component of your refrigerator that compresses and circulates the refrigerant through the system. A refrigerator compressor creates and maintains the cooling in your refrigerator, which helps preserve your food for a long time.