Replacing and even repairing a refrigerator compressor should ALWAYS be performed by a qualified technician. Not only are you dealing with just simple electrical wiring, but potentially dangerous refrigerant as well, which needs to be handled with the proper equipment.
While possible, replacing a refrigerator compressor is a complex task best left to professionals due to the technical skills and equipment required.
Installing a new refrigerator compressor costs about $450 on average, ranging between $300 and $400, in most cases. The cost for the compressor itself can run from $100 to $500, not including installation. When your refrigerator is running perfectly, you probably don't give its inner workings much thought.
Replacing a refrigerator compressor takes 3 to 8 hours depending on the extent of the problem and the unit size. If the compressor burned out, then you must flush the lines, which adds more time. Commercial refrigerators will take longer to repair.
The average lifespan of a commercial or industrial refrigeration system compressor can range anywhere from several years to nearly a decade, depending on the quality and maintenance history of the equipment. Generally, a high-quality, well-maintained compressor can last for up to 10 years or more.
Shutting off the power to the refrigerator will give all of its systems—including the compressor—time to reset. Power down your refrigerator by unplugging it from the wall or shutting off the circuit breaker connected to the fridge. Leave the unit unplugged for five to ten minutes.
Buying a new refrigerator altogether might be more cost effective than repeated maintenance and replacement for your fridge's compressor as your refrigerator gets older. A new refrigerator might just be cheaper than several compressor replacements!
The compressor relies on oil to keep it running smoothly, and if the oil level gets too low, the compressor can overheat and break down. Another common cause of compressor failure is a build-up of dirt and dust. This can happen if the fridge isn't cleaned regularly or if there's a lot of dust in the air.
If your refrigerator is old and has a few parts that are wearing out, replacing the compressor is probably not going to be a financially sound move. Something else is quite likely to break in the near future, and you could end up spending hundreds of dollars on something that doesn't have much time left.
Compressor Issues
The compressor is like the heart of your fridge. If it breaks, it's one of the most expensive parts to replace. Fixing a compressor can cost anywhere from $200 to $650.
Without a functioning compressor, your refrigerator would not be able to keep your food fresh and your drinks cold. So, knowing about the different components of a refrigerator compressor can not only help you understand how your fridge works but also help you troubleshoot any potential issues.
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If the compressor fails, the freezer won't freeze; listen for the compressor hum, if absent, consult a refrigeration technician for repair.
In a lawsuit filed in the Western District of Kentucky, two plaintiffs have initiated a class action against Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc., doing business as GE Appliances. The complaint alleges that GE Appliances sold refrigerators with a significant compressor defect.
Failed Condenser or Evaporator Fan Motor
The condenser fan draws air over the compressor and through the condenser coils. If the fan motor isn't working normally, then the fridge won't cool properly. It's normally located at the bottom of the fridge and blows air onto the condenser coils.
A hum or a slight buzz is typical, but if your refrigerator starts making strange or loud noises, the compressor might be struggling. Professional Repair Required: Compressors have numerous components, and diagnosing the source of the noise can be complicated.
A low load on the refrigerator's evaporator and a heavier load in the refrigerating chamber can both lead to issues with the compressor. Running an empty fridge for a longer period of time and having a lot of ice in the freezer chamber are oftentimes to blame.
You should also have routine maintenance at least once a year to ensure everything is running smoothly. After you've learned how to expand the life of your commercial refrigeration compressor, you will now know they can last between 8-10 years, and maybe even longer with routine maintenance and temperature controls.
However, if your fridge is under the fifteen-year mark, it's almost always worth the cost of repair. FYI: Most refrigerators can last between 10 to 20 years with regular maintenance, but even the best fridge can't last forever.
Age of the Unit — Compressors have a limited lifespan. If your unit is near or past its expected lifespan and experiencing problems, it might be time to consider a replacement.
Basic refrigerator repairs can be done at home with a bit of knowledge and patience, involving components like door gaskets, thermostats and defrost timers.
Reset your refrigerator
Follow the instructions below depending on your model and what you would like to reset: Reset your refrigerator: First, unplug it (or turn off the power at the circuit breaker), and then wait about five minutes for the electrical charge to clear out of it. Then, power it back on again.
The location of the reset button on your compressor can vary depending on the model and manufacturer. Typically, it is located on the motor or near the motor housing. Look for a small red or black button that is often labeled “reset.”
Clear blocked air vents: Inspect the air vents inside the fridge and freezer compartments to ensure they are not obstructed by food or containers. Proper air circulation is vital for even cooling. Check the door seals: Inspect the rubber gaskets (door seals) around the refrigerator and freezer doors for damage.