For a freezer to maintain the desired temperature of 0 degrees F, the compressor will usually run more than 50% of the time. Modern chest freezers have smaller, more powerful, high-speed compressors that generally cost less to operate than those in older refrigerators.
1. Compressor. Usually located at the lower-back of the freezer, the compressor increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant, working together with the condenser coils.
Freezer compressor replacement costs between $250 and $650. The compressor keeps the temperature balanced in the freezer by moving coolant, or freezer gases, through the freezer unit. If the compressor malfunctions, it may be unable to achieve the desired temperatures or have uneven temperatures in different sections.
To fix a freezer that's not freezing, you'll need to identify the root cause. Common issues include frost buildup, a faulty temperature sensor, or a broken compressor. For accurate diagnosis and repair, it's recommended to hire a service professional.
Be sure to check the electrical outlet, thermostat and airflow around vents. Cooling problems can also be caused by dust on condenser coils, faulty gaskets, clearance space around the refrigerator, a broken or stuck condenser fan or a faulty circuit board.
Your compressor will usually last 8-10 years. If you start having issues with your compressor before this time frame, it might be worth looking into options for repair, but if it's hitting the average lifespan, it might be more worth it to replace entirely.
Minor repairs that don't cost much can justify fixing the appliance. However, if the repair costs approach or exceed the price of a new freezer, replacement becomes a more sensible option. It's important to get a detailed estimate and compare it with the cost of a new model to make an informed choice.
Both upright and chest freezers can last an average of 10 to 15 years. To make your freezer last longer and live its best life make sure the unit gets proper ventilation, don't overload it with food and keep it set at a consistent temperature.
If the compressor fails, the freezer won't freeze; listen for the compressor hum, if absent, consult a refrigeration technician for repair.
The Cold Control Thermostat Maintains Cold Temperatures
A thermostat monitors the internal temperature and cycles the compressor on and off to maintain freezer temperature around 0 degrees or lower depending on the thermostat setting that you choose.
While possible, replacing a refrigerator compressor is a complex task best left to professionals due to the technical skills and equipment required.
A failing compressor is not something to be taken lightly. Left untreated, it can lead to more serious issues, like food spoilage or even a complete breakdown of your refrigerator.
Energy efficiency is higher in chest freezers because they have an airtight seal. In the event of a power outage, chest freezers keep food frozen longer than upright freezers.
The last major difference between the two is their average lifespan. Chest freezers often have a longer lifespan than upright freezers as they have less issues with overheating and leakage.
Compressor
The compressor works with the condenser coils to move warm air out of the freezer. The compressor is essential to a freezer's function and is often the most expensive part to replace, with a typical price range of $200 to $450.
If it's more than fifteen years old, it may not be worth repairing because the cost of parts and labor may be more than that of a new fridge. However, if your fridge is under the fifteen-year mark, it's almost always worth the cost of repair.
Average freezer repair cost
Deep freezer repair costs $100 to $400 on average. Freezer compressor replacement costs $400 to $800. The cost to fix a standalone freezer is $50 to $125 hourly.
On average, they can last between 8-10 years, which still varies. There are many variables such as the type of compressor and maintenance schedules that can affect compressor failure rates.
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.
Start relay or controller: When faced with a freezer compressor not starting, the compressor start relay (or controller) is often the culprit. Located on the side of the compressor, the controller energizes the start windings and typically contains overload protection.