Is it expensive to fix the compressor on a refrigerator?

Author: Dr. Bradford Gerhold Sr.  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 29, 2025

A refrigerator compressor replacement costs $700 to $1,250 on average. Most refrigerator compressor prices are $200 to $400, depending on the brand and size. The labor cost to replace a refrigerator compressor is $500 to $850. The cost to repair a refrigerator compressor is $50 to $125 per hour.

Is it worth fixing a compressor on a refrigerator?

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.

How much does it cost to fix a refrigerator compressor?

Compressor repairs are slightly less expensive than a full replacement, with the cost to repair a compressor coming in at $200 to $450. However, refrigerator compressors last eight to 10 years, so consider springing for the extra money to replace them as they approach the end of their life span.

What is the most expensive thing to fix on a refrigerator?

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.

What is the average life of a refrigerator compressor?

It is challenging to forecast the lifespan of commercial refrigeration compressors. They can live between 8 and 10 years on average, yet this still fluctuates. Compressor failure rates can be influenced by a wide range of factors, including the kind of compressor and maintenance schedules.

Refrigerator Compressor Not Running: Diagnosis & Repair or Emergency Fix No More Spoiled Food

How do you know if your fridge compressor is gone?

You Hear Unusual Noises

A hum or a slight buzz is typical, but if your refrigerator starts making strange or loud noises, the compressor might be struggling.

What shortens the life of a refrigerator?

For example, overloading the fridge with too much food can put extra strain on the motor, which will cause it to work harder and potentially fail sooner. Similarly, frequently opening and closing the fridge door can also lead to premature wear and tear.

Is it cheaper to fix a refrigerator or buy a new one?

But even if your refrigerator isn't under warranty, the good news is that the average cost of refrigerator repairs is between $200 to $400, which is significantly less than the cost of a new fridge. So, check that warranty before you make any decisions.

What is the most common fridge failure?

The three most common reasons for failures that we see as a result of wear & tear are a mechanically locked compressor, failure of the fan motor, and dirty condenser coils. The refrigerator's compressor is the heart of the cooling system; without a working compressor the refrigerator cannot function.

What is the most expensive part of a refrigerator?

Also, the compressor itself is one of the most expensive parts of a refrigerator. It's a crucial component in the cooling system, and as such, manufacturers invest a lot in its design and construction.

What is the most common cause of refrigerator compressor failure?

One of the most common causes is a lack of lubrication. 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.

Which brand of refrigerator is the best?

Our Top Pick: LG produces excellent refrigerators that perform well in our tests and receive high satisfaction ratings from consumers, including our survey participants. The Smart French Door Refrigerator with Dual Ice Maker stands out for its simple, user-friendly design and customizable features.

Is a compressor expensive to fix?

On average, replacing an AC compressor costs around $1,100, with labor costs ranging from $160 to $200 and parts from $650 to $840. Getting quotes from multiple shops can help save on costs.

What happens to a fridge when the compressor goes out?

The compressor is one of the main components of a refrigerator, so if it fails the fridge won't function as it should and your food will spoil.

Is it worth repairing a 10 year old refrigerator?

In fact, our research shows that if your refrigerator is less than 10 years old, it's usually more economical to get it fixed.

Can a fridge work with a broken compressor?

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.

What is the first thing to check when a refrigerator stops working?

The first thing you should do is check if the power supply to your refrigerator is working properly. Make sure that none of the plugs or wiring are loose or damaged, and check that the power outlet is still functional. If everything looks fine on that front, then it could be a problem with the refrigerator itself.

What brand of refrigerator has the least problems?

Which refrigerator brand is most reliable? All three of the appliance experts we spoke to for this roundup said Whirlpool and LG were the most reliable refrigerator brands due to their durability, reliability and ease of repairs. Samsung and GE were also mentioned by our experts as high-quality fridges.

Can a bad refrigerator compressor cause a fire?

Fridges automatically cycle on and off for years, and parts undergo wear and tear. Worn-out compressors and relay switches are the primary causes of refrigerators catching fire.

How much does it cost to repair a refrigerator compressor?

For example, refrigerator compressor repair cost will run between $200 and $450. Common refrigerator problems include water or refrigerant leaking from the appliance, loud noises coming from the refrigerator, overly high energy bills, uneven cooling, and the appliance simply refusing to cool at all.

What is the average life of a refrigerator?

According to the United States Department of Energy, refrigerators last approximately 12 years. At that point, it's likely time to replace it. Of course, if your refrigerator is not energy-efficient, you may want to consider replacing it before it stops working.

Is it worth fixing a freon leak in a refrigerator?

Because refrigerant leaks could be a health hazard in your home, it's important to get swift refrigerator refrigerant leak repair.

What is the longest lasting refrigerator brand?

Some of the most long-lasting refrigerator brands come from GE, LG, and Bosch. These refrigerators come at different price points, whether you are looking for a standard model or high-end appliance.

How do I know if my fridge is dying?

If your fridge is not cooling or maintaining the correct temperature, it's a clear sign of trouble. Food spoiling quickly or a noticeable difference in the fridge's internal temperature are indicators. This could be due to a malfunctioning thermostat, blocked vents, or a failing compressor.

How can I make my refrigerator compressor last longer?

Place your refrigerator in a cool dry place

This is because placing the refrigerator in an area with excessive heat will make the compressor work harder which over time affects its efficiency. Keeping your refrigerator away from heat will indeed make it last longer.

Previous article
Can I put laundry sanitizer directly in washer?
Next article
How far should gutter water be from house?