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.
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.
Compressor Sounds: When the freezer is running, listen for a humming sound from the compressor. If it's silent or making clicking noises, it could indicate a problem. Fan Operation: Check if the interior fan is running. If not, it may be a sign of an issue. Ensure the thermostat is set to a cold enough temperature.
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.
Loss of Cooling: The primary function of the compressor is to circulate refrigerant throughout the system, facilitating heat exchange and cooling the interior of the refrigerator. If the compressor fails, the refrigerator will stop cooling effectively, causing food to spoil.
If the compressor fails, the freezer won't freeze; listen for the compressor hum, if absent, consult a refrigeration technician for repair.
One factor to consider is the age of your refrigerator. 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.
Learning how to replace a refrigerator compressor replacement can be very tricky, and should ALWAYS be left to qualified professionals. We at HomElectrical have worked to pull together a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know when it comes to replacing your fridge compressor.
While refrigerator compressors can be expensive, usually falling between $200 and $650 with an average of $375, the total pales in comparison to the several thousand dollars you'd spend on a new fridge. If your fridge is nearing the end of its life anyway, consider a full replacement.
Too Much or Too Little Load. 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.
One cause is that the temperature control thermostat is not working properly, forcing the freezer to run constantly to try and meet the correct temperature. If this is the case, you can try resetting the thermostat or replacing it altogether.
When the cost of repairs exceeds the value of the freezer, replacing it becomes the more cost-effective option. Consider the appliance's age, current condition, and estimated repair cost in comparison to the price of a new freezer. If repairs are too costly, investing in a new freezer makes more sense.
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. Professional Repair Required: Compressors have numerous components, and diagnosing the source of the noise can be complicated.
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.
A bad compressor prevents the refrigerator from being able to sufficiently cool itself down. The compressor's job is to move the refrigerant through the refrigerator's cooling system. As the refrigerant moves through the evaporator coil the heat is moved out and the inside of the refrigerator is cooled down.
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.”
If it breaks, the compressor might not work correctly, preventing the freezer from cooling.
Typically, replacing a compressor should be done by a professional, but you can perform this task at home if you are competent working with your hands. Doing the job yourself can also save you a decent amount of money.
When you have just one compressor the air from the refrigerated section and the freezer section all run through the same compressor, which can cause odors to be shared by both spaces.
Replacing the compressor will take around 3-6 hours. To avoid wasting food, you may want to store it in coolers with ice packs. Note the type of refrigerant the old compressor uses.
In a previous CR member survey, we found that the median refrigerator repair costs for seven specific problems —including icemakers not making ice, fridges not cooling, and dispensers not working—ranged from about $150 to $240. The median repair cost for broken or faulty compressors is much higher, at $562.
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. Over time, the dirt and dust can clog up the compressor, causing it to overheat and break down.
Specific Appliance Considerations
For refrigerators, it is advisable to repair if they are less than 10 years old and the repair cost is reasonable. However, if they are over 10 years old, inefficient, or have a major component failure like the compressor, replacement is the better option.