If your fridge stops cooling suddenly, it can be really annoying considering the amount of food which might go to waste.
The issue can be even more annoying if you don’t know what might be the issue and how to check for it.
Problems with the compressor is one of the most common issues that a fridge can face.
Let’s take a look at how to tell if your compressor is compromised and what you can do about it.
Some of the most common signs of a bad compressor include unusually high electricity bills, high heat output, lack of cooling and sound. The cost of replacing a compressor can be very high so make sure to check if the problem is with the compressor or the relay switch.
What Does a Compressor Do?
Think of the compressor as the heart of a refrigerator. It is responsible for circulating the coolant within your fridge which in turn helps with the overall cooling or heating. It is a similar process to pumping air into a bicycle tube.
A problem with the compressor can affect the cooling of your fridge so you should pay close attention to the health of your compressor as well.
Signs That Your Compressor Is Bad
There are some signs which you can look for to get a better idea whether your compressor is the issue or not.
The first thing which you should do is to look for the compressor sound. Everyone is familiar with the sound a fridge makes when it turns on and off. This is the sound of the compressor turning on to cool the fridge and it stops when the appliance reaches the desired temperature.
If there is no sound or if the sound is too loud, then it may indicate a problem with the compressor. Also pay attention if the noise is chunky or hunky. Unusual sound can also indicate an issue with the mounting of the fridge parts.
One of the major signs of a faulty compressor is higher electricity bill. As compressor goes through wear and tear, it take a longer time to cool the fridge which in turn ends up using more electricity.
Higher heat output is also a sign of a faulty compressor. Check whether the coolant in your appliance is at an optimal level as this can also lead to an increase in temperature. As the compressor goes through wear and tear, it has to put more work to cool the appliance and this in turn produces more heat. The optimal working temperature for a fridge is between 45-60C.
Check if the compressor fan is running or not. The fan is responsible for releasing heat and keeping the appliance cool.
If the compressor is turning on or off very frequently, especially during the summer then it might indicate a faulty compressor.
Excessive frost on the compressor head or anywhere in the fridge is a big sign of a faulty compressor. This also indicates that the refrigerant is not being properly processed and it might lead to temperature control issues.
You can also check for any issues with the compressor relay. Remove the component and give it a nice shake to check if there is any rattling noise. A noise would mean that the relay has some damaged component which not be providing electricity to the compressor.
If the compressor seems to be running fine but it is not cooling the fridge, it might indicate a problem with the compressor as well.
How To Diagnose An Issue With The Compressor?
If you see any of the above signs of a faulty compressor, it is better to properly check it once before calling a professional to fix it. Problems with the compressor can end up being very costly and checking the issue beforehand can make you better prepared for it.
Before you check anything, make sure the fridge is turned off and unplugged from the sockets.
First you will need to get access to the compressor. Pull the fridge if its located in a corner and locate the side panel which will give you access to the compressor.
Unscrew the screws and remove the panel. You will see a relay switch connected to the compressor. Detach this relay switch and give it a nice shake to see if any components are making a noise or moving inside it. If this is not the case then the problem is most likely with the compressor. The relay switch is relatively inexpensive.
You can also check the compressor motor itself but it can be complicated and you might need specialised tools for it. You can leave this to the professional and let him or her check it.
How to Fix an Issue With The Compressor?
If there is a problem with the compressor, you will most probably have to replace it. In some cases, it can be repaired as well but it is rare.
If you have a high-end fridge then you might need to spend a lot to get the compressor replaced. Contact your company to find out more details.
Before you go, you may enjoy these articles as well:
- How Do You Know If Your Refrigerator Needs Freon?
- How Long Does It Take A Refrigerator To Get Cold Once Plugged In?
- Refrigerator Won’t Cool But Freezer Works
Conclusion
Replacing a compressor can be very expensive, look for signs such as high heat output, no sound, lack of cooling and unusually high electricity bill.
Check whether the problem is with the relay switch or the compressor and call a professional to verify and fix the issue.
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