Instructions
- Disconnect the electrical power. Unplug the freezer or shut off the circuit breaker for the freezer.
- Remove the grille cover. Pull the control knob straight off of the cold control thermostat. ...
- Disconnect the wires from the compressor start relay. ...
- Remove the compressor start relay. ...
- Install the new compressor start relay. ...
How to replace freezer compressor?
It only takes a few simple steps to reset a refrigerator compressor, such as:
- Disconnect the power cord from the refrigerator in the back. You will likely hear a tapping sound when you unplug the fridge, and that is normal. ...
- Set the fridge and the freezer controls to either “0n” or “off” depending on your model. ...
- Wait a full day for the refrigerator to adjust and retain a stable temperature. ...
How much does it cost to replace a refrigerator compressor?
You cannot repair a broken compressor, so you need to replace it or replace the entire refrigerator. Costs vary based on the type of refrigerator you have, how old it is, and the size of the previous compressor. It can cost over $500 to replace a compressor depending on the refrigerator.
How do you replace a refrigerator compressor?
Remove the Old Compressor
- Empty the Fridge. Clean out the fridge. Take everything out of the fridge and put it into coolers with ice packs. ...
- Move the Unit. Pull the fridge out. You have to access the back of the fridge in order to work on the compressor. ...
- Take Off the Guard Plate. Remove the guard. ...
- Remove the Compressor. Find and remove the compressor. ...
- Photograph. Take pictures. ...
Why is my freezer not working?
TROUBLESHOOTING: COMMON CAUSES OF FREEZER FROST
- Is the freezer door ajar? An open door allows cool air to escape the freezer and warm air to enter. ...
- Is the freezer being opened frequently? ...
- Is the door seal cracked or damaged? ...
- Has food been cooled before storing? ...
How do I reset my freezer compressor?
Here's how to do it:Unplug your refrigerator. Disconnect your fridge from its power source by removing the power cord from the wall outlet. ... Turn off the refrigerator and freezer from the control panel. ... Reset your freezer and fridge temperature settings. ... Wait for the refrigerator temperature to stabilize.
What causes freezer compressor failure?
Too Little or Too Much Refrigerant In the event that the amount of refrigerant in the system is not perfect, it could create too much pressure or strain and lead to compressor failure. Too little refrigerant is most likely caused by an insufficient charge from the last technician, or from a refrigerant leak.
How do you diagnose a bad freezer compressor?
0:269:05How to Diagnose a Compressor on your Refrigerator - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut when you test resistance across the pins on the compressor. Most of the time you get somethingMoreBut when you test resistance across the pins on the compressor. Most of the time you get something close to for close to 6. And when you had when you had the between these two pins.
How much does it cost to fix a freezer compressor?
Replacing the compressor is one of the pricier refrigerator repairs. Including labor, refrigerator compressor costs can run between $250 and $650, and the price of a new compressor averages between $100 and $500.
What is the most common cause of compressor failure?
Overheating is a common cause of compressor failure, and there are many factors at play. If direct sunlight falls on your outdoor unit and there is inadequate ventilation around it, it makes your unit's compressor overheated. High voltages can also damage the motor causing the compressor to overheat.
Can a refrigerator compressor be repaired?
While yes, you can certainly repair a damaged compressor, it may not be worth it. Replacing a refrigerator compressor entails removing the Freon carefully so that it will not escape, then using a blow torch to remove the faulty compressor.
How long does a freezer compressor last?
Although plans for a replacement should start around eight years of service, a well-maintained compressor can reach to ten years and beyond. As it ages, efficiency loss is gradual at first.
Is it worth replacing compressor on refrigerator?
Well, if the refrigerator has turned more than 10-15 years, there is no point of investing money on the repairing. A new compressor will cost half of the total cost of a refrigerator. So, basically, you can spend a little more and buy a brand new refrigerator equipped with a new compressor.
What would cause a compressor not to pump?
You will want to have the unit examined to look for signs of a blown fuse, a tripped circuit breaker, a broken thermostat, or dirty air filters. Dirty or clogged filters commonly make AC compressors stop working.
Is it worth fixing a freezer?
Two good rules of thumb to keep in mind are that if repairing your fridge costs less than half the price of buying a new one, it's generally worth making those repairs.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a freezer?
The cost of freezer repairs depends on various factors, such as the problem and freezer size, make, and model. The national cost average for freezer repair is between $100 and $300, with most people paying $200 for repairing a broken seal on an upright freezer....Freezer Repair Price.Freezer Repair CostHigh-end$6503 more rows•Jan 4, 2021
How do I know if my compressor is bad on my refrigerator?
You'll know that your compressor is bad when it starts making abnormal noises, the compressor overheats or not providing proper cooling, or when the fridge compressor clicks on and off too frequently.
How long does a freezer compressor last?
Although plans for a replacement should start around eight years of service, a well-maintained compressor can reach to ten years and beyond. As it ages, efficiency loss is gradual at first.
Will freezer work if compressor is bad?
Yes. If the device has separate compressors for the fridge and freezer then it's perfectly possible for one to fail and the other keep working.
What causes refrigerator compressor to shut off?
If your refrigerator is short cycling, it can be caused by a number of issues including: An incorrectly set thermostat inside your refrigerator. Dirt and dust on the coils that prevents efficient operation. Faulty capacitors or relays that prevent the compressor from staying on.
How do I know if the compressor is bad on my refrigerator?
You'll know that your compressor is bad when it starts making abnormal noises, the compressor overheats or not providing proper cooling, or when the fridge compressor clicks on and off too frequently.
What to do if compressor relay is not working?
If the compressor start relay is not working, the compressor will not power on and begin freezing. Disconnect power to the freezer before beginning this repair. The compressor start relay is usually located on the side of the compressor. Use a multi-meter to test its continuity. Check for visible signs of damage caused by overheating, ...
Why won't my freezer freeze?
If your freezer will not freeze food, it may mean there is a problem with the compressor start relay. This part is also known as the controller, and works to power the compressor start windings to make your freezer start running. If the compressor start relay is not working, the compressor will not power on and begin freezing.
What happens if the control board on a freezer is not working?
Some freezer models have two separate control boards. If either board is not working, the compressor may not be prompted to start cooling the air. Check the control board to see if there are visual signs of damage, in which case it will need to be replaced.
Why is my freezer not freezing?
If your freezer stops working and will not freeze, it could be due to an issue with the start capacitor. This part helps power the compressor start windings, which prompt the unit to begin cooling. The compressor may make a humming noise but not start if the capacitor isn’t working.
What is a thermostat on a freezer?
This thermostat is a rotary dial which has a capillary tube sensor that monitors the temperature of the interior lining of the freezer. It also has electrical contacts that send power to the compressor circuit when the freezer needs to begin cooling. If either the contacts or the sensor bulb are damaged, the compressor may not be prompted to start.
Where is the timer on a freezer?
The timer is usually in the rear of the freezer, and can be turned on manually. If the compressor then starts, it means the defrost timer was the issue and needs to be replaced. If the compressor doesn’t start at this point, it should have a live voltage test done by a qualified technician. Back to Top.
What is the function of a control board in a freezer?
Typically, the control board works to display, monitor, and make adjustments to the freezer temperature, and is essential to the functionality of the compressor, evaporator fan and defrost heater circuits. Some freezer models have two separate control boards.
Why does my freezer compressor make a clicking noise?
A start relay helps the compressor motor start . If the start relay fails, it sometimes makes a clicking noise when the compressor starts. Some bad start relays will rattle when you shake it, or the terminals may look burned. The repair is easy following the instructions in our DIY repair guide How to replace a freezer compressor start relay.
What happens if the freezer lid gasket is damaged?
If the gasket is torn or damaged, warm air can enter the freezer causing excessive frost to form which can damage food.
What does a cold thermostat do?
The cold control thermostat does what its name suggests; it controls the freezer temperature. If it fails, the temperatures may fluctuate or become too warm. Our DIY repair guide How to replace a freezer temperature control thermostat shows you how to fix this problem.
How to remove compressor from freezer?
Step 1 - Remove the Old Compressor. Make sure the freezer is unplugged. Simply remove the cover of the area of the freezer where the compressor is located. Using long-nose pliers remove the clip cover; remove the cover overload using your hand. Take out the clip overload using the long nose pliers.
Why do you have to remove compressor connections?
Because the compressor is connected through the common (attached by an overload), running, and starting terminals (both are attached by a relay), you have to individually remove these connections using your hands. Keep them for later use.
How to charge freon from vacuum pump?
Transfer the NPG from the vacuum pump to the freon tank. Open the freon tank and loosen the NPG valve to release existing air off the hose. You can now start charging freon to the compressor based on the suggested PSI of the freezer (check the sticker found at the back of the freezer).
What is a Freon 134A compressor?
Freon 134A. A chest freezer compressor is crucial to the freezing cycle. The compressor is normally at the bottom of the freezer in the back; it is almost always black and about the size of a football. Replacing a compressor can be a bit intricate and requires a great amount of patience.
How to disconnect the suction and discharge tubes from a compressor?
Use a torch with Mapp gas to disconnect the suction and the discharge tubes from the compressor.
Can you plug in a chest freezer?
Plug in the chest freezer while waiting for the freon to regulate.
How much does it cost to replace a compressor?
The compressor is expensive to replace and you’ll have to hire a professional to install a new one. The part alone can cost well over $200.
What is the job of a refrigerator compressor?
The refrigerator compressor’s job is to move refrigerant through your fridge to keep it cold. It cycles cold air through the fridge and cycles hot air out of the appliance with the help of the condenser, located on the back of your refrigerator, and the evaporator located on the inside.
Why does my refrigerator compressor turn on?
The compressor isn’t constantly running, but instead turns on when the temperature inside the refrigerator goes above a certain level. It functions a lot like an air conditioner, but for your fridge.
Is it cheaper to replace a refrigerator compressor?
Depending on the age of your fridge, its price, and how certain you or the repair expert is that the compressor is the problem, replacing the appliance may end up cheaper in the end.
Do refrigerators have a reset button?
Some refrigerators do have a reset button, though not all of them do. You might need to hold the button for 30 seconds by itself or in correlation with another button.
