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. ...
Full Answer
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? ...
Can freezer 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 do I fix the compressor on my fridge freezer?
0:304:23Troubleshooting Compressor Problems in Refrigerators - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou'll need to replace the PTC relay. If the start relay is okay you may have a defective compressorMoreYou'll need to replace the PTC relay. If the start relay is okay you may have a defective compressor unfortunately. You'll need to get a service technicians help to replace the compressor.
What causes a freezer compressor to fail?
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 reset the compressor on a freezer?
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.
How do I know if my freezer compressor is bad?
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.
Is it worth repairing a refrigerator compressor?
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 kills a refrigerator compressor?
What kills a refrigerator compressor? Typically, compressors die because something in the air conditioning or refrigeration system changes, which affects the compressor performance. For example, liquid slugging is a common cause of compressor failure, but the compressor doesn't cause this phenomenon.
How do you tell if the compressor is bad on a refrigerator?
Pay attention for half an hour. If you do not hear it, then there is an issue. If you do hear the compressor working but your fridge is not cold, or you hear it running constantly without shutting off, then it is likely there is an issue with the compressor as well.
What makes a compressor go bad?
The causes of compressor failure due to system contamination can include such elements as air, moisture, dirt, and acids which can form with the addition of heat and pressure. The main causes of electrical failure include imbalances in the voltage or current, resulting in overheating and failure.
Do freezers have a reset button?
Most chest freezers do not reset automatically. That is why they have reset buttons, which are set back ON after a power outage.
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.
How long do I unplug my freezer to reset it?
If the coils inside the fridge/freezer are frozen over, then the air can not circulate over the coils and the fridge/freezer will not cool. By unplugging the fridge for 24 hours, the ice melts.
How do you know if your fridge compressor is broken?
Pay attention for half an hour. If you do not hear it, then there is an issue. If you do hear the compressor working but your fridge is not cold, or you hear it running constantly without shutting off, then it is likely there is an issue with the compressor as well.
What happens if refrigerator compressor stops working?
Faulty compressor If the fridge does not work, the compressor might be defective. The compressor is a motor which compresses the refrigerant or coolant and circulates the refrigerant through the evaporator and condenser coils. Problems with your compressor may cause the fridge to shut down.
Why is fridge compressor running but not cooling?
The most common reason why a refrigerator is not cooling is a problem with the evaporator coils. Over time, evaporator coils can become covered with ice, which prevents the coils from working properly. If the coils are covered in ice, the ice will need to be defrosted to fix the problem.
What happens when a refrigerator compressor goes out?
If the compressor is wearing out in your refrigerator, it will likely cycle more often, or you will notice issues like food spoilage.
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.
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.
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.
Why won't my freezer start?
If your freezer won’t start, then you may have a problem with the temperature control thermostat. The rotary dial thermostat or temperature control uses a capillary tube sensor that attaches to the inside liner of the freezer to monitor the temperature, and also has a set of internal electrical contacts that supply power to the compressor circuit.
Why does my compressor hum but not start?
If the capacitor is defective, the compressor might hum but may not start. The capacitor is located on the side of the compressor and is usually attached to the start relay and overload device or controller. Look for any signs of overheating or arcing on the capacitor and replace with only the manufacturer’s suggested part.
What is the name of the device that energizes the compressor start windings?
Need Help Finding Your Model Number? If your freezer won’t start, one of the most common parts to fail is the compressor start relay. Sometimes called the controller , this device is used to energize the compressor start windings until the unit is running, and it usually contains the overload protection component as well.
Where is the timer on a freezer?
The timer is normally located at the rear of the freezer and should have a slotted shaft to allow you to manually advance the timer. If you manually advance the defrost timer and the compressor starts then the timer will need to be replaced. If the compressor doesn’t start you should also check to see if you have power coming from ...
What Causes a Refrigerator Compressor to Fail?
The following are factors that cause the failure of a refrigerator compressor:
What Happens When a Refrigerator Compressor Fails?
When the compressor of a refrigerator fails, the first thing that happens is a rising internal temperature. Food will go bad, and there will be no cold water. This is even though the lights of the refrigerator are working. Sometimes, you may even hear the compressor running, but it is not working.
How Does a Failing Refrigerator Compressor Sound?
A failing refrigerator compressor makes a loud buzzing sound. Sometimes, it sounds like a loud humming sound. The sound may be continuous, so if you hear it from your compressor, it is failing.
Recap
If you have a refrigerator compressor failure issue on your hands, this article will guide you to fix it. Refrigerator compressors are technical components and tend to be expensive. But if you compare the cost of replacing it with that of a new refrigerator, it may be better to buy a new refrigerator.
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 Reset Your Refrigerator Compressor
First, you’ll need to have access to the outlet where your refrigerator is plugged in. If your fridge or freezer blocks it, you’ll need to move it out.
Supplies needed to Reset Your Refrigerator Compressor
No supplies are needed to reset your refrigerator compressor. All it takes in most cases is a bit of heavy lifting to move and unplug the fridge.
What does a Refrigerator Compressor do?
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.
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.
