Replacing a refrigerator compressor can be a daunting task, but it is not impossible. With the right tools and a little bit of know-how, you can save yourself the cost of a new refrigerator. In this article, we will walk you through the steps on how to replace a refrigerator compressor. We will also provide you with some tips on how to troubleshoot common problems.
Before you begin, it is important to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a new compressor, a socket wrench, a screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. You will also need some refrigerant. Once you have gathered your tools and materials, you can begin the process of replacing the compressor.
The first step is to remove the old compressor. To do this, you will need to disconnect the power to the refrigerator. Once the power is disconnected, you can remove the screws that hold the compressor in place. Once the screws are removed, you can carefully lift the compressor out of the refrigerator. Be careful not to damage the compressor or the surrounding components.
Safety Considerations
Disconnect Power Supply
Safety first! Before attempting to replace the compressor, it’s crucial to unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet to prevent any electrical hazards or shocks.
Discharge Refrigerant
Refrigerators contain a refrigerant, which is a gas under pressure. To safely discharge the refrigerant, you’ll need a certified technician with proper equipment. Attempting to release the refrigerant yourself can be extremely dangerous and should be avoided.
Wear Protective Gear
While handling the compressor, it’s recommended to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any sharp edges or potential spills.
Additional Safety Measures
| Safety Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Clear Work Area | Ensure the work area is well-lit and free from obstacles to prevent tripping or accidents. |
| Use Proper Tools | Have the necessary tools, such as a crescent wrench, screwdriver, and multimeter, to perform the replacement safely. |
| Avoid Overtightening | When tightening bolts or connectors, avoid overtightening as it can damage the compressor or its components. |
Charging Refrigerant System
Once the new compressor has been installed, it is time to charge the refrigerant system. This is a critical step, as adding too much or too little refrigerant can lead to problems with the refrigerator’s operation. The following steps will guide you through the process of charging the refrigerant system:
1. Connect the refrigerant can to the charging hose.
2. Open the valve on the refrigerant can and allow the refrigerant to flow into the charging hose.
3. Connect the charging hose to the compressor’s suction port.
4. Open the valve on the charging hose to start charging the system.
5. Monitor the pressure gauge on the charging hose and adjust the flow of refrigerant accordingly.
6. Continue charging the system until the desired pressure is reached.
7. Once the system has been charged, close the valve on the refrigerant can and disconnect the charging hose.
8. Leak-test the system to ensure that there are no leaks. This can be done by using a soap solution to check for bubbles around the connections.
That said, the refrigeration section of your refrigerator requires precise measurements and specialized tools. To prevent any harm, it is highly recommended to contact a trained professional when it comes to charging refrigerant or fixing any issues related to the refrigeration section.
Testing and Troubleshooting
Checking the Compressor
To test the compressor, unplug the refrigerator and remove the back panel. Locate the compressor, which is usually a black or silver cylindrical device at the bottom of the unit. Listen closely for a humming sound when you plug the refrigerator back in. If you don’t hear any humming, the compressor is likely faulty.
Checking the Relay
If the compressor is not running, the relay may be faulty. The relay is a small device that supplies power to the compressor. To test the relay, unplug the refrigerator and remove the back panel. Locate the relay, which is usually a small white or black box attached to the compressor. Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the relay’s terminals. If there is no continuity, the relay is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Testing the Overload Protector
The overload protector is a safety device that trips if the compressor overheats or draws too much current. To test the overload protector, unplug the refrigerator and remove the back panel. Locate the overload protector, which is usually a small black or silver device attached to the compressor. Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the overload protector’s terminals. If there is no continuity, the overload protector has tripped and needs to be replaced.
Inspecting the Thermostat
The thermostat controls the temperature of the refrigerator. If the thermostat is faulty, the compressor may not turn on or off as needed. To test the thermostat, unplug the refrigerator and remove the back panel. Locate the thermostat, which is usually a small white or black box attached to the evaporator coils. Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the thermostat’s terminals. If there is no continuity, the thermostat is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Checking the Wiring
If all other components test fine, the wiring may be faulty. To check the wiring, unplug the refrigerator and remove the back panel. Inspect the wiring for any cuts, breaks, or loose connections. If you find any damaged wiring, it will need to be repaired or replaced.
Checking the Power Source
Ensure the refrigerator is plugged into a working power outlet. If the outlet is faulty, the refrigerator will not receive power and the compressor will not turn on.
Checking the Start and Run Capacitors
The start and run capacitors provide extra power to the compressor to start and run smoothly. If either capacitor is faulty, the compressor may not turn on or may not run properly. To test the capacitors, unplug the refrigerator and remove the back panel. Locate the capacitors, which are usually small cylindrical or oval-shaped devices near the compressor. Use a multimeter to test the capacitance of the capacitors. If either capacitor has a low capacitance, it will need to be replaced.
Inspecting the Evaporator Coils
The evaporator coils are located on the back of the refrigerator cabinet. They can become clogged with frost or ice, which can prevent the compressor from working properly. To inspect the evaporator coils, unplug the refrigerator and remove the back panel. Check the coils for frost or ice buildup. If the coils are dirty, you can clean them with a vacuum cleaner or a brush.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
If you are having trouble replacing the refrigerator compressor, consult the following table for common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| The compressor does not run | Check the power source, compressor, relay, and overload protector |
| The compressor runs but the refrigerator does not cool | Check the thermostat, evaporator coils, and condenser coils |
| The compressor runs too often or too long | Check the condenser coils, thermostat, and door gaskets |
How To Replace Refrigerator Compressor
Replacing a refrigerator compressor can be a daunting task, but it is possible to do it yourself with the right tools and a little bit of knowledge. Here are the steps on how to replace a refrigerator compressor:
- Unplug the refrigerator from the power source.
- Remove the front grille of the refrigerator.
- Locate the compressor at the bottom of the refrigerator.
- Disconnect the electrical wires from the compressor.
- Remove the bolts that hold the compressor in place.
- Carefully lift the compressor out of the refrigerator.
- Place the new compressor into the refrigerator.
- Tighten the bolts that hold the compressor in place.
- Connect the electrical wires to the compressor.
- Replace the front grille of the refrigerator.
- Plug the refrigerator back into the power source.
Tips:
- Be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses when working on the refrigerator.
- Do not attempt to replace the compressor if you are not comfortable working with electrical components.
- If you are not sure how to replace the compressor, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
People Also Ask About How To Replace Refrigerator Compressor
Can I replace the compressor in my refrigerator myself?
Yes, it is possible to replace a refrigerator compressor yourself, but it is not a simple task. You will need some basic tools and knowledge of electrical wiring. If you are not comfortable working with electrical components, it is best to consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
How much does it cost to replace a refrigerator compressor?
The cost to replace a refrigerator compressor will vary depending on the make and model of your refrigerator, as well as the cost of labor in your area. However, you can expect to pay between $300 and $600 for the compressor itself, plus an additional $100 to $200 for labor.
How long does it take to replace a refrigerator compressor?
The time it takes to replace a refrigerator compressor will vary depending on your skill level and the make and model of your refrigerator. However, you can expect to spend between 2 and 4 hours on the project.
