Are you struggling with a faulty refrigerator compressor? The refrigerator compressor is a vital component of the refrigeration system that pumps refrigerant throughout the cooling system. A faulty compressor can cause your fridge’s cooling system to stop working or break completely. Luckily, this article will explore the causes, symptoms, and solutions for a faulty refrigerator compressor.
How do I know if my refrigerator compressor is faulty?
There are a few signs of a compressor failure, and some are as follows:
- The refrigerator is not cooling properly.
- You notice unusual compressor noises.
- The refrigerator is constantly running.
- The refrigerator is tripping the circuit breaker.
- You are experiencing frequent power surges.
A faulty compressor can be costly, but fixing it ASAP is important to prevent food spoilage and other damage to your appliance. So if you experience or notice any of the above signs, it is vital to have your refrigerator checked by a qualified technician.
What Causes a Faulty Refrigerator Compressor?
There are a few causes of a faulty refrigerator compressor, including:
- Overworking. The compressor can overheat if it is working too hard. This can happen if the refrigerator is overloaded or the thermostat is too low.
- Debris buildup. The compressor can overheat if debris builds up around it. This can happen if the condenser coils are not cleaned regularly.
- Age. The compressor will eventually wear out and fail. The average lifespan of a refrigerator compressor is about 10 years.
How to Fix a Faulty Refrigerator Compressor
Here is a simple DIY step-by-step guide to fixing your faulty refrigerator compressor:
Step 1: Check the power supply.
Ensure the refrigerator is plugged in and the power is turned on.
Step 2: Check the thermostat.
The thermostat controls the temperature, and if it is set too low, your appliance will have to work harder, increasing the risk of failure.
Step 3: Check the condenser coils.
The condenser coils help to remove heat from the compressor. If the condenser coils are dirty, they can’t remove heat as effectively, which can cause the compressor to overheat and fail.
Step 4: Check the compressor.
If the compressor is making unusual noises, it may be faulty. Furthermore, if the compressor is not running, it may also be faulty.
If you have done all the above steps and the refrigerator compressor is still not working properly, you must hire a professional technician or invest in compressor replacement.
How can I prevent my refrigerator compressor from failing?
To help prevent your refrigerator compressor from failing, follow these helpful maintenance guides:
- Clean the condenser coils regularly. The condenser coils help to remove heat from the compressor. If they are dirty, they can’t remove heat as effectively, which can cause the compressor to overheat and fail.
- Set the thermostat to the correct temperature. If this is set too low, the compressor will have to work harder, which can increase the risk of failure.
- Avoid overloading the refrigerator. Overloading the refrigerator can prevent the air from circulating properly, which can cause the compressor to overheat and fail.
- Replace the refrigerator compressor if it is over 10 years old. The average lifespan of a refrigerator compressor is about 10 years.
Following these simple DIY tips, you can help extend your refrigerator compressor’s lifespan and prevent costly repairs or replacements.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips for preventing a faulty refrigerator compressor:
- Use a surge protector. A surge protector can help to protect your refrigerator from power surges, which can damage the compressor.
- Have your refrigerator serviced regularly. A qualified technician can inspect your refrigerator for underlying issues and make necessary repairs before they cause major damage.
- Keep your refrigerator in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures can put stress on the compressor and shorten its lifespan.
Trust Viking Appliance Repair Company Today!
A faulty compressor can lead to spoiled food and costly compressor repairs. Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact Viking Appliance Repair Company for expert compressor repairs and replacements. Our team of well-experienced and professionally trained technicians has the expertise to diagnose and fix any compressor issues quickly, ensuring your fridge runs smoothly. Plus, with our 100% satisfaction guarantee and competitive pricing, you can trust us to do the job right.
Whether Viking Built-In Refrigerator Repair, Viking Freestanding Refrigerator Repair, Viking Ice Maker Repair, and Viking Wine Cellars Repair, we can handle it all! Book a service appointment and keep your fridge in top condition! Also, are you seeking more helpful tips and tricks to keep your fridge running smoothly? Check out our other blogs, including ‘Refrigerator Troubleshooting,’ ‘How to Repair Refrigerator,’ and ‘Compressor is Hot‘! Don’t miss out – read our other blogs today!