Unless you have an especially compelling reason to keep your refrigerator, replacing the compressor usually isn’t worth it.
Refrigerator compressors typically last up to a decade with proper care, though their efficiency starts to diminish after eight years.
Cost
The compressor is an essential element of your refrigerator that keeps it running efficiently. Unfortunately, when this component malfunctions, repairs can prove expensive and time-consuming.
Replacing your refrigerator’s compressor may not be cheap, but it will keep your food cool and fresh for years to come. The cost of repair or replacement will depend on the brand and model of your refrigerator.
It may be wise to replace your compressor when it no longer provides adequate cooling power for your fridge. This could be due to various issues, such as poor design or age.
Compressors that cannot provide enough cooling power will cause your fridge to run continuously, potentially damaging food and reducing its shelf life. A malfunctioning compressor may also cause the fridge to cycle off frequently.
A refrigerator’s compressor is usually located on the back and can be easily removed with a screwdriver. To do this, unplug your fridge and move it away from its wall outlet.
If your refrigerator’s compressor is leaking Freon, contact an HVAC professional for replacement. This repair cannot be done yourself as the appliance must be shut off and all refrigerant removed before a technician can start working on it.
Refrigerators often leak Freon if they are not functioning optimally or overused. This can lead to issues with the motor and freezer. In many cases, it is the compressor that has not been maintained correctly throughout its lifetime.
Replacing the compressor is one of the more costly refrigerator repairs, but it could be worth the investment if your fridge is older or having other issues. Doing this gives you the opportunity to invest in a modern, energy-efficient model that will save money on utility bills over time.
Though it may seem like an expensive purchase, buying a new refrigerator is actually much less costly than replacing your old one. If you plan to stay in your home long term, replacing your old fridge with an energy-saving model will keep your family comfortable for years to come.
Warranty
Your refrigerator’s compressor manufacturer likely provides a warranty. These can range anywhere from one year to ten years depending on the model, with some warranties only covering parts or covering labor costs as well.
If you own a brand-new fridge, it may be worth spending the extra money for an extended warranty to protect your investment. The cost of this coverage is relatively small and could help you avert costly repairs or replacements in the future.
A warranty is a contract between the consumer and manufacturer that guarantees to cover repair or replacement expenses should an appliance malfunction during its warranty period. This guarantee usually covers manufacturing defects due to inadequate materials or workmanship.
No matter the type of warranty, the warranty company typically sends a professional service technician to your home to diagnose and repair any issues. They’ll identify what caused the problem, create an accurate price quote for you, then either replace your refrigerator or pay you cash.
Some brands provide warranties to protect the seal on your refrigerant system. This can be advantageous in case of a compressor leak, as it helps contain it and prevent further damage.
This type of warranty typically lasts one year, but can be renewed. It covers a limited number of appliances and may exclude certain repairs.
When selecting a warranty for your refrigerator or other appliances, opt for one that provides comprehensive coverage. For instance, Everest Refrigeration’s warranty covers structural and electrical components for three years and the compressor for ten.
Additionally, some brands provide extended warranties for water filters on their models. GE and Whirlpool for instance cover the filter for 30 days.
Most refrigerator brands also provide warranties for the sealed system, which cools your food. This type of warranty can be especially advantageous if your compressor starts to leak and you have a sealed system in place.
If you need to make a claim on your warranty, you will have to file it online with the company. Once they receive your request, they will send out an experienced warranty repair technician to diagnose the problem and estimate how much work needs to be done.
Lifespan
The compressor is an essential element in a refrigerator’s cooling system. It transports refrigerant from the condenser coils and fans, keeping your fridge cool and preventing food spoilage. It helps ensure food stays fresh at all times by moving refrigerant around.
The lifespan of a refrigerator compressor depends on several factors, including its maintenance and frequency of use. Manufacturers usually build these compressors to last 10-20 years but they can often outlive that expectation with proper care.
You can extend the lifespan of your refrigerator compressor by performing routine maintenance, such as vacuuming and cleaning the condenser coils. Doing so prevents dirt and dust from building up on these important parts, interfering with how well the refrigerator releases heat, making it work harder to cool it and leading to premature breakdown.
Once or twice a year, clean the condenser coils on your refrigerator’s compressor to keep it running efficiently. Use either a vacuum or brush to remove dust and other particles from the coils such as hair, fluff, or any other materials that have built up over time on them.
Maintain a low ambient room temperature in your home to ease the strain placed on the refrigerator’s compressor. In summer months, it can be especially challenging for the unit to keep things cool.
Keep the fridge door closed as much as possible to maximize efficiency of its compressor. Opening it allows more air into the fridge and adds to its work load.
If your compressor isn’t operating at peak efficiency, it could be time for a replacement. Upgrading to a more energy-efficient model will save you money in the long run.
A refrigerator’s compressor is an essential element that can cause serious damage if it malfunctions, so it’s best to address any problems as soon as possible. If unsure whether to repair or replace the compressor on your fridge, contact a professional for guidance.
Repairability
The compressor on a refrigerator plays an integral role in the cooling process. It consists of an electric pump and motor that are activated when the temperature inside of the fridge exceeds its set point.
A compressor can become overheated, leading to damage of its refrigerant and other issues with your refrigerator. That is why it is critical for you to have this checked by a qualified technician regularly.
If the compressor begins to run too hot, it could be time for a replacement. This could occur due to several reasons; one being an overloaded compressor with refrigerant or too much refrigerant in the system.
One possible cause of refrigerator compressor overheating is when there’s not enough lubrication in the system. This can happen if your fridge is left lying flat or plugged in for too long, leading to increased stress on its components.
A reliable repair technician can determine whether the compressor needs replacing or can be repaired. They may also check refrigerant levels and identify any leaking refrigerant lines that could be causing the compressor to overheat.
One of the best ways to determine when it’s time for a replacement is by listening closely while your compressor runs. If you hear any loud noises while running or when it shuts off, this could be an indication that your compressor may be beginning to fail.
Typically, when operating the compressor, it should make a humming sound. If any other noises can be heard or there’s any evidence of wear and tear such as clunking or knocking noises, then this could be an indication that your compressor is about to fail.
In most cases, it’s wise to repair your refrigerator rather than replacing it entirely. This is especially true if the fridge is still under warranty.