How to Replace a Refrigerator Compressor

Learning how to replace a refrigerator compressor replacement can be very tricky, and should ALWAYS be left to qualified professionals. We at HomElectrical have worked to pull together a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know when it comes to replacing your fridge compressor.

What is a refrigerator compressor?

Your fridge's compressor acts as the heart of your refrigeration system, and is one of four main components working to keep your fridge running. Fridge compressors are also used in cooler and walk-in cooler systems. A fridge compressor is directly responsible for compressing and controlling the flow of liquid refrigerant, and it can also be said that the compressor is responsible for maintaining the desired temperature inside the unit.

How does a refrigerator compressor work?

Your refrigerator's compressor works directly with the condenser and evaporator coil, as well as the expansion valve. The evaporator begins the cycle by taking liquid refrigerant and converting it to a low pressure gas. The compressor takes this and compresses it into a high pressure gaseous state. The refrigerant then moves into the condenser, where the refrigerant condenses back into a liquid and begins the cooling process. Finally, the liquid refrigerant moves into the expansion valve or capillary tube, which controls the amount of liquid refrigerant to send back to the compressor to start the cycle over again. As this continuous process generates a lot of heat, an overload protector exists to prevent overheating by temporarily shutting down the compressor to prevent the system from overheating.

How long does a refrigerator compressor last?

Refrigerator compressors usually have a lifespan of eight to ten years, but in some cases with proper maintenance, you can make your refrigerator compressor last up to twenty years!

How much does a compressor installation cost?

When considering the install of a compressor replacement, the cost of a new compressor and the labor involved will usually range from $500-$1000 total. Keep in mind that labor fees can differ due to a variety of factors, such as: minimum service charge, state or location, and time of year (HVAC service work will cost more in the summer). Buying brand new or refurbished replacement parts can also be a factor, with brand new parts costing more of course. The efficiency level of a compressor also affects costs, as a unit with a higher SEER rating will cost more than a unit with a lower SEER rating. SEER rating stand for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and the higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient your unit is.

Why You May Need to Replace Your Fridge's Faulty Compressor

Over time, compressors may wear out or encounter mechanical issues, leading to decreased cooling efficiency or even complete failure. In some cases, it might be worth just replacing the compressor rather than investing in a brand-new refrigerator system.

Factors To Consider

Compressor age

Your compressor will usually last 8-10 years. If you start having issues with your compressor before this time frame, it might be worth looking into options for repair, but if it's hitting the average lifespan, it might be more worth it to replace entirely.

Your fridge is making excessive noise

All refrigerators make noise while running, but when your fridge starts making a lot more noise than usual, it is likely a sign that your compressor is going bad, and you will need to start looking into replacing it.

The compressor has already been replaced

If your compressor has already been replaced before, it might not be worth replacing a second time. Buying a new refrigerator altogether might be more cost effective than repeated maintenance and replacement for your fridge's compressor as your refrigerator gets older. A new refrigerator might just be cheaper than several compressor replacements!

Cost of the unit

When considering replacing your old compressor or buying a new fridge, finding the most cost effective option is important. Depending on what you're looking for, refrigerators can run you over $500 to several thousand. Compressors on the other hand are a much cheaper option than buying an entirely new fridge. You can find many great compressors for less than $500.

Noticeable rust/corrosion

Moisture can negatively affect your fridge in several ways, such as clogging the capillary tube/expansion valve and causing unwanted rust or corrosion on the internal machinations of your refrigerator system, such as the compressor. If you find signs of rust or corrosion near the compressor, it may indicate that you have a faulty compressor that needs to be replaced.

Food isn't staying cold enough

If your refrigerator starts having cooling problems and isn't keeping your food cold enough, it means you might have a damaged compressor that isn't running properly and likely needs to be replaced. Replacing a faulty compressor will keep your food fresh and prevent food spoilage.

Energy efficiency

The older a compressor gets, the less energy efficient it becomes. If efficiency is your end goal, you may want to consider routinely replacing your refrigerator compressor after every estimated life cycle of 8-10 years.

How To Replace A Refrigerator Compressor — Bottom Line

Replacing and even repairing a refrigerator compressor should ALWAYS be performed by a qualified technician. Not only are you dealing with just simple electrical wiring, but potentially dangerous refrigerant as well, which needs to be handled with the proper equipment. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps a qualified electrician would take when replacing a refrigerator compressor, ensuring that your fridge continues to run smoothly for years to come.

However, there are several things you can do before the electrician arrives to help expedite the process.

• Make sure to shut off the fridge's power supply completely before starting any sort of electrical work. You can double check this by unplugging the fridge's power cord.
• Compressor installation will take several hours, so make sure to empty your fridge and move all of your food into a separate fridge or cooler to prevent food spoilage.
• Make sure to pull the fridge away from the wall outlet to provide the technician with enough space for a comfortable and safe place to work in.

Step 1: Diagnose the Issue

Before you have someone replace your refrigerator compressor, it's essential to verify that the compressor is indeed the source of the problem. Common signs of a faulty compressor include:

• Inadequate cooling or complete lack of cooling.
• Unusual noises like clicking, buzzing, or rattling.
• Frequent cycling on and off.
• A visible oil or refrigerant leak.

If you notice any of these signs, it's likely time to replace the compressor.

Step 2: Gather the Right Tools and Replacement Compressor

When it's time to get started, an electrician will have the following tools ready:

• Screwdrivers (flat-head and Phillips)
• Wrench set
• Pliers
• Refrigerant recovery system (if you have an older refrigerator using CFC or HCFC refrigerants)
• Replacement compressor (ensure it matches the make and model of your refrigerator)
• Safety goggles & gloves
• Safety mask

Note: Proper safety equipment is ESPECIALLY important when handling refrigerant, as exposure can be dangerous. The electrician will likely wear safety goggles, masks, and gloves.

Step 3: Remove the Old Compressor

Now, let's remove the faulty compressor:

1. Remove the rear access panel: The electrician will use a screwdriver to unfasten the screws holding the back panel in place. This will give them access to the compressor compartment.

2. Disconnect the electrical components: A compressor's terminal supplies electricity to the compressor. The electrician will carefully detach the electrical connectors and wiring from the compressor's terminals. Taking a picture beforehand for reference is a great idea and will help ensure proper reconnection later.

3. Unmount the compressor: They will loosen the bolts or screws securing the compressor to the fridge chassis. Then your contractor will gently lift and carefully remove the old compressor from its position.

Step 4: Recover Refrigerant (if applicable)

If your refrigerator uses CFC or HCFC refrigerants, it's crucial to recover them safely to prevent environmental damage. Therefore, you must hire a professional to handle this part of the process.

For the refrigerant recovery process, a qualified technician will likely use a refrigerant recovery machine and a recovery cylinder. Before they connect your compressor to a recovery machine and cylinder, they need to make sure the cylinder matches the psi of the refrigerant you want to recover. There are two valves on top of the recovery machine, one for gas refrigerant recovery and the other for liquid refrigerant recovery. Either of the valves may be used when using a cylinder as a refrigerant receiver.

A perforating valve may also be utilized in this process if there aren't any preexisting service valves. These valves are used to pierce refrigerant lines for easier access to hermetically-sealed compressors in the recovery process. As a perforating valve pierces a hole in the compressor, it needs to be replaced with a permanent valve when the task is done, allowing for a safe and proper seal.

If your recovery cylinder is new, some will be pre-charged with nitrogen that must be removed via vacuum pump before any refrigerant recovery takes place.

Also of note, a refrigerant recovery cylinder can only be filled up to 80% capacity at most, and should ONLY be used with one type of refrigerant at a time. Mixing refrigerants in a cylinder renders them non-reclaimable and must be destroyed.

Step 5: Install the New Compressor

Now that the old compressor is out, it's time to install the new one:

1. Position the new compressor: The electrician will make sure that your new compressor is correctly positioned in the same spot where the old one was mounted.

2. Reconnect the electrical connections: The previously taken photo is a great reference to look at for reattaching all the wires and electrical connectors to the new compressor's terminals.

3. Secure the compressor: They will then tighten the bolts or screws to secure the new compressor to the fridge chassis firmly.

Step 6: Reassemble the Refrigerator

With the new compressor successfully installed and refrigerant recharged (if applicable), it's time to put everything back together:

Step 7: Test the Refrigerator

For the final step, turn the power supply back on for the refrigerator. Make sure to listen out for any unusual noises and verify that it's cooling correctly.

Conclusion:

By following this comprehensive step by step guide, you can get a better understanding of the process one would follow to replace a refrigerator compressor and extend the life of your appliance. You should always hire a qualified electrician to ensure your refrigerator is fixed correctly and safely. Make sure to check out Embraco's wide selection of quality and dependable fixed speed refrigerator compressors. Happy repairing!