Refrigerator Compressors

When homeowners and property owners are faced with faulty compressors, they often wonder whether replacing the malfunctioning compressor is worth it, or if they should purchase a new refrigerator.

The answer to this question isn’t a simple yes or no. Many factors dictate whether or not replacing your refrigerator’s broken compressor is the right choice, such as the age of the refrigerator, the overall condition of the appliance, how often other repairs are needed, and more.

Generally, if the refrigerator is just out of its warranty period or only a couple of years old and is still considered very reliable otherwise, it may make sense to replace the faulty compressor.

A compressor is one of the most important components of the refrigeration system. The compressor’s main function is to pump refrigerant throughout the system to cool everything in the refrigerator.

Because of the important role it plays in the overall function of a refrigerator, it can be very easy to tell when a compressor is not operating as it should. If you notice any of the following signs, your compressor is most likely malfunctioning:

• An unusually loud noise from the compressor when running
• The compressor continuously turns on and off
• The refrigerator struggles to remain cool
• The compressor overheats
• Your electricity bills are too high
• Issues with the positive temperature coefficient (PTC) relay

The cost to replace a refrigerator compressor can vary but typically ranges between $250 and $650, with the average cost being around $375. Several factors contribute to this cost, such as:

• The size of compressor: Larger units require larger and more powerful compressors to handle the cooling duties. As with just about every appliance, bigger tends to translate into higher costs.
• The type of compressor: Another component dictating the overall cost of a compressor replacement is the type. The different kinds of compressors you might encounter include open compressors, hermetic compressors, piston compressors, screw compressors, and spiral compressors.
• Labor: Because tools needed, replacing the compressor is not a do-it-yourself type of job. Therefore, labor costs need to be taken into account when determining replacement costs.

Modern compressors are designed to be both durable and efficient. A well-maintained compressor can last up to ten years and beyond. It should be noted that as a compressor ages, a gradual loss of efficiency is common.

Although they are durable in most cases, a compressor can experience a variety of issues causing it to malfunction and become inoperable. The most common causes of refrigerator compressors going bad include:

Refrigerant Issues

No matter if it’s a compressor for a kitchen fridge or a compressor for an HVAC unit compressors require refrigerant to work properly. If the refrigerant ever becomes contaminated or reaches insufficient levels, the compressor will not be able to do its job effectively. This can happen when moisture gets into the refrigerant system or when there’s a puncture. A system with too much refrigerant is just as likely to experience issues as it can return to the compressor in liquid form, damaging the compressor.

Unmaintained Condenser Coils

Typically located underneath or at the back of the refrigerator, condenser coils often become covered in dust, pet hair, and dirt. Many people aren’t aware that condenser coils need to be cleaned periodically to prevent the compressor from becoming damaged. That’s because when condenser coils are dirty, they are unable to perform their duties as well, resulting in the compressor working harder. This extra stress on the compressor over time can lead to damage and more repairs.

Power Surge

Power surges, such as a lighting strike, also threaten refrigerator parts, including the compressor and the refrigerator compressor start relay. Power surges cause an excessive amount of electricity to surge through the refrigerator and can cause significant damage.

Wear and Tear

Much like any mechanical component, compressor overload is always a threat. Because compressors are designed to last, it’s unlikely to be wear and tear that has caused the compressor to fail should the refrigerator unit be relatively new.

Refrigeration compressors use compressed air to provide refrigeration and air conditioning. It works by converting low pressure gas to high pressure gas. Refrigeration compressors come in three different types: piston/reciprocating, screw, and scroll. Each type uses a different process to create the refrigeration cycle.

Piston compressors, also called reciprocating compressors, provide compressive force using a piston and cylinder. They have the lowest cost and an easy, compact design compared to other types. It works well in high pressure applications due to their large power output range. Disadvantages of this system may include high maintenance costs and vibrational issues. Their design typically prevents them from running at full capacity.

A screw compressor uses a pair of high-speed helical rotors to compress the refrigerant. They come in two configurations: single-screw and twin-screw compressors. They give excellent output and product life. They do require lubricant to ensure sealing between moving parts, reduce noise, and cool down the refrigerant. Screw compressors tend to cost more and take up more space compared to piston compressors.

Scroll compressors, also called spiral compressors, consist of two spiral-shaped rollers. Scroll compressors use less parts, so they have a better output and produce less sound than piston compressors. With less torque variations on the engine, spiral compressors have increased reliability and less sensitivity to the presence of liquid at the inlet. They have a power limit and must combine with other compressors to reach a higher level of power.

Refrigeration systems offer a choice between open, hermetic, and semi-hermetic.

An open refrigeration system features a separate motor and compressor. A coupling sleeve or a belt and pulley system connects the compressor drive shaft to the motor. This allows use with different types of motors, including electric, diesel, and gas. Open refrigeration systems mostly see use in high power applications and have several ways of adjusting the power. It allows easy access to internal parts for repairs.

A hermetic, or airtight refrigeration compressor keeps the electric motor and compressor enclosed in a hermetically welded envelope. Because of this, users cannot access the parts for repair, and must replace the system if any part breaks. Luckily, these systems remain affordable. The main advantage lies in the fact that the sealing system does not depend on the state of the joints. Disadvantages include the fact that the cooling capacity can only be adjusted by varying the frequency of the supply current. They work in low and medium power requirements.

A semi-hermetic compressor holds the motor and compressor in a non-welded hermetic envelope, with parts still accessible for repair. The refrigerant or liquid cooling systems cool the refrigerant. Unlike an open-refrigeration system, a semi-hermetic system has no rotating seal on the transmission shaft. The removable parts still use static seals, which means hermetic refrigeration compressors have more complete sealing. Semi-hermetic compressors typically see use in medium power requirements. While they offer easy access to parts for repair, this type of compressor also costs more than hermetic compressors.

A fixed speed compressor operates at one constant speed, switching on and off to meet the needs of the equipment. They work best in applications that require a constant air demand. A variable speed compressor adapts to meet the needs of the unit. It recovers quickly from door openings, making them ideal for food service applications.

Whether you’re searching for a new compressor for your refrigerator or air conditioner unit, you can find what you need at HomElectrical. Our selection of compressors can be used for several top-brand-name manufacturers, including:

• Embraco
• Whirlpool
• Frigidaire
• Kenmore
• Kitchenaid
• LG Refrigerator
• Maytag
• GE Refrigerator
• Amana
• Electrolux
• Supco

In addition to refrigeration compressors, our inventory also includes various other essential parts needed for refrigerator repair. Our convenient online ordering process makes it easy to get the parts you need. To learn more, call HomElectrical at 888.616.3532 or create an account today.