A refrigerator is a vital appliance in every household. It keeps your food and drinks fresh, cool, and safe for consumption. However, sometimes your refrigerator can malfunction, and one of the common issues is a bad compressor. The compressor is the heart of the fridge, and if it’s not working correctly, your fridge won’t cool correctly. In this article, we’ll discuss how to know if your refrigerator compressor is bad and what you should do if you encounter this problem.
What is a Refrigerator Compressor?
Before we dive into how to know if your refrigerator compressor is bad, let’s first understand what a compressor does. The compressor is a pump that’s responsible for compressing the refrigerant in your fridge. The refrigerant is a fluid that flows through your fridge’s cooling system and absorbs heat. The compressor pumps the refrigerant from the evaporator coil to the condenser coil, where it releases the heat outside the fridge.
Signs of a Bad Refrigerator Compressor
There are several signs that indicate a bad refrigerator compressor. Here are the most common ones:
1. Your Fridge is Not Cooling
If you notice that your fridge is not as cold as it used to be, or it’s not cooling at all, this could be a sign of a bad compressor. A compressor that’s not functioning correctly can’t pump the refrigerant through the cooling system effectively, resulting in inadequate cooling.
2. Strange Noises
A bad compressor can produce strange noises that are noticeable when the fridge is running. The noises can be rattling, buzzing, or humming. If you hear any unusual sounds coming from your fridge, it’s essential to have it checked by a professional.
3. Fridge Cycling On and Off Frequently
If your fridge is cycling on and off frequently, it’s an indication that the compressor is struggling to work. The fridge should maintain a consistent temperature, and if it’s cycling on and off, it can’t keep up with the demand, which is a sign of a faulty compressor.
4. Hot Fridge Exterior
A compressor that’s not working correctly can cause the exterior of your fridge to become hot. If you notice that the sides or back of your fridge are warmer than usual, it’s a sign that the compressor is overheating.
What Should You Do if Your Refrigerator Compressor is Bad?
If you notice any of the above signs, it’s vital to take action immediately to prevent further damage to your fridge. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Call a Professional Repair Service
The first thing you should do is call a professional repair service. Refrigerator compressors are complex, and it’s not recommended to try to fix them yourself. A professional repair service can diagnose the problem correctly and recommend the best solution.
2. Consider Repair or Replacement
Once the professional repair service has diagnosed the problem, they will recommend whether to repair or replace the compressor. If your fridge is still under warranty, the repair or replacement cost may be covered. However, if it’s out of warranty, you may have to pay for the repair or replacement out of pocket.
3. Preventive Maintenance
To prevent future problems with your fridge, it’s essential to perform preventive maintenance regularly. This includes cleaning the coils, checking the seals, and maintaining a consistent temperature. Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your fridge and prevent costly repairs.
In conclusion, a bad refrigerator compressor can cause a lot of problems, from inadequate cooling to overheating. If you notice any signs of a faulty compressor, it’s crucial to take action immediately to prevent further damage. Call a professional repair service and consider repair or replacement. Finally, remember
