How to Tell if a Refrigerator Compressor is Bad: A Complete Guide

We all know the panic that sets in when the fridge starts acting up. Maybe it’s not cooling properly, or you notice strange noises. But one of the most common (and most stressful) issues a refrigerator can have is a failing compressor. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about how to tell if your fridge compressor is on the way out, and what you can do about it.

Signs Your Refrigerator Compressor Might Be Failing

The compressor is often referred to as the heart of your refrigerator. It’s the part responsible for circulating refrigerant through the cooling system. When the compressor starts failing, your fridge’s cooling abilities start to deteriorate, and that’s when things get really frustrating. But how do you know if the compressor is actually the problem? Here are the key signs that your refrigerator compressor might be failing:

1. Fridge Not Cooling Properly

The most obvious sign of a failing compressor is the lack of cooling. If you open your fridge and notice that food isn’t staying as cold as it should be, the compressor could be at fault. In some cases, the fridge might not cool at all, or it might cool intermittently. This inconsistency is often a clear indicator that the compressor is struggling to do its job.

Now, before you jump to conclusions, it’s important to rule out other potential causes of cooling issues. For example, if the fridge is overstuffed or the door seal is broken, this could prevent proper airflow and lead to cooling problems. However, if those things seem fine, and your fridge still isn’t cooling properly, the compressor could be on its last legs.

2. Loud or Unusual Noises

Refrigerators are generally known for being quiet appliances, but when a compressor starts to go bad, it can make some weird sounds. One of the most common noises is a loud buzzing or clicking. If you notice these noises coming from the bottom of the fridge (where the compressor is located), it’s time to start paying attention.

A buzzing noise can indicate that the compressor is struggling to start, or it’s not operating as efficiently as it should be. A clicking noise, on the other hand, might indicate that the compressor is trying to turn on but is failing to do so. Either way, if your fridge is making unusual sounds, it’s a red flag.

3. Hot Exterior

If you’ve ever noticed that the sides or back of your fridge feel unusually warm to the touch, it could be a sign that your compressor is having trouble. The compressor is responsible for releasing heat from inside the fridge to the outside, so if it’s malfunctioning, the heat transfer process becomes inefficient. This can cause the external temperature of the fridge to rise.

A warm fridge can also be a sign of other issues, like dirty condenser coils, but if the coils seem clean and the heat is still building up, the compressor may be the culprit.

4. The Refrigerator Isn’t Running at All

A completely non-functioning fridge can sometimes be linked to a failed compressor. If the fridge doesn’t run at all, you may think the appliance is dead. However, it could be that the compressor has simply failed and is preventing the fridge from starting up properly. If you hear the fridge’s motor trying to start up but nothing happens, it’s likely the compressor.

This issue can be especially frustrating because it usually means you’ll need a professional to diagnose and confirm that the compressor is the problem. In some cases, replacing the compressor might be necessary.

5. The Refrigerator Runs Continuously

On the other end of the spectrum, a failing compressor can also cause the fridge to run continuously. If the compressor isn’t able to cool the fridge properly, it might keep running in an attempt to make up for the lack of cooling power. This constant running can lead to higher energy bills and, eventually, more wear on the compressor itself.

If you’ve noticed that your fridge runs non-stop, even when the door is closed and the temperature is set properly, it’s worth considering the compressor as a possible issue.

6. Excessive Frost Build-Up

If you notice that your freezer is building up an unusual amount of frost or ice, it could indicate that the compressor is not maintaining the right temperatures. In normal conditions, the freezer should be able to keep frost under control, but when the compressor is struggling, it can cause the temperatures to fluctuate and lead to excessive frost.

While frost build-up can also be caused by other problems, like a clogged defrost drain or a malfunctioning fan, it’s worth checking if the compressor is running properly if you notice the issue.

7. Warm Freezer

Similar to the fridge, the freezer should be kept at a freezing temperature to keep food from spoiling. If the freezer section is no longer freezing properly and you’re seeing thawing or ice cream that’s starting to melt, the compressor might be to blame. Since the compressor works to circulate coolant through both the fridge and the freezer, a failing compressor could lead to both areas losing their cooling ability.

If you notice a warm freezer but the fridge section seems fine, it could indicate an issue with the compressor, or perhaps the compressor isn’t circulating the refrigerant properly throughout the appliance.

8. Frequent Cycling On and Off

Another sign that the compressor is struggling is when the refrigerator cycles on and off too often. The compressor is supposed to run for a while to cool the fridge, then cycle off for a period of time before starting again. However, if the compressor is malfunctioning, it may have trouble turning off, or it might repeatedly start and stop in an effort to keep the fridge cool.

This rapid cycling can waste energy and increase wear and tear on the compressor. If you notice the compressor constantly turning on and off, it’s a good idea to get the appliance checked out before the problem worsens.

What To Do If You Think the Compressor is Bad

Now that you’ve identified the signs that your refrigerator compressor might be failing, the next step is figuring out what to do. Here are your options:

1. Check for Simple Issues First

Before jumping to conclusions about the compressor, it’s a good idea to check for some simpler problems that might be affecting your fridge. For example, make sure the fridge is level and that the door seals are in good condition. If the fridge isn’t level, it could be causing cooling problems. If the door seals are damaged, warm air could be leaking into the fridge, making it harder to keep things cool.

Additionally, make sure the condenser coils are clean and free from dust and debris. Dirty coils can reduce the efficiency of the compressor and make it harder for the fridge to cool properly. Give the coils a good cleaning with a vacuum or a brush to see if this resolves the issue.

2. Call a Professional Technician

If you’ve ruled out simple fixes and the compressor still seems to be the issue, it’s time to call in a professional. Diagnosing and repairing a compressor is a complex task, and it requires specialized knowledge and tools. A technician can determine whether the compressor needs to be repaired or replaced.

While it may seem like an expensive repair, it’s often worth it to get your fridge running smoothly again, especially if the compressor can be repaired instead of replaced.

3. Decide If It’s Worth Replacing the Compressor

In some cases, the compressor may be beyond repair, and replacement could be your only option. Compressor replacements can be pricey, so it’s important to weigh the cost of repair against the cost of buying a new refrigerator. If your fridge is old and the cost of the repair is close to the price of a new one, it might make more sense to replace the entire appliance.

4. Prevent Future Issues

Once you’ve dealt with the compressor issue, you’ll want to take steps to prevent it from happening again. Make sure to maintain your fridge regularly by cleaning the condenser coils, checking the door seals, and ensuring that the fridge is level. Also, be sure to avoid overloading the fridge or placing hot food directly inside, as this can put extra strain on the compressor.

I hope this guide helps you understand how to tell if your refrigerator compressor is bad. With this knowledge, you can make informed decisions about repairs and replacements, keeping your fridge running smoothly for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal for the fridge compressor to make noise?

Yes, it’s normal for the compressor to make some noise when it starts running, but excessive noise or strange sounds could indicate a problem.

Can a refrigerator compressor be repaired?

In some cases, a refrigerator compressor can be repaired, but it depends on the severity of the issue. A professional technician will need to evaluate it.

Do I need to turn off my fridge if the compressor is failing?

If you suspect the compressor is failing, it’s a good idea to turn off the fridge to prevent further damage and keep food from spoiling until you can get it repaired.

Is it possible to replace just the compressor in a fridge?

Yes, the compressor can be replaced on most refrigerators, but it’s often a costly repair, and in some cases, it may be more economical to replace the entire fridge.

Can a bad compressor cause a refrigerator to freeze up?

Yes, a bad compressor can cause the refrigerator to freeze up due to temperature fluctuations or issues with coolant circulation.

Is it worth fixing a refrigerator compressor?

If the repair cost is reasonable and the refrigerator is relatively new, it might be worth fixing. However, if the fridge is old, it might make more sense to replace it.

Can a compressor failure damage other parts of the fridge?

Yes, a failing compressor can lead to other issues, such as damage to the evaporator or condenser coils, making the entire cooling system less efficient.