How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Refrigerator Compressor?

The most depressing part of a fridge is probably your compressor. The reason for saying that is because once it goes bad, it can be very expensive to fix or replace. Then if you do not handle the problem right away, you could see some food spoil.

The compressor is probably the most important part of the fridge as it delivers all the cooling power the unit needs. It is important to know how much it will cost to replace one when it goes bad.

To find out how much it will cost you, just continue to read our article. It has the information you need to know about.

Knowing When Your Compressor Needs Replacing

This is going to be the key area you need to know about. Once you are able to identify that there is a problem with the compressor, you know what you need to do. Here are two points to help make that identification:

How to Troubleshoot a Refrigerator Compressor

This step involved being able to recognize the signs that tell you that something has gone wrong with your fridge’s compressor. One of the first signs is that your fridge does not cool down even when you lower the thermostat inside the unit.

A second sign is when the fridge has gone silent. If you do not hear that hum a fridge usually makes, then there is a problem with your compressor. A third sign would be the sound of your breaking tripping every time the compressor turns on.

A fourth sign would be when you notice that the fridge never turns off. Once you recognize those signs, you know what to do and you need to be prepared to pay a high repair bill.

How to Check A Refrigerator Compressor Relay

This test is as simple as recognizing the signs for when your compressor goes bad. All you need to do is take the compressor relay in your hands and give it a good shake. Not too hard but just enough to hear what is going on inside.

If the relay sounds like the inside of a baby’s rattle, then the relay needs to be replaced. But, if you hear nothing, then you most likely have a problem with the compressor. The next step will be to replace that device with a new one.

How to Replace the Compressor

The process and the instructions are very simple. Anyone with any mechanical and tool ability can do this. Just follow the instructions and you should be good to go:

1. Buy A New Compressor – Make sure to get the right one that fits your fridge.
2. Unplug the Fridge– You do not want any power coming to the fridge as you work.
3. Pull the Fridge Out– The compressor is usually found at the back and on the bottom of the fridge. You will need working space so pull it out far enough, so you have plenty of room.
4. Remove the Compressor– Detach the capacitor, valves and remove the screws or the bolts. Then firmly but gently lift the old compressor out of your fridge
5. Install the New Compressor– Reverse the removal process and make sure everything is hooked up right.
6. Add-In Refrigerant– R404C should be the type you will need and check for any leaks in the compressor, the lines, and the fridge.
7. Reconnect the Valves– Make sure there are no leaks there either and plug in your fridge, before returning it to its spot.

 

How Much Does It Cost to Replace A Compressor?

There are two ways to do this. The first way is to do it yourself and save. All you would have to do is buy the coolant and the compressor and spend a little time making the exchange.

This method will be your cheapest option and the most you will pay will be the cost of both items. The second way is to use a qualified repairman. You will still pay for the coolant and the compressor, but you also have to add in the labor costs. This can get pricey.

On average for both methods, you are looking at paying between $100 and $600. Some repairmen may be cheap, and others may be more expensive. A lot of the expense will be the type of compressor and coolant you need for your fridge.

As well as the size and how much the technician charges per hour.

Some Final Words

When you add up the costs of repair, and you should get several estimates before you commit, it may be cheaper to buy a new fridge. That is an option you should consider seriously as you never know what other problems your used fridge may send your way.