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Refrigerator compressor not running
Common reasons your refrigerator compressor not running
The most common reasons your refrigerator compressor is not running are a locked compressor, defective electronic control board or a damaged evaporator.
41% of the time it's the Compressor
30% of the time it's the Electronic Control Board
8% of the time it's the Evaporator
21% of the time it's the Something else
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Common refrigerator repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these refrigerator parts may fix your problem.
Compressor Replacement
A refrigerator compressor that is locked might display various symptoms. The most noticeable symptom is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, which can lead to increased temperatures and food spoilage. The freezer may also struggle to maintain freezing temperatures, resulting in no ice production from the icemaker. You may observe that the compressor is unusually quiet or fails to emit its typical humming sound during operation. Sometimes, the compressor may attempt to start but fail, resulting in repeated clicking sounds. The compressor's inability to circulate refrigerant properly can disrupt the defrosting process, leading to ice accumulation in the freezer. Moreover, a defective compressor could cause a sudden influx of melting frost into the drain line, leading to blockages, inadequate drainage, and potential water leaks.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
A malfunctioning electronic control board in a refrigerator can lead to various issues, such as power loss, cooling inefficiencies, and water leakage. This is because the board serves as the central control unit of the refrigerator, overseeing vital functions like temperature regulation, fan operation, defrost cycles, icemaker functionality, and dispenser operations. When the board malfunctions, it can disrupt communication among different components, including automatic door mechanisms if present. A defective board may produce clicking or chattering sounds and emit a burning odor. Given its potential impact on multiple components, it's prudent to have a Sears Home Services professional evaluate the board through diagnostic tests to determine if replacement is necessary.
Evaporator Replacement
When the refrigerator's evaporator is defective, it can lead to a decrease in overall cooling performance, causing temperatures to rise in both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. This temperature increase may lead to food spoilage and ineffective preservation of frozen items. Frost or ice buildup on the evaporator coils can hinder their ability to absorb heat efficiently. Excessive condensation inside the refrigerator may result in leaks. Additionally, a damaged evaporator may produce unusual noises such as hissing or gurgling sounds during the refrigeration cycle.
Why is my refrigerator compressor not kicking on?
The compressor circulates refrigerant throughout the cooling system, so if your refrigerator’s not cooling, the compressor or components that work with the compressor could be to blame.
Learn how to check the start relay, which activates the compressor, the electronic control board, which sends power to the compressor and the wires that connect the two by watching this safe DIY troubleshooting video:
Check the start relay
Remove the machine compartment cover on the back of the fridge and check the condenser fan.
If the condenser fan runs, then your compressor should be getting power because the compressor shares a circuit with the condenser fan motor on most refrigerators.
Follow these steps to check the compressor start relay:
- For safety, unplug the refrigerator.
- Unhook the retainer clip and pull the PTC start relay out of the refrigerator.
- Shake the start relay to see if it rattles.
If the start relay rattles when you shake it, that's a tell-tale sign the relay is fried.
Replace the start relay.
If the start relay doesn't rattle, you’ll need to check for continuity to confirm that it’s bad.
Put the one meter lead into terminal 5 and the other meter lead into terminal 6.
If you detect an open circuit between those terminals, then you’ll need to replace the PTC relay.
If the start relay's okay, then you may have a defective compressor. Unfortunately, you’ll need to get a service technician’s help to replace a compressor, because that repair involves recovering Freon.
Check for thermistor problems
If your condenser fan wasn’t running, then you may have a defective electronic control board or a bad thermistor (also called the temperature sensor), two problems we can often help you diagnose and fix. Many refrigerators have a diagnostic test mode to check refrigerator operations.
To enter the diagnostic test mode on the model shown in the video, press the light switch 3 times, then press and hold it a 4th time until you hear a long beep. You're now in the test mode. If this doesn’t work on your model, check your tech sheet for instructions. You can usually find it located behind the bottom front grill or taped to the back of the refrigerator.
In this test mode, press the door switch twice to start the compressor. The control beeps twice and then you should hear the compressor start. If the compressor runs in the diagnostic test mode, you’ll need to check the thermistor, also known as a temperature sensor. A bad thermistor prevents the compressor from running in normal operating mode. The diagnostic test mode forces the compressor to run whether the thermistor is broken or not.
This video will show you how to further diagnose a broken thermistor:
Check the compressor and wiring
If the compressor doesn't start in the diagnostic test mode, you’ll need to check continuity from the electronic control board through the compressor circuit.
If you measure around 5 ohms on the meter, it means you have continuity.
If the compressor circuit shows continuity, you'll probably need to replace the electronic control board because the board is not sending voltage through the circuit to the compressor.
If the compressor circuit is open, look for pinched or broken wires in the control board harness and on the wires leading up to the compressor. Repair or replace any broken wires that you find.
If wiring is okay and the start relay wasn't the problem, you’ll need to have the compressor replaced.
What to expect when you experience a refrigerator compressor not running issue
Solutions to a compressor not running problem
Resolving most compressor not running problems usually involves replacing the compressor, electronic control board or evaporator. However, there are many potential causes. Thorough troubleshooting and an accurate diagnosis are crucial to effectively fixing the problem.
Recommendations for a refrigerator compressor that is not running
When your refrigerator compressor is not running, there could be several reasons. To avoid replacing unnecessary parts, we recommend having a professional experienced in diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures perform diagnostic tests. This will help identify the root cause of the problem and efficiently resolve the issue for you
What to consider with a refrigerator compressor not running diagnosis
Effectively diagnosing malfunctions in modern appliances necessitates a comprehensive understanding and specialized training. Addressing refrigerator issues without employing precise diagnostic techniques may lead to ineffective repairs and unnecessary part replacements. With significant advancements in appliance technology over the past decade, contemporary models now feature intricate electronic components that pose considerable challenges for troubleshooting. Consequently, do-it-yourself repairs on modern appliances have become increasingly intricate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Glossary Terms
A dual ice maker is a feature in some refrigerators that includes two separate ice makers: one in the fridge compartment and another in the freezer section. This setup doubles the appliance's ice-making capacity.
A French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.
Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems and refrigerators to absorb heat from the environment by cycling through states of evaporation and condensation, enabling the cooling process through its cycle of evaporation and condensation.
R-12 refrigerant, also known as Freon-12, is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compound that was once widely used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and aerosol propellants before its phase-out due to environmental concerns.