How to Install a Refrigerator Compressor

A refrigerator compressor is an important part of the refrigerator because it compresses the refrigerant in the refrigeration system. This in turn helps in the cooling process. As the refrigerator compressor compresses the refrigerant, the liquid becomes highly pressurized, thus allowing heat to escape. This cooling effect can become less efficient when the compressor becomes damaged or worn out. Thus, if it is not replaced with a new one, it will cause the refrigerator to loose its efficiency and cause the food inside it to spoil. However, installing a new refrigerator compressor should not be done without proper research as well as needed skills. Here is how to install a new refrigerator compressor.

Step 1 – Preparation

Before starting with the installation process, unplug the unit from the power supply first. Remove the contents of the refrigerator as well. Locate the old compressor. It is usually found at the bottom of the refrigerator and can be accessed from the back of the unit. It is cylindrical in shape and is usually hidden by a metal guard. Remove the metal guard to expose the old compressor.

Inspect the compressor and check if it has a capacitor. It is a large box that is connected directly to the compressor and works to provide starting power to the device much like a battery. Detach the wiring on the old compressor and the valves as well in order to remove it from its location. Uninstall mounting hardware. Purchase a new compressor with the same model to ensure an exact fit.

Step 2 – Installation

Connect the capacitor to the new compressor following the correct wiring code. In order to make the compressor work and cause the interior of the fridge to freeze, there should be a refrigerant in the system. The compressor will not work unless the refrigerant is present. If the refrigerator is an old unit, R22 is needed. If it is new, then R404c is needed, unless the manufacturer recommends other types of refrigerants. Before charging the unit with a refrigerant, the installer needs to pull a vacuum. Make sure to follow clear instructions provided by the manufacturer in order not to mess up with these ozone depleting chemicals. If unsure, call a pro for help.

Afterward, check the valves on the refrigeration and connect them to the compressor. Since refrigerators come with different compressors, make sure to follow the valve and wiring diagram provided by the manufacturer when installing the new compressor. After the wiring and valves have been connected, put the metal guard back and test the unit if it works.

Tips and Warnings:

Installing a compressor requires charging the refrigeration system with refrigerants in order to work. These chemicals are not ozone friendly and therefore should be dealt with carefully. Since a new compressor can be quite expensive, buy a new refrigerator instead if this is a cheaper option. New refrigerators may have better efficiency than old units installed with new compressors.