How to Troubleshoot Refrigeration Systems

The refrigeration system main component is its compressor. The compressor is responsible for keeping temperatures inside the refrigerator cool. ACHR News states that the compressor works by pumping cool refrigerant gas from the evaporator into the condenser. If the compressor fails, the refrigerator will not get cold. Fortunately, a faulty compressor can be corrected simply by resetting it. Contact a refrigerator specialist for a replacement if the compressor is irreparably damaged. Refer to your refrigerator owner's guide if problems persist.

Instructions

1. Turn off the refrigerator's power supply.

2. Inspect the compressor fan located at the base of the refrigerator. It can be the reason why the compressor does not respond. Use a damp rag to clean off any dust or crud that is keeping it from blowing.

3. Locate the compressor on the back of the refrigerator -- you should notice that the compressor will be at the lower rear and its relay box will be inside the terminal box. Make sure to discharge the capacitor, if the compressor has one, before troubleshooting.

4. Remove the cover of the compressor relay box by pressing down on its retaining clip.

5. Once inside the relay box, gently grip the wires at the connector -- not the wire itself -- to remove. Inspect for accumulated dirt in and around the relay and clean the insides with a dry rag. Wiring that is corroded should be replaced by a professional.

6. Place the multitester to the RX1 or X1 setting. Take one end of the tester's probes and touch it to the end of the terminal. Repeat by taking the other probe and touching it to the other terminal. The tester should read "0."

7. Replace the compressor if the tester fails to read zero. Contact a service representative for further assistance.

References

• The ACHR News: Troubleshooting the Refrigeration Cycle for Mechanical Problems
• Marketing Biz: How to Troubleshoot the Compressor
• ACME How-To: How To Replace the Compressor Relay