Your refrigerator is a workhorse in your home, humming along and keeping your food fresh around the clock. The heart of such a dependable machine—the compressor—has an important job: to maintain the temperature inside the machine just right so the groceries are kept fresh. However, like other mechanical systems, compressors are not immune to wear and tear. Knowing when your fridge’s compressor needs repair services can be highly helpful, as it will allow you to avoid bigger problems later on.
In this article, we take a closer look at how the fridge compressor works, signs that it may need repairs, and some tips on how you can keep it running for years to come.
How the Fridge Compressor Works
In other words, the compressor can be thought of as the ‘engine’ of your fridge: it compresses refrigerant and circulates it through the coils to draw heat out of the interior of the fridge and keep the inside at optimal temperatures. This process repeats consistently so that your food will remain at a temperature where it cannot spoil.
The Silent Worker: Although it is hidden away at the back of your fridge, the compressor works around the clock, sustaining the cooling cycle that keeps your food fresh.
Signs Your Compressor Needs Repair
Knowing the signs of when to call in compressor repair services will save you from an unexpected fridge breakdown. Here are the top signs that your compressor may need attention:
- Unusual Noises: This is one of the likely symptoms if the compressor motor has a problem, where you may hear loud or knocking sounds at the back of the fridge. Modern compressors are designed to run silently; therefore, any loud noise is a clear sign something is not right.
- Overheating: If your compressor overheats, it will impact how well it cools your refrigerator. If you feel a great deal of heat at the back of your refrigerator, it may be overworking.
- Constant Running: If your compressor runs constantly, this could become one of the sources of inefficiency. It’s normally supposed to cycle on and off whenever necessary. If it simply runs constantly, that may imply that it is working too hard to cool at a proper temperature.
Tips for Keeping Your Compressor in Top Shape
Proper maintenance will grant your fridge compressor a longer life span and reduce repairs. Here’s how to maintain it:
- Regular Cleaning: The refrigerator rear coils accumulate dust and other debris that raise the workload of the compressor inside. Cleaning these coils at least twice a year can help improve efficiency and prevent overheating.
- Seals of the Doors: If the refrigerator doors are not well sealed, the compressor has to overexert itself to maintain a cool temperature. Clean the seals of the doors and make sure they are not cracked or worn out.
- Ensure Proper Airflow: Ensure there is enough space behind your fridge for proper ventilation. A cramped space will block airflow, leading to overheating of the compressor and making it work harder than necessary.
When to Call a Professional
Whenever you notice any of the above signs, or if the fridge is not cooling after basic maintenance has been done, it’s time to call the compressor repair services. Early handling can avoid major breakdowns and extend the life of your appliance.
Conclusion: Unsung Hero in Your Kitchen
The compressor of your refrigerator runs day and night to keep your food fresh; however, like any other electric appliance, it needs regular maintenance and repair from time to time. Identifying signs of trouble with the compressor early on will help you take action to save yourself from expensive repairs or the need to completely replace the appliance. Keep your fridge running efficiently with these tips, and when needed, get professional help.
Keep reading at Mirror Review for more household appliance maintenance tips, as well as insightful information on the latest technologies.
