The compressor is the heart of your refrigerator. It keeps things cool, cycles refrigerant, and makes sure your food stays fresh. But like any hardworking part, it doesn’t last forever. When a compressor starts to fail, your fridge will give you warning signs—and ignoring them could lead to spoiled groceries, costly repairs, or even a full replacement.
So, how do you know if your compressor is on its way out? And what should you do about it?
1. Your Fridge Isn’t as Cold as It Should Be
One of the first signs of a struggling compressor is inconsistent cooling. If your fridge isn’t maintaining the right temperature—no matter how much you adjust the thermostat—there’s a good chance the compressor is losing efficiency. A properly working compressor should cycle on and off to maintain a steady temperature. If it’s running constantly or not turning on at all, that’s a problem.
Before assuming the worst, check a few things first:
- Make sure the vents inside the fridge and freezer aren’t blocked.
- Clean the condenser coils—dust buildup can overheat the system.
- Listen for the compressor turning on (you should hear a soft humming sound).
If everything checks out and your fridge still isn’t cold enough, it’s time to consider compressor trouble.
2. Unusual Noises Coming from the Back of the Fridge
Refrigerators aren’t silent, but they shouldn’t be making loud clicking, buzzing, or knocking noises either. If your fridge is suddenly noisier than usual, your compressor might be struggling.
A clicking sound every few minutes often means the compressor is trying to turn on but failing. A loud humming or rattling noise could indicate internal wear. In either case, these noises shouldn’t be ignored—they’re signs that your compressor might be nearing the end of its life.
3. The Compressor Feels Overheated
Reach around to the back of your fridge and touch the compressor (carefully—it might be hot). While it’s normal for it to be warm, it shouldn’t be scorching hot to the touch. Overheating is a sign that the compressor is working too hard or that there’s a problem with airflow.
If the compressor is extremely hot, unplug the fridge and let it cool down before turning it back on. If the overheating continues, the compressor could be failing, and it’s best to call in a technician before the problem gets worse.
4. Food Spoils Faster Than It Should
Even if your fridge still feels cold, a failing compressor can cause temperature fluctuations that aren’t always obvious. If milk sours quicker than usual or vegetables wilt in just a day or two, your fridge might not be cooling as consistently as it should. These small changes can be an early warning sign that your compressor isn’t keeping up.
5. The Fridge Isn’t Using as Much Power as It Used To
This one might seem counterintuitive, but if your electric bill suddenly drops and you haven’t changed your usage habits, it could be a sign that your compressor isn’t running properly. A failing compressor might not turn on as often as it should, which means your fridge isn’t using as much energy—because it’s not cooling the way it should.
What to Do If Your Compressor Is Failing
If you’ve noticed one or more of these warning signs, don’t wait until your fridge stops cooling completely. Here’s what you can do next:
- Double-check the basics. Before assuming the compressor is the culprit, make sure the power supply is stable, the thermostat is set correctly, and the condenser coils are clean.
- Listen for clicking or buzzing sounds. If your fridge makes a clicking noise every few minutes, the compressor is likely struggling to start. This often means a faulty start relay—a relatively inexpensive repair compared to a full compressor replacement.
- Call a professional. If your fridge isn’t cooling properly and you suspect compressor failure, it’s best to get it inspected by a technician. Compressors are complex and expensive to replace, so you’ll want to confirm the diagnosis before making a decision.
- Decide whether to repair or replace. If your fridge is relatively new, repairing the compressor might be worth it. However, if your fridge is over 10 years old, replacing the entire unit might be the smarter choice. A technician can help you weigh the costs.
Don’t Ignore Compressor Issues—Act Fast
A failing compressor doesn’t mean you need a brand-new fridge right away, but waiting too long can lead to total failure. If you suspect your fridge’s compressor is on its last legs, getting it checked sooner rather than later can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.
Need help diagnosing or fixing your refrigerator? Schedule a refrigerator repair in Austin with TC Appliance Repair today. Just give us a call at 777-737-8214 or contact us through our website.
