Your Handyman Guide to the Mysterious Refrigerator Compressor
Hello my fellow DIY enthusiasts! Have you ever stood in front of your open fridge, wondered where all the magic happens and how it stays so cool inside while maintaining the ambient temperature outside? That’s the stuff of legends. Today, in this frosty corner of the world wide web, we'll demystify the heart of your fridge- the compressor!
What on Earth is a Refrigerator Compressor?
Let me throw in a definition without sounding like a boring textbook. The refrigerator compressor is the big boss who handles the cooling process. It compresses the refrigerant gas, making it hot and high pressure, which then travels through the condenser coils and dissipates the heat. Voila! You have yourself a chill fridge.
Recognizing the Symptoms of a Sick Compressor
Like any good superhero, your compressor too can run into trouble, but they often send out distress signals. It might simply throw a noise party you weren't invited to, or create a puddle of water around your fridge. It might even generate more heat or prevent the inside of your refrigerator from getting cold.
Be assured, though, I've got some handyman tips and tricks up my sleeve to help you diagnose and fix these hiccups, keeping your superhero functioning.
Handyman’s Tackle Box: Compressor Troubleshooting Techniques
Listening to the Noise
Decipher the fridge Morse code. A humming or clicking noise can simply indicate that your compressor is overworking due to a dirty condenser. Perhaps cleaning it might save the day.
The Overheat Check
Your fridge is supposed to chill, not heat! If it's heating, maybe the condenser fan has stuck. Be the savior and unstick it.
Royale Rumble or the Compressor Shake Test
Don't worry; I'm not asking you to drop your fridge like it's WWE SmackDown. Simply give it a light shake. If it moves, all's well; if not, then your compressor might need a hand.
Handyman's Guide to Fixing the Compressor
You’ve diagnosed the patient, now let’s work on the cure.
Resetting the Overload Protector
The overload protector safeguards your compressor from power surges. Sometimes, all you need to do is a simple reset. Always remember, safety first; Unplug before you start fiddling around.
Cleaning the Condenser Coils
Working in a clean environment is crucial, not only for us but for our ice-cold mates too. Get your vacuum cleaner or brush and devote some cleaning time for the condenser coils.
Changing the Start Relay
Relays are like the best friends of compressors, helping them start with a bang. If they're faulty, your compressor could stutter, so replacing them might fix the problem.
When to Consult a Professional?
As a seasoned repairman, I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t insist on contacting a professional when things get too complicated or dangerous. Sometimes, your refrigerator might need more specialized care. Repairs involving tinkering with electrical components or handling refrigerant gas should be left to the pros.
Handyman’s Parting Words
Remember, you're a brave DIYer armed with the best of my handyman tips, but that doesn't mean you're invincible. Take cautious steps, wear protective gear, and make sure you've read your refrigerator's manual thoroughly before starting any repair. May the frosty force be with you!