It is rare but sometimes, a Hotpoint refrigerator compressor can become faulty or fail completely. Here, we discuss ways to solve the problem.
Table of Contents
Reset the Compressor on a Hotpoint Refrigerator
To reset a Hotpoint refrigerator compressor, take the following steps:
Step 1
Disconnect the power cord of the refrigerator from electric power. Leave it disconnected for some minutes.
Step 2
Locate the temperature controls of both the refrigerator and freezer sections. You should find them inside the unit. Turn them to 0 or Off.
Step 3
Reconnect the cord to electric power and turn the temperature controls on again. Next, set them to the point you want. Usually, setting them to the middle point is best.
Now, allow the refrigerator some time to adjust to the new setting. Following these steps helps you to reset the compressor of the refrigerator.
Hotpoint Refrigerator Compressor Not Running – How to Fix
If you find that your Hotpoint refrigerator compressor is not running, consider doing any of the following:
1. Replacing the Relay
The relay is responsible for connecting the start capacitor of the compressor to the windings as it starts to run. If it fails, the compressor would have a hard time start or even running. The same is true if the overload, which is part of what makes the compressor work, starts malfunctioning.
Remove the relay and shake it. If there is a rattle, it means the relay is likely damaged. To be sure of the damage, test it with a multimeter to check for continuity. Do this between the run and start terminals. If you don’t find continuity, replace the relay.
In the same vein, test the overload or start capacitor with a multimeter. If there is no continuity, replace the capacitor. It is inexpensive to replace, just like the relay.
2. Changing the Temperature Controls
Disconnect the refrigerator from power and find the controls inside the refrigerator. They are usually housed inside the control panel on the roof. Remove the cover and pull out the controls.
Next, remove their terminals and test them with a multimeter. As you rotate the knob to take them to a colder temperature setting, the resistance should show. The switch of the controls should close. So if this does not happen, they are faulty. Replace them.
If there is an issue with the temperature controls of the refrigerator, the compressor would go off. See, the controls send power to the fan motors and compressor when there is a change in the temperature of the refrigerator.
And if they fail to do this, the compressor won’t be able to run. The same is true for the condenser and evaporator fan motors.
3. Testing the Condenser Fan
Take a look at the blades and clean them if they are dirty. Remove debris and other entanglements that can keep them from turning freely.
Next, spin them manually. If they don’t spin freely, the bearings of the fan motor may be worn. But to be sure the motor is bad, run a continuity test on it using a multimeter. If there is no continuity, replace the motor.
The compressor tends to overheat while running, especially if there is poor airflow. But the fan keeps it cool by blowing air over it. If the fan stops working, the compressor would overheat. And if nothing is done to fix it, the compressor is likely to stop running eventually.
4. Checking the Power Supply
A damaged power cord, burnt or damaged fuses, and faulty outlet all contribute to impeding the supply of power to the compressor and the refrigerator generally.
Start with the cord; it is the easiest. Pull it out and check it for damage, burns, or fraying. Replace it if any of these.
Otherwise, plug it into the outlet again but this time, make sure it is pushed in firmly. Then, check the refrigerator.
If there is no change, test the outlet. Connect a small appliance to it and check for power. If the appliance fails to power, replace the wall outlet or relocate the refrigerator. But if it powers, the problem is from the compressor itself.
However, before deciding this, inspect the fuses or circuit breaker. It is possible there is some damage to it. Have a certified electrician look at it and determine if it needs fixing.
5. Cleaning the Condenser Coils
Keeping the coils clean and free of debris helps them perform efficiently. So clean them at least once every year, especially if you have pets that shed hair.
A vacuum cleaner with a hose attached to it works. The same is true for a condenser cleaning brush. Make sure to get all the dirt and sweep the floor around the refrigerator.
6. Checking the Compressor
Test the windings of the compressor using a multimeter to check for continuity. Be sure to unplug the refrigerator before doing this. If the readings are inaccurate or non-existent, replace the compressor.
A refrigerator compressor does not fail easily. So be sure you have checked other components and they are in good working condition before checking the compressor.
7. Troubleshooting the Control Board
The control board may be damaged. And since it usually controls most of the activity in the refrigerator, it might mean that the compressor won’t run. This is especially true if your Hotpoint refrigerator is a more recent model.
It is somewhat tricky to fix this problem because of how much the board controls. This is why it is very important to sort out other components first before going for the board. Only when you are sure nothing else is faulty should you consider replacing the board.
Hotpoint Refrigerator Compressor Hot – Solutions
A compressor should be hot during normal operation. However, if it is scalding or too hot to be touched, do the following:
1. Check the Condenser Coils
Dirty coils easily transfer heat to the refrigerator and even compressor. In the process of trying to lower the temperature, the compressor overworks itself and becomes too hot due to constant running.
To avoid this, clean the coils, making it a duty to check and clean them every year. Doing this keeps them in the best form to effectively remove heat.
2. Check the Condenser Fan
Inspect the blades to see if there is any debris. Clean them with a soft cloth to remove dust and other dirt. Afterward, turn them with your hand.
If the blades turn well, it means the motor of the fan is in good working condition. But if they don’t, it is possible the motor bearings are worn out.
To determine whether or not the motor is truly faulty, take a multimeter and run a test to check for continuity. If you don’t find continuity, replace the motor.
The fan should cool the compressor so it does not get hot. However, if the motor of the fan stops working, the fan won’t be able to cool the compressor. As a result, it will become hot.
3. Troubleshoot the Defrost System
If the Hotpoint refrigerator has an automatic defrost system, troubleshoot the components to be sure they are all working well. If you are not sure how to do this, contact Hotpoint or a certified technician to check them.
You see, if the system fails, it can cause some problems in the refrigerator. One of such problems is making the compressor run hot.
If the refrigerator remains the defrost cycle, it will not cool. Consequently, the compressor will try to lower the temperature. The same applies if the refrigerator does not defrost anymore.
4. Check the Thermostat
Move the knob of the thermostat of the refrigerator from the highest temperature point to the lowest one. When you get to the highest point, listen for a clicking sound. If you don’t hear this sound, the thermostat is defective.
Take it a step further by running a continuity test on the component with a multimeter. If the thermostat does not show signs of continuity, replace it immediately.
A defective thermostat makes the compressor run hot. The same is true if you set the thermostat incorrectly.
5. Check the Refrigerant Level
Shortage of refrigerant is a signal of a leak. The tubing through which the gas runs has sprung a leak, causing the refrigerator to stop cooling.
As a result, the compressor will put in more work and run constantly to reduce the heat. The constant running makes it hot.
Unfortunately, checking the level of the refrigerant is the job of a certified technician. If you have an active warranty on the unit, contact any Hotpoint service center and report the issue.
6. Check the Compressor
Test the compressor to check its functionality. It may be failing and one of the signs of this is scalding hotness on a regular basis.
If you are not sure how to run this test, have a certified technician do it and determine whether or not it needs a replacement.
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Hotpoint Refrigerator Compressor Fan Not Working – What to Do
Start with the blades of the fan. Clean them with a soft rag to remove dirt and debris. Next, turn the blades. How well they turn will let you know whether or not the motor is still working.
If they turn well, the motor is in good working condition. However, if the blades don’t turn well, it is possible the bearings of the fan motor have washed. This means you have to replace it.
But if you are not sure, take a multimeter to check the motor for continuity. If there is no continuity, consider replacing the motor or the fan assembly.
Hotpoint Fridge Freezer Noisy Compressor – Quick Fix
Make sure the compressor is the component making the noise. Sometimes, it is misdiagnosed as noisy whereas, it is not.
A compressor is supposed to make a noise when it is running. You should hear a low hum. But if the hum is too loud or if it becomes a buzz, something is wrong.
If the noise sounds as if it is clicking, the temperature of the freezer may be going off and on. This is usually nothing to worry about unless it is loud and continuous. In this case, check the overload or the start relay for continuity. Replace the defective one.
Now, if it is vibrating, check the springs of the compressor. You may have to employ the services of a refrigerator technician to check and advise the best way forward.
There is also the chance that the refrigerator is hitting the walls around it. So, try to move it to make some space. Not only will it stop the noise, but it will also help improve the flow of air around the refrigerator. This will help the coils and the compressor.
Recap
Fix a Hotpoint refrigerator compressor that has problems so it does not cause more problems for the refrigerator.
Fortunately, taking the steps we have laid out in this article goes a long way in solving the problem.
However, if none of them works, contact the professionals. Find any Hotpoint service center close to you and report the issue. Then, request for service.
As an alternative, chat with our technicians. They have the experience to assist you and you don’t need an appointment or even an expensive in-house call.
Always unplug the refrigerator from electric power before troubleshooting or fixing it. Doing this prevents electrocution.
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