As unbelievable as it may sound, a refrigerator compressor explosion happens. It is dangerous and we aim to arm you with critical information in this article.
Can a Refrigerator Compressor Explode?
A refrigerator compressor can explode. The compressor is made up of a motor and pump that send refrigerant around the refrigerator through the condenser coils and evaporator coils. When the refrigerant, which is gas, turns to liquefied gas, it cools the refrigerator by removing the heat.
However, poor airflow and dirty coils cause a buildup of heat at the bottom rear of the appliance. The refrigerant flows and generates heat that it cannot dissipate. The heat causes the coils to contract, and the gas stores the heat and carries it to the compressor.
Pressure builds in the compressor as the refrigerant continues to store in it without dissipating the heat. Over time, the compressor explodes because the pressure becomes too much.
Compressor explosion does not typically happen in new refrigerators. You will find it happening in refrigerators that are up to ten years old. But even with new ones, it is crucial to maintain the refrigerators.
How to Prevent a Refrigerator Compressor Explosion
To prevent a refrigerator compressor explosion, clean the condenser coils when due. The coils need a thorough cleaning every six months or twelve months. If you have hairy pets or live in a dusty area, you may have to clean them more often.
Unplug the refrigerator and clean the coils. A vacuum cleaner usually does the job of cleaning the coils. But if you have a condenser coil cleaning brush, it does a better job because it can reach crevices that the vacuum cleaner can’t. If you can get to the coils easily, use a rag to wipe them down for a better result.
Next, clean the condenser fan and ensure it is in good working condition. Check the blades for any obstruction and make sure the motor has nothing sticking to it. Turn the blades to check how well they spin. If they are stiff, check the motor for continuity using a multimeter. Replace the motor if there is no continuity.
Regularly maintaining the refrigerator helps eliminate such explosions or other problems. The compressor does not give any sign before exploding; one second, all is well, and the next, there is a blast. But a maintenance check will catch faults before they get out of hand.
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