Is your refrigerator compressor hot but not starting? This in-depth guide aims to offer clear, step-by-step instructions to identify and fix the problem effectively.
Table of Contents
Safety Precautions Before Starting
Before you attempt to troubleshoot the issue, it’s imperative to follow safety guidelines:
Unplug the refrigerator from the power source
Wear safety gloves and eye protection
Use insulated tools designed for electrical work
Step-by-Step ‘Refrigerator Compressor Hot But Not Starting’ Troubleshooting Guide
Follow the steps below to troubleshoot your refrigerator’s compressor if it’s hot but not starting.
Inspect the Power Source
Before delving into the intricacies of the refrigerator’s internal parts, it’s crucial to start with the basics—the power source. Make sure the refrigerator’s power cord is securely plugged into an electrical outlet. A loose connection can sometimes be the root cause of the problem.
If you suspect that the outlet itself might be faulty, you can use a multimeter to test it. Here’s how:
Set the multimeter to measure AC voltage.
You can get this KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter from Amazon.
Insert the multimeter probes into the outlet’s slots.
Check the reading. A standard household refrigerator requires a voltage between 110-130 volts.
If the outlet isn’t delivering adequate voltage, try plugging the refrigerator into a different outlet and see if the compressor starts.
Check the Overload Relay
The overload relay is a small device located on the side of the compressor. Its role is to help initiate the compressor’s operations by allowing electrical current to flow into it. If this component fails, the compressor can overheat.
To test the overload relay, follow these steps:
Unplug the refrigerator for safety.
Locate the compressor; the overload relay will be attached to it.
Detach the overload relay from the compressor.
Set your multimeter to the continuity setting.
Place the multimeter probes on the relay terminals.
If there’s no continuity, the relay is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Examine the Compressor Fan
The compressor fan is situated near the compressor and plays an essential role in cooling it down. If the fan is malfunctioning, it can result in the compressor overheating.
To check the compressor fan:
Locate the fan at the back of the refrigerator near the compressor.
Spin the fan blade manually with your hand.
If it doesn’t rotate freely or you hear grinding noises, the fan may be faulty.
In such a case, the fan needs to be replaced.
Evaluate the Capacitor
The capacitor provides the necessary voltage boost to help the compressor start. A faulty capacitor can result in the compressor failing to start and even overheating.
Testing the capacitor involves the following steps:
First, unplug the refrigerator for safety.
Locate the capacitor; it is often near the compressor or the main control board.
Remove the capacitor carefully, avoiding any electrical contacts.
Set your multimeter to the capacitance setting.
Place the multimeter probes on the capacitor terminals.
If the reading varies significantly from the specifications printed on the capacitor, it’s defective and should be replaced.
Seek Professional Help
If after trying all the steps above the compressor is still hot and not starting, it’s advisable to consult a certified appliance technician for a detailed diagnosis and repair.
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Possible Reasons for the Compressor Overheating
A hot compressor that fails to start can be attributed to various issues, which include:
Electrical problems such as frayed wiring
Faulty overload relay
Defective compressor fan
Bad capacitor
Overloaded refrigerator
