Are you looking for how to fix the problem of your Samsung refrigerator compressor not running? Let us discuss it in this article.
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Samsung Refrigerator Compressor Not Running – Quick Fix
If the compressor of a Samsung refrigerator is not running, the following could be the cause of the problem:
1. Faulty Start Relay
A faulty start relay will keep the compressor from running at all. Even if the compressor runs somehow, it won’t run smoothly and not for long. So if the compressor of a Samsung refrigerator is not running, the relay is one of the first things to check.
To determine if the relay is faulty, test it between the start and run terminal sockets using a multimeter. You should see continuity on the meter. If you don’t see it, replace the relay.
Another way to check the relay is by shaking it. Normally, there should be no sound coming from it. But if you hear a sound like a rattle from inside it, something is broken, and you need to replace the relay.
Additionally, if you detach it from the compressor and it smells as if it is burnt, it is damaged and, you should replace it for the compressor to run.
2. Defective Start Capacitor
The start capacitor usually works together with the start relay to get the compressor working. Some refrigerators have the start capacitor and the start relay attached together to the compressor.
However, you can test the capacitor with a multimeter. There should be reading on the meter. But if there is no reading, the capacitor has likely become defective. Replace it as soon as possible.
Without the start capacitor, it is likely the relay won’t be able to provide the power needed by the compressor to start and run. Even if the compressor starts, it can only work intermittently.
3. Dirty Condenser Coils
If the coils are dirty, they will affect how well the compressor works. With time, the compressor will find it hard to start, let alone run, and will become hot to the touch.
Check the coils to determine if they are dirty. Clean them thoroughly and see if there is any change in the ability of the compressor to run. If there is, then you know the coils were the problem.
4. Malfunctioning Compressor
If all the parts above are working fine, then the problem could be with the compressor itself. Determining if the compressor is the problem could involve using live voltage, though there are other means to verify this.
However, this verification cannot be done by an amateur. So find a qualified and experienced refrigerator technician to check the compressor. If it is bad or malfunctioning, replace the compressor. But sometimes, it is more cost-effective to just buy a new Samsung refrigerator if your refrigerator model is basic.
If you own a high-end model, then buying a new compressor is cost-effective as you won’t need as much for a new compressor as you would for a new refrigerator.
Sometimes, a faulty control board can cause the compressor to malfunction. While it may look like the compressor is not running, it is a more expensive fix than replacing the control board. So, check the board or have a qualified technician test and replace the control board if necessary. Otherwise, consider using a new compressor or buying a new Samsung refrigerator.
Samsung Refrigerator Compressor Fan Not Running – Fixed
If you find that your Samsung compressor fan does not run, check the start capacitor. The capacitor stores electric power to boost the start capacity of the fan motor. If the capacitor fails, the fan may not run. So, test the capacitor with a multimeter to check for continuity. Ensure you discharge power from the capacitor before testing it; replace it if there is no continuity.
However, check the fan motor if the capacitor is in good working condition. Turn the fan blade by hand and check how well it turns. If the blade appears stiff, the motor’s bearing may be worn, and the only repair is to replace the motor. But if the blade turns well, test the motor for continuity and replace it if there is no continuity.
Can You Force the Compressor of a Samsung Fridge to Start?
You cannot force the compressor of a Samsung fridge to start. But if the compressor is not starting or running, you can reset it.
To reset the compressor, take the following steps:
Step 1
Unplug the power cord of the fridge from the wall outlet. Leave it without power for several minutes.
Step 2
Move the temperature controls of both the freezer and fridge sections to Off. Then, plug the power cord of the fridge back into the wall outlet.
Step 3
Turn the temperature controls of both sections to the setting you want. Be sure to set them to the right points.
Step 4
Give the fridge about 24 hours to adjust to the new temperature setting.
Restarting the fridge this way gives the compressor a chance to rest and power up again normally. However, if it does not start or run, contact a refrigerator technician to determine the problem and advise you accordingly.
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Do Samsung Refrigerators Have Linear Compressors?
Samsung refrigerators do not have linear compressors. They have digital inverter compressors and have had them for many years.
A linear compressor is a single-speed type that turns on when the temperature in the fridge gets past a certain level. Then, it runs again until the temperature drops considerably before turning off. This means there are interruptions in its operation.
A digital inverter compressor, on the other hand, runs almost non-stop but at varying speeds. This ensures that the temperature in the refrigerator is consistent, hardly ever changing except for a deliberate change of the temperature setting. It is better at saving costs and preserving food for a longer period.
It also means that the noise that usually accompanies the linear compressor when it turns on and off does not happen with a digital inverter compressor.
Bottom line: The digital inverter compressor which Samsung refrigerators use is better than the standard linear compressor.
Recap
The compressor of a refrigerator moves the refrigerant through the outer and inner heat exchange pipes, making the refrigerator cold. Without it, there is no refrigerator. So if it is not running, it is important to find a solution as soon as possible.
You can contact the support center of Samsung to request service, especially if your refrigerator still has an active warranty.
Alternatively, chat with any of our experienced refrigerator technicians. They know how to fix the problem or assist you with any other appliance problem you may have.
Stop! Switch the refrigerator off before checking any part of it by unplugging it from the wall socket. If you cannot reach the wall socket, shut down the circuit breaker. This is important as it keeps you safe from possible electrocution.
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