A refrigerator with a poor-performing compressor will stop working eventually. This article discusses a Viking refrigerator compressor with problems.
Table of Contents
Viking Refrigerator Compressor Location
The location of the compressor on a Viking refrigerator is at the bottom back of the unit. This is the usual location of refrigerator compressors.
Viking Refrigerator Compressor Not Running – Solutions
The following are possible and common solutions to a Viking refrigerator compressor that is not running:
1. Clean the Condenser Coils
Make it a point to clean the coils every 6 months. If you have to stretch it, it should not exceed 12 months.
Cleaning them keeps them in top shape to efficiently remove heat from the refrigerant passing through them. This way, the refrigerant does not transfer heat to the refrigerator.
You see, if the refrigerator becomes warm or hot, the compressor is compelled to work harder to lower the temperature. This puts too much weight on it and eventually, it becomes too hot and fails.
2. Change the Power Cord
It is possible the power cord is not fully inserted into the wall socket. This is made more possible if there is constant movement around that area.
So, check it carefully. Push it in firmly and check the compressor. If it starts running, you have your answer. Otherwise, inspect the cord after disconnecting it.
Any damage to it means you have to replace it. You also eliminate the risk of a fire outbreak by doing this.
In addition, there is a chance the cord is not the problem. Therefore, check the socket. Connect another electrical appliance into it to check for power. If it comes on, the socket is working fine. But if it doesn’t, you know the compressor is simply not getting the power to run.
3. Get a New Thermistor
Test the thermistor using a multimeter in order to check for continuity. As you test it, you should find its resistance changing. That is the indication that it still has continuity and therefore, life.
However, if there is no change in the resistance, meaning no continuity, replace the thermistor.
The control cannot supply the needed power to the compressor to run if the thermistor fails to send the temperature readings. And if the compressor has no power, it would not run.
4. Replace the Start Relay
A faulty start relay is likely the most possible cause of a compressor not running. This is because this component is what supplies a power boost for the compressor to start and run.
So, remove the relay from where it is attached to the compressor and shake it. It should not make any noise or rattle. If it rattles, it signals a problem and you should replace the relay.
But if you are not sure, run a continuity test on it. Place the tester between 2 run terminals and check the reading. If there is no change, the relay is faulty and should be replaced.
5. Check the Temperature Controls
Turning the controls off turns the compressor off. This means the compressor is not necessarily damaged. Check the controls and if they are off, turn them on and check for life in the compressor.
But if they are bad, the compressor won’t come on even if you turn them. And the temperature inside the refrigerator will rise. Replacing the controls is cheaper and easier than replacing the compressor so change them. Then, check the compressor.
If the compressor starts running, you know the controls were affecting it. Otherwise, the compressor itself may be damaged.
6. Replace the Condenser Fan
Rotate the blades of the fan to check how well they move. A properly functioning fan’s blades should move freely. If, however, they register some restriction or stiffness, the motor may be defective.
Clean the blades and remove any debris on them to be sure it is not causing the restriction. When they are clean, check them again. If they keep being stiff, test the motor.
Use a multimeter to run the test. If you don’t find any continuity, replace the motor of the fan.
Too much heat on the compressor is likely to stop it from running. And the condenser fan, which cools the compressor and the coils, enables this if it fails.
7. Change the Compressor
Rarely does the compressor fail or stop working. But it does so test it with a multimeter to check its resistance.
Only a licensed refrigerator technician is authorized by law to test and replace a compressor. However, testing it is easy and you can check it yourself. Find instructions online and follow them strictly.
Looking for an affordable fix for a compressor problem? This video shows steps to follow in order to replace your refrigerator compressor…
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Viking Refrigerator Compressor Noise – Quick Fix
The fix for this problem will depend on what the noise is. But first, make sure it is the compressor making the noise and not the condenser fan or some other part of the refrigerator.
If the compressor is clicking, it could be the controls of the freezer turning it off and on as the defrost stops and starts again. The noise usually stops after some seconds.
If it continues, it is likely the compressor is overloaded and the start relay may be the problem. Replace the relay and listen for the clicking noise.
Now, if the noise sounds like a thump or a vibration, it could mean that the 3 springs that hold the compressor steady are weak and loose.
The thump or vibration is the compressor hitting the sides of its compartment as the refrigerator shuts off. You may have to get a technician to inspect the springs and replace them.
Another cause for the vibration is the refrigerator hitting the walls or surfaces surrounding it. It means you have to create more space around it to eliminate the occurrence.
Some user manuals tell you how much space to create. But if yours does not, move the unit to create about 1 inch on the sides, 2 inches at the back, and 1 inch at the top.
A low and steady hum or buzz from the compressor is normal. It is the sound of a properly working compressor. However, if the noise gets too loud, it is a cause for concern. Contact Viking for refrigerator service.
Recap
If your Viking refrigerator compressor has problems, it is important you fix it immediately. It saves your refrigerator from damage and saves you extra costs.
Following the steps laid out above to fix it. But if you cannot do it, be sure to contact a professional. Talk to a Viking service agent and request service.
You can choose to talk with any of our appliance technicians. You don’t need to make an appointment, spend so much on an in-house call or wait too long for your turn.
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