The refrigerator in your home is an essential appliance that you count on to do its job consistently. When the fridge stops cooling, it can cause panic as you stand to lose money on the frozen and chilled food being stored inside.

Replacing an entire refrigerator is not only frustrating and time-consuming, but it can be expensive. Instead of getting rid of what seems to be a faulty appliance, call a reputable appliance repairman to take a look at the problem, which is most likely caused by the compressor.

5 Appliance Repairman-Approved Ways to Check Your Compressor

1. Unplug

Before you can begin to do any inspection, unplug your refrigerator. To determine whether your compressor has expired, and if you’ll need to call for professional refrigerator repair, take a look at the interior wiring setup.

2. Make Room to Work

Ask a friend or roommate to help move the refrigerator away from the wall so that you have plenty of space to work with. Appliance repair requires some elbow grease and room to get a good look at the problem, so allow at least a few feet of space between the fridge and the wall before you begin.

3. Locate the Side Panel

On the side of the compressor, you’ll see a panel that is secured by a couple of screws. Use a screwdriver (flat blade will be your best bet) to loosen them and remove the panel. If you’re unsure of where the panel is on your fridge, give your local appliance repairman a call to ask for guidance.

4. Find the Switch

Once you’re able to remove the side panel, look for the starter relay switch. These are fairly standard and easy to find on the average refrigerator – look beneath the panel to find it, and unplug it from the compressor. This switch will act as the indicator as to whether your compressor needs to be replaced.

5. Shake & Listen

Shake the relay switch that you just removed and listen for a rattling sound. If you do hear a rattle, the switch itself is bad and will need to be replaced. If you do not hear the rattling sound, it means that the relay switch is still good and the compressor is the problem. If this is the case, give your appliance repairman a call and ask for a second opinion before you weigh your repair and replacement options.

 

If you’re a homeowner in Lexington or Fayette County and are in need of a licensed appliance repairman, look no further than Rick Greene Appliance. Well-known for their efficient and affordable appliance repairs, this team of experts will save you hundreds of dollars on replacing a faulty appliance that can be repaired instead. Visit them online or give them a call at (859) 455-9000.