How Much Is a Refrigerator Compressor?

A refrigerator compressor is the part that pumps the refrigerant through the coils and creates the cooling effect inside the fridge. It is one of the most important and expensive components of a refrigerator, and also one of the most prone to failure. If your refrigerator compressor breaks down, you may need to replace it or buy a new fridge altogether. But how much is a refrigerator compressor? And how can you find the right one for your fridge? Here’s what you need to know.

The price of a refrigerator compressor depends on several factors, such as the size, type, model, brand, and efficiency of the fridge and the compressor. On average, a refrigerator compressor can cost between $100 and $500 for the part alone, not including labor and installation fees. The total cost of replacing a refrigerator compressor can range from $250 to $650 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the job.

How to Find the Right Refrigerator Compressor

To find the right refrigerator compressor for your fridge, you need to know three things: the model number of your fridge, the type of compressor it uses, and the power rating of the compressor.

The model number of your fridge can be found on a sticker or plate inside the fridge, usually on the wall or ceiling of the fresh food compartment. The model number can help you identify the exact specifications and features of your fridge, as well as the compatible parts and accessories.

The type of compressor your fridge uses can be determined by looking at the shape, size, and configuration of the compressor. There are four main types of compressors used in refrigerators: piston, rotary, scroll, and linear.

• Piston compressors are the most common and cheapest type of compressors. They use a piston and a cylinder to compress and move the refrigerant. They are usually small and compact, but they can be noisy and less efficient than other types.
• Rotary compressors use a rotating shaft and blades to compress and move the refrigerant. They are usually larger and more expensive than piston compressors, but they are quieter and more efficient.
• Scroll compressors use two spiral-shaped scrolls to compress and move the refrigerant. They are usually smaller and more expensive than rotary compressors, but they are very quiet and efficient.
• Linear compressors use a linear motor to compress and move the refrigerant. They are usually smaller and more expensive than scroll compressors, but they are very quiet and efficient.

The power rating of the compressor is measured in watts or horsepower. It indicates how much power the compressor consumes and how much cooling capacity it provides. The power rating of the compressor should match or exceed the power rating of your fridge. You can find the power rating of your compressor on a label or sticker on the compressor itself.

How to Save Money on a Refrigerator Compressor

There are several ways you can save money on a refrigerator compressor, such as:

• Comparing prices: You can shop around online or offline for different brands and models of compressors that fit your fridge. You can also look for discounts, coupons, or sales that can lower the price of the compressor.
• Buying refurbished or used: You can buy a refurbished or used compressor that has been tested and repaired by a certified technician. You can save up to 50% or more on a refurbished or used compressor compared to a new one. However, you should check the warranty and return policy of the seller before buying.
• Doing it yourself: You can replace the compressor yourself if you have some basic tools and skills. You can find online tutorials or videos that can guide you through the process. However, you should be careful and follow safety precautions when working with electricity and refrigerant. You should also check if doing it yourself will void your warranty or insurance.
• Hiring a professional: You can hire a professional technician or contractor to replace the compressor for you. You can save money by getting multiple quotes from different service providers and choosing the best one for your budget and needs. You should also check their credentials, reviews, and references before hiring them.

Conclusion

A refrigerator compressor is the part that pumps the refrigerant through the coils and creates the cooling effect inside the fridge. It is one of the most important and expensive components of a refrigerator, and also one of the most prone to failure. The price of a refrigerator compressor depends on several factors, such as the size, type, model, brand, and efficiency of the fridge and the compressor. On average, a refrigerator compressor can cost between $100 and $500 for the part alone, not including labor and installation fees. The total cost of replacing a refrigerator compressor can range from $250 to $650 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the job.