Whirlpool Refrigerator Compressor Overheating: Fix It Now

 

A Whirlpool refrigerator is essential for keeping your food fresh, but when its compressor starts to overheat, it can lead to significant performance issues and potential damage. An overheating compressor not only affects cooling efficiency but can also result in costly repairs if left unchecked. In this article, we'll explore the common causes behind Whirlpool refrigerator compressor overheating and provide effective solutions to prevent further damage, helping you keep your appliance running smoothly.

Causes and Fixes for Whirlpool Refrigerator Compressor Overheating

Here are the causes and solutions for Whirlpool refrigerator compressor overheating.

1. Clogged or Dirty Condenser Coils

The condenser coils which are situated at the rear or beneath the refrigerator are responsible for releasing heat from the refrigerant. These coils are designed to release heat and when they are filled with dust, dirt or grease they cannot do this. This puts a lot of pressure on the compressor than required and causes it to overheat.

Fix:

The solution here is simple—clean the condenser coils. Switch off your refrigerator and if the coils are at the back then you need to pull the refrigerator out or if the coils are at the bottom you need to remove the lower grille panel. A vacuum cleaner with a soft brush is recommended to clean the surface and get rid of dirt, dust, and debris. You can also use a specialized coil cleaning brush. So, it removes dust build-up to prevent future overheating and squander your refrigerator’s efficiency by cleaning the coils once or twice a year.

2. Faulty Fan Motor

The fan motor inside your refrigerator blows air across the condenser coils to cool the compressor. If the fan motor fails or stops working, the compressor can easily overheat because it will not be able to get the proper airflow to cool it down.

Fix:

To diagnose whether the problem is with the fan motor, listen for strange noises or observe whether the blades of the fan are turning. If the motor looks faulty, then it will require replacement. You may need to call a professional technician for this job because you may need to disassemble some parts of the refrigerator to get to the fan motor.

3. Low Refrigerant Levels

In the refrigeration cycle, the fluid that absorbs and releases heat is called refrigerant. If your refrigerator is low on refrigerant due to a leak or improper installation, the compressor will have to work overtime, which can lead to overheating.

Fix:

Another task that should be performed by a professional is the check of the refrigerant level because working with refrigerants is possible only using special equipment and knowledge. If you think your refrigerator is leaking refrigerant, consult a professional who will diagnose the problem, fix the leaks, and add new refrigerant to the proper amount.

4. Dirty or Frozen Evaporator Coils

Fridges have evaporator coils which take heat from the air to make the surrounding environment cool. These coils are unable to efficiently absorb heat if they are covered in ice or dirt. This means that the compressor has to struggle to keep the temperature at the required level and this causes it to overheat.

Fix:

First, turn off the refrigerator and let the ice melt. Use a gentle cloth to wipe away any dirt or other debris from the evaporator coils. If the ice buildup is too much, then it might be an issue with the defrost system and this will need the services of a technician. If the coils are dirty, then wiping them should be enough to bring the system back to normal function.

5. Defective Start Relay or Capacitor

The start relay is a small device that supplies a boost of power to the compressor when it is starting. A defective start relay can cause the compressor not to start and when it does, it has to work harder to start, thus overheating. Likewise, a capacitor that is not working properly can also lead to power problems for the compressor.

Fix:

Turn off the refrigerator and remove the start relay from the compressor to see if the capacitor or the start relay is malfunctioning. To check if it is operating as it should, you can test it with a multimeter. If it is faulty, then changing it to a new one should help solve the problem of overheating. Likewise, if the capacitor is bad, replacing it will bring the compressor back to normal operation.

6. Overloading the Refrigerator

When your refrigerator is overstuffed, airflow inside the unit is restricted, which restricts the compressor's ability to cool down. When the fridge is overcrowded, it forces the compressor to work harder, which may lead to overheating.

Fix:

To prevent this problem, avoid overstuffing the fridge. Make sure there is enough space around food items to allow air to circulate freely. Properly organizing the fridge and not cramming too much into it will reduce strain on the compressor and maintain optimal performance.

7. Old or Worn-Out Compressor

Over time, compressors in Whirlpool refrigerators can wear out, typically after 10-15 years of use. An aging compressor may struggle to function efficiently, leading to overheating.

Fix:
It can be necessary to replace your refrigerator if the compressor is worn out and it is older than ten years. See a qualified technician to determine if the compressor needs to be replaced or serviced.

Addressing a Whirlpool refrigerator compressor overheating issue promptly is key to avoiding further damage. Your refrigerator can operate more efficiently with prompt repairs, adequate ventilation, and routine maintenance. Never be afraid to seek advice from a qualified technician for complicated problems to extend the life of your equipment and prevent expensive repairs. Written by Allen Rode for HnKParts, a trusted provider of high-quality appliance parts, offering a wide range of replacement components for gas stoves, dishwashers, and more.