DIY Compressor Replacement for a Refrigerator

Your home refrigerator is made up of a complex system of coils and other components designed to distribute coolant and keep your refrigerator cool. These components are powered by the compressor, which acts as a motor for the refrigerator. If your refrigerator is not keeping cool at all, it is likely the result of a faulty compressor. There's no need to spend a lot of money having a technician replace the compressor because you can do it yourself.

Phillips screwdriver
Metal cutters
Wrench
Solder
Blow torch
Safety goggles

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug your refrigerator and move it away from the wall so you have access to the rear of the unit.
- 2
  Remove the screws on the access panel located near the bottom of the refrigerator. You will now be able to see the football-sized compressor.
- 3
  Cut through the copper suction and compressor discharge lines.
- 4
  Locate the wired capacitor plugged into the side of the compressor. Unplug it.
- 5
  Remove the bolts at the base of the compressor and slide the compressor out.
- 6
  Remove the screw at the bottom of the compressor that holds the ground wire in place and unplug the ground wire.
- 7
  Remove the old compressor and fit a new one in its place.
- 8
  Plug in the ground wire and replace the screw. Plug in the capacitor and replace the compressor bolts.
- 9
  Put on your goggles and light your blow torch. Place the suction and discharge lines of the new compressor against the cut ends of the refrigerator lines. Lead a little solder line over the opening and use the blow torch to weld the two ends together.
- 10
  Replace the back refrigerator panel when finished.

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