Part
Compressor Kit
Product Rating
Customer
Martin from MA
Problem
My refrigerator compressor did not start anymore
Tools
Screwdriver, multimeter
Repair & Advice
My compressor stopped working but everything I tested checked out fine (start relay, run capacitor, winding resistance). When the compressor got powered it drew 12 A for a few seconds and then the overload protection kicked in. So I figured it was stuck. I tried getting it unstuck by whacking it with a mallet during strat-up, but that worked only once. So I figured I am in for a new compressor. I called around and found that very few appliance repair guys are willing/able to change a compressor as it is a lot of work and requires an R134a license.
I got 2 estimates (incl parts): $800 and $1300. A new fridge would have been $3500. But one guy (who did not want to replace it) thought I should try a hard start kit. At $15 I had little to lose and got a URCO410 (1/3 HP). Installation took 20 min and my old compressor is humming along now for a couple of weeks already without problems. I will keep the new compressor on the shelf, just in case.
Story submitted on January 22, 2022
Part
Compressor Kit
Product Rating
Customer
Victor from NY
Problem
Compressor bad
Tools
Torch, pipe cutter, wrenches, freon, gauges, vacuum pump, piercing valve
Repair & Advice
Pull refrigerator out for access. Install piercing valve and recover freon. Remove all wires out of the way. Heat up lines and remove from compressor. The compressor lines where wrong size and adapter section in box did not work. The fittings where not in the correct place. It was suppose to be exact fit. Went to plumbing store and get correct copper line. Make up new line and fit every thing first. Make all connections. Vacuum down system and charge. Videos are a little miss leading. Be careful
Story submitted on April 8, 2015
Part
Compressor Kit
Product Rating
Customer
Dowell from TX
Problem
Refrigerator stopped cooling
Tools
Appliance repair guy
Repair & Advice
It's a big job, so be ready to spend some money to replace a compressor for your refrigerator. It took 4 hours for the guy to complete the installation, but our Kenmore is running like new.
Story submitted on December 16, 2021