Compressor Failure – Why It Happens & How to Fix It

If your fridge, dryer or air conditioner has stopped cooling, the culprit is often the compressor. A failing compressor can leave you with warm food, damp clothes and a hefty utility bill. The good news? Many early warning signs are easy to spot, and a few simple checks can tell you whether you can DIY a fix or need a professional. Below we break down the most common symptoms, what usually makes a compressor quit, and practical steps to get your appliance back in shape.

Common signs your compressor is on the fritz

First thing you’ll notice is a loss of cooling or heating. In a fridge this means the interior stays warm; in a dryer it means clothes stay damp. You might also hear a loud humming or clicking noise coming from the back of the unit – that’s the motor trying to start but failing. Another red flag is the unit running constantly without reaching the set temperature, which drags up energy use. Finally, if you see a burnt smell or notice oil leaking around the compressor housing, stop using it immediately – those are clear signs of serious trouble.

Why compressors fail

Compressors are like the heart of many appliances, so they endure a lot of stress. Over time, the motor windings can overheat, the bearings wear out, or the refrigerant can leak, causing the compressor to seize. Frequent power surges, dirty condenser coils, or clogged filters force the compressor to work harder than it should. In older models, the refrigerant oil can break down, reducing lubrication and leading to premature wear. Understanding the cause helps you explain the problem to a repair technician and can even prevent future failures.

DIY checks before you call a pro

Start by unplugging the appliance and giving it a few minutes to cool down. Remove any dust from the condenser coils or vent grills – a clean coil improves airflow and eases the load on the compressor. Next, locate the starter relay (usually a small box near the compressor) and give it a gentle tap; sometimes a stuck relay will reset and the compressor will start up again. If you have a multimeter, you can test the continuity of the compressor windings; a reading of infinite resistance means a burnt winding and you’ll need a professional.

Remember, working with refrigerant and high‑voltage components is risky. If you’re uncomfortable handling electrical parts or you find oil leaks, it’s best to stop and call a qualified Glastonbury repair service. Trying to force a broken compressor can cause further damage and may void any warranty.

When to call Glastonbury Appliance Repair Services

Call us if you hear continuous clicking, notice oil leaks, or the appliance simply won’t start after you’ve cleaned the coils and tapped the relay. Our technicians are trained to diagnose compressor issues quickly, order the correct replacement parts, and perform safe refrigerant handling. We can often fix a faulty capacitor or replace a worn bearing in under an hour, saving you the cost of a whole new unit.

Another good time to call is when your appliance is over ten years old and the compressor shows signs of wear. Modern compressors are more efficient, so a replacement can lower your energy bill and improve performance. We’ll give you a clear repair‑or‑replace recommendation, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Preventing future compressor failures

Regular maintenance is the easiest way to keep compressors healthy. Clean coils and vents every three months, check the door seal on fridges for leaks, and run a dryer lint filter cleanout after each load. Installing a surge protector can shield the motor from power spikes, and scheduling an annual service with a local technician helps catch early wear before it becomes a costly breakdown.

By staying on top of these simple tasks, you extend the life of your appliance’s compressor and avoid emergency calls. If you ever need a quick check‑up or a professional repair, Glastonbury Appliance Repair Services is just a phone call away – reliable, affordable, and right here in your neighbourhood.