The compressor is the heart of any fridge freezer, pumping refrigerant to create cold air. When it fails, the appliance may stop cooling entirely or struggle to maintain temperature. Understanding compressor issues helps you decide on repair or replacement.
Common signs of a failing compressor
- Fridge or freezer is warm despite running constantly
- Loud humming or clicking noises from the back of the appliance
- Compressor feels unusually hot to touch
- Frequent tripping of the mains or appliance fuse
Typical causes
Overheating
Dusty condenser coils or restricted airflow can cause the compressor to overheat and fail prematurely.
Electrical faults
Faulty relays, wiring issues, or a damaged control board may prevent the compressor from starting.
Mechanical wear
Over time, the internal components of the compressor can degrade, reducing efficiency or causing complete failure.
Repair considerations
Compressor replacement is complex and expensive, typically costing £200–£350. Sometimes, if the appliance is old, replacement of the whole fridge freezer is more cost-effective.
Related problems
Get a repair quote
A professional diagnosis ensures the compressor is genuinely at fault before expensive replacement.
Visit our homepage to get free local repair quotes.