Guides and Tips

A Simple Guide to Fridge Compressor Price

July 16, 2022
A Simple Guide to Fridge Compressor Price

The main part that keeps your fridge functioning at its best is its compressor. It’s said to be the heart of the refrigerator.

It works akin to a pump and allows the refrigerant to circulate throughout the unit. In turn, the latter absorbs heat and leaves cool air so that your food will remain fresh for as long as possible.

Now if your compressor recently broke in your refrigerator, you’d want to know the price of repairing it or getting a new one. So this simple guide here will sort you out.

The Average Cost of Fridge Compressors

The Average Cost of Fridge Compressors

Your faulty fridge compressor may need to be repaired or replaced.

In the first case, you’ll be required to spend between $50 and $300 on average. Whereas, fridge compressor replacement can typically cost more than twice that, from $250 to $650.

However, the final price will vary based on several factors. These are the type of your fridge, compressor age (whether used or old), and labor.

Old compressors are cheaper, though they can be harder to source than new ones, and a firsthand part is far more expensive than a used one.

Here is the price breakdown of some of these factors:

FactorsTypical Cost
Compressor Age$35 - $500
Labor$100 - $200 per hour

FAQs about Fridge Compressor

  1. How much does it cost to repair the compressor yourself?

We don’t recommend repairing the fridge compressor yourself since it can let out harmful gases inside the unit to damage it or endanger your health if it touches your skin or you inhale it.

Refrigerant poisoning is a very serious concern and can cause symptoms like difficulty breathing, coughing, headaches, nausea, vomiting, skin irritation, and sore eyes.

  1. How do I know if my fridge compressor is broken?

If your fridge doesn’t cool the food inside, chances are its compressor or other parts have issues.

But before you get an appliance repair technician, check if the fridge is plugged in and at the right temperature. The ideal setting for the fridge should be 40℉ or lower, and the freezer should be at 0℉.

Also, try pulling the fridge and checking its fan and coils behind. If they’re dusty, unplug the appliance; carefully brush off the dirt, dust, and pet hair on the parts; and see if the fridge works fine afterward.

  1. When should I replace my refrigerator?

It’s sometimes more economical to replace the entire fridge rather than have someone repair or replace its compressor.

In general, refrigerators can last for up to 15 years. So if your fridge is quite old, you can just get a new one, which will cost you around $1,000 to $1,500.

That rules out any recurring repairs that will be needed aside from the compressor, all of which will heavily add up to your expenses.

More Resources on Appliance Repair

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