7 Signs Your Refrigerator Compressor Is Failing

The compressor is the heart of your refrigerator. It pumps refrigerant through the cooling system, and when it starts to fail, your fridge gives off warning signs long before it stops working completely. Catching these signs early can save your food and sometimes save the compressor itself.

What Does a Compressor Do?

The compressor squeezes refrigerant gas and pushes it through the coils, which is what pulls heat out of your fridge. When it weakens, your refrigerator has to work harder and cools less effectively.

Sign 1: The Fridge Runs Warm

If your milk and leftovers feel warmer than usual, even though the fridge sounds like it's running, the compressor may not be building enough pressure to cool properly.

Sign 2: The Compressor Runs Constantly

A healthy compressor cycles on and off. If yours never seems to shut off, it could be struggling to reach the set temperature.

Sign 3: Loud Humming or Clicking

A failing compressor often hums louder than normal or makes a repeated clicking sound as it tries and fails to start.

Sign 4: A Hot Exterior Near the Back

Some heat near the back of the fridge is normal. Excessive heat, especially paired with poor cooling, can point to a compressor working overtime.

Sign 5: Food Spoiling Faster Than Normal

If milk sours early or produce wilts faster than it used to, your fridge may not be holding a safe, steady temperature.

Sign 6: The Compressor Just Clicks and Won't Start

A repeated clicking sound with no humming afterward often means the compressor is trying to start but can't, which usually points to a failing start relay or the compressor itself.

Sign 7: Higher Electric Bills

A struggling compressor uses more energy to do the same job, which can show up as a noticeable jump in your electric bill.

What to Do Next

If you notice two or more of these signs, it's worth having a technician check the compressor before it fails completely and your food spoils.

If you're not sure what's causing the problem, or the fix involves gas, electrical wiring, or refrigerant, it's best to call a licensed technician rather than take it apart yourself.