Your fridge suddenly stopped cooling? It could be a power issue, dirty coils, a failed compressor, or a broken defrost system. Learn the top 5 causes and what to do next to fix it or decide whether to replace it.
Fridge Compressor Failure: Signs, Causes, and What to Do Next
When your fridge compressor failure, the heart of your refrigerator’s cooling system that circulates refrigerant to keep food cold. It’s known as the refrigerator compressor, and when it goes, your whole fridge stops working—even if the light still turns on. You might hear it humming, but the inside feels like a warm closet. That’s not normal. A working compressor should run quietly and keep things chilly. If it’s loud, clicking, or silent all together, something’s wrong.
This isn’t just about the compressor itself. It’s tied to other parts like the condenser coils, the metal fins at the back or bottom that release heat, the start relay, a small switch that gives the compressor the kick it needs to turn on, and even the thermostat, the control that tells the compressor when to run. If any of these fail, the compressor gets overworked. Dust on the coils? That’s a big one. Dirty coils make the compressor work harder, burn out faster, and cost you more in electricity. A faulty start relay can make it click but never turn on. And if the fridge’s been running non-stop for years, it’s just worn out.
Most fridges last 10 to 15 years. If yours is older than that and the compressor is the issue, repair costs often hit $300–$600—and that’s if the part’s even available. New fridges start around $700. Sometimes, replacing the whole unit makes more sense. But if your fridge is under 8 years old and the rest of it’s in good shape, fixing the compressor might be worth it. Don’t just guess—check the basics first. Clean the coils. Make sure the fridge isn’t jammed against the wall. Listen for strange sounds. If it’s humming but warm, that’s a classic compressor sign.
What you’ll find below are real fixes, real stories, and real advice from people who’ve been there. From diagnosing a failing compressor to knowing when to walk away from a repair, these posts give you the facts without the fluff. No jargon. No upsells. Just what actually happens when your fridge stops cooling—and how to handle it.