How to test the compressor on a Frigidaire refrigerator

If your Frigidaire refrigerator isn’t cooling and the compressor is not running, the problem may be with the compressor. The compressor is responsible for circulating the refrigerant throughout the cooling system.

Before you call for a repair technician, you can quickly test the part yourself to determine if it’s the source of the issue. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll have the knowledge to troubleshoot the problem and get your refrigerator back up and running.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your appliance, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The testing information provided in this article is based on model number FRS6LF7FS4 and may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.  

Tools and materials

• 1/4″ Nutdriver
• Multimeter

The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it.  

Read more:  How To Replace A Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles.  
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.

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Testing process

1. Pull the refrigerator out from the wall to access the lower panel.
2. Remove the lower access panel by taking out the four 1/4″ screws.
3. Locate the compressor and the start device connected to it.
4. Remove the wire that holds the start device in place.
5. Slide the start device off the compressor.
6. Set your multimeter to measure resistance.
7. Test the resistance between the Common pin and each of the other pins on the compressor. Record the resistance readings.
8. Test the resistance between the Run and Start winding pins. Add the two resistance readings from step 7 and compare to this reading.
9. To test for grounding, set your multimeter to continuity. Test each pin on the compressor to the chassis ground. If you get continuity on any pin, the compressor is grounded and needs to be replaced.
10. If you measure 120VAC to the start device but the compressor failed the tests, the compressor needs to be replaced by a licensed service technician, as it contains regulated refrigerant.
11. Once testing is complete, reconnect the wiring to the start device and push the start device back onto the compressor. Reinstall the wire clip if present.
12. Replace the lower access panel and secure it with the four 1/4″ screws.
13. Plug the refrigerator back in or turn the breaker back on.

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Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Frigidaire refrigerator working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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