Compressor & Sealed System

This compressor overload protects the refrigerator's compressor by cutting power if it overheats or draws excessive current. When it fails, the compressor may not start and the fridge can warm up while you hear repeated clicking from the rear.

• Opens the circuit to the compressor when temperature or amperage exceed design limits
• Helps prevent compressor motor damage from locked-rotor or overheating conditions
• Typical failure symptoms: compressor won't start, warm refrigerator/freezer, rhythmic clicking or buzzing near the compressor
• Physical clues: heat discoloration, cracked housing, or a loose internal rattle

• Unplug the refrigerator and allow the compressor area to cool before servicing
• Remove the rear access panel and the compressor start device cover
• Note wire locations; pull the old overload straight off the compressor terminal and transfer any wires; reinstall with the existing start relay as designed
• Seat fully on the terminal and reinstall the cover; replace any heat-damaged terminals or companion components if needed

This PTC start relay mounts on the compressor and briefly powers its start winding to get it running, then drops out. Replacing a weak relay can restore reliable starts and resolve clicking/humming with no cooling.

• Provides the initial boost to the compressor via a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) element, then opens as it heats
• Takes the start winding out of the circuit once the compressor is running
• Typical failure symptoms: compressor won't start, repeated clicking/humming, no cooling, visible heat damage at the relay or connector
• Direct replacement for the original PTC start device used on applicable models

• Disconnect power before servicing; allow hot components to cool
• Access the compressor compartment, remove the cover, and note the relay's orientation; pull the old relay straight off the compressor pins
• Inspect wiring terminals for heat damage; do not reuse burnt connectors
• Firmly seat the new relay on the compressor terminals, reinstall the cover, restore power, and verify compressor start

This PTCR is the PTC start relay for the refrigerator's compressor. It briefly energizes the start winding to get the compressor running, then opens as it warms, supporting reliable starts and helping protect the compressor from repeated restarts.

• Provides initial current to the compressor start winding, then self-limits as temperature rises
• Supports consistent compressor startup to restore and maintain cooling
• Typical failure symptoms: compressor clicks or hums but won't start; refrigerator warm or not cooling
• Visible signs may include discoloration or heat damage at the relay or connector

• Disconnect power before servicing; allow sealed-system components to cool
• Note the relay's orientation; firmly seat it on the compressor terminals
• Inspect the overload protector and wiring; replace any heat-damaged components
• If the compressor still won't start, further diagnosis of the compressor, overload, and capacitor is recommended

Starter (start relay) that replaces the compressor/motor start device to help the appliance begin running reliably. Use this starter when the motor fails to spin up or shows hard-start symptoms to restore normal starting behavior. What it does:

• Provides the initial electrical boost required to start the compressor or motor.
• Commonly replaced when the compressor hums but won't start, cycles on and off, or the appliance fails to reach proper temperature.
• Reduces repeated hard-start attempts that can stress the compressor motor.
• Fits systems that use a separate start relay.

• Disconnect power (unplug appliance or switch off the circuit breaker) before servicing.
• Access relay at the compressor/motor area (typically at the rear); remove the old relay and install the new one using the existing mounting and terminals.
• Handle the compressor area carefully; avoid bending terminals or damaging wiring.

This starter is the compressor's start device. It energizes the start winding so the compressor can begin running, helping restore reliable cooling performance. What it does and common signs it's bad:

• Supplies initial current to the compressor's start winding; disengages once the motor is running
• Symptoms can include a warm refrigerator/freezer, compressor not starting, clicking or humming every few minutes
• Can show heat damage or rattling when shaken after failure

• One compressor starter

• Disconnect power before servicing and pull the unit forward for rear access
• Remove the compressor cover; note wire positions and device orientation
• Firmly seat the new starter on the compressor terminals and reconnect the harness; reinstall the cover
• Restore power and observe compressor start-up; use cut-resistant gloves and follow the product's service information

This is the refrigerator's sealed-system compressor. It pressurizes and moves refrigerant through the system to remove heat from the cabinet, restoring consistent cooling performance when the original compressor has failed or lost capacity. What it does and common symptoms:

• Pumps and circulates refrigerant through the evaporator and condenser to remove heat
• Maintains target temperatures in both fresh food and freezer sections
• Symptoms of failure can include: no cool/poor cooling, unit warms up after short operation, humming then clicking from the compressor area, or repeated thermal overload trips
• Runs but not cool effectively when the compressor is weak or internally damaged (after ruling out start components and charge issues)

• 1 compressor

• Disconnect power before servicing; sealed-system work involves high pressure and high temperatures
• Sealed-system repairs require EPA Section 608 certification and specialized tools (gauges, vacuum pump, brazing equipment)
• Replace the filter-drier, braze connections properly, evacuate to deep vacuum, and charge to the model's specification
• Related components (start device/overload, run capacitor, controls) are tested before condemning the compressor

This sealed-system compressor circulates refrigerant to cool your refrigerator, restoring normal cooling performance when the compressor fails. Designed to replace a failing compressor and help bring temperatures back to safe food-storage levels. What it does:

• Compresses and circulates refrigerant through the sealed refrigeration circuit
• Restores cooling when the compressor motor runs properly
• Commonly linked to symptoms like weak or no cooling, loud humming or clattering sounds, or a refrigerator that cycles continuously
• May be the cause if the appliance frequently trips a circuit breaker or shows hard-starting behavior

• Sealed-system work requires certified HVAC/refrigeration service and proper refrigerant handling per local regulations
• Disconnect power before beginning any repair; follow lockout/tagout practices
• Compressor replacement often requires system evacuation, brazing, and recharge — do not attempt unless qualified
• Use the identical replacement part number and follow OEM service instructions to avoid damage

The Compressor is an OEM part for Whirlpool refrigerators. It is the main component responsible for cooling the fridge interior and freezing food. The compressor operates the refrigeration cycle by compressing and condensing refrigerant which allows for the critical exchange of heat.

Symptoms of a bad compressor include:

• Inconsistent or fluctuating interior temperatures  
• Frozen foods not freezing properly
• Abnormal vibrations or sounds emanating from the rear of the fridge
• The fridge failing to cool at all

Causes of compressor failure can be a gradual decline in performance over many years of use. Manufacturing defects or damage from moisture or impact can also cause premature failure.

Note: Includes start device, capacitor, drier, and grommets. Also, order tubing kit AP3083228

This OEM Whirlpool part is compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore refrigerator models.