Admiral Refrigerator: Troubleshooting a Hot Compressor... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The MCU (Main Control Unit) sends a signal to the compressor relay to energize the compressor. The start relay and capacitor assist in starting the compressor motor. The overload protector is a safety device that trips if the compressor overheats. Proper refrigerant charge is essential for efficient cooling.

Symptoms:

The Admiral refrigerator compressor is running and feels very hot to the touch. The condenser fan and evaporator fan are both operating normally, circulating air. The refrigerator may not be cooling effectively, or cooling may be intermittent.

Possible Causes:

Dirty condenser coils
Faulty start relay or capacitor
Compressor overload protector tripping
Refrigerant leak causing low pressure
Internal compressor failure

Solution:

1

Unplug the refrigerator from the outlet.
2

Locate the condenser coils (usually on the back or bottom). Clean them thoroughly with a vacuum cleaner and brush.
3

Check the start relay and capacitor (usually located near the compressor). Visually inspect for damage. Test the start capacitor with a multimeter for proper capacitance.
4

Verify the compressor overload protector is not tripped. Use a multimeter to check for continuity.
5

If equipped, check the voltage at the compressor terminals with the refrigerator plugged in and attempting to start. You should see 120V AC.
6

Use a manifold gauge set to check the refrigerant pressure. Low pressure indicates a leak.
7

If all other components check out, the compressor may have an internal failure, requiring replacement.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the refrigerator before performing any repairs. High voltage is present when the refrigerator is plugged in. Use proper Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures. Refrigerant handling requires EPA Section 608 certification.

Prevention:

Clean the condenser coils every 6 months. Avoid overloading the refrigerator. Ensure proper ventilation around the refrigerator.

Expert Tip:

Many Admiral refrigerators have a diagnostic mode accessible through a specific button sequence (consult the service manual). This can provide error codes that pinpoint the problem faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I safely discharge a capacitor?

Use a 20,000-ohm, 2-watt resistor to slowly discharge the capacitor by connecting it across the capacitor terminals for several seconds.

•What is the typical refrigerant pressure for R-134a?

Suction pressure for R-134a should typically be between 2-10 PSI during operation, depending on the ambient temperature and refrigerator load.

•How do I replace the compressor start relay?

Unplug the refrigerator. Remove the electrical cover to access the compressor components. Disconnect the wires from the old relay. Install the new relay, ensuring the wires are connected in the same order. Reinstall the electrical cover.

Admiral Refrigerator: Troubleshooting a Hot Compressor with Running Fans

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I safely discharge a capacitor?

•What is the typical refrigerant pressure for R-134a?

•How do I replace the compressor start relay?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: