Hotpoint Refrigerator: compressor not starting

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Hotpoint refrigerator's compressor isn't starting, you may notice a lack of cooling in both the refrigerator and freezer sections. This issue often manifests as an absence of humming or any audible signs of the compressor running, leading to a rise in internal temperatures. Understanding the common causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Hotpoint Models

  • Hotpoint symptom guides list locked compressor and defective electronic control board as leading causes for compressor not running.

Possible Causes

Faulty or seized compressor

How to Identify: No sound from compressor, no vibration, fridge not cooling at all and other components appear normal

Part: Compressor

Defective start relay or capacitor

How to Identify: Hearing clicking or no run despite power at compressor, start attempt noises before stopping

Part: Start relay and capacitor

Control board or electronic control failure

How to Identify: No compressor start signal, display or indicator anomalies, fridge unresponsive to settings

Part: Electronic control board

Thermostat or temperature control failure

How to Identify: Compressor doesn’t get commanded to run despite warm interior, thermostat not clicking when temperature changed

Part: Temperature control thermostat

Overload protector tripped due to overheating

How to Identify: Compressor hot to touch, cycles off quickly and doesn’t restart

Part: Overload protector

DIY Solutions

Test start relay and capacitor

Advanced 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers
  1. Unplug fridge and access compressor relay and capacitor
  2. Use multimeter to test continuity and replace relay/capacitor if failed
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug unit before accessing electrical components

Check and replace thermostat control

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, multimeter
  1. Locate temperature control thermostat
  2. Test for continuity at different settings
  3. Replace thermostat if out of spec
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug power before working inside fridge

Professional Repairs

Compressor replacement

Estimated Cost: $300 - $800

Electronic control board replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

No compressor sound after basic checks
Start relay or capacitor replacement attempt failed
Evidence of sealed system or refrigerant issue
Electrical control board suspected faulty

Preventive Maintenance

  • Keep condenser coils clean: Overheating and load on compressor
    Frequency: Every 6 months
  • Ensure adequate ventilation around fridge: Compressor overheating
    Frequency: Ongoing

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Hotpoint Refrigerator compressor not starting?
Top causes include a faulty compressor, defective start relay, or control board failure.
How do I fix Hotpoint Refrigerator compressor not starting myself?
Test the start relay and capacitor, or check and replace the thermostat control.
How much does it cost to fix compressor not starting?
Professional repair costs range from $300 to $800 for compressor replacement.
When should I call a technician for compressor not starting?
Call a technician if DIY fixes are unsuccessful or if you're uncomfortable with advanced repairs.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty start relay
  • Defective capacitor
  • Compressor failure

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the start relay. Unplug the refrigerator, locate the relay (usually near the compressor), and test it with a multimeter. If it's faulty, replace it with a new one.

  2. Check and replace the capacitor. After unplugging the unit, locate the capacitor near the relay, discharge it safely, and replace it if it's defective.

  3. Test the compressor. If the relay and capacitor are functioning, the compressor may be faulty. Use a multimeter to check for continuity and consult a professional if replacement is needed.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Fridge making jackhammer noise

Community Discussions

Fridge making jackhammer noise when compressor tries to start

Replaced the dry capacitor near the relay and the relay itself.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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