Whirlpool Compressor/Start Dev Problem...

Refrigerator & Freezer Repair
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1

This past weekend I smelled electrical burning in the kitchen and isolated it to the refrigerator. I removed the back panel and discovered that the start device was burnt up. The white wire insulation was burned but the red was intact and unburned. Seems as though it shorted out somehow.

I have found the replacement part on this site (Part# AP3885081) but I’m wondering if the problem could be much larger. Before I order the part is there a way to somehow test the compressor to make sure it was not the cause?

Replacement of the start device looks to be fairly straight forward but compressor replacement would probably need to be handled by a serviceman.

Thanks!
Brian

P.S. It is sites like these that makes it possible for the DIYer to repair appliances for a fraction of the cost. In the past I have repaired the washer and the dryer thanks to great tips and help from sites like these. I just wanted to thank the "experts" that take the time to chime in here to help us out, I know I really appreciate it. Thank you.

3

I’ve had a Whirlpool Gold for less than a yr and last night I noticed water leaking from the ice dispenser. Checking my fridge I found it had lost several degrees and the freezer was starting to thaw. I reset all temps and still nothing, the compressor was not running. There was power to the fridge, lights on and panel worked but by adjusting temps, I still could not get compressor to start. I reset elec panel circuit breaker and that started the compressor. It will be of interest, once it reaches desired temp and shuts off, to see if it will come on again or if the relay is faulty.