A GUIDE TO THE 4 PARTS OF A REFRIGERATOR
Want to get better acquainted with the kitchen appliance that never takes a break? Learn about the main parts of a refrigerator, from the compressor to the evaporator coils, and discover what each part does.
WHAT ARE THE BASIC PARTS OF A REFRIGERATOR?
The parts of your refrigerator work tirelessly to help keep your food fresh, your drinks cold and your kitchen running smoothly. Explore the basic parts of your refrigerator to better understand how your appliance works.
1. COMPRESSOR
The compressor is essentially an engine. Its job is to kickstart the entire cooling process. The compressor pumps the vapor refrigerant (the cooling agent) through the fridge by increasing the pressure and temperature of the coolant as it makes its way through the refrigeration cycle. Typically, you will find the compressor on the bottom or back of the refrigerator.
2. CONDENSER COILS
The condenser coils, located on the back or bottom of your fridge, are the pipes where the vapor refrigerant condenses into liquid form as the compressor continues to increase pressure. As the condensation process occurs, the refrigerant releases heat that is then pushed out into the outside air. This heat is the air that you’ll typically feel coming out from under your fridge.
KEEP CONDENSER COILS CLEAN
Condenser coils work best when you clear away dust every two to three months, especially if you have heavy pet traffic in your home.
3. EXPANSION DEVICE
The expansion device causes a rapid pressure reduction in the refrigerant, transforming it back to a vapor state. Located between the condenser and evaporator coils, its function is to control the release of pressure as the change of state from liquid to vapor occurs.
4. EVAPORATOR COILS
The evaporator coils are where the actual cooling of the refrigerator occurs. As the refrigerant passes through the coils, it absorbs any heat that is in the surrounding air, generally from the food compartment side of the refrigerator.
As the coils absorb the heat, they release the cool air felt when opening the refrigerator door. Small vents on the inside of the freezer and refrigerator allow the air to move from the freezer and into the fridge. These coils are typically in a covered part in the back of the freezer.
KEEP AIR VENTS UNOBSTRUCTED
Keep your air vents clear from food items for maximum airflow throughout your refrigerator. Keeping your air vents unobstructed will also help ensure that your food stays at optimal temperatures and does not freeze.
WHAT ARE THE PARTS OF A REFRIGERATOR DOOR?
Beyond the basic components, the door of your fridge helps keep your perishables fresh. The key parts of a refrigerator door work together to help maintain temperature, allow easy access to food and drinks and offer additional storage solutions.
Door seal: The seal, or gasket, is a flexible strip of rubber that lines the door to create a tight seal when the door is closed. This helps maintain the proper temperatures and humidity levels inside the appliance.
Ice and water dispenser: Some refrigerators have in-door ice and water dispensers that allow for easy access to ice and chilled water without needing to open the fridge, helping to keep the interior at a consistent temperature.
- Shelves and bins: Many refrigerator doors have shelves or bins to help keep items like condiments and beverages easily accessible, allowing you to quickly grab the items you need without letting too much cool air out.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW REFRIGERATOR PARTS FUNCTION
Check out how a refrigerator works if you want a deeper dive on how the refrigeration system works and how each part plays its role. Also, read this guide on how a refrigerator ice maker works to learn more about your fridge’s ice maker. The Info Hub blog also has tips for maintaining your refrigeration appliances, like how to clean an ice maker, how to replace a refrigerator water filter, how to clean your refrigerator and how to fix or replace your refrigerator’s light.
WHEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE REFRIGERATOR COMPONENTS?
Over time, your refrigerator parts may become worn or damaged and may need to be replaced to help keep your appliance performing at its best. Signs that you need to replace a component in your fridge might include unusual noises during operation, poor ice quality or production and improper cooling temperatures.
If you think your refrigerator needs replacement parts or a repair, schedule a service call with a licensed technician to investigate further.
WHERE TO FIND REFRIGERATOR REPLACEMENT PARTS
If you have a Maytag® refrigerator, it’s important that you choose appliance-specific refrigerator parts from Maytag brand. Find the Maytag® refrigerator replacement parts you need, or visit Maytag brand’s Service and Support for additional resources to help keep your refrigerator at peak performance.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE FOR YOUR MAYTAG® REFRIGERATOR
Refrigerator component replacements not only vary across different brands and specific models, but they can also be too complex to handle on your own. If you need a service call for your Maytag® refrigerator, call customer service at 1-800-344-1274.
Hours of operation: Mon & Tue 8 a.m.-8 p.m. (ET), Wed-Fri 9 a.m.-7 p.m. (ET).
All Maytag® refrigerators are backed by a 10-year limited parts warranty1 on the compressor for a decade of dependable cooling power. Look for your model number for full details about your coverage.
EXPLORE MAYTAG® REFRIGERATORS
Explore Maytag® refrigerators with nonstop cooling and options on select models like the PowerCold® feature and signature Maytag® steel shelves. Browse the full lineup of refrigerators to find the one that works best for you.
