[kurtd]

Hello, the compressor on my refrige is not turning on.

I replaced the main board with no success.

I have visually inspected several parts and can't identify any issues.

In a prior thread it was suggested that it probably was an inverter problem.

I know I probably need to buy and learn how to use a voltage meter.

In the mean time, if it helps to diagnose the issue - I realized today that when I plug the refrige in, there is an immediate click and the whole refrige shakes. I assume it is the compressor trying to come on, but failing.

The other fans seem to be working just fine.

Thanks in advance for any help.

[Simon / APP Team]

Hi.

You have a choice to buy a $20 multimeter or replace several parts to discover that compressor is bad.

Simon.

[kurtd]

I'm sure you are correct Simon.

I'll search the forums for how to use a multimeter.

[Simon / APP Team]

Here is an article how to use the meter:

How To Check Continuity With Ohmmeter

Simon.

[kurtd]

Just a heads up. GE man was out to inspect the refrige. He says it is indeed the inverter.

Hopefully it arrives soon from APP. Should be easy to install.

I will let you know how it goes.

BTW - The estimated repair cost was $433.30 for part and labor.

Thanks again.

[Simon / APP Team]

You are welcome.

Simon.

[richappy]

When you plug in the new inverter, listen and feal the compressor. If vibrating excessively or making unusual noises, you might have a problem with one of the phase windings that will eventually blow out the inverter again.
You might also want to purchase an amprobe to see if the total single phase compressor current is higher than the nameplate rating. Current should be between one and 1.6 amps.

[kurtd]

I wanted to thank you again. richappy, I installed the inverter last night and the refrigerator cooled to it target temps (0/37) in about 8 hours. In fact, I'm a little concerned this AM because it says it's at -2 and 34 degrees. It exceeded it's goal.

The inverter I received from APP had one connector that didn't match the original part. I noticed someone else had the same problem.

Part is here:

GE WR55X11138 Inverter Asm Comp Mount - AppliancePartsPros.com

I didn't understand the APP reply, but to resolve it, I cut off the connector from the old inverter and used it on the new one. So far it appears that the risk of doing this paid off ok. I couldn't see the harm in it as it seemed to be a very simple connection (2 wires). Hopefully time doesn't prove me wrong on that.

Interestingly, after replacing the part, when I first plugged it in, it started up smoothly and quietly. There was no jarring motion. With regards to the compressor, there is very little vibration at all. Very quiet. This is in stark contrast to when the inverter was bad. Plugging it in with the old inverter would cause the whole refrigerator to shake intensely, but briefly. Again, I assume this was the compressor attempting to kick-in and failing. I wanted to mention this in hopes that it helps people diagnose their own refrig issues.

In any case, thank you.

[richappy]

Thanks for the feedback, it is helpfull.