The compressor is the “heart” of the refrigerator, on which its performance, noise level and service life depend. But how can you find out which compressor is installed in your model if there are no visible markings on the case, and the documentation has long been lost? This information is critical when choosing spare parts for repairs, diagnosing faults, or even when purchasing used equipment. In some cases, the type of compressor affects compatibility with refrigerants (for example, R600a vs R134a) and even energy consumption.
In this article we will examine 7 working methods compressor identification - from a simple visual inspection to an analysis of technical characteristics. You will learn where to look for factory markings, how to decipher codes of popular brands (Embraco, Secop, Mitsubishi), and why sometimes just listening to the operation of the refrigerator is enough. And for those who are planning repairs, we have added a table of compressor compatibility with common refrigerator models Atlant, Samsung and Indesit.
Important: if your refrigerator is still under warranty, any attempt to remove the rear cover to inspect the compressor may void the warranty. In this case, it is better to use non-disassembly methods (see sections 2 and 3).
1. Visual inspection of the compressor: where to look for markings
The most reliable way is to find the factory tag or engraving on the compressor body. To do this:
- Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains and let it stand for 10-15 minutes (this is necessary to relieve pressure in the system).
- Carefully remove the rear protective panel (usually it is attached to 4-6 screws). In some models (LG, Bosch), the panel may be plastic - just pry it off with a screwdriver.
- The compressor is located at the bottom of the refrigerator, in a metal case of black or gray color. Two tubes are suitable for it: thin (suction) and thick (discharge).
- On the top or side of the body, look for a sticker with markings (for example,
EMBRACO EGX 90HLC) or an engraved code.
If the tag is missing or worn out, pay attention to:
- 🔍 Case shape: compressors Embraco usually round, Secop (previously Danfoss) - oval, and Mitsubishi - rectangular with ribbed surface.
- 🎨 Color: most compressors are black, but Secop may be gray, and Tecumseh dark green.
- 🔧 Fixation: compressors Embraco are often mounted with 3 bolts, Secop - with 4.
⚠️ Attention: Do not touch the compressor pipes with bare hands - they can be very hot (up to 90°C) even after turning off the power. Use gloves or let the refrigerator cool for 30–40 minutes.
2. Determination by refrigerator model: databases and documentation
If you don’t want to disassemble the refrigerator (or it’s impossible under warranty), you can find out the compressor model by refrigerator serial number. This information is usually indicated:
- 📄 On a sticker inside the chamber (on the side wall or ceiling).
- 🏷️ On the back panel (next to the compressor or on the top of the case).
- 📋 In the device passport (if saved).
Then there are two ways:
Method 1: Search in the manufacturer's database
Many brands (Samsung, Liebherr, Beko) provide on their websites service manuals with details. For example:
- Go to the manufacturer's official website.
- Enter the refrigerator model in the "Support" or "Spare parts" section.
- Find the device diagram (
Exploded View) - the type will be indicated there compressor.
Method 2: Online spare parts catalogs
If there is no data on the brand website, use aggregators:
- PartMaster (Europe) - partmaster.co.uk
- Searspartsdirect (USA/Canada) - searspartsdirect.com
- All-Spares (Russia/CIS) - all-spares.ru
⚠️ Attention: In spare parts catalogs, sometimes they indicate not the exact model of the compressor, but its analog. Check compatibility with the seller, especially if you are planning a replacement.
3. Decoding the compressor markings: what the letters and numbers mean
The compressor marking is not a random set of symbols, but encoded information about its characteristics. Let's consider the format using the example of popular brands:
| Brand | Marking example | Decoding |
|---|---|---|
| Embraco | EGX 90HLC |
EG — series; X — type of refrigerant ( R600a);90 — power (W); HLC — modification (low noise). |
| Secop (Danfoss) | BD35F |
B — series; D — type of refrigerant ( R134a);35 — volume (cm³); F — modification (for freezers). |
| Mitsubishi | TC65D |
TC — series; 65 — power (W); D — type of refrigerant ( R134a).
|
If your compressor is from another manufacturer (Tecumseh, Copeland, LG), look for the decryption in Compressor Source catalog or on the forums of masters (for example, MasterCity or Cold Forum).
💡 Useful life hack: If in the marking there is a letter H (for example, EGX90HLC), this often means high efficiency (increased efficiency). Such compressors consume 10-15% less electricity.
4. Determination by sound and vibration: indirect signs
Experienced technicians can determine the type of compressor even by the sound of its operation. Here are the key differences:
- 🔊 Embraco (inverter): quiet hum at low speeds, vibration is almost not felt when starting - a short click. data-i="146">(piston): rhythmic "gurgling" with a clear beat (like a diesel engine). Vibration is noticeable if you put your hand to the body.
- 🔊 Secop (piston): rhythmic “gurgling” with a clear beat (like a diesel engine). The vibration is noticeable if you put your hand to the body.
- 🔊 Mitsubishi (rotary): uniform high-frequency noise, similar to the operation of a fan.
For precision diagnostics:
- Start the refrigerator in maximum cooling mode (for example,
Super Freeze). - Put your ear to the back wall (or use a stethoscope).
- Note the time between on/off cycles:
- Inverter compressors (Embraco Fullmotion) work almost continuously, changing speed.
- Piston (Secop BD) turn on for 10-20 minutes, then turn off for 5-10 minutes.
⚠️ Attention: If the compressor makes noise metallic knocking or grinding, this is a sign of a malfunction (piston wear, liquid entering the cylinder). In this case, determining the model is necessary to order a repair kit.
How to distinguish compressor noise from fan noise?
The fan noise is usually higher and “whooshing”, while the compressor produces a low-frequency hum. To check, unplug the refrigerator - the fan will stop immediately, and the compressor will “hum” for another 1-2 seconds due to inertia.
5. Analysis of the technical characteristics of the refrigerator
If you have access to passport data the refrigerator (even without the exact model of the compressor), you can narrow your search. Please note:
- 🧊 Refrigerant type:
R600a(isobutane) - used in Embraco, LG, most modern models.R134a- typical for Secop, Mitsubishi, old refrigerators.R290(propane) - rare, but found in industrial models.
- ⚡ Power: if the power consumption is indicated in the passport (for example, 120 W), the compressor will be close to this value (for example, Embraco EGX 90HLC - 90 W).
- 📏 Chamber volume: for refrigerators up to 200 liters, compressors with a power of 60–90 W are usually installed, for 300+ liters - 120–150 W.
Example of logic selection:
If your refrigerator Atlant MXM 2835-100 (2018) with refrigerant
R600aand a volume of 350 liters, then with a 90% probability there is a compressor Embraco EGX 120HLC or its equivalent Secop (Danfoss) NL12MX.
For clarification, use compatibility table (see next section).
6. Compatibility table of compressors with popular refrigerators
Below is a summary table of compressors that are installed in refrigerators of common brands. The data is relevant for models released after 2015.
| Refrigerator brand | Model (series) | Compressor type | Analogues (replacement) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlant | MXM 160–280, XM 40–60 | Embraco EGX 90HLC | Secop NL9HX, Mitsubishi TC85 |
| Samsung | RB, RT (2017–2023) | Embraco Fullmotion VESF 120 (inverter) | LG Inverter Linear (with adapter) |
| Indesit | C, TIA (until 2020) | Secop BD35F (R134a) |
Embraco EG 80HL (requires refueling) |
| Liebherr | CP, CN (premium) | Secop (Danfoss) SLX90 | Embraco NE120X (complete analogue) |
| Beko | GNE, CS (2020–2026) | Embraco EGX 100HLC | Mitsubishi TC100 (replacement with modification of fasteners) |
⚠️ Attention: When replacing the compressor with an analogue, check:
- Compatibility by type of refrigerant (you cannot install a compressor for
R134ain a system withR600a!). - Compliance power (the difference should not exceed ±15%). data-i="216">Oils
- Type oils (for example, for
R600apolyester oil is used forR134a- polyolester).
Refrigerant compatibility
Power (W)
Oil type
Case dimensions (length/width)
Mounting holes-->
7. When you can’t do without a technician: difficult cases
There are situations when it is impossible to identify the compressor yourself:
- 🔧 Absent marking (the frame has fallen off, the housing is painted over).
- 🔄 Refrigerator after repair —the compressor could have been replaced with a non-original one.
- ❓ Unique or industrial models (for example, Sub-Zero, Gorenje Pro).
- ⚡ Compressor malfunction (jammed, break windings) - diagnostics with a multimeter is required.
In such cases:
- Take photographs of the compressor from different angles (especially fastenings and tubes).
- Contact the service center with indicating:
- Refrigerator model.
- Refrigerant type (if known).
- Photo of the compressor.
- Winding resistance (measured with a multimeter).
- The diameter of the tubes (suction and discharge).
- Starting current (for inverter models).
💰 Diagnostic cost in the service - from 500 to 1500 rubles (for 2026). If the compressor requires replacement, the price is from 3,000 to 8,000 rubles (including work and refrigerant charging).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about refrigerator compressors
Is it possible to replace a piston compressor with an inverter one?
Theoretically yes, but this requires:
- Replacement of the control board (inverter compressors require special controller).
- Compatibility checks for refrigerant and oil.
- Parameter settings in the service menu (for some models Samsung/LG).
The cost of such an upgrade often exceeds 50% of the price of a new refrigerator, therefore it is not economically feasible.
How to understand that the compressor has failed?
Signs of a malfunction:
- The refrigerator does not cool, but the light inside is on.
- The compressor hums, but does not start (the protection is triggered).
- Oil leaks have appeared on the compressor housing.
- Extraordinary sounds are heard (knocking, grinding).
For accurate diagnostics, you need to check with a multimeter (winding resistance, current consumption).
What is the difference between Embraco and Secop?
Main differences:
| Parameter | Embraco | Secop (Danfoss) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Piston and inverter | Piston (classic) |
| Noise | Low (especially inverter) | Medium/high |
| Service life | 10–15 years | 15–20 years (with proper maintenance) |
| Price | More expensive by 20–30% | Budget options |
Embraco more often used in modern refrigerators (Samsung, Liebherr), and Secop —in budget (Indesit, Beko) and freezers.
Is it possible to refill the refrigerant yourself after replacing the compressor?
Technically possible, but:
- Required vacuum pump to pump moisture out of the system.
- You need to know exactly type and amount of refrigerant (excess or deficiency will lead to breakdown).
- For
R600a(isobutane) is necessary special manometric manifold (the usual one forR134ais not suitable!).
⚠️ Attention: Refrigerant R600a is explosive! You can only work with it in a ventilated area, away from open fire.
Where to buy a compressor for a refrigerator?
Options:
- 🛒 Official dealers (for example Atlant-Shop for Belarusian refrigerators).
- 🔧 Service centers (often selling used compressors after replacement).
- 🌍 Foreign sites:
- eBay (for rare models).
- AliExpress (cheap analogues, but the risk of counterfeiting).
- 🏬 Local spare parts stores (for example, 220-Volt, M-Video in the “Spare parts” section).
The average price of a new compressor is from 2500 to 6000 rubles (for 2026, a used one will cost 1.5–2 times cheaper.