How many grams of copper are contained in refrigerator compressor: detailed analysis + scrap prices

The compressor is the “heart” of the refrigerator, and its metal components often become an object of interest for those involved in the delivery of non-ferrous scrap metal. The main question that concerns craftsmen and lovers of recycling: how many grams of copper can be extracted from the compressor is it worth the effort? The answer depends on the model of the refrigerator, the type of compressor and even the year of its manufacture.

In this article we will figure out where exactly the copper is hidden in the compressor, how to dismantle it correctly (so as not to be left without profit), and we will give accurate data on the copper content in popular brands of refrigerators - from Soviet ZIL to modern ones LG i Beko. You will also find out how much you can earn from selling such scrap in 2026 and what pitfalls await beginners.

Where is copper contained in the refrigerator compressor?

A refrigerator compressor is not a solid piece of copper, but a complex device where copper is used in several key components:

• 🔄 Electric motor winding —the main source of copper. It uses enameled copper wire (PETV or PET-155 grade) wound around the stator. The more powerful the compressor, the thicker the wire and the more turns.
• 🔌 Terminals and contacts - small but significant parts. Often coated with tin for protection against oxidation.
• 🧲 Heat exchanger tubes — some models (especially older ones) use copper tubes for heat removal.
• ⚡ Start relay —contains copper contacts and a coil (in electromagnetic relay).

The most valuable part is the winding. On average, it accounts for 80–90% of the total volume of copper in the compressor. The remaining 10–20% is distributed between terminals, tubes and relays. It is important to understand that in modern models, manufacturers save on materials, so the amount of copper may be less than in Soviet refrigerators.

How much copper is in the compressors of different refrigerators: table by brand

The amount of copper depends on compressor power and its design. Below is a table with approximate data for popular models. Please note that the values may vary by ±10–15% depending on the modification.

As can be seen from the table, Soviet compressors contain almost 2 times more copper than modern ones. This is due to the fact that previously they did not save on materials, and the winding was made of thicker wire. New models use inverter compressors with less copper weight but higher efficiency.

⚠️ Attention: The data in the table are average values. The exact amount of copper can only be determined after disassembling the compressor and weighing the windings. In some cases (for example, after repair), the winding can be partially replaced with aluminum.

How to remove copper from a compressor: step-by-step instructions

To get to the copper, the compressor must be disassembled. This process requires caution: freon (in older models) or oil remains inside, and the housing may be under pressure. Here safe algorithm:

Drain the oil through the technological hole|Disconnect the tubes (use side cutters)|Drill a hole in the housing to relieve pressure|Secure the compressor in a vice|Put on safety glasses and gloves-->

After preparation, proceed to disassembly:

1. Removing the cover. The compressor housing is usually welded or bolted. In Soviet models (ZIL, Minsk), the cover is removed after sawing off the weld. In imported ones, the bolts around the perimeter are unscrewed.
2. Removing the rotor and stator. Inside you will see a stator with a winding (copper wire) and a rotor. The stator is attached to the housing with bolts or rivets.
3. Removing the winding. The wire can be cut with a hacksaw or carefully unraveled if you plan to hand over the copper in its pure form. The terminals are soldered with a soldering iron.
4. Cleaning copper. Remove the enamel from the wire (you can burn it over a fire or clean it with a knife). Clean the terminals from tin and dirt.

If the compressor is an inverter (for example, in Samsung or LG), there may be an electronic board inside. It can also be scrapped, but the copper is contained in microcircuits and tracks - it is more difficult to extract it.

What to do with freon in an old compressor?

Freon (in Soviet refrigerators - R12, in modern ones - R134a or R600a) is not dangerous in small quantities, but when heated or inhaled may cause poisoning. If the compressor has not been opened, the freon has long since evaporated through microcracks. If you hear hissing during disassembly, let the compressor stand in the open air for 1-2 days before work.

How much can you earn on copper from a compressor in 2026?

Profit from selling copper depends on current prices for scrap and the purity of the metal. As of June 2026, the average prices at collection points are as follows:

• 💰 Pure copper (wire without insulation, terminals) — 700–900 rubles/kg.
• 🔌 Copper with insulation (enamel, varnish) — 500–700 rub/kg.
• ⚡ Copper radiators/pipes — 600–800 rub/kg.
• ⚠️ Copper with impurities (tin, brass) — 400–600 rub/kg.

Let's calculate the potential income using the example of a compressor from Atlanta (550 g of copper) and Samsung (300 g):

As you can see, The difference in income between a Soviet and a modern compressor is almost 3 times. However, do not forget that you will have to spend time disassembling and cleaning the copper. If you only have 1-2 compressors, the game may not be worth the candle. But if you have 10–20 pieces (for example, after repair or disposal of equipment), you can earn 3-5 thousand rubles.

Dangers and risks when disassembling a compressor

Disassembling a compressor is an unsafe activity. Here are the main risks you need to be aware of:

• 💥 Explosion or depressurization. Oil or freon pressure may remain in the housing. Always drill a hole to relieve pressure before sawing!
• 🔥 Fire when firing insulation. The enamel on the wire is flammable. It must be fired in the open air, away from flammable objects.
• 🩹 Cuts and injuries. The compressor housing is sharp, and there are rotating parts inside. Wear gloves and goggles.
• 🤒 Vapor poisoning. When copper with insulation is heated, toxic gases are released. It is better to use mechanical cleaning (knife, emery).

⚠️ Attention: If the compressor has been idle outside for a long time, condensation could accumulate inside, which will lead to copper corrosion. Before disassembling, check whether the housing is rusting - this is a sign that copper can also be oxidized (its price will drop by 30–50%).

Another nuance: in some compressors (especially Embraco i Secop) is used aluminum winding instead of copper. It is difficult to distinguish them visually - aluminum also has a reddish tint. You can check it with a magnet: copper is not magnetic, aluminum is not either, but it is lighter and softer. Only weighing (copper is heavier) or a spark test (copper gives a green flame when burning) will help you accurately determine the metal.

Alternative ways to make money on old compressors

If the copper in the compressor turns out to be too small or difficult to remove, consider other options:

• 🔧 Sale of a whole compressor. On Avito or in equipment repair groups you can sell a working compressor for 1,500–3,000 rubles. (depending on model). Even a faulty one can be useful for spare parts.
• ♻️ Sale of the entire metal for scrap. Some points accept compressors by weight (price - 30–50 rubles/kg). Disadvantage: the income will be 5–10 times lower than with self-disassembly.
• ⚙️ Use for homemade products. The compressor can be used to make an air compressor for the garage, a water pump, or even a mini sandblaster. The Internet is full of instructions.
• 📦 Release for recycling. In some cities there are programs for recycling equipment with a bonus (for example, a discount on a new refrigerator).

If you decide to sell the entire compressor, be sure to check with the buyer for what he needs it. For example, for refrigerator repair only certain models are suitable (for example, Danfoss or Embraco), and for homemade products - any, even with damaged windings.

Common mistakes of beginners when extracting copper

Those who disassemble the compressor for the first time often make mistakes that cause them to lose profit or time. Here are the most common:

• 🔨 Breaking the body with a hammer. This is dangerous (fragments, residual pressure) and ineffective. It is better to use a hacksaw or grinder.
• 🔥 Firing the insulation indoors. Smoke from burning enamel is toxic. Do this outside or in a well-ventilated garage.
• ⚖️ Unrefined copper. Reception points often lower the price if insulation or oxides remain on the wire. Pure copper weighs more and is more expensive.
• 📉 Selling copper at a reduced price. Some points offer 500 rubles/kg, although the market price is 700–800. Monitor prices in several places.
• 🚫 Ignoring aluminum parts. Modern compressors may have aluminum windings. It can also be returned, but the price is lower (200–300 rubles/kg).

Another mistake - disassembling the compressor without preliminary testing. Sometimes it is easier to sell it entirely than to spend 2-3 hours extracting 300 grams of copper. For example, a compressor from Samsung model RL34ECSW in working condition costs 2,500–3,000 rubles, and copper inside costs only 250–300 rubles.

FAQ: Frequent questions about copper in refrigerator compressors

Is it possible to remove copper from the compressor without disassembling?

No. The copper is located inside the stator winding, which is hidden in a sealed housing. The only way is mechanical disassembly (sawing or unscrewing bolts).

How much copper is in an inverter compressor?

In inverter compressors (for example, in LG or Samsung with technology Digital Inverter) copper is 20–30% less than in conventional ones. On average - 200–300 g versus 400–500 g in classic models.

How to distinguish copper wire from aluminum in a compressor?

Visually: copper has a reddish tint, aluminum has a silvery tint. By weight: copper is almost 3 times heavier (density 8.9 g/cm³ versus 2.7 for aluminum). By sound: copper wire makes a duller sound when dropped.

Is it possible to hand over a compressor with freon?

Yes, but scrap metal collection points may refuse or reduce the price. Freon evaporates over time, but if the compressor is sealed, it is better to first depressurize it (drill a hole). In some cities there are specialized points for recycling refrigeration equipment.

Is it profitable to collect compressors for copper?

It is profitable if you have access to a large number of old refrigerators (for example, you work in a service center or at a landfill). For a one-time disassembly of 1–2 compressors, the profit will be minimal (200–500 rubles), and a lot of time will be required.