Sub-Zero Compressor Hot To the Touch
A compressor that hums, clicks and stops is usually a small cheap component failing to start a perfectly good motor. Here is why that is worth establishing before anyone quotes you for a compressor.
Common Causes
A failed start relay or capacitor
These small components are responsible for getting the compressor motor started, and are far more commonly at fault than the compressor itself.
Restricted airflow causing overheating
A compressor that's overheating from blocked coils can cycle or shut down as a protective measure.
Genuine compressor failure
Less common, but possible on older units, and the most expensive of the likely causes.
What You Can Check Yourself
Parts That Most Likely Need Replacing
Based on symptoms like this, these are the components our technicians check first. The exact part depends on your model and what we find during diagnosis.
In and around Denver
Denver — Brick bungalows, Denver Squares and Tudors from the 1900s-1930s through the central neighborhoods, with heavy scrape-and-rebuild and gut-remodel activity in Cherry Creek, Hilltop and Crestmoor. We also cover Hudson, Idaho Springs, Indian Hills across Central Denver.
ZIP codes we cover in Denver: 80202, 80203, 80204, 80205, 80206, 80207, 80209, 80210
Do not leave this one. Running the appliance in this state is what turns a single-component repair into a larger one, and on anything involving water or gas it is also the point where the cost stops being about the appliance. If you're seeing a code on the display alongside this issue, our Sub-Zero error code guide can help narrow down the cause before we arrive. Either way, our repair service covers same-day diagnosis and a flat-rate quote before any work begins.
Common Questions About Compressor Hot To the Touch
Is a compressor failure the end of the unit?
It hums and then clicks off.
Is this worth repairing, or should I replace the unit?
Will you have the part, or is this a two-visit job?
How quickly can you get to me?
Is the repair guaranteed?
Still having this issue?
Same-day diagnosis, genuine OEM-compatible parts, warranty of up to 1 year.
*Elite Appliance Repair Denver is an independent repair company. We are not affiliated with, authorized by, endorsed by or sponsored by Sub-Zero, Inc., Wolf Appliance, Inc., Viking Range, LLC, BSH Home Appliances (Thermador, Bosch, Gaggenau) or any other manufacturer named on this site, nor by any of their distributors. All brand names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used here only to describe the appliances we service. We are not a factory service provider and specialize exclusively in out-of-warranty appliance repairs.