5 PARTS OF A REFRIGERATOR AND THEIR FUNCTIONS
Refrigerators are intricate appliances composed of several essential parts that work together to help keep your food fresh and cool. Understanding these components can help you investigate potential issues and maintain your refrigerator. Read on to explore the various parts of a refrigerator and how they function.
WHAT ARE THE PARTS OF A REFRIGERATOR?
Refrigerators consist of several key components, each serving a specific function. Learning more about these components can help you understand how a refrigerator works and how to investigate potential issues.
1. COMPRESSOR
The compressor, similar to an engine, initiates the cooling process by pumping the refrigerant, or cooling agent, through the refrigerator. Increasing both pressure and temperature, it propels the coolant along the refrigeration cycle. Positioned at the bottom or back of the refrigerator, the compressor acts as the system's central component, circulating refrigerant throughout.
2. CONDENSER COILS
The condenser coils in your refrigerator transform vapor refrigerant into liquid under increased pressure by the compressor, releasing heat that is then pushed into the outside air. Positioned at the back or bottom of the refrigerator, these coils enable the refrigerant to cool and transition to a liquid state.
3. EVAPORATOR COILS
The evaporator coils, usually located within the freezer compartment, extract heat from inside the refrigerator, causing the refrigerant to evaporate and cool the interior. As the refrigerant circulates through these coils, it absorbs heat from the surrounding air—primarily from the food compartment side—and releases cool air into the refrigerator when the door is opened.
4. EXPANSION DEVICE
Also known as the expansion valve or capillary tube, this component regulates the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator. The expansion device is usually positioned between the condenser and the evaporator.
5. THERMISTOR
This sensor monitors the temperature inside the refrigerator and signals the compressor to start or stop cooling as needed. The thermistor is generally located near the evaporator coils or in the refrigerator control panel.
WHICH IS THE COLDEST PART OF A REFRIGERATOR?
Typically, the coldest area in a refrigerator is found in the lower portions of the unit. Cold air naturally settles downward while warmer air rises. However, this can also depend on the refrigerator’s design.
For example, the new four door refrigerator features a flexible temperature zone you can change from a freezer to a refrigerator to a wine cellar with just the touch of a button.
WHAT IS THE BOTTOM PART OF A REFRIGERATOR CALLED?
The compressor is located at the bottom of the refrigerator and is crucial for cooling the appliance. However, the specific name for this section can vary depending on the manufacturer and model.
ADDITIONAL REFRIGERATOR FEATURES AND PARTS TO CONSIDEr
In addition to the essential components, modern refrigerators often come with additional features for convenience and cooling results. Some of these features include:
Ice Makers: Automatic ice makers offer a continuous stream of ice cubes, eliminating the hassle of manual filling, and some models produce premium, smaller ice cubes for enhanced beverage chilling.
Crisper Drawers: Adjustable humidity levels in the moisture-sealed crisper drawers allow you to customize storage conditions for different produce, maintaining optimal freshness by providing high humidity for items like romaine lettuce and a more arid environment for fruits like figs and apricots.
Water Filters: Built-in water filters help offer clean, crisp water and ice, while convenient presets and customizable settings on select refrigerator models allow for effortless and accurate dispensing of measured amounts, eliminating the need for measuring cups and providing tailored options for commonly used quantities.
Shelving and Storage: You can help keep your refrigerator organized and clean with shelving and storage that suits your needs. Some refrigerators come with convenient adjustable spill-resistant glass shelves. They're easy to clean, fully removable and can help prevent spills from spreading. Additionally, select KitchenAid® refrigerators offer pull-out trays—perfect for storing large platters or charcuterie boards—with moisture-resistant features and effortless access.
Temperature Management System: Help ensure ingredient freshness with a temperature management system, like the Extendfresh™ Temperature Management System found on select KitchenAid® refrigerators. This system relies on sensors to monitor temperature levels in the refrigerator and freezer and adapt the flow of cold air between them.
WHERE CAN YOU FIND REPLACEMENT PARTS FOR A REFRIGERATOR?
Find replacement parts for your refrigerator on manufacturer websites or from authorized dealers. For genuine replacement parts for your KitchenAid® refrigerator, it's important to use appliance-specific refrigerator parts. You can find a wide range of refrigerator parts and accessories on the KitchenAid brand website.
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