Refrigerator compressor removal

[funktionalart]

I think I know the answer to what I'm going to ask....but asking anyway! Is it possible to cut lines and remove a compressor from a fridge without evacuating the existing coolant first? This is NOT R-12 (it's newer R134a).

I know it probably isn't advisable to do this, but wondering if it can be done without personal injury. Not sure how much pressure is stored in the compressor/lines. Unit to be removed has not been run in months...but the compressor is only a couple years old--working--and I want to keep it for use in another unit as I will be scrapping the refrigerator case itself.

 

[artcurus]

possible to do it without injury but most definitely not recommended. It's better to recover the coolant properly. Especially if you plan on using the compressor again.

 

[arbilab]

Tetrafluoroethane doesn't diminish the ozone layer, does add to global warming, though the amount in one fridge doesn't measurably do either. It boils at -15F @ atmosphere so you don't so specially want it hitting your skin.

My unprofessional opinion from listening to professionals is that you don't want the compressor exposed to air and its contaminants if you intend to use it again.

But wait, we have professionals here, wait for one to stop by.

 

[eronie]

MESS

The compressor oil will blow all over the place, big mess.

 

[funktionalart]

MESS!!!

Tony: Ha! That was my second concern. I knew I should have gone to refrigeration repair school when I was younger....then I wouldn't be looking at this unit and wondering if I should attempt it :/ I am probably just going to call a tech over at some point and see if they'd be willing to do the swap for me.