Refrigerators Stinol are deservedly popular due to their reliability, but even the highest quality equipment requires attention over time. One of the first symptoms indicating problems with starting the compressor is a characteristic click, after which the motor does not start, or complete silence of the unit when plugged in. In most cases, the culprit of such a malfunction is starting relay, which is responsible for supplying voltage to the motor windings at the time of start.
For the refrigerator owner, it is critical to understand not only the symptoms of the breakdown, but also the exact location of this unit, so as not to waste time disassembling unnecessary structural elements. Start relay In Stinol models it is usually hidden from the user’s eyes, as it is attached directly to the compressor housing. Access to it is only from the back of the unit, which requires certain preparation and compliance with safety precautions when carrying out work.
In this article we will look in detail where exactly to look for this element, what it looks like in various modifications of refrigerators and what steps need to be taken to diagnose it. Understanding the design will help you make the right decision about the need to independently repair or call a technician, as well as avoid common mistakes that can aggravate the situation.
The principle of operation and the role of the starting relay
Starting relay is an electromechanical switch that is activated when the refrigerator is turned on. Its main task is to supply current to the starting winding of the compressor motor in order to create the necessary torque to start the rotor. As soon as the engine picks up speed, the relay opens the starting winding circuit, and the compressor continues to operate on the working winding.
In refrigerators Stinol, as in many other models, this element is often combined with a thermal protective relay. Thermal relay protects the motor from overheating by opening the circuit when the temperature rises critically or current overload occurs. If you hear clicks, but the refrigerator does not cool, the mechanism may be stuck or the contacts have oxidized, which requires immediate attention.
⚠️ Attention: If after a characteristic click the compressor hums, but does not start, and after a few seconds the shutdown click is heard again, immediately unplug the refrigerator. Long-term operation in this mode can lead to an interturn short circuit and complete combustion of the compressor.
There are several types of such devices used in different series Stinol. The most common are posistor and induction relays. Posistor heats up with current and changes resistance, opening the circuit, while induction models work due to the magnetic field created by the current in the winding. Understanding the type of your device will help in the correct selection of replacement parts.
Why does the relay fail?
A frequent cause of failure is contact wear due to constant on-off cycles, as well as power surges. In posistor models, the ceramic element itself is often destroyed, losing its properties.
Localization of the unit: where to look on the compressor
To find starting relay in the Stinol refrigerator, you will need access to the lower rear part of the unit. Unlike some built-in models, where access may be limited, in classic two-chamber refrigerators Stinol this unit is located openly, but is covered with a protective casing. The compressor looks like a black metal “cylinder” mounted on a frame at the bottom of the case.
A plastic box is attached directly to the end of the compressor, where three copper tubes and electrical wires come out. It is inside this box or on its outside that the required element is located. Depending on the year of manufacture and model, location of the relay may vary slightly: in some cases it is put directly on the contacts of the compressor, in others it is fixed nearby and connected by wires.
For a visual inspection, it is not necessary to immediately remove the entire unit or disassemble complex structures. It is enough to move the refrigerator away from the wall, providing access to the back wall. You will see a round black object (compressor) with an electrical cable connected to it. At the end of this cable or at the exit from the compressor housing there will be plastic box about the size of a matchbox or a little larger.
Removing the protective casing and accessing the part
Before proceeding with dismantling, it is necessary to turn off the power to the refrigerator. Safety —priority number one when working with electrical appliances. After disconnecting the retail cord, wait 10-15 minutes so that the residual voltage in the circuits has time to dissipate and the pressure in the refrigerant system has stabilized.
Next, you should remove the rear metal panel if it blocks access to the bottom of the compressor. In some models Stinol the relay is closed with a plastic cup or cover, which is secured with a spring clip or screw. Carefully remove this protection to get a full view of the assembly.
The removal process itself start relay usually does not require a complex tool. It can be held in place by a tight fit on the compressor contacts or fixed with a metal bracket. If a staple is used, it must be carefully pressed out with pliers. It is important not to use excessive force so as not to damage the copper tubes or wire insulation.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
Visual diagnostics and signs of malfunction
After removing the device from the seat, you can begin to install it inspection. Appearance the relay can tell a lot about its condition. If traces of melting, soot, or a burning smell are visible on the plastic case, then the part definitely requires replacement. It is also worth checking the condition of the contacts inside the block.
Often in refrigerators Stinol there is a problem of oxidation of contacts or destruction of the internal posistor. If, when you shake the relay, a rattling sound is heard near your ear (like broken ceramic), this is a sure sign that posistor is destroyed. In normal condition, nothing should be loose inside.
Pay attention to the wires going to the relay. They must not have breaks, melted insulation or traces of short circuit. Sometimes the problem lies not in the relay itself, but in the supply wires or poor contact at the junction with the compressor.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Clicks, but no start | Faulty starting relay or thermal sensor | Replacing the relay |
| Buzzing and heating of the housing | Compressor jamming or relay breakdown | Checking the compressor |
| No response to switching on | Open circuit or burnt posistor | Diagnostics with a multimeter |
| The refrigerator turns off after 1-2 minutes | Thermal heater is triggered protection | Replacing the thermal relay |
Instructions for replacing the starting relay
If diagnostics confirmed a malfunction, relay replacement is the most rational solution. Repairing older mechanical models is often impractical due to the low cost of new parts. To replace, you will need a new relay that matches the model of your compressor (the marking is usually indicated on the case).
Installation of a new element is carried out in the reverse order of removal. Carefully place the block on the compressor contacts, observing the orientation (up/down) indicated on the diagram or the arrow on the relay body. Orientation critically important: if you install the relay incorrectly, it will not work or will burn out instantly.
After installation, secure retaining bracket or spring. Make sure that the wires are not pinched or touch hot parts of the compressor when it is running. Reassemble the protective casing and back panel in the reverse order.
Common mistakes during self-repair
One of the common mistakes is an attempt to clean the contacts or “revive” the relay by shock or heat. Modern relays they are disposable units, and such manipulations give only temporary an effect after which the breakdown is repeated, often with more dire consequences for the compressor.
Another mistake is ignoring the thermal relay. Often in the block Stinol the starting and thermal relays are paired. When changing one, it is worth checking the second, as they work in conjunction. Installing a new starting relay on a faulty thermal one will cause the refrigerator to stop working again after a short time.
Also, amateur repairmen often forget to check the integrity of the compressor windings before installing a new relay. If the reason was a short circuit in the motor, then the new one will burn out immediately after switching on. Therefore, initial diagnostics with a multimeter is mandatory. starting device will burn out immediately after switching on. Therefore, initial diagnosis with a multimeter is mandatory.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use relays from other models of refrigerators “by eye”. Even if the dimensions are the same, the characteristics of the cutoff current may differ, which will lead to the burning of the starting winding of the Stinol compressor.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to start a Stinol refrigerator without a starting relay?
Theoretically, you can start the compressor by applying voltage directly to starting winding, but it is strictly not recommended to do this without special equipment. This is life-threatening and can permanently damage the motor. Working without a relay will not provide the necessary protection and correct switching of the windings.
How much does it cost to replace the starting relay in the service?
The cost consists of the price of the part itself and the work masters On average, taking into account the cost of repairs, repairs will cost less than buying a new refrigerator. However, if you are able to find relay analogue and replace it yourself, you will save a significant amount on the work of a specialist.
Why does a new relay burn out immediately after installation?
This may indicate a more serious problem: a short circuit in the windings compressor, faulty wiring or incorrect installation (wrong orientation). Also, the reason could be a power surge in the network or a defect in the newest part.
How can you tell if the relay is working properly using a multimeter?
You need to “ring” the contacts. At rest, the contacts should be open (resistance infinity). When voltage is applied (in test mode), they should close. For posistors, the resistance in a cold state should be low (tens of ohms), and when heated, it should increase to megaohms.