Finding the place where Biryusa 18 is located start relay in the refrigerator is often the first step in diagnosing a compressor breakdown. If your unit stops freezing, hums, but does not start, or turns on for just a couple of seconds with a characteristic click, the problem most likely lies in this unit. In the 18 Series models, which have proven to be reliable workhorses of domestic production, this component is located in close proximity to the motor.
You don't have to be a certified engineer to visually locate this element, but understanding its functions and exact location will save you time and nerves. Biryusa 18 is a classic two-chamber refrigerator, where the compressor group is located in the lower rear part of the housing. It is there, under the protective casing, that the heart of the system is hidden, surrounded by attachments, including the desired relay.
Before proceeding with disassembly, it is important to understand that the relay is responsible for starting the engine and protecting its windings from overloads. The failure of this small box can mimic the symptoms of combustion of the compressor itself, which often frightens owners. Competent diagnostics begins with an external inspection and checking the integrity of the contacts, so knowing the exact location of the element is critical for successful repair.
Design features of the Biryusa 18 compressor group
Refrigerators Biryusa are equipped with compressors from various manufacturers, including domestic models (for example, Atlant or Biryusa-K) and imported analogues. Regardless of the engine marking, the layout of the mounted elements remains standardized for this series. The starting relay is attached directly to three contact pins coming out of the compressor housing, or is fixed on a special frame next to it.
Visually, this unit is a plastic or carbolite parallelepiped in black or white. In more modern modifications Biryusa 18 a relay with a posistor can be used, which has a slightly different shape, but performs the same function. Access to it is blocked by a metal or plastic casing covering the back of the refrigerator in the lower zone.
⚠️ Attention: Before removing the protective casing, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the electrical network. Working with electrical appliances under voltage is strictly prohibited and dangerous to life.
It is worth noting that in some modifications, a thermal protection relay may be located next to the starting relay, which is often combined with it into a single unit. This device responds to increased temperature and current, opening the circuit when overloaded. Understanding that these two elements can work in conjunction will help you not to confuse them during a visual inspection.
Search and access algorithm to the relay
To get to the place where the relay is located, you will need to perform a sequence of actions to dismantle the protective elements. The process does not require complex tools, but requires care to avoid damaging fragile plastic latches or refrigeration pipes.
First, move the refrigerator away from the wall, allowing easy access to the back wall. You will need a Phillips screwdriver to remove the housing fasteners. In some models Biryusa 18 the casing may be held on by latches that require careful bending.
- 🔌 Unplug the power cord from the outlet and move the unit at least 50 cm from the wall.
- 🔧 Remove the back metal or cardboard panel covering the compressor compartment (usually secured with 4-6 screws).
- 👀 Visually inspect the compressor: the relay is placed on the side of the motor housing, where the electrical contacts come out.
- ✋ Gently pull the relay towards you (sometimes a gentle wiggle is required) to remove it from the compressor contact pins.
After removing the relay, you will see three holes on the inside of it that matched the compressor pins. This is the very place where current switching occurs to start the engine. If the relay is fixed with a metal bracket, it must first be bent.
☑️ Preparing to remove the relay
Diagnostics and signs of malfunction
You can determine that the problem lies in the starting relay by a number of characteristic signs. Often the breakdown of this element is accompanied by a specific sound. The refrigerator tries to start, there is a loud click, the motor hums for a few seconds, and then clicks again and goes silent.
If you have removed the relay and when shaking you hear a rattling sound inside, similar to the sound of rattling coins or bolts, this is a sure sign of destruction of the internal mechanism. In good condition, a posistor or mechanical switch should not make any extraneous sounds when shaking. Also pay attention to the appearance of the plastic: the presence of soot, melting or cracks indicates overheating and breakdown.
For more accurate diagnostics, you can use a multimeter in dial mode. You need to check the continuity between the contacts. Depending on the type of relay (RTK, RT, R-1 or posistor), the resistance readings will differ. For posistors, a resistance of 20-50 Ohms at room temperature is considered normal.
| Relay type | Visual signs | Sound test | Resistance (Ohm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Posistor (ROM) | Entire body, no burning | No sound | 20-50 (at 25°C) |
| Mechanical (RTK) | Melted contacts | Rattles when shaking | Infinity (break) |
| Thermal protection | Blackening of terminals | Clicks when cooling | 0 (closed in cold) |
| Combined | Case deformation | Knock internals | Depends on the circuit |
It is important to understand that even if the relay looks intact, it may not perform its function. The posistor could “get tired” and not provide the required jump in resistance to switch the motor windings from starting to operating. Therefore, replacement is often a more expedient solution than attempting to repair the old element.
Connection diagram and contact markings
When replacing a relay in a refrigerator Biryusa 18 it is extremely important to connect the new part correctly. Incorrect commutation can lead to immediate combustion of the new element or, worse, damage to the compressor windings. The connection diagram is usually marked on the relay body, but it may be erased or difficult to read.
The standard marking of contacts on the relay and compressor is as follows: S (Start) - starting winding, R (Run) - working winding, C (Common) - common contact. In some cases, numbers or color coding of wires may be used instead of letters. Always check the colors of the wires coming from the relay with the color scheme on the compressor itself.
Nuances of color marking of wires
Most Biryusa models use the following scheme: red wire - starting winding, green or white - working, black or blue - general. However, the manufacturer has the right to change the color scheme, so the letter marking on the compressor terminals always takes precedence.
If you are installing a universal relay, which is often sold in spare parts stores, you will need to carefully study the attached instructions. Universal models may have extra contacts or require a ground terminal that was not included in the original design. In this case, the excess contacts are simply isolated.
The installation process looks like this: first, the relay is put on the compressor contacts, and then the wires from the network and the thermostat are connected to its terminals. Make sure that the wires fit tightly in the contact groups and do not dangle. Poor contact will result in sparking and re-heating.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure the relay is installed in the correct position. The case is often marked "UP" or an arrow pointing upward. Installing the relay upside down will disrupt the operation of the mechanism and lead to rapid breakdown.
Choosing a replacement: original or analogue?
Refrigerator owners Biryusa 18 often face the question: should they look for an original spare part or an analogue will do. Original relays (for example, RTK brands or specific to Biryusa) are considered the most reliable, since they are designed specifically for the parameters of a specific compressor.
However, it can be difficult to find an original on sale, since the model may be discontinued. In this case, universal starting relays come to the rescue. They are suitable for a wide range of compressors from 1/8 to 1/2 horsepower. When choosing an analogue, pay attention to the power of your compressor indicated on the nameplate (usually 140 W, 190 W or 250 W).
- 🏭 Original: Ideal compatibility, proven reliability, but difficult to find and may be more expensive.
- 🌍 Universal analogue: Available in any store, cheaper, suitable for many models, but requires careful installation.
- ⚙️ Relay with thermal relay: It is recommended to change both elements in pairs if they are structurally separated to ensure complete protection of the motor.
When purchasing, pay attention to the type of refrigerant indicated on the compressor (R12, R134a, R600a). Although this has a greater influence on the type of oil and compressor, some series of relays may have insulation features recommended for certain types of refrigerants.
Frequent errors when independently replacement
Independent repair of equipment is always a risk of making a mistake that can aggravate the situation. In the case of replacing a relay in Biryusa 18 users often neglect the basic rules of electrical or mechanical engineering.
One of the common mistakes is installing a relay without checking the compressor for an interturn short circuit. If the motor is “broken,” the new relay will burn out almost instantly. Therefore, if after replacement the refrigerator does not start again, do not rush to blame the store - perhaps the problem is deeper.
Another mistake is ignoring the state of the contacts. Oxidized or burnt terminals on the compressor itself will create high contact resistance. Even a perfectly new relay will not be able to work correctly in such conditions. Cleaning the contacts with fine sandpaper or a file is a mandatory procedure.
Fixation is also often forgotten. If the relay is simply put on the pins, but not secured with a bracket or retainer, the vibration of a running compressor will quickly loosen the connection. This will lead to sparking, heating and eventual burnout of the wires.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to start the Biryusa 18 refrigerator without a starting relay?
Theoretically, you can start the engine by forcibly applying voltage to the starting winding, but this requires the skills of an electrician and carries a risk burn the compressor or get an electric shock. It is strictly forbidden to operate a refrigerator without a relay, since it will not be able to reach operating mode and will quickly overheat.
Why does a new relay burn out after a few days?
There may be several reasons: the relay power is incorrectly selected, the compressor itself is faulty (turn-to-turn short circuit), poor contact in the power circuit or voltage imbalance in the network. It is also possible that the relay is installed in the wrong position.
Where to buy a relay for an old Biryusa refrigerator?
Original spare parts can be searched in specialized stores of spare parts for household appliances, on radio markets, or ordered through online stores by article number. Universal relays are sold in almost any electrical goods store.
How much does it cost to replace a relay at a service center?
The cost consists of the price of the part itself and the work of the technician. On average, replacing a relay takes 30-40 minutes. The price may vary depending on the region and the pricing policy of the service department, but usually this is one of the most affordable types of repairs.
Does the type of freon affect the choice of relay?
The type of freon (R12, R134a, R600a) does not have a direct effect on the electrical parameters of the relay. However, compressors for different freons may have different powers and starting currents, so the relay is selected specifically for the engine power, and not for the type of refrigerant.