Sudden stop of the compressor or characteristic clicks when trying to start the refrigerator Samsung often indicate a malfunction of the start-up relay. This small part is responsible for applying voltage to the motor windings, starting the cooling process. If the relay fails, compressor cannot start, which leads to defrosting of the chambers and spoilage of food.
Searching for this part does not require deep knowledge of the refrigeration equipment, but requires compliance with safety precautions. Typically the relay is mounted directly on the side of the compressor, which is located at the lower rear of the unit. However, in different models Samsung the design may differ slightly, so it is important to know exactly where to look.
Before starting any work, you must completely turn off the power to the refrigerator. Even briefly touching live parts can be dangerous. In this article, we will look in detail at where exactly to look for the relay, how to check it and what to pay attention to when diagnosing.
Location of the starting relay in various Samsung models
In most modern and classic models of refrigerators Samsung the starting relay is located in the engine compartment. To get to it, you need to move the unit away from the wall and remove the rear metal panel at the bottom of the case. This is where the compressor black metal “cylinder” is located, to which copper tubes fit.
The relay is placed directly on the terminals (contacts) protruding from the side or bottom of the compressor. It is a plastic box of black or white color, inside of which there is a coil and contacts. In some models with an inverter compressor, the starting system may be built into the electronic control board, and there may not be a separate mechanical relay.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with a system No Frost and inverter control, access to electrical components may be limited by additional covers. Do not use force when removing plastic panels.
If you do not see a separate plastic box on the compressor, your model may have a solid state starter or an integrated starting system. In such cases, diagnosis requires multimeter special knowledge. A classic electromagnetic relay is easy to identify by its characteristic click when rocking.
Main signs of a malfunction of the starter protection device
You can understand that the problem lies in the relay by indirect signs. The most obvious symptom is that the refrigerator hums, but does not start, or starts for a few seconds and immediately stalls. In this case, a distinct metallic click may be heard when you try to turn it on. starting relay when trying to turn on.
Often the malfunction is accompanied by heating of the compressor. If the engine is hot, but there is no cold in the chambers, this is a sure sign that the engine is trying to start, but cannot turn the shaft due to the lack of the correct starting impulse. Visual inspection of the part may reveal melted plastic or traces of burning.
- 🔊 Characteristic clicks: a repeating sound every few minutes, indicating an attempt to start.
- 🌡️ Housing heating: the compressor becomes hot to the touch, although the refrigerator is not freezing.
- 🚫 Lack of reaction: complete silence or humming without switching to operating mode.
- ⚡ Knocking out plugs: in rare cases, a short circuit inside the relay causes the circuit breakers in the panel to trip.
It is important not to confuse a relay malfunction with a breakdown of the compressor itself. If after replacing the relay the engine still does not start, the problem may be deeper. In some cases, the piston group of the motor is jammed, and no new relay will help start Samsung.
Instructions for dismantling and accessing the relay
To carry out diagnostics and replacement, you will need a minimum set of tools: flat and Phillips screwdrivers, as well as pliers. First, unplug the refrigerator and move it to a free space. Remove the rear cover of the engine compartment by unscrewing the mounting screws around the perimeter.
After removing the cover, you will see the compressor. The relay is usually secured to its terminals and can be additionally secured with a metal bracket or plastic clip. Carefully remove the retaining bracket, if present, and pull the relay towards you. It should come off the contacts without excessive effort.
☑️ Safe dismantling algorithm
Be careful with the wires going to the relay. They can become brittle with time and temperature. If the wires are hard, do not pull sharply; it is better to warm them up a little with a hairdryer or gently bend them. On the back of the relay you will see a connection diagram, which will be useful when installing a new part.
⚠️ Attention: The capacitor, which is often attached next to the relay, can retain a residual charge. Do not touch the metal contacts with your hands immediately after removing the part; use a tool with an insulated handle.
Diagnostics and performance testing
After removing the relay, it must be inspected and “tested”. Shake the part near your ear: if a ringing or knocking sound is heard inside, it means that the core or contacts are broken, and the relay must be replaced. The entire relay should not make sounds when shaking.
For more accurate diagnostics, use a multimeter in dial mode. Check continuity between contacts. The resistance should be close to zero or match the value specified in the technical documentation. If the device shows a break or infinite resistance, the part is faulty.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Clicks and buzzing | Sticking relay contacts | Replacing the start relay |
| Silence and cold compressor | Open circuit in the relay | Check with a multimeter and replacement |
| Smell of burning | Overheating and melting | Urgent replacement of the relay and checking the wiring |
| The compressor is hot | The engine does not start | Diagnostics of the compressor and relay |
Also pay attention to the appearance of the plastic. If it turns black or melts, it indicates overheating caused by poor contact or overcurrent. It is strictly forbidden to use such a relay, even if it “seems to be working,” since the risk of fire or repeated breakdown of the compressor is extremely high.
Is it possible to repair an old relay?
Theoretically, you can disassemble the relay, clean the contacts with sandpaper and put it back together. However, this is a temporary measure. The spring and mechanism inside are already worn out and the problem will return in a few days or weeks. It is safer and more reliable to buy a new part.
Selecting and installing a new relay
When purchasing a new spare part, it is critical to know the exact model of your refrigerator Samsung. Relays are selected not only by brand, but also by compressor power and refrigerant type. The markings are usually applied to the body of the old part. Look for codes starting with PTC or having digital designations like 120V, 220-240V.
Installation is carried out in the reverse order of removal. Push the relay onto the compressor contacts until it stops. Make sure it fits snugly and evenly. If there is a metal bracket or clip, return it to its place. Connect the wires according to the diagram or photographs taken earlier.
After assembly, do not rush to close the back cover. Plug in the refrigerator and listen. The compressor should start with a characteristic hum, and after a while (10-15 minutes) begin to heat up (this is normal for operating mode). If you hear a click and silence, check the connections again.
Common mistakes when doing self-repair
One of the common mistakes is ignoring the condition of the wires. When changing a relay, many people forget to check whether the contacts on the terminals are oxidized or whether the wires are frayed. This can lead to the new relay burning out after a few days.
Another mistake is installing the wrong part “by eye”. A relay from a refrigerator of lower power may not start a powerful compressor Samsung, and from a more powerful one it may not turn off the starting winding in time, which will lead to engine combustion. Always check the markings.
- ❌ Ignoring the capacitor: they often change the relay, but leave the old capacitor, which has already lost capacity.
- ❌ Incomplete connection: forgot to insert the wire until it clicks, which caused sparking.
- ❌ Attempting to repair the case: Gluing melted plastic does not restore electrical properties.
Also, users often forget that after replacing parts, the system needs time to stabilize. Do not load the refrigerator with food at once. Let it run idle for at least 2-3 hours to ensure the stability of the on and off cycle.
⚠️ Attention: Specifications of compressors and relays may vary depending on the year of manufacture and region of sale. Always check the parameters on the nameplate of your device.
When you need to contact a professional
Despite its apparent simplicity, replacing the relay does not always solve the problem. If, after installing a new, working part, the compressor hums but does not start, or the machine in the apartment knocks out, the problem may be in the motor itself or the wiring. In this case, independent experiments can lead to the final breakdown of an expensive unit.
Also, the help of a technician is necessary if you find a refrigerant leak (oily stains, lack of cold when the engine is running) or if the refrigerator is under warranty. Opening seals and self-repairs may be grounds for denial of warranty service.
A professional technician has equipment to check the starting current and pressure in the system. This allows you to accurately diagnose whether it is worth changing the relay, or whether the problem lies in the interturn short circuit of the compressor windings. In some cases, it is cheaper to call a technician right away than to buy several unsuitable parts through trial and error.
How long does a new relay last?
A high-quality original relay lasts 5-10 years or more. Cheap analogues may fail after 1-2 years, especially if there are power surges in the power supply.
Is it possible to start a Samsung refrigerator without a relay?
Theoretically, you can start the compressor by applying voltage directly to the working winding, but doing this is strictly prohibited in domestic conditions. Without a start relay, the compressor will not be able to develop the required torque, it will jam and burn out in a few seconds. In addition, it is a fire hazard.
Where to buy an original relay for Samsung?
Original spare parts are best purchased at authorized Samsung service centers or specialized refrigeration equipment stores. In markets and in ordinary hardware stores, universal Chinese analogues are often sold, which may not suit the characteristics.
Why does a new relay burn out after a short time?
A common reason is unstable voltage in the network or a malfunction of the compressor itself (for example, a difficult start due to thickened oil or problems with valves). If the compressor consumes increased current when starting, it will quickly damage even a working relay. It is recommended to check the voltage in the network and the condition of the wiring.
What is the difference between a PTC relay and an electromagnetic one?
A PTC (posistor) relay operates by heating a special element that changes the resistance, breaking the starting winding circuit. An electromagnetic relay opens its contacts mechanically under the action of a spring and current. They are not always interchangeable; you need to look at the markings on your device.