Where to look for the start relay in the refrigerator: location, check and replacement

When the refrigerator suddenly stops freezing, but the light inside is on, and the compressor does not start or hums intermittently, starting relayis often the culprit. This small part is responsible for starting the motor-compressor, and its failure paralyzes the operation of the entire unit. However, before you run to the service center, you should try to find and check the relay yourself - in 60% of cases the problem is solved by replacing this inexpensive spare part.

The main difficulty for beginners is to determine where exactly is the starting relay located in a specific refrigerator model. Its location depends on the brand, type of compressor, and even the year of manufacture of the equipment. In this article we will analyze standard relay placement diagrams in refrigerators Atlant, Indesit, Stinol, Biryusa and other popular brands, and also show how to quickly identify it by appearance and characteristic features.

You will learn not only where to look for the relay, but also how to remove it correctly for diagnostics, what tools you will need, and what to look for when buying a new one. And to avoid typical mistakes, we have collected unique nuances for refrigerators with inverter compressors -their relays are often hidden not where you expect!

1. What is a starting relay and why is it needed?

A starting relay (sometimes called start-protection relay) is an electromechanical or electronic device that performs two key functions:

• 🔹 Starting the compressor - when the refrigerator is turned on, the relay supplies current to starting winding of the motor, helping it overcome the initial inertia.
• 🔹 Overload protection —if the compressor overheats or a short circuit occurs, the relay opens the circuit, preventing equipment failure.

Without a working relay, the compressor will either not start at all, or will work intermittently - for example, it will hum, but not pump in cold. Modern refrigerators use three types of relays:

• 🔧 Electromechanical (with a spring and core) - installed in old models (Stinol, Minsk).
• 🔧 Electronic (with a control board) - typical for Samsung, LG after 2010.
• 🔧 Inverter - used in refrigerators with inverter compressors (Hitachi, Panasonic).

Signs of a relay malfunction are often confused with failure of the compressor or thermostat. To avoid mistakes, pay attention to the following symptoms:

• ⚡ The refrigerator does not turn on, but the light inside is on.
• ⚡ The compressor hums, but does not start (relay clicks are heard).
• ⚡ The motor runs for 1-2 seconds and turns off.
• ⚡ The refrigerator turns on only after repeated attempts (for example, if you remove the plug and insert it again).

⚠️ Attention! If the compressor gets very hot or makes an uncharacteristic grinding noise, the problem may not be in the relay, but in the interturn short circuit of the windings. In this case, independent repair is dangerous - the risk of a short circuit or. fire.

2. Where is the starting relay: standard placement patterns

In 90% of refrigerators, the starting relay is located next to the compressor either directly on its body or on the frame in the lower part of the rear wall. However, the exact location depends on the design. models. Below we have collected typical diagrams for popular brands.

2.1. Refrigerators with a conventional (linear) compressor

In most classic models (Atlant, Biryusa, Stinol, Indesit), the relay is attached directly to the compressor housing. be:

• 🔌 Put on pins compressor (the most common option).
• 🔌 Fixed with screws on the bracket next to the compressor.
• 🔌 Hidden under the protective casing (found in models Liebert and some Samsung).

To find the relay, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the refrigerator and move it away from the wall.
2. Remove the bottom cover of the rear wall (usually it is secured with latches or screws).
3. Inspect the compressor - the relay will be attached to its side or top. It looks like a small box (5x5 cm) with wires.

Turn off the power and provide access to the rear wall|

Remove the bottom cover (carefully so as not to damage it) tubes)|

Find the compressor (black cylinder with tubes)|

Inspect the compressor body for a plastic box with wires|

Check the relay fastening (pins, screws or latches)-->

The photo below shows a typical location of the relay on the compressor Atlant:

Photo

Relay on the Atlant compressor:

The image shows a black compressor with a plastic relay attached to it (a rectangular box with the inscription "DANFOSS" or "RANCO"). 3-4 wires are suitable for the relay: two from the plug and one or two from the thermostat.

2.2. Refrigerators with an inverter compressor

In models with inverter compressors (LG, Samsung with technology Digital Inverter, Hitachi) the starting relay is often integrated into control board or hidden under a decorative panel Its appearance can be very different from the classic one:

• 🛠️ There are miniature electronic modules (the size of a pack of cigarettes).
• 🛠️ The relay may be soldered into the board or not have a separate housing.
• 🛠️ In some models Samsung the relay is located at the top of the refrigerator next to the display.

For search relay in inverter refrigerators:

1. Turn off the equipment and remove back cover (in some models - front decorative panel).
2. Find the control unit (usually a board with microcircuits and relays).
3. Inspect the board for a small black or blue module with the inscription Relay or Compressor Start.

⚠️ Attention! In inverter refrigerators LG and Samsung after 2018 relay may be part a single control unit. Its replacement requires soldering or programming - without experience, it is better to contact the service.

3. How to remove the start relay for testing

Before checking or replacing the relay, it must be carefully removed. This section contains step-by-step instructions taking into account the features of different types of fastenings.

You will need:

• ✅ Phillips screwdriver (for screws).
• ✅ Flat screwdriver or knife (for latches).
• ✅ Pliers (if the wires are secured with terminals).
• ✅ Marker or tape (for marking wires).

Procedure:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator unplug and wait until the compressor cools down (10–15 minutes).
2. Take a photo connecting the wires to the relay - this will help not to confuse them during reassembly.
3. Remove the mount:
   • If the relay on pins —pull it up (sometimes you need to wiggle it slightly).
   • If the relay is on screws —unscrew them and carefully disconnect the wires.
   • If the relay is in latches —pry them off with a screwdriver.

Mark the wires with tape or a marker, so as not to confuse the phase, zero and starting winding.

On some models (Stinol, Indesit) the relay can be hidden under thermal insulating foam. In this case:

1. Carefully remove the foam with a knife or spatula.
2. Do not damage the tubes compressors - they are thin and bend easily!
3. After removing the relay, cover the open areas with foam or electrical tape to prevent moisture from entering.

⚠️ Attention! In refrigerators Samsung with a system No Frost the relay can be connected to the fan board. When removing, do not pull the wires - there is a risk of breaking the contacts!

4. How to check the starting relay for functionality

Before buying a new relay, you should make sure that the old one is really faulty. For diagnostics you will need a multimeter (or a tester) and a little patience.

Method 1: External inspection

Inspect the relay for:

• 🔍 Charring or melted areas.
• 🔍 Cracks on the body.
• 🔍 Burning smell -a sign of a short circuit.
• 🔍 Oxidized contacts (green or white coating).

If at least one of these signs is present, the relay must be replaced.

Method 2: Checking with a multimeter

For testing:

1. Switch the multimeter to 200 Ω (resistance check) mode.
2. Connect the probes to the relay contacts:
   • Between input and output to the compressor (usually contacts 1 and 2) the resistance should be 20–40 Ohm.
   • Between input and starting winding (contacts 1 and 3) — 10–20 Ohm.

If the device shows 0 (short short circuit) or ∞ (break), the relay is faulty.

Method 3: Test "by ear"

If you do not have a multimeter, you can try to turn on the refrigerator without a relay (only for experienced users!):

1. Remove the relay as described above.
2. Carefully close direct connection between the compressor wires (without a relay!).
3. Plug in the refrigerator for 1-2 seconds.
   • If compressor worked —the problem is in the relay.
   • If does not start —the compressor or thermostat is faulty.

⚠️ Attention! In refrigerators with electronic control (LG, Samsung), this test method may not work correctly due to built-in protection systems.

5. How to select a new starting relay

If the diagnostics have confirmed that the relay is faulty, it needs to be replaced. The main rule is the new relay must be completely replaced. correspond to the old one here's what to pay attention to:

1. Marking on the body

Most relays are marked, for example:

• DANFOSS 103N0012
• RANCO K59-L2431
• ASCO 115V

This data must be provided to the seller or searched in online stores using the exact article number.

2. Compressor type. data-i="281">The relay is selected for:

The relay is selected for:

• 🔹 Compressor power (indicated on its nameplate).
• 🔹 Type refrigerant (R134a, R600a, etc.).
• 🔹 Network voltage (220V or 110V).

3. Brand compatibility

Some manufacturers use unique relays:

• 🏷️ For Atlant and Biryusa relays are suitable DANFOSS 103N or RANCO K59.
• 🏷️ In Samsung i LG there are often relays SAMSUNG DA64-00423A or analogues.
• 🏷️ For Indesit — INDESIT C00168700.

Where to buy:

• 🛒 Service centers official dealers (compatibility guarantee).
• 🛒 Online stores spare parts (Spare parts for equipment, 220-Volt).
• 🛒 Markets for radio components (if you know the exact marking).

What to do if you can’t find the original relay?

If you couldn’t find the exact relay, you can select universal analogue by parameters:

- Winding resistance must match (±10%).

- Type of fastening (pins/screws) must be suitable for the compressor.

- Operation voltage - 220V (for Russia).

Pay attention to the relay DANFOSS 103N0012 or RANCO K59-L2431 - they are suitable for 80% of household refrigerators.

⚠️ Attention! In refrigerators with inverter compressors (LG, Hitachi) ordinary relays will not work - you need to look for specialized modules, for example, LG 6871W1A003A.

6. Replacing the starting relay: step-by-step instructions

When a new relay is purchased, all that remains is to install it correctly. Follow this one. instructions to avoid mistakes:

Step 1. Preparation

• ✅ Unplug the refrigerator.
• ✅ Place it so that it is convenient to work with the back.
• ✅ Prepare tools: screwdrivers, pliers, electrical tape.

Step 2. Installing the relay

1. Compare old and new relay —they should be identical in shape and arrangement of contacts.
2. Connect the wires to the new relay in the same orderas they were connected to the old one (use the photo taken earlier).
3. Attach the relay to the compressor:
   • If the mount is on pins — put the relay on until it clicks.
   • If on screws - tighten them without tightening.

Step 3. Checking operation

1. Plug in the refrigerator.
2. Listen to the compressor:
   • ✅ Normal: smooth hum without clicks, the compressor starts on the first try.
   • ❌ Problem: the relay clicks, but the compressor does not start (the wires are mixed up or the new relay is faulty).

Check the temperature in the chambers after 1-2 hours - it should start to drop.

Check that the wires are connected correctly|

Make sure that the relay is tightly secured|

Turn on the refrigerator and listen to the compressor|

Monitor the temperature in the chambers for 2 hours|

If necessary, adjust the thermostat -->

What to do if, after replacing the relay, the refrigerator does not work:

• 🔧 Double check polarity of wires —possibly mixed up phase and zero.
• 🔧 Make sure that the new relay is working properly (check with a multimeter).
• 🔧 Check thermostat —if it is faulty, the compressor will not receive a command to start.

7. Common mistakes when replacing a start relay

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to repeated breakdowns. Here are the most common of them:

1. Incorrect connection of wires

If you mix up the wires starting and working windings, the compressor:

• 🔌 Will not start.
• 🔌 May burn out due to improper load.

Always label the wires before disconnecting!

2. Using an incompatible relay

A universal relay may not be suitable for:

• 🔹 Winding resistance (the compressor will not start).
• 🔹 Trigger current (the relay will operate too early or late).

3. Poor fastening of the relay

If the relay does not sit tightly on the pins or the screws are loosely tightened:

• 🔌 Possible sparking and burning of the contacts.
• 🔌 The relay may fall off during vibration of the compressor.

4. Ignoring other faults

The relay often fails due to:

• 🔥 Overheating of the compressor (clogged capacitor, freon leak).
• 🔥 Power surges (need a stabilizer!).
• 🔥 Faulty thermostat (the compressor runs without stopping).

8. When is it better to call a specialist?

Despite its apparent simplicity, replacing the start relay is not always within the power of beginners. Contact a professional if:

1. Electronically controlled refrigerator

In models LG, Samsung, Liebert the relay is often soldered into the board. Replacing it requires:

• 🔧 Soldering (risk of damaging the board tracks).
• 🔧 Diagnostics with a multimeter (you need to check transistors and resistors).
• 🔧 Firmware (in some models after replacement, you need to reset the errors).

2. The compressor does not start even with a new relay

This may mean:

• 🔥 Interturn short circuit in the compressor windings.
• 🔥 Freon leakage (refilling required).
• 🔥 Failure of the control board (in inverter models).

3. Refrigerator under warranty

If the equipment is under warranty, independent repair will lead to:

• 📜 Loss of warranty obligations.
• 📜 Denial of free repairs if it breaks down again.

4. No experience working with electricity

If you have never dealt with:

• 🔌 Multimeter.
• 🔌 Soldering iron.
• 🔌 Electrical circuits.

It’s better not to take risks - an error can lead to fire or compressor failure.

⚠️ Attention! In refrigerators with a system No Frost incorrect replacement the relay can lead to fan failure and evaporator freezing. If ice appears in the freezer after repairs, immediately turn off the equipment and call a technician.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about starting relays

Can the starting relay be repaired or just replaced?

B In most cases, the relay cannot be repaired - its body is sealed, and the internal contacts wear out over time. The exception is electronic relays in inverter refrigerators, where sometimes you can replace individual elements (transistors, resistors), but this requires soldering and diagnostic skills.

How much does a new starting relay cost?

The price depends on the type of relay and brand:

• 💰 Regular relay for Atlant/Indesit: 300–800 rubles.
• 💰 Relay for Samsung/LG: 1,000–2,500 rubles.
• 💰 Inverter relays: 2,000–5,000 rubles.

Cost of replacement work in the service: 1,500–3,000 rubles.

What happens if you leave the refrigerator without a relay?

Without a start relay, the compressor will either not start at all, or will work intermittently