Searching for a starter protection device in household appliances is a common task during self-diagnosis. If your Pozis refrigerator stops freezing or makes strange clicking noises, most likely the problem lies in this unit. Understanding where the relay is on the Pozis refrigerator is the first step to restoring the unit’s functionality without calling an expensive repairman.
The location of the element depends on the specific model and year of manufacture of the equipment. In most cases, the unit is hidden from the user's eyes and requires partial disassembly of the rear wall of the housing. Start relay Responsible for starting the compressor engine, so its serviceability is critical for the entire cooling cycle.
Do not panic if you find a malfunction. The design of refrigerators Pozis is quite logical and allows for replacement even with minimal skills in working with tools. The main thing is to observe safety precautions and strictly follow the dismantling algorithm.
Design and principle of operation of the starting relay
Before looking for where the relay is located in the Pozis refrigerator, you need to understand what this element is. This is an electromechanical device that supplies voltage to the starting winding of the compressor motor when it is turned on. As soon as the motor rotor reaches the required speed, the relay opens the starting winding circuit, leaving only the main winding working.
In modern models, thermal relays are most often found electromagnetic or. Electromagnetic ones are triggered by current passing through a coil, creating a magnetic field. Thermal ones use a bimetallic plate, which bends when heated by passing current. Both types can fail due to voltage surges or natural wear of the contacts.
⚠️ Attention: An attempt to repair the internal mechanism of the relay (cleaning the contacts) gives only a temporary effect. Over time, oxidation will resume and the compressor may burn out. A complete replacement of the unit is recommended.
It is important to note that in some older models a combined device may be used, which includes both a starting and a thermal relay in one housing. Protective mechanism in this case, it prevents overheating of the windings by opening the circuit when the temperature rises critically.
Where is the relay located: search on different models
The answer to the question of where the relay is on the Pozis refrigerator is clear: it is always located directly on the compressor. However, access to it can be organized in different ways. In classic two-chamber models, such as Pozis RK-139 or RD-149, access is through removing the rear metal panel.
In single-chamber refrigerators or models with a freezer on top (for example, Pozis Sviyaga) the compressor is also located at the rear, but can be partially covered with a decorative casing or condensate tray. You will need to dismantle this pan to gain full access to the motor.
Let's consider the main locations:
- 🔹 On the rear wall of the unit, in the lower right or left side (depending on the model), where the black cylindrical compressor is installed.
- 🔹 Directly on the shank of the electric motor, covered with a plastic or metal casing.
- 🔹 In a niche under the refrigerator compartment, if access from behind is limited by the kitchen structure or built-in furniture.
Sometimes manufacturers install an additional protective screen that covers the entire lower part of the refrigerator. In this case, to find the relay, you will have to unscrew several screws around the perimeter of this screen. Fastening elements can be hidden under decorative plugs.
Instructions for dismantling and accessing the unit
In order to get to the place where the relay is on the Pozis refrigerator, you need to perform a series of sequential actions. Before starting any work Be sure to turn it off the unit from the electrical network. This safety requirement cannot be ignored, since you will be working with live parts.
Move the refrigerator away from the wall, providing free access to the rear panel. If the model is heavy, ask someone to help you so as not to damage the floor or legs of the unit. Removing the back cover usually requires a Phillips screwdriver.
Access procedure:
- Unscrew all the screws securing the back metal panel.
- Carefully remove the panel, being careful not to touch tubes and wires.
- Locate the compressor (black barrel) at the bottom.
- Locate the plastic box attached to the side of the compressor - this is the place where the relay is located.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
In some cases, access to The relay may be obstructed by dust or cobwebs. It is recommended to first vacuum the bottom of the unit. Dust can cause short circuits or overheating of contacts, so cleanliness in the compressor area is important.
Fault diagnosis before replacement
Before replacing a part, you need to make sure that this is the problem. If the relay on a Pozis refrigerator is faulty, this is often accompanied by characteristic symptoms. For example, the unit may hum but not start, or turn on for a few seconds and turn off immediately.
Visual inspection often helps to identify obvious signs of breakdown. If traces of soot, melted plastic, or a burning smell are visible on the relay body, then the part definitely requires replacement. It is also worth checking the contacts for oxidation.
Main signs of a malfunction:
- 🔸 The compressor hums for 5-10 seconds, then there is a click and silence.
- 🔸 The refrigerator does not turn on at all, the indicators are on, but the motor is silent.
- 🔸 The automatic switch in the electrical panel trips when you try to start.
- 🔸 Heating the compressor housing to very high temperatures without cooling the chambers.
Is it possible to check the relay with a multimeter?
Yes, if you have the skills to work with a tester. You need to call your contacts. In a normally open state, the resistance between the contacts of the starting winding should be infinite. When voltage is applied (or depending on the type of relay), the contacts must close. However, visual signs (soot, cracks) often speak more eloquently than continuity.
If you hear a quiet hum, but the compressor does not start, the piston group may be jammed, and the relay has nothing to do with it. But in 80% of cases with a characteristic clicking sound, it is the starting device that is to blame.
The process of replacing the starting relay
Replacing the relay is a simple procedure if you have already reached the place where the relay is on the Pozis refrigerator. The main thing is to remember or photograph the order in which the wires are connected. Reversing the polarity or connecting to the wrong terminals can cause the compressor to burn out.
Remove the old relay by gently rocking it from side to side. It is held on the compressor terminals by a tight fit and is sometimes secured with a metal bracket or plastic clip. Do not use excessive force to avoid damaging the tubes.
| Relay type | Compatibility | Installation features | Average price |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTK (Thermal) | Old models | Vertical position only | Low |
| P-3 (Starting) | Universal | Requires precise selection of current | Average |
| Combined | Modern Pozis | Moderate in finding analogues | High |
| Electronic | Rarely (modernization) | Silent operation, no moving parts | High |
Install a new relay on the compressor terminals, observing the markings R (Run), S (Start) and C (Common). Usually there is a connection diagram on the body of the new device. Make sure that it fits tightly and does not loosen.
Typical errors and precautions
When doing independent repairs, it is easy to make a mistake that will negate all efforts. One of the most common problems is ignoring the condition of the compressor. If the motor is faulty, replacing the relay will not help, but will only create the appearance of repair.
Also, users often forget to check the capacitor (if it is in the circuit). A swollen or dried out capacitor will prevent the compressor from starting even with a new relay. Checking the capacitor capacity is a mandatory diagnostic step.
⚠️ Attention: Never turn on the refrigerator without the relay casing and compressor protective cover installed. This can lead to moisture getting on the contacts and causing electric shock.
Another mistake is using a relay with the wrong operating current. If the current is too low, the relay will trip immediately. If it is too high, it will not turn off the starting winding, which will lead to overheating and fire.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to operate a refrigerator without a relay?
No, this is impossible. Without a starting relay, the compressor will not be able to start, since it will not receive an impulse to the starting winding. An attempt to start directly will lead to humming and eventual combustion of the engine.
Where to buy an original relay for Pozis?
Original spare parts can be found in specialized refrigeration equipment stores or official service centers. However, there are universal analogs (for example, from Danfoss or brands) that fit the parameters and are often more reliable than the original.
Why does the new relay immediately burn out?
This may indicate an interturn short circuit in the compressor windings or a malfunction in the refrigerator wiring. Also, the cause may be unstable voltage in the network without using a stabilizer.
How to understand that the relay is “stuck”?
If the refrigerator hums continuously and does not turn off, and the temperature inside the chambers drops below normal (food freezes), perhaps the relay contacts are welded and do not open the starting winding circuit.