Where is the relay in the Indesit refrigerator: search, check and replacement

When the refrigerator Indesit suddenly stops freezing, makes strange clicks or does not turn on at all, the first suspicion falls on start-up protection relay. This small but critical part is responsible for starting the compressor and protecting it from overloads. However, finding a relay in a refrigerator is not always easy: its location depends on the model, year of manufacture, and even the type of compressor. In old Indesit with a drip system, the relay is often mounted directly on the motor housing, and in new inverter models it can be integrated into the electronic unit.

In this article we will look at where exactly to look for the relay in refrigerators Indesit of different series - from classic BIAA 13 to modern ITF 118. You will learn how to visually distinguish a relay from other parts, what tools are needed for diagnostics, and what to do if a part fails. And in order to avoid typical mistakes, we will dwell in detail on the nuances of dismantling and testing - for example, why it is impossible to test the relay without a load or why in some models it is not even present as a separate element.

What does the relay look like in an Indesit refrigerator

Start-protective relay (sometimes called starting relay or compressor relay) in refrigerators Indesit usually is a small plastic box of rectangular or cylindrical shape. Its size rarely exceeds 5–7 cm in length, and its color can vary from black to gray or white. The main feature is the presence two or three contacts for connection to the compressor and power wires.

On the relay body there is often a marking with technical parameters, for example:

• 🔹 R134a or R600a — type of refrigerant for which the relay is intended;
• 🔹 220–240V — operating voltage;
• 🔹 3.5A or 5.2A — rated current;
• 🔹 Manufacturer's logo (for example Danfoss, Emerson or original Indesit).

In refrigerators Indesit older than 2010, the relay is usually removable and attached to the compressor using a spring clip or screws. In new models (for example, series ITF or EWT) the relay can be soldered into the control board or replaced with an electronic module. There are also combined devices where the relay and thermostat are combined into one unit.

How to distinguish a relay from a thermostat?

A thermostat (thermostat) usually has a round knob for setting the temperature and is connected to a capillary tube, while a relay is a compact unit without adjusting elements, located next to the compressor. In models with electronic control, the thermostat can be replaced by a sensor, and the relay can be integrated into it. board.

Where the relay is located in Indesit refrigerators of different models

The location of the relay depends on the design of the refrigerator and the type of compressor. Below is a table with typical installation locations for popular series Indesit:

If your model is not listed in the table, refer to typical places:

• 🔧 90% of cases: the relay is attached directly to the compressor (the black cylindrical tank at the bottom of the refrigerator at the back). Look for a plastic box with wires connected to the motor contacts.
• 🔧 Inverter models: the relay is integrated into the electronic unit, which is located on the back wall of the refrigerator at the top or side. The unit is usually closed with a plastic cover.
• 🔧 Old models (before 2005): the relay can be hidden under the metal casing of the compressor or even inside the motor housing.

Step-by-step instructions: how to find a relay in an Indesit refrigerator

To find the relay yourself, follow this algorithm:

1. Unplug the refrigerator. Pull the plug from the outlet and wait 5-10 minutes for the capacitors to discharge (this is important for safety!).
2. Move the refrigerator away from the wallYou will need access to the back. In narrow kitchens, you may need the help of a second person.
3. Remove the lower rear cover (In most models, it is secured with latches or screws). (for example, Indesit BIAA 13) the cover is missing.
4. Locate the compressor. This is a black cylindrical tank with tubes, usually located on the lower right or left. Wires and tubes go to it.
5. Look for a relay:
   • 🔍 If the relay removable, it will be attached to the side or top of the compressor. Often it has a plastic case with the inscription Start Relay or Overload Protector.
   • 🔍 In inverter models, inspect electronic unit (board) - the relay can be soldered into it.
   • 🔍 In old refrigerators, the relay is sometimes hidden under metal casing the compressor. You will need to unscrew 2-4 screws.

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If the relay cannot be found, pay attention to marking. compressor. The model and type are usually indicated on its body (for example, Embraco EGX 90H or Secop SC10GUsing this information, you can clarify the location of the relay in the technical documentation.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Indesit with a system No Frost (for example, ITF 118) the relay can be hidden behind a plastic panel in the upper part of the back wall. Do not confuse it with the fan relay - it is smaller in size and connected. to the blower motor.

How to check the Indesit refrigerator relay for functionality

Before replacing the relay, you need to test it. To do this you will need multimeter (a tester) or at least an indicator screwdriver. data-i="152">multimeter

1. Remove the relay from the compressor. In removable models, it is secured with a latch - carefully pry it off with a screwdriver. In integrated relays, you will have to unsolder the contacts (a soldering iron is required).
2. Check the integrity of the housing. Cracks, melting or a burning smell are signs of a malfunction. This relay must be replaced.
3. Test the contacts with a multimeter:
   • 🔌 Set the tester to resistance testing mode (200 Ohm).
   • 🔌 Attach the probes to the relay contacts (usually there are two or three). In a working relay, the resistance between the contacts should be 0–50 Ohm.
   • 🔌 If the device shows OL (break) or the resistance tends to infinity, the relay is faulty.

Check the starting windingIn some relays (for example, type PTC) when When heated, the resistance should increase. To do this, connect the relay to a power source (for example, a 9 V battery) and measure the resistance after 1-2 minutes. If it does not change, the part is faulty.

Important: The relay cannot be checked without a load (that is, simply connecting to a 220 V network). lead to its failure or false readings. Always test the relay in conjunction with a compressor or use a ballast resistor.

Typical relay faults and theirs. signs

The relay in the refrigerator Indesit may fail for several reasons: from natural wear to power surges. Let's consider the main symptoms and their possible causes:

• ⚡ The refrigerator does not turn on, but the light inside is on.. Most often this indicates a break in the relay winding or jamming of its contacts. thermostat, but the relay is checked first.
• 🔊 The compressor hums, but does not start. A typical symptom a faulty start relay - the motor tries to start, but cannot overcome the initial load. Sometimes repeated sounds are heard. clicks (the relay tries to work).
• ⏱️ The compressor turns on for a few seconds and turns off. This can be caused by triggering the overheating protection in the relay (for example, due to an interturn short circuit in the winding). motor).
• 🔥 A burning smell or smoke appears from under the compressor. An extreme case is short circuit in the relay, which can lead to melting of the housing or even a fire. Turn off immediately. refrigerator!
• ❄️ The refrigerator freezes slightly, the compressor works without stoppingSometimes the relay is to blame, which does not turn off the power when the desired temperature is reached (although more often the problem is in the thermostat or sensor).

If you observe one of these symptoms, do not rush to change the relay. First, make sure that the problem is not in compressor (call its windings) or thermostat. For example, if the compressor is humming, but not starts, the cause may be either a relay or a jammed motor.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Indesit with electronic control (for example, ITF 118) a faulty relay can cause errors on the display, such as F05 or E02. However, the same codes can also indicate problems with the control board. In such cases, complex diagnostics are required.

How to replace the relay in an Indesit refrigerator yourself

If the diagnostics confirm that the relay is faulty, you can replace it yourself. For this you will need:

• 🔧 A new relay that matches the model (for example, Danfoss 103N0012 or Emerson 3TSR15-1).
• 🔧 Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers.
• 🔧 Pliers (for removing spring clamps).
• 🔧 Multimeter (for checking after replacement).

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the network and discharge the capacitors (wait 10 minutes).
2. Remove the old relay:
   • In removable models: squeeze out the spring clip or unscrew the screws holding the relay to the compressor. Carefully disconnect the wires (memorize or photograph their location!).
   • In integrated relays: unsolder the contacts, first mark them with a marker.

Install the new relay. Connect the wires in the same order as on the old relay. In removable models, secure it with a clamp.

Check. work:

• Connect the refrigerator to the network.
• Listen to see if the compressor starts (there should be a smooth hum without clicks).
• Make sure that the motor turns off after 10-15 minutes (this means the relay works correctly).

If, after replacing the relay, the refrigerator still does not work, check:

• 🔌 Correct connection of the wires (inverted phase and zero can damage the relay).
• 🔌 Serviceability of the compressor (ring its windings).
• 🔌 Mains voltage (should be 220–240 V).

Where to buy a relay for a refrigerator. Indesit and how much it costs

A new relay can be purchased in several places:

• 🛒 Service centers Indesit. Original parts, but the price can be inflated (from 1,500 to 3,500 rubles).
• 🛒 Online spare parts stores (for example, 220-Volt, All-Zapchasti). Prices are lower - from 800 to 2,000 rubles. The main thing is to check compatibility according to the refrigerator model.
• 🛒 Electronics stores (for example, Chip and Dip). Here you can find universal relays (for example, Danfoss 103N), but you will need to clarify the parameters.
• 🛒 Used markets (for example, Avito or Yula). - there is no guarantee that the relay is in good condition. Price: 300–1,000 rubles.

When choosing a relay, pay attention to:

• 🔹 Compressor model (for example, Embraco EGX or Secop SC).
• 🔹 Refrigerant type (R134a, R600a).
• 🔹 Nominal current (indicated on the relay housing, for example, 3.5A).
• 🔹 Relay type:
  • 🔘 PTC (posistor) - used in most modern models;
  • 🔘 Thermal - in old refrigerators;
  • 🔘 Electronic - in inverter compressors.

⚠️ Attention: Cheap universal relays (for example, Chinese analogues) may not fit the parameters or quickly fail. It is better to buy parts from trusted manufacturers: Danfoss, Emerson, Secop or original Indesit.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about relays in Indesit refrigerators

Is it possible to repair the relay or just replace it?

In most cases, the relay is not repaired, but replaced. The exception is if the problem is in oxidized contacts (they can be cleaned with sandpaper) or loose fastening (tighten the screws). However, in 90% of cases the fault is related to internal elements. (bimetallic plate, posistor), which cannot be restored.

How to understand that the relay has burned out, and not the compressor?

Ring the compressor windings with a multimeter:

• Resistance between contacts C-S (total and starting winding) should be 20–40 Ohms.
• The resistance between C-R (common and working windings) is 10–20 Ohms.
• If at least one winding is broken (OL) or short short circuit (resistance is close to 0) - the compressor is to blame.

If the windings are in good condition, but the compressor does not start, the problem is in the relay.

What will happen if you install a relay from another Indesit model?

If the relay does not match the parameters (current, type of refrigerant, power compressor), the following problems are possible:

• The compressor will not start.
• The relay will quickly overheat and burn out.
• The refrigerator will operate unstably (frequent on/off).

In the best case, the refrigerator simply will not turn on. In the worst case. - the compressor will fail.

Is it possible to temporarily start the refrigerator without a relay?

Technically, yes, but this is extremely dangerous. Without a relay, the compressor is not protected from overloads and can burn out. If you urgently need to preserve food, you can briefly (for 10-15 minutes) supply power directly to the compressor. by connecting the wires C (common) and S (starter). However, this can only be done in emergency cases and under constant supervision!

How long does the relay last in the Indesit refrigerator?

The service life of the relay depends on operating conditions:

• Under normal conditions (stable voltage, no overheating) - 8–12 years.
• With frequent power surges or overloads - 3-5 years.
• In refrigerators with inverter compressors, electronic relays last longer - up to 15 years.

If the relay fails ahead of schedule, check the voltage in the network and the condition of the compressor.