If your Indesit refrigerator stopped freezing, and the motor hums for only a few seconds, after which there is a click and silence, the problem most likely lies in the trigger mechanism. This is a common failure scenario that often frightens owners, but is actually repairable. In this situation, start relay is the first element that requires checking, since it is responsible for starting the compressor engine.
Many users get lost, trying to understand where exactly to look for this component, not realizing that it is hidden in the back unit. Protection relay and the starting device are usually combined into one block or located in close proximity to each other, mounted directly on the motor terminals. Understanding the exact location of this part will allow you to save time on calling a technician, or at least accurately diagnose the problem before purchasing spare parts.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm for accessing the rear panel, methods for identifying the relay on different models Indesit and signs indicating the need to replace it. Correct diagnostics will help you avoid purchasing unnecessary parts if the problem turns out to be deeper.
⚠️ Attention: Any manipulations inside the refrigerator related to electrical components should be carried out only after completely disconnecting the device from the AC mains. Residual charge in capacitors can be dangerous.
Diagnostics of a faulty starting relay
Before disassembling the unit, you need to make sure that the symptoms indicate a failure of the starting mechanism. A characteristic feature is the cyclical behavior of the motor: it tries to start, makes a hum, then a loud click follows, and there is a pause. If you touch the compressor housing at this moment, it may be hot, which indicates an attempt to operate without successfully starting the rotor.
Often users confuse a relay failure with a malfunction of the compressor itself, which is a more serious and expensive problem. However, if the motor hums, it means that the windings are intact, and electricity is supplied to them. Start relay at this moment an impulse must be sent to the starting winding to spin the shaft. If this impulse does not pass or the contact opens immediately, the engine stops.
- 🔊 A loud metallic click is heard 2-5 seconds after being plugged in.
- 🔥 The compressor housing heats up, but the refrigerator does not cool.
- 🔌 A hum is heard, but there is no characteristic startup sound (increasing hum).
- 💡 The light inside the camera lights up, confirming the presence of voltage in the network.
For accurate diagnosis, the “shaking” method is often used. If you remove the relay and, when shocked, hear something dangling inside like a dry pea, it means that the internal contact group or coil is damaged. A working device should not make sounds when shaking, since the inside is a monolithic structure.
Access to the back panel of the refrigerator
To find Indesit refrigerator relayyou need to gain access to the compressor compartment. In most models of this brand, especially in the classic two-chamber versions, the motor unit is located in the lower rear part of the body. You will need to move the unit away from the wall, providing free access to the back wall from all sides.
On the back panel you will see a black metal or plastic cover covering the compressor. It can be secured with latches or screws. Models Indesit most often use self-tapping screws for a Phillips screwdriver. Carefully unscrew them, being careful not to drop them into the gap between the case and the wall, and remove the casing.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use excessive force when removing the back cover. The plastic becomes brittle over time and may crack, which will require additional repairs or fixation with clamps.
After removing the cover, the “heart” of the refrigerator will be revealed to your view - a black compressor, a condenser grille and a tube system. The relay will be located directly at the end of the motor. In some versions, access may be slightly difficult if it is close to a wall or floor, so you may need to tilt the refrigerator by propping up the front of it.
Exact location of the relay on the compressor
At the end of the compressor you will see protruding contacts on which a plastic box is placed. This is the node we are looking for. In modern refrigerators Indesit most often a combined start-up relay is used. It is a black or gray plastic case that sits tightly on three contact pins coming from the motor.
Wires from the thermostat and power cord are suitable for this plastic block. Start relay can be attached simply by tightly fitting the contacts, or additionally fixed with a metal bracket or spring clip. If the bracket is visible, it must be carefully pressed with a flat screwdriver to remove the casing.
Inside this casing the starting mechanics themselves are hidden. Depending on the model, this may be a posistor (solid-state relay) or an electromagnetic mechanism with a coil. To replace, you do not have to open the plastic case itself - usually the entire unit is replaced, which is simply removed from the compressor contacts.
| Relay type | Appearance | Mounting features | Frequency of breakdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Posistor | Black plastic, compact | Tight fit on pins | High |
| Electromagnetic | Gray/white plastic, larger | Fixation with a bracket or screw | Medium |
| Combined | Two-section body | Latches or bracket | High |
| Thermal | Part of a common unit | Integrated into the body | Low |
It is important to remember the position of the parts before removal. Although the design is not always symmetrical, it is better to photograph the connection of the wires. Start relay has a clear orientation: the marking UP or the arrow should face up when installed on the compressor. Violation of the orientation will lead to inoperability of the device.
The process of dismantling and replacing the part
To begin work, you need to disconnect the wires going to the relay. They can be secured to the terminal block or simply slipped onto the contacts. Carefully remove the connector, holding the wire itself so as not to damage the insulation. If the wires are soldered, you will need a soldering iron, but in 90% of cases, a detachable connection is used. Indesit a detachable connection is used.
Remove the relay from the compressor contacts. It must be removed by hand. If it has become “stuck” due to time and heat, you can gently rock it from side to side. The main thing is not to break the ceramic insulators on the motor itself. After removal, inspect the inside: the presence of soot, melted plastic or a burning smell confirms the malfunction.
- 🛠️ Disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply.
- 📸 Take a photo of the wiring diagram before disconnecting.
- 🔌 Disconnect power terminals from the old relay.
- 🔄 Install the new part, observing the marking
UP(top).
Installation of the new element is carried out in the reverse order. Push the relay onto the compressor pins as far as it will go. Make sure it fits snugly and doesn't wobble. Connect the wires according to the photos or color markings you took earlier. Usually this does not require special knowledge, since the connectors have a unique shape.
☑️ Relay replacement checklist
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the relay the refrigerator hums and clicks again, but does not start, the compressor itself may be jammed. In this case, further attempts to start may lead to the combustion of the new part.
Deciphering markings and selecting analogues
When purchasing a new spare part, you will encounter many abbreviations. On the body of the original relay Indesit there is always a marking, for example, R6, RCT, PTC. These codes indicate the type of device and its electrical characteristics. It is important to select an analogue with identical parameters, and not just one that is suitable in size.
Start relay selected according to compressor power and type of refrigerant. Using the wrong part may cause the motor to overload or fail to start at all. Universal relays exist, but they require proper configuration or are only suitable for certain power ranges.
What do the codes on the relay mean?
The letters R and T often indicate the type of device (starter). The numbers indicate compatibility with the compressor series. For example, the 100-120W marking indicates the maximum power of the engine for which the relay is intended.>
Pay attention to the manufacturer of the original part. Often refrigerators Indesit have compressors from other brands, such as Danfoss, Secop or Aspera. The relay is selected specifically for the compressor, and not for the brand of the refrigerator. Therefore, if you are changing a part, look first of all at the marking of the blackest “barrel” of the motor.
Checking performance after repair
After installing the new relay and connecting all the wires, you can conduct an initial test. Plug in the refrigerator. In the first seconds, you can hear a slight click - this is the protection being triggered or the relay turning on. After some time (from 10 seconds to a minute) the compressor should start.
If the engine starts and runs smoothly, without buzzing or vibration, it means start relay it has been selected and installed correctly. Place your hand on the side wall of the refrigerator - it should begin to warm up slightly, which indicates that the refrigerant has begun to circulate. Complete cooling of the chambers will occur after 1-2 hours of operation.
If the situation repeats (clicking and stopping), immediately turn off the device. This may mean that the problem is not in the relay, but in the motor itself or the freon circulation system. Further operation in this mode is unacceptable, as this will lead to the final failure of the compressor.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to repair an old relay rather than buy a new one?
Theoretically, if the contacts inside are simply oxidized, they can be cleaned. However, given the low cost of a new part and the criticality of the reliability of the refrigerator, repairing an old relay is considered a temporary and risky measure. It is better to make a complete replacement.
Why does a new relay burn out after a week?
A common reason is incorrect installation (wrong side) or the use of a relay with inappropriate power parameters. This may also indicate power surges in the network or incipient problems with the compressor windings.
Where to buy an original relay for Indesit?
Original spare parts can be found in specialized stores of spare parts for household appliances, using the model of your refrigerator. Universal analogues are also suitable if their characteristics match the markings on the old device.
Is it dangerous to leave a refrigerator with a faulty relay on?
Yes, it is dangerous. The compressor will constantly try to start, drawing a high starting current. This will cause the wiring to overheat, melt the insulation, and potentially cause a fire. At the first symptoms of a malfunction, the device should be de-energized.