Brand refrigerators Biryusa are deservedly popular due to their reliability and affordability, however, like any complex equipment, they are subject to wear. One of the most vulnerable components that ensure the operation of the cooling system is start relay, which is responsible for starting the compressor engine. If you notice that your unit has stopped freezing, and the motor hums, but does not start, or turns on only for a few seconds, the problem most likely lies in this component.
Independent replacement of this part is quite within the capabilities of a home craftsman with minimal skill with tools and a basic understanding of electrical circuits. In this article we will look in detail at how to correctly diagnose a breakdown, select the appropriate spare part and safely replace it so that your refrigerator Biryusa works like new again.
The principle of operation and the role of the relay in the system
The starting relay is a compact an electromechanical device that supplies the necessary current pulse to the starting winding of the compressor motor only at the moment it starts. As soon as the motor rotor reaches the required speed, the relay opens the starting winding circuit, and the engine continues to operate on the main winding. In refrigerators Biryusa most often, inductive relays with a posistor or electromagnetic models are used.
Incorrect operation of this unit leads to the fact that the compressor either does not start at all or works with overheating, which can quickly damage the motor itself. Posistor Inside the relay, when heated, it changes its resistance, opening the circuit, which is a key physical process. Understanding this mechanism is important for correct diagnosis: if the relay is “stuck” in the closed state, the starting winding will burn out.
It is important to consider that the relay also performs a protection function, albeit indirect. If the compressor is jammed or there is a voltage surge in the network, the device may often click, trying to start the motor, and thereby signal a problem. In Biryusa models with linear compressors, the connection diagram may differ from classic piston units, requiring specific spare parts.
Diagnostics of faults before replacement
Before going to the store for a new part, you need to make sure that the problem really lies in the starting relay, and not in the compressor or thermostat itself. The first sign of a malfunction is often a characteristic sound: you hear the hum of the motor, which ends abruptly with a click, after which there is silence, and the cycle repeats after a while. This phenomenon is called "idling" or trying to start.
For accurate diagnosis, you will need a multimeter. Remove the back cover of the refrigerator Biryusa, get to the compressor and carefully remove the casing from the relay. Visually inspect the part: if there are cracks on the case, traces of burning or melting, or if a ringing sound is heard inside when shaking (as from broken ceramics), the part definitely requires replacement.
Checking with a multimeter is carried out in resistance measurement mode. A working posistor should have a resistance within the normal range (usually several tens of Ohms), and the contacts should not be short-circuited. If the device shows infinity or, conversely, zero where it should not be, the relay has failed. It is also worth checking whether voltage is supplied to the input contacts when the refrigerator is turned on.
- 🔌 Visual inspection: look for traces of soot, plastic deformation and oxidation of contacts on the terminals.
- 🔊 Sound diagnostics: frequent clicks and buzzing without starting the compressor is a sure sign of a problem.
- 📉 Resistance measurement: use a tester to check the integrity of the posistor circuit and contacts.
Choosing a suitable starting relay
The market for spare parts for refrigerators Biryusa offers many options, but it is important to choose a relay that is fully compatible with your compressor. The main selection parameters are engine power and compressor type (low-speed or high-speed). On the body of the old relay there is always a marking, for example, RTP, R-1, R-3, R-4 or R-6, which indicates compatibility with certain motor models.
Often there are universal relays that are suitable for a wide range of compressors, but it is best to look for an original spare part or a high-quality analogue with identical characteristics. Pay attention to the location and number of contacts: they must match your sample. Using an unsuitable relay may result in the compressor not starting or the winding burning out.
When purchasing, pay attention to the manufacturer: Chinese analogues may cost less, but their service life is often significantly lower than original Russian or European parts. For refrigerators Biryusawhich are often equipped with domestically produced compressors (for example, SKN), it is important to comply with the series.
Is it possible to use a relay from another refrigerator?
Yes, if the markings and fittings match sizes. The main thing is that the current characteristics and operating logic (normally open/closed contact) coincide with the requirements of your compressor.
Preparation for work and safety measures
Repair of electrical appliances requires strict adherence to safety precautions, since you will be working with a mains voltage of 220 Volts. The first and most important step is to completely disconnect the refrigerator Biryusa from the power supply. It is not enough to simply turn it off with the button; you need to unplug the cord from the socket.
Allow the compressor to cool for 15-20 minutes if it was running before or tried to start. Metal parts may be hot and pressure may remain inside the system. Also prepare the necessary tools: pliers, a screwdriver, a multimeter and, possibly, electrical tape or heat shrink to insulate the connections.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to touch live parts or perform any manipulations with the wiring while the power cord is connected to the outlet. Residual voltage may remain in the capacitors.
Work in a dry room and make sure the floor under your feet is not wet. If traces of oil are visible on the back wall of the refrigerator, wipe them so that your hands do not slip when working with small parts.
☑️ Preparing to replace the relay
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the relay
The replacement process begins with removing the protective casing, which covers the compressor and electrical part. It is usually secured with latches or screws. Carefully remove it to gain access to the compressor. At the end of the motor you will see a black plastic box - this is the starting relay, placed on the three contacts of the compressor.
Remove the old relay. It can be held in place by a tight fit on the contacts or a metal retaining clip. If there is a bracket, you need to carefully bend it with pliers. Do not use excessive force to avoid damaging the compressor's copper pipes and associated wires. Remember or take a photo of which wire goes where, although they are usually color-coded.
Install the new relay in the same position as the old one. The housing is often marked "UP" or an arrow indicating the up position. This is critical because there is a moving mechanism or posistor inside that must operate under the influence of gravity. Place the wire terminals on the corresponding contacts of the new relay, observing the polarity, if indicated.
| Relay marking | Compressor type | Power (W) | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTP-1 | Single-phase | up to 150 | SKN-60, SKN-80 |
| R-3 | Single-phase | up to 200 | Biryusa 6, 8, 10 |
| R-4 | Single-phase | up to 250 | Biryusa 12, 14 |
| R-6 | Single-phase | up 300 | Powerful models |
After installation, securely fasten the fixing bracket, if provided by the design. Make sure that the wires do not dangle or touch hot parts of the compressor or sharp edges of the housing. Assemble the protective casing in the reverse order.
Checking functionality after installation
After assembling all the elements, you can begin testing. Plug in the refrigerator. In the first seconds, you will hear a characteristic click of the relay and the start of the compressor. The motor should run smoothly, without buzzing or vibration. Please note that the refrigerator will not begin to gain temperature immediately, so you should not open the door during the first hours of operation.
Listen to the operation of the unit for 10-15 minutes. If the compressor runs continuously and heats up moderately (warm, but not hot), and the relay does not make any unusual sounds, then the replacement was successful. Check whether the evaporator inside the chamber begins to get colder.
⚠️ Attention: If, after turning on, a click is heard again and the motor stalls, immediately turn off the device from the network. This means that either the relay is selected incorrectly, or the problem is deeper (the compressor itself is faulty or there is a freon leak).
In some cases, it may take time to stabilize the pressure in the system, so do not panic if the on-off cycles in the first hour differ from usual. The main thing is that there are no emergency stops.
Why does the relay heat up?
Slight heating of the relay body during operation is normal, since current passes through it. However, if it becomes too hot (it is impossible to hold your hand), it means that a relay was selected with less current than required, or the contacts are oxidized.
Common mistakes during self-repair
Beginners often make mistakes that can negate all efforts or lead to breakage of a new part. One of the most common is ignoring the orientation of the relay during installation. As mentioned earlier, many models Biryusa use relays that are sensitive to position in space.
Another error is poor contact in the terminals. If you just put the wires on, but did not make sure that the connection is tight, it will start to heat up and spark at the point of contact. This can lead to plastic melting and even fire. Always check that the terminals are tight.
Also, do not use “temporary” solutions, such as twisting wires without insulation or using low-quality electrical tape on heated surfaces. For insulation, it is better to use heat-shrinkable tubing or special heat-resistant insulating tape.
- 🚫 Ignoring markings: installation of the relay “just to fit” without taking into account the current characteristics.
- 🔥 Poor insulation: use of materials not designed for heating in the compressor area.
- 🔧 Mechanical damage: kinking of the compressor tubes due to careless removal of the casing.
Questions and answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to start the Biryusa refrigerator without a start relay?
Theoretically, you can start the motor by giving a pulse manually, but operating the refrigerator without a relay is strictly prohibited. This will lead to the burning of the compressor starting winding in a matter of minutes, since it is not designed for long-term operation.
How much does it cost to replace the relay in a service center?
The cost consists of the price of the spare part and the work of the technician. On average, the service costs from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles, while independent replacement costs only the price of the relay itself (300-800 rubles).
Why does the new relay click, but the refrigerator does not turn on?
This may indicate that the compressor itself is jammed, or there is no or insufficient freon in the system. It is also possible that the new relay is defective or does not match the power of your motor.
How often do you need to change the starting relay?
The service life of the relay is not strictly regulated and depends on the quality of voltage surges in the network and the frequency of switching cycles. It can last 5-10 years or more, but with frequent voltage fluctuations it fails much earlier.
Does the temperature in the room affect the operation of the relay?
Yes, in a very hot room the compressor works with increased load, and the relay can overheat. Also, a cold posistor in an unheated room may have a different resistance, which affects the start, although modern relays are designed for a wide temperature range.