Modern Indesit refrigerator is a complex mechanism where each node plays a critical role in maintaining the freshness of products. When the compressor stops starting or operates with a characteristic hum and clicking noise, most often the problem lies in the start relay. This small element is responsible for supplying voltage to the motor windings at the time of start.
Failure of this part can lead not only to defrosting of the contents of the chamber, but also to burnout of the motor-compressor itself. Replacing the relay yourself is a procedure available to the home craftsman, but requires strict adherence to safety precautions and an understanding of the principles of operation of the electrical circuit.
In this article we will look at how to correctly diagnose a breakdown, select the appropriate spare part and perform connecting a relay on refrigerators of various Indesit series. You will learn what tools are required for the job and how to avoid common mistakes during installation.
Diagnosing a faulty starting relay
The first sign of a failure of the starting device is a characteristic sound. If you hear your refrigerator trying to start, making a loud clicking sound, and then silence, this is a sure sign. The compressor may be in good order, but without the correct impulse from start-protective relay it will not be able to start rotating.
It is also worth paying attention to the temperature of the motor housing. If the compressor is hot to the touch but does not cool the chamber, the thermal protection may have tripped or the relay may be stuck closed. In some electronically controlled Indesit models, the fault may be displayed as a flashing temperature indicator.
For accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to remove the part and inspect it visually. The presence of melted contacts, cracks on the body or a burning smell indicates the need for urgent replacement. Sometimes the problem lies in the oxidation of contact groups, which can be eliminated by cleaning, but more often it requires installing a new component.
It is important to understand that Start relay is a consumable item, the resource of which is limited by the number of switching cycles. The average service life is 5-7 years of active use. If your refrigerator is more than ten years old, preventative replacement of this part can prevent more serious repairs.
Necessary tools and preparation for work
Before starting the repair, you need to prepare the workplace and tools. You will need a minimum set of household tools, but their quality and serviceability directly affect the safety of the process.
Be sure to turn off the power Indesit refrigerator before starting any work. Unplug the power cord from the outlet and make sure there is no voltage. Even briefly touching live parts under load can be dangerous.
For work you will need:
- 🔧 Screwdrivers (Phillips and flat) for removing the back cover and clamps.
- 🔌 A multimeter or tester for checking the continuity of the circuit and the resistance of the windings.
- 🧤 Dielectric gloves to protect hands when working with electricians.
- 🧹 A brush with hard bristles to clean contacts from dust and oxides.
☑️ Preparation for replacement relay
Pay special attention to lighting the work area. The back of the refrigerator is often cluttered with items and the compressor can be difficult to access. Make room to move freely around the unit.
⚠️ Warning: Never attempt to replace the relay while the compressor is under pressure or hot. Allow the system to cool and equalize the pressure in the circuit, otherwise you may damage the tubes or get burned.
Removing the old relay and checking the contacts
The removal process begins with dismantling the compressor protective cover. It is usually secured with latches or bolts. Refrigerators Indesit often use a plastic casing, which must be carefully snapped off without using excessive force so as not to break the fasteners.
The relay is placed directly on the compressor terminals. To remove it, you need to disconnect the block with the wires and gently pull the housing off the pins with a rocking motion. If the part has become stuck over time, you can slightly warm it up with a hairdryer, but be careful with plastic elements.
Secrets of dismantling old models
In old Indesit models, the relay can be fixed with a metal bracket or a spring clip. Do not pull on the wires - this will cause them to break inside the insulation. First, release the mechanical lock, then remove the assembly.
After removing the part, inspect the seat on the compressor. There should be no traces of moisture, oil or carbon deposits. If the contacts on the compressor itself are blackened, they must be cleaned with fine sandpaper or a file until they have a metallic shine.
Checking with a multimeter is carried out in resistance measurement mode. Ring the relay contacts: in normal condition, the circuit should close or open depending on the position (upside down or straight). If the device shows an open circuit or, conversely, a short circuit where it should not be, the part is faulty.
Connection diagram and pin marking
Correct connection of the relay on the refrigerator Indesit is impossible without understanding the marking of the pins. There are usually symbols on the body of the part and on the compressor connector that cannot be ignored. An error in the connection can lead to instant combustion of the new part.
The standard marking is as follows:
- 🔌 S (Start) - starting winding.
- 🌀 R (Run) - working winding.
- ⚡ C (Common) - common contact.
Some circuits use a letter designation L for the power line. It is important to maintain the orientation of the relay relative to ground. There is often an arrow or inscription on the case UPthat should point upward. This is especially critical for relays with a posistor, where gravity affects the operation of the contacts.
| Relay type | Contact marking | Installation features | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting (PTC) | 1-2-3 or S-R-C | Strictly along the arrow UP | Indesit, Ariston |
| Starting-protective | Combined | Depends on the model motor | DTS series |
| Electromagnetic | Coil and contacts | Vertical position | Old models |
If the markings are erased, refer to the technical documentation for the compressor, which is often pasted on the unit itself. The currents and types of recommended starting devices are indicated there. Models Indesit typically use relays from manufacturers Ranco, Danfoss or original components.
Installation of a new relay and testing
Installation of a new element is carried out in the reverse order of dismantling. Make sure that the new one start relay is completely seated on the compressor terminals. It should hold tightly, without backlash. If the fit is too tight, do not use force - check to see if the orientation is reversed.
Connect the connector with the wires until you hear a characteristic click. Make sure that the wires do not touch the hot parts of the compressor and are kept away from moving elements (if we are talking about a fan, although in classic Indesit they are not in this area).
⚠️ Attention: Make sure that the wires are not twisted or pinched by the housing. The vibration of a running compressor can wear through the insulation, leading to a short circuit.
After assembly, do not rush to close the back cover. Plug in the refrigerator and listen. Startup should be smooth, without loud clicks or buzzing. After 5-10 minutes, the compressor should heat up and coldness should appear in the refrigerator.
If the compressor hums and does not start, immediately turn off the device. This means that the relay does not match the current or the motor itself is faulty. Long-term operation in this mode is unacceptable.
Compatibility table and error codes
Refrigerators Indesit of different years of manufacture can be equipped with different types of compressors and, accordingly, relays. Below is a table to help you navigate the compatibility of parts.
| Refrigerator series | Compressor type | Relay type | Spare part number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indesit C 130 | Aspera (Danfoss) | PTC 110-129 | 8733692 |
| Indesit DF 520 | Secop | Start-protective | 8733694 |
| Indesit SB 167 | Embraco | PTC 130-149 | 8733696 |
| Indesit NBS 18 | Whirlpool | Combined | 8733698 |
It is also worth considering that in models with a system No Frost and electronic control, a relay malfunction can block the operation of the evaporator fan. In this case, emergency temperature indicators may light up on the display.
If, after replacing the relay, the refrigerator works, but after a while the plugs break again or turns off, check the voltage in the network. Power surges are a common cause of repeated breakdowns. It is recommended to use a stabilizer or surge protector.
Common mistakes during self-repair
Beginners often make mistakes that nullify all efforts. One of the most common is ignoring the relay orientation. Installing the part upside down can result in the contacts not closing or, conversely, not opening.
Another mistake is using a relay with the wrong current range. If you put a relay with less current, it will burn out. If it is large, it will not protect the compressor during overload. Always check the markings on the motor nameplate.
The myth about cleaning contacts
Some technicians advise cleaning the contacts of the old relay with sandpaper and continuing operation. This should not be done - the internal structure of the posistor is damaged, and the reliability of operation drops to zero.
Do not forget about cleanliness in the compressor area. Dust, fluff and animal hair accumulate on the relay, creating a thermos effect, causing overheating and premature failure. Regular cleaning of the back wall will extend the life of your Indesit refrigerator refrigerator Indesit.
Is it possible to use a relay from another brand?
Yes, if the technical characteristics match: operating current, type (PTC or electromagnetic), geometric dimensions and contact arrangement. The brand may differ (for example, Ranco instead of the original Indesit), the main thing is compliance with the parameters.
Why did the new relay burn out immediately after installation?
This may indicate a malfunction of the compressor itself (turn-to-turn short circuit of the windings) or a power surge in the network. It is also possible that the relay is installed incorrectly (upside down) or the wrong current value is selected.
How often do you need to change the starting relay?
The relay does not have a strict expiration date and is replaced only after a breakdown. However, if the refrigerator is more than 10 years old and it often sits idle (for example, in the country), preventive replacement may be justified, since the contacts oxidize over time.
Is it dangerous to touch the compressor with your hands?
The compressor itself is not dangerous if it is de-energized. However, if the refrigerator has just been running, its temperature can reach 60-80 degrees, which can cause a burn. Also, you should not apply force to copper tubes - they easily burst, releasing freon.