Brand refrigerators Stinol are deservedly considered one of the most reliable units in the post-Soviet space, but even the strongest equipment breaks down over time. One of the most common symptoms of a breakdown is the situation when the compressor hums, tries to start, clicks, but does not fully turn on, or the motor turns off after a few seconds of operation. In the vast majority of cases, the root of the problem lies in the failure of the start-up relay, which is responsible for supplying a starting pulse to the motor windings.
Replacing this small but critical component is a task that any home craftsman who has basic skills in handling tools and understands the principles of electrical safety can handle. Start relay In Stinol models, it often fails due to power surges in the network or natural wear of internal contacts, which makes it impossible to start the compressor. In this article, we will analyze in detail the process of diagnosing, selecting and installing a new element so that your refrigerator works like new again.
Before proceeding with disassembly, you need to make sure that the problem is really in the relay, and not in the compressor itself or wiring. The key sign of a malfunction is the relay is a characteristic click when trying to start, followed by the hum of the motor without rotation of the shaft or a complete lack of response from the unit. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious ones consequences, including overheating and inter-turn short circuit of the motor windings, so you need to act quickly and competently.
The principle of operation and types of relays in Stinol refrigerators
In order to carry out quality repairs, it is important to understand how the unit you are going to change works. Refrigerators Stinol mainly use two types of starting devices: posistor (starting) and thermal (protective), which are often combined into one housing. A posistor in a cold state has low resistance and passes current to the starting winding, and when heated, its resistance increases sharply, breaking the circuit of the starting winding. Thermal relay serves to protect the motor from current overloads and opens the circuit when critically heated.
Structurally, the device is a plastic box, inside of which there are contacts, a bimetallic plate and a posistor element. Depending on the refrigerator model and year of manufacture, relays may differ in the mounting method, number of contacts and electrical parameters. Incorrect selection of an analogue can lead to the fact that the compressor either will not start or will operate in emergency mode, constantly being switched off by the protection.
In modern models and newer modifications of Stinol, combined relays such as RTL or RATare often found, which combine the functions of start-up and protection. Their design is more complex, but their reliability is also higher. However, it is the combined units that are sensitive to the installation position: they must be mounted strictly in a certain position, usually marked with an arrow UP or number 1, otherwise the mechanism will not work correctly.
Is it possible to use a universal relay?
Universal relays (for example, 3-in-1) are suitable for many models, but their installation requires careful study of the connection diagram, since the number of terminals may differ from the original.
Fault diagnosis before replacement
Before going to the store for a new spare part, it is necessary to conduct a thorough diagnosis to exclude other causes of failure. Often, refrigerator owners buy a new relay, install it, but the problem is not solved, since the problem was, for example, a broken wire or a malfunction of the compressor itself. An initial visual assessment of the condition of the contacts and checking the integrity of the windings will help save time and money.
To carry out diagnostics, you will need a multimeter (tester). First, you need to remove the relay from the compressor (more on the removal process below) and inspect it for external damage: melting of the plastic, blackening of the contacts, the appearance of soot or a burning smell. If the relay body is swollen or cracked, its replacement is required, even if the continuity test shows normal resistance.
Next, you should check the electrical integrity of the components using a multimeter in resistance measurement mode:
- 🔌 POSISTOR: the resistance should be within 30-50 Ohms; if it shows infinity or zero, the element is faulty.
- 🔥 Bimetal plate: should “ring” (show zero or a value close to it) if it is cold.
- ⚡ Contacts: check for a short circuit between conclusions that are not connected according to the circuit.
⚠️ Attention: If after checking the relay turns out to be working, but the compressor does not start, the problem may be in the engine itself (turn-to-turn short circuit) or in the thermostat. Do not install a new relay on a faulty compressor - this will lead to its immediate combustion.
Preparation of tools and selection of spare parts
The success of the replacement operation largely depends on the correctness of the selected spare part. Relays for refrigerators Stinol have markings that indicate their compatibility with certain compressor models (for example, Aspera, Secop, Danfoss). The most reliable strategy is to remove the old relay and look for an exact analogue by the model number stamped on the case, or by the number and location of contacts.
To work, you will need a minimum set of tools that any craftsman can find in his home. It is important that the tools are in good working order and have insulated handles, since work is carried out on electrical components, albeit with the power turned off. It is also recommended to prepare the work area: the table should be dry, clean and well lit.
List of necessary equipment:
- 🛠️ Screwdrivers: flat and Phillips for removing the casing and clamps.
- 🔧 Pliers: for carefully removing terminals and clamps.
- 🧹 Brush: soft brush for cleaning contacts from dust and oxides.
- 📷 Smartphone: to photograph the connection diagram before disassembling.
When purchasing, pay attention to the country of origin: original Italian or Danish relays last longer, but Chinese analogues, when properly selected, also show good reliability. If you buy a universal relay, make sure that the kit includes instructions for wiring contacts for different types of compressors.
Step-by-step instructions for dismantling the old relay
The most critical stage is the physical removal of the faulty element. All work must be carried out exclusively with the refrigerator unplugged! Unplug the cord from the outlet and move the unit away from the wall, allowing access to the rear wall. Let the compressor cool for 15-20 minutes if it tried to work before.
On the back wall of the refrigerator, at the bottom, you will see a black spherical element - this is the compressor. A plastic casing (box) is placed on the side or top of it, to which the wires fit. In some models Stinol this casing is secured with a metal clamp or spring latches. Carefully remove the clamp with pliers or press out the latches with a flat screwdriver.
☑️ Safe removal of the relay
After removing the casing, you will have a view of the compressor contacts and the relay inserted into them. Connection diagram may vary, but the principle is the same: the relay is put on three pins of the compressor. Carefully, without jerking, remove the relay. If it is stuck, you can slightly rock it from side to side, but do not use excessive force so as not to break the plastic pins of the compressor.
Pay attention to the orientation of the relay: there is usually an arrow on the body indicating the direction UP (top), or number 1. Remember or write down exactly how the old relay was installed, since the new one will need to be installed in the same way. Incorrect orientation will result in the contacts not closing or, on the contrary, sticking.
| Relay model | Compatible compressors | Orientation | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTL 16A1 | Aspera, Secop | Up arrow | Combined |
| RAT 12L | Danfoss, Secop | Number 1 at the top | High reliability |
| PTM 11 | Universal | According to the scheme | Requires setup |
| 3-in-1 | Most models | Any | Needs re-soldering |
Installation of a new relay and assembly systems
The process of installing a new start-up protection device is a mirror image of dismantling, but requires increased care when connecting wires. If you purchased an exact copy of the old relay, there should be no problems: just put it on the compressor contacts, observing the markings on the top. Make sure that the relay is seated tightly and all the way.
The situation becomes more complicated if you use a universal relay or an analogue with a different terminal arrangement. In this case, it is necessary to use the diagram, which is usually printed on the body of the relay itself or comes included in the kit in the form of an insert. You will have to switch the wires to new terminals. Here it is critical not to confuse the starting and working windings, as well as to connect the grounding correctly.
After mechanical installation of the relay, you need to connect the wires. If the old terminals are oxidized or burnt, it is better to clean them with fine sandpaper or replace them with new ones. Slide the terminals firmly onto the new relay pins, making sure there is good contact. Weak contact will lead to sparking, heating and repeated failure.
The final step is to install the protective casing and fix the clamp. The casing must cover all live parts and protect the relay from moisture and dust. Make sure that the wires are not pinched by the casing and do not touch hot parts of the compressor. Only after a thorough check of the assembly can you turn on the refrigerator.
⚠️ Attention: When you turn it on for the first time after replacement, listen carefully to the operation of the compressor. It should start smoothly, without strong jerking or buzzing. If you hear a crackling sound or the motor immediately turns off, immediately turn off the power and check that the connection is correct.
Checking performance and typical errors
After turning on the refrigerator, do not wait for the instant cold to appear. The compressor needs time to gain speed and begin circulating refrigerant. During the first 10-15 minutes of operation, the unit can operate in enhanced mode. Your task is to control the absence of extraneous noise, vibration and burning smell.
A typical mistake for beginners is ignoring the condition of the capacitor (if it is in the circuit) or poorly cleaning the contacts. Also often encountered is the error of incorrect relay orientation: if the arrow UP looks down or to the side, the posistor mechanism may not break the starting winding circuit in time, which will lead to buzzing and overload shutdown.
Checklist of signs of a successful replacement:
- ✅ The compressor starts with first attempt without long clicks.
- ✅ There is no characteristic buzzing after startup (it works smoothly).
- ✅ After 20-30 minutes (the evaporator) inside the refrigerator begins to get colder.
- ✅ The relay housing and compressor do not heat up to critical levels temperatures.
If after replacing the relay the refrigerator started working, but after some time (an hour or two) it stopped cooling again, the thermal protection may have worked due to other problems: contamination of the condenser at the back, a malfunction of the thermostat, or a leak. Freon. In this case, replacing the relay was only a temporary measure, and a more in-depth diagnosis of the system is required.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to temporarily start a refrigerator without a relay?
Technically, you can start the compressor by applying voltage directly to the working winding, but do this strictly not recommended. Without a starting relay, the engine will not receive the necessary starting impulse to the starting winding and either will not start or will burn out. In addition, the lack of thermal protection can lead to a fire.
Why does a new relay burn out after a few days?
This may indicate a malfunction of the compressor itself (interturn short circuit, wedge of the piston group) or problems with the voltage in the network. Also, the reason may be incorrect selection of relay (wrong current or type) or poor contact in the terminals, causing sparking and heating.
Where can you find the relay marking on the Stinol refrigerator?
The marking is located directly on the body of the plastic black or white box, which is placed on the contacts of the compressor. To see it, you need to remove the protective metal or plastic casing from the back of the refrigerator. Look for a code like RT... or RAT...
Is the relay different for a single-compressor and a two-compressor Stinol?
Yes, the power and type may differ. Dual-compressor models often use more powerful relays designed for higher starting current. Always check the parameters of the old and new device, as well as compatibility with a specific compressor model.