When the refrigerator suddenly stops freezing, hums loudly or does not turn on at all, the culprit is often a small part - the start-up relay. This malfunction occurs in models Atlant, Indesit, Samsung and even premium ones Liebherr, but you can replace it yourself - without calling a technician and overpaying for the work. In this article we will look at how to diagnose a relay breakdownto select an analogue and install it in 30 minutes, having only a screwdriver and a multimeter on hand.
Is it worth undertaking the repair yourself? If you have ever held a soldering iron in your hands or assembled furniture from IKEA, you can handle it. The main thing is to take your time and follow a clear algorithm. We described each step in detail, added photos of key points and warnings about common errors. And for those who doubt it, at the end of the article there is a FAQ with answers to frequently asked questions.
Signs of a faulty relay: when it’s time to change
The relay is responsible for starting the compressor and protecting it from overheating. If it fails, the refrigerator behaves unpredictably. Here 5 main symptomsthat will indicate the problem:
- 🔊 The compressor does not start - a click is heard, but the motor does not hum, the refrigerator does not cool.
- ⚡ Frequent clicks - the relay tries to start the compressor, but it turns off immediately (the cycle is repeated every 5–10 seconds).
- ❄️ Insufficient cooling —the motor is running, but the temperature in the chambers does not drop to the desired level.
- 🔥 Overheating of the compressor —the motor body is hot, although the refrigerator is not freezes.
- 💡 The light inside is on, but the motor is silent is a sign of an open circuit in the relay circuit.
Sometimes these same symptoms cause other malfunctions: thermostat failure, freon leakage, or failure of the motor itself compressor. To accurately determine the culprit, you need call the relay with a multimeter —we'll talk about this in the next section.
⚠️ Attention: If the compressor hums, but does not start, and the relay smells of burning— Do not turn on the refrigerator to replacing parts. This may lead to a short circuit.
How to test a relay with a multimeter: step-by-step test
Before you run to the store for new part, make sure that the problem is in the relay. You will need multimeter (even a budget model for 300–500 rubles will do). Follow the instructions:
Disconnect the refrigerator unplug and remove the plug from the socket. Allow the compressor to cool for 10–15 minutes.
Remove the relay from the compressor. It is usually secured with latches or a single screw. Gently pull the part towards you without pulling the wire.
Inspect the contacts. If you see melted areas, black spots or swelling of the body, the relay is definitely faulty.
Ring the coil:
- 🔧 Switch the multimeter to resistance measurement mode (200 Ohm).
- 🔌 Touch probes to the coil contacts (usually they are signed as
SandMor1and2). - 📊 Normal resistance is 20–50 Ohm. If the device shows
0(short short circuit) or1(break), the relay needs to be replaced.
Also check power contacts (usually L i T): in in the open state, the resistance should tend to infinity (1 on the multimeter screen), in the closed state - close to 0.
| Relay type | Coil resistance (Ohm) | Symptom of malfunction |
|---|---|---|
| Current (RTC) | 30–50 | Open circuit or short circuit between S and M |
| Posistor (RTP) | 20–40 | The posistor is swollen or cracked |
| Electronic | Depends on the model | No power output |
⚠️ Attention: In modern refrigerators (for example, Samsung No Frost or LG Inverter) can be installed electronic relays with a control board. They are checked differently - you need to supply power and measure the voltage at the output. If you are not sure, it is better to contact a specialist.
Coil resistance with a multimeter|Integrity of the posistor (if any)|Condition contacts on the compressor|Voltage in the socket (should be 220–230 V)|Attaching the relay to the compressor body-->
Choosing a new relay: how not to make a mistake with the model
The relay is not a universal part. It must be suitable for compressor typeoperating current. and design. Here's how to choose the right analogue:
Find out the compressor model. It is indicated on the sticker on its body (for example,
Embraco EGX 90HLCorSecop DK 100L. If the inscription is erased, take a photo of the compressor and show the photo. to the seller.Determine the type of relay:
- 🔄 Current (RTK) —the most common, suitable for most household refrigerators.
- 🔥 Posistor (RTP) —used in models with a system No Frost (for example, Indesit BIAA 13).
- 📱 Electronic - installed in inverter refrigerators (Samsung RB30J3000EF, LG GA-B409).
Check the parameters. On the body of the old relay there should be indicated:
- 🔌 Voltage (usually
220–240V). - ⚡ Operating current (for example,
1.2Aor2.5A). - 🔄 Type of contacts (
NO—normally open,NC—normally closed).
If you cannot find an original spare part, take an analogue from trusted brands: Danfoss, Embraco, Secop, AsperaFor refrigerators Atlant And Stinol relays are often suitable RTK-X or RTP-1.
Step-by-step relay replacement: from dismantling to installation
When a new relay has been purchased, you can begin replacing the whole process will take no more than 30 minutes if you follow the instructions:
1. Preparation and dismantling
Disconnect the refrigerator from the network and turn it back towards you. Remove the bottom cover (if there is one) - it is usually secured with latches or two screws. Find the compressor - this is a black cylindrical block with pipes and a relay on top.
Carefully remove the relay:
- 🔧 Unscrew the fastening screw (if any).
- 🖇️ Disconnect the terminals with wires. Remember or take a photo of their location!
- 📱 Pry up the relay. with a flat screwdriver and remove it from the compressor.
2. Installing a new relay
Before installation, check:
- 🔌 The condition of the contacts on the compressor - if they are oxidized, clean them with sandpaper.
- 🧲 Position of the spring clip (if there is one) - it should fit snugly against the compressor housing.
Now install the new relay:
- Place the relay on the compressor so that arrow on the body coincides with the installation direction (usually up).
- Secure it with a screw or snap it (depending on the model).
- Connect the terminals with wires in the same orderas they were connected before.
3. Checking operation
Plug in the refrigerator. Signs of a successful replacement:
- ✅ The compressor started without clicks and hum.
- ✅ After 5–10 minutes, the motor warmed up, but did not burn.
- ✅ The temperature in the chambers began to drop (check after 30–60 minutes).
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the relay the compressor does not start and the new relay gets hot - problem in the compressor (interturn short circuit or jamming). In this case, motor diagnostics will be required.
What to do if the relay does not fit?
If the new relay does not fit into place or the contacts do not match:
1. Check if you have mixed up the compressor model.
2. Compare photos of the old and new relay - you may need to rotate the part 180°.
3. As a last resort, you can carefully bend the terminals with pliers, but do not overdo it so as not to break them.
Typical mistakes when replacing a relay and how to avoid them
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to repeated failure. Here 5 most common mistakes and how to prevent them:
- 🔌 Incorrect connection of the wires. Always take a photo of the original terminal position or draw a diagram. This is especially important for refrigerators with No Frostwhere the wires can go to the fan and defrost heating element.
- 🔧 Tightening the screw too much. The relay is plastic - if you squeeze it, it will crack. Tighten the screw until it stops lightly.
- 🧲 Ignoring oxidized contacts. Oxidation increases resistance, causing the relay to overheat. Always clean the contacts on the compressor.
- ⚡ Purchase of a relay without taking into account the current. If you take a part with a lower operating current, it will quickly burn out. For example, for a compressor
Embraco EGX 120you need a relay for2.5A, and not for1.2A. - 🔄 Replacing only the relay if the compressor is faulty. If the motor is jammed or there is an interturn short circuit, the new relay will burn out within an hour. Before replacing, check the compressor with a multimeter (winding resistance should be within the limits
10–30 Ohm).
Critical error: using a relay from a washing machine or air conditioner. These parts are designed for other loads and are not suitable for refrigerators. B In the best case, the refrigerator will not turn on, in the worst case, the compressor will burn out.
Cost of replacing the relay: purchasing the part and the work of a technician
If you decide to replace the relay yourself, your costs will be limited to purchasing the part, but if you contact a service center, you will also have to pay for the work. data-i="208">Relay type
| Relay type | Cost of part (₽) | Cost of work (₽) | Total (₽) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Current (RTK) | 500–1 200 | 1 500–2 500 | 2 000–3 700 |
| Posistor (RTP) | 800–1 500 | 1 800–3 000 | 2 600–4 500 |
| Electronic | 1 500–3 500 | 2 500–4 000 | 4 000–7 500 |
Parts for popular models:
- 🏷️ Atlant MXM 1705 — relay RTK-X (~600 ₽).
- 🏷️ Indesit BIAA 13 — relay Danfoss 103N0210 (~1 200 ₽).
- 🏷️ Samsung RL-34 EBSW —electronic relay Secop DK 100L (~2 800 ₽).
Where to buy:
- 🛒 Official brand service centers (6-12 month warranty).
- 🛒 Stores of spare parts for household appliances (220 Volt, M-Video, Citylink).
- 🛒 Online platforms (AliExpress, Yandex Market) - but be careful with fakes.
⚠️ Attention: Prices for parts and labor may vary depending on the region and model of the refrigerator. In Moscow and St. Petersburg, the cost of repairs is 20-30% higher than in small cities.
When replacing a relay is not enough: related faults
Sometimes replacing a relay does not solve the problem, because the breakdown lies deeper. 3 common situations and what to do with them:
The compressor does not start, although the relay is new. Reasons:
- 🔌 Open circuit in the compressor winding (checked multimeter).
- 🧲 Motor jamming (you need to swing the shaft or replace the compressor).
- ⚡ Low voltage in the network (should be
220–230V).
The relay clicks, but the compressor does not turn on. Culprits:
- 🔥 Faulty thermostat (call its contacts).
- 🧊 Freon leak (refilling the system is required).
- 📱 Damage to the control board (in inverter models).
The refrigerator works, but does not freeze. Possible problems:
- 🔄 Capillary tube clogged.
- 🧊 Fan malfunction No Frost.
- 🔥 Breakage Defrost heating element.
- Ring the compressor.
- Check the thermostat.
- Measure the voltage in the outlet.
- Inspect the tubes for leaks.
If after replacing the relay the problem remains, do not rush to buy a new refrigerator. First, carry out full diagnostics:
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing the relay
Is it possible to replace the relay without turning off the refrigerator?
No This is dangerous! for life. The compressor and relay are under voltage. 220VAlways remove the plug from the socket and discharge the capacitor (if any) before work.
How to understand that the relay has burned out and not the compressor?
If the relay clicks, but the compressor does not start - the problem is in the relay. If there are no clicks at all, and the motor is cold, the compressor may have burned out. Checking with a multimeter will help to accurately determine the breakdown.
Is the relay suitable from one refrigerator to another?
Only if the compressor models are identical. For example, the relay from Atlant MXM 1840 is suitable for Atlant MXM 1845, since they have the same compressor Danfoss NL 10But for Indesit it is no longer suitable.
How long will a new relay last?
The service life depends on the quality of the part and operating conditions. Original relays last 5–10 years, Chinese analogs - 1–3 years. To extend the life of the relay, monitor the voltage in the network and do not overload the refrigerator.
Is it possible to repair a relay instead of replacing it?
Theoretically, yes, but it is not practical. relay, where sometimes it is enough to replace a burnt resistor or capacitor.