How to check the engine (compressor) of an Indesit refrigerator: 5 steps for diagnostics

The refrigerator engine Indesit is the heart of the unit, on which its performance depends. If the compressor fails, the refrigerator stops freezing, makes uncharacteristic sounds or refuses to turn on at all. Independent engine check allows you to save on calling a technician and quickly identify the problem.

But how to correctly diagnose a compressor without special equipment? In this article we will look at it in detail 5 key test stepsincluding multimeter tests, visual inspection and symptom analysis. You will learn what tools you will need, how to interpret instrument readings, and exactly when you should contact a service center.

Important: compressor diagnostics require caution. Working with electricity and refrigerant is life-threatening! If you are not confident in your skills, entrust the check to professionals.

1. Signs of a compressor malfunction Indesit

Before disassembling the refrigerator, determine whether the problem is really in the engine. Here main symptomsindicating a compressor breakdown:

• 🔴 The refrigerator does not turn on or turns on for a few seconds and immediately turns off
• ❄️ The required temperature is not maintained in the chambers (food spoils, the freezer is melting). data-i="63">If you observe at least one of these signs, most likely the problem lies in the motor or related elements (start relay, capacitor). However
• 🔊 The compressor hums, but does not start or works intermittently
• 💥 Relay clicks are heard, but the engine does not start
• 🔥 The compressor housing becomes very hot (more than 70°C)

If you observe at least one of these signs, most likely the problem lies in the motor or related elements (start relay, capacitor). However do not rush to change the compressor - sometimes the cause of the malfunction is a simple lack of power or a clogged capillary tube.

Please note: some models Indesit (for example, series C 132 G or T 16) are equipped with a system No Frostwhere the compressor operates cyclically. In this case, short pauses between turns on are the norm.

2. Preparation for diagnostics: tools and safety measures

To check the compressor Indesit you will need:

• 🔧 Multimeter (digital or pointer)
• 🔌 Screwdriver (phillips and flat)
• 🧲 Voltage tester (optional)
• 📏 Pliers or wire cutters
• 🧤 Rubber gloves (for protection against electric shock)

Preparation procedure:

1. Unplug the refrigerator and remove the plug from the socket.
2. Move the unit away from the wall to gain access to the rear panel.
3. Remove the compressor protective cover (usually attached to 2-4 screws).
4. Visually inspect the engine for burns, swelling or leaks oil.

⚠️ Attention! Do not touch the compressor immediately after switching off - it may be hot (up to 90°C). Let the refrigerator cool for 15–20 minutes.

If you notice oil smudges on the compressor housing, this may indicate depressurization of the system. In this case, independent repair is impossible - refilling with freon and soldering the pipes is required.

3. Visual inspection of the compressor and relay

Start with external inspection the motor and start relay. Here's what to look for:

• 🔥 Burnt contacts on the relay or compressor - a sign of a short circuit.
• 💧 Oil stains near the copper tubes - a refrigerant leak is possible.
• 🔌 Oxidized or burnt wires —require replacement.
• 🔧 Cracks on the compressor housing —critical malfunction, cannot be repaired.

Pay special attention start relay —this is a small box attached to the compressor. Often the problem lies precisely there. If you hear a knock or the spring rattles when you shake the relay, the part is faulty.

Also check condenser (if it is in your model). A swollen or leaking condenser is a sure sign of its failure.

⚠️ Attention! If there is a yellow or green spots of oxidationon the compressor housing, this may indicate a refrigerant leak. In this case, self-repair is dangerous - freon is toxic!

4. Checking the compressor with a multimeter

The most reliable diagnostic method is test the windings the compressor. To do this:

1. Remove the starting relay by disconnecting it from the compressor.
2. On the compressor, find three terminals: C (common), S (start winding), R (working winding).
3. Set the multimeter to resistance measurement mode (200 Ohms).
4. Ring all contacts in pairs:
   • C → S (start winding) - resistance ~20–40 Ohm
   • C → R (working winding) - resistance ~10–20 Ohm
   • S → R - resistance ~30–50 Ohm (sum of the previous two)

Interpretation of results:

If all three indicators (C-S, C-R, S-R) are normal, but the engine does not work, the problem may lie in electronics (control board) or freon leak.

5. Checking the voltage on the compressor

If the compressor does not start, but the windings are OK, check is there voltage coming to it?. To do this: Is there voltage supplied to it?

1. Connect the refrigerator to the network.
2. Set the multimeter to AC voltage measurement mode (~220V).
3. Connect the probes to the compressor contacts (without a relay!).
4. Start the refrigerator (for example, by turning the thermostat to maximum).

Normal readings:

• 🔌 Between C and S at the time of start - ~ 220V.
• 🔌 After starting (after 1-2 seconds), the voltage should remain between C and R.

If there is voltage, but the compressor does not start:

• 🔄 Check the starting relay (often it “sticks” and does not transmit current).
• 🔋 Check the capacitor (if it is swollen or does not hold a charge).
• 🔧 The compressor itself may have jammed (mechanical failure).

⚠️ Attention! If the compressor makes a humming sound when voltage is applied, but does not start, immediately turn off the power! This is a sign of an interturn short circuit or jamming of the piston. Further operation in this mode will lead to a fire.

6. Diagnostics without a multimeter: alternative methods

If you don’t have a multimeter at hand, you can check the compressor indirect methods:

• 🔌 Socket test: Connect another device (for example, a hair dryer) to the same outlet. If it works, the problem is not in the power supply.
• 🔊 Listening to the compressor: Put your ear to the body. A serviceable engine produces a smooth hum without clicks or knocks.
• ❄️ Checking the temperature: If the compressor works but does not freeze, touch the condenser (grid on the back). It should be warm, but not hot.
• 🕒 Operating time test: Measure how long the compressor runs before shutting down. Normally, the cycle is 10–20 minutes.

You can also temporarily replace the relay on a known good one (for example, from another refrigerator). If the compressor starts working, the problem was in the relay.

If the engine not at all reacts turns on and the light in the refrigerator is on, most likely the winding has burned out or an open circuit has occurred.

7. When should you call a technician?

Not all compressor breakdowns can be repaired yourself. Contact the service centerif:

• 🔧 Diagnostics showed turn-turn closure or a breakdown housing.
• 💨 There are signs freon leaks (oil stains, lack of cold when the compressor is running).
• 🔥 The compressor gets very hot or makes an uncharacteristic noise.
• 🔌 After replacing the relay and capacitor, the engine does not start.

Cost of replacing the compressor in Indesit is from 5,000 to 12,000 rubles (depending on the model and region). If the refrigerator is more than 10 years old, sometimes it is more profitable to buy a new one.

Before agreeing to repairs, check:

• 🔄 Is there a guarantee for work and spare parts?
• 🕒 How long will the repair take?
• 💰 Is freon refilling included in the price?

⚠️ Attention! Details and prices may vary depending on the model Indesit and region. Check the current conditions at the service center.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about checking the compressor Indesit

Is it possible to check the compressor without removing it from the refrigerator?

Yes, basic tests (winding continuity checks, voltage checks) are performed without dismantling. However, to replace the relay or capacitor, you will need to disconnect the compressor from the system.

How to distinguish a compressor malfunction from a freon leak?

If the compressor works but does not freeze, freon is most likely to blame. If the engine does not start or makes clicking noises, the problem is in the compressor or relay. Diagnostics will show the exact reason.

How much does a new relay cost for Indesit?

The price of a starting relay varies from 500 to 1,500 rubles depending on the model. For an accurate selection, tell the technician the brand and serial number of the refrigerator (located on the nameplate on the back).

Is it possible to repair the compressor or just replace it?

The refrigerator compressor is a non-separable part. If it breaks, it is replaced with a new one. Repair (rewinding the windings) is possible, but impractical due to the high cost.

What to do if the compressor is working, but the refrigerator is not freezing?
The reasons may be different:
• Freon leakage (refilling required).
• Clogged capillary tube.
• Malfunction of the thermostat or control board.
• Violation of the door seal (check the seal).

Comprehensive diagnostics are needed.