A sudden stop in the operation of a refrigeration unit Indesit often takes the owner by surprise, causing him to panic due to the risk of food spoilage. In most cases, the cause of the malfunction is the failure of the starting relay, which is responsible for starting the compressor engine. Understanding the principle of operation of this unit and the ability to diagnose it are key skills for anyone who wants to save on calling a technician.
The relay is a small block attached to the side of the compressor, which supplies the necessary impulse to start the motor. If this mechanism stops functioning, the compressor either hums but does not start, or makes clicking sounds every few seconds. Diagnostics allows you to accurately determine whether the problem lies in the electrical part or whether more complex repairs are required.
Before proceeding with disassembly, it is important to make sure that The refrigerator is disconnected from the power supply, since working with electrical appliances requires compliance with basic safety rules. In this article, we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions that will help you identify the malfunction and understand whether the unit can be restored to functionality or whether it will need to be completely replaced.
Symptoms of a faulty start relay
The first sign that start relay has failed is the characteristic behavior of the compressor when the refrigerator is turned on. The unit may make a loud hum that lasts a few seconds, followed by an audible clicking sound and silence. After some time, the cycle repeats, which indicates that the engine is trying to start without success.
In some cases, the compressor may not show signs of life at all, remaining cold and quiet, although the indicators on the control panel Indesit may be on. This indicates that the electrical signal simply does not reach the motor windings due to an open circuit inside the protective starting device.
⚠️ Attention: If you hear clicking noises, but the compressor remains hot, turn off the device immediately. Long-term operation in this mode can lead to combustion of the motor windings, which will make repairs economically unfeasible.
It is also worth paying attention to the temperature inside the chambers: if the food begins to deteriorate and the light is on, this is an indirect sign of the refrigerant stopping. Users often confuse a relay breakdown with a thermostat malfunction, however, in the latter case, the compressor either works continuously or does not turn on at all, but without the characteristic start-up clicks.
Dismantling and visual inspection of the device
To carry out high-quality diagnostics, it is necessary to remove the relay from the compressor housing. This process does not require complex tools; all you need is a flathead screwdriver and pliers. First, remove the back cover of the refrigerator Indesitto gain access to the bottom of the unit where the motor-compressor is located.
Carefully disconnect the block with wires that goes to the relay, and remove the retaining clips or screws, if they are provided by the design of your model. After this, the block is easily removed from the pins of the compressor, but this must be done without sudden movements so as not to damage the ceramic insulators.
Carry out a thorough visual inspection removal of the element. There should be no traces of burning, melted plastic or cracks on the body. If a rattling sound is heard inside when shaking, this is a sure sign that the internal contacts or coil are damaged and require replacement.
☑️ Removing the relay
Pay attention to the condition of the contacts: oxidation or blackening indicates a poor connection, which could cause overheating. Even if the device looks intact outwardly, this does not guarantee its serviceability, so we move on to an instrumental test.
Checking the relay with a multimeter
The most accurate diagnostic method is to check the electrical resistance using multimeter. Switch the device to resistance measurement mode (Ohm) and connect the probes to the relay contacts. Normal coil resistance is usually in the range of 30 to 60 ohms, although the exact values depend on the specific model of multimeter. If the multimeter shows one or infinity, this means an open circuit inside the coil, and the relay must be replaced. It is also important to check the contacts for short circuit: the resistance between the case and the contacts must be infinite, otherwise the device is dangerous to use. Indesit.
If the multimeter shows one or infinity, this means there is an open circuit inside the coil and the relay must be replaced. It is also important to check the contacts for short circuit: the resistance between the case and the contacts must be infinite, otherwise the device is dangerous to use.
| Test type | Normal value | Fault symptom | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coil resistance | 30-60 Ohm | Open (∞) or short circuit (0 Ohm) | Replacing the relay |
| Contacts on the body | Infinity | Any value | Replacement of relay |
| Thermal relay | 0 Ohm (cold) | Open circuit | Replacing the relay |
Pay special attention to the thermal protection relay, which is often built into the same housing. When cold, it should “ring” like a short circuit (0 ohms). If the circuit is open, the protection has tripped and does not return to its original state, which also requires replacing the unit.
Why does the relay heat up?
The relay can heat up during operation due to the flow of current through the coil and contacts. However, strong heating leading to melting of the housing indicates poor contact or overload of the compressor.
Typical diagnostic errors
One of the most common mistakes is an attempt to “revive” the relay by tapping or short-circuiting the contacts. Such actions can lead to short circuit damage to the refrigerator wiring, and also create a risk of electric shock.
Many users ignore checking the compressor, believing that if the relay is new, then the problem is solved. However, if the motor has an interturn short circuit, it will again and again destroy new starting devices, creating the illusion of their poor quality.
⚠️ Attention: Never install a relay from a different model or with different characteristics. A mismatch between the parameters of the starting and operating windings can lead to instantaneous combustion of the new component.
It is also a mistake to believe that cleaning the contacts with sandpaper will solve the problem forever. If sparking has occurred, causing carbon deposits, it means that the geometry of the contacts has already been broken or the spring has weakened, so the temporary measure will soon stop working.
Replacement and installation of a new relay
If diagnostics have confirmed a malfunction, you need to purchase an original analogue or a high-quality replacement for your model Indesit. When installing a new device, make sure that it sits tightly on the pins of the compressor and is fixed in a vertical position, as required by the design.
Connect the wire terminals according to the diagram, which is often marked on the body of the relay or compressor itself. It is important not to confuse the polarity if it matters for a particular modification, although many modern relays are universal.
After assembly, turn on the refrigerator and listen to the operation of the compressor. The start-up should be soft, without long buzzes or clicks. If the motor started running smoothly, and after some time cold appeared in the chambers, it means repair it was successful.
Frequently asked questions questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to repair the Indesit refrigerator relay?
In most cases, repair is impossible, since the relay body is sealed, and the internal elements (coil, bimetallic plate) cannot be restored. It is easier and safer to replace the entire assembly.
How much does a starting relay cost for Indesit?
The cost depends on the model and manufacturer of the spare part. Original parts may cost more, but universal analogs often do the job just as well and are affordable.
Why does a new relay burn out after a short time?
This may indicate problems with the compressor itself (turn-to-turn short circuit), voltage surges in the network, or incorrect selection of the relay type. Additional diagnostics of the motor are required.
How to understand that the problem is not in the relay, but in the compressor?
If a new working relay does not help start the engine, or the compressor hums and knocks out the circuit breaker, most likely the engine itself is faulty or the refrigerant circulation is disrupted.
Is it necessary to defrost the refrigerator before replacing the relay?
Full defrosting is not necessary to replace the relay, since it is accessed from the rear. However, if you need to move the refrigerator far away or there is a risk of moisture getting inside, it is better to defrost it.