A sudden stop in the operation of a refrigeration unit Ariston often takes the owner by surprise, especially when the food inside is already starting to spoil. Statistics from service centers show that a significant part of such breakdowns is due to the failure of the starting relay, which is responsible for starting the compressor engine. It is this small but critical element that provides the necessary impulse to start the motor, and its failure leads to a complete stop of the entire system.
Before calling a technician or buying new expensive equipment, you should try to carry out primary diagnostics yourself. Checking the relay is a procedure available to anyone with basic skills in handling tools and a minimum set of equipment. In this article, we will analyze in detail the design of this unit, the symptoms of the malfunction and a step-by-step algorithm for checking the serviceability of the component.
If you notice that the refrigerator Ariston buzzes, but does not start, or turns on only for a couple of seconds and immediately stalls, the problem is highly likely to lie in the electrical circuit compressor. Don't panic, as replacing this part is much cheaper than repairing the motor itself. Proper diagnostics will allow you to save time and money by bringing your equipment back to life.
Design and functions of the starting relay
The starting relay is an electromechanical device installed directly on the body of the refrigerator compressor Ariston. Its main task is to briefly connect the starting winding of the engine at the time of start-up, and then turn it off after the rotor has reached the required speed. Without this mechanism, the engine would not be able to overcome the initial resistance and start.
Modern models of refrigerators most often use two types of relays: posistor and induction. PTC devices operate on the basis of thermal resistance, which is heated by passing current and opens the circuit. Induction, in turn, use an electromagnetic coil to control the contacts. Understanding operating principle a specific type of relay is necessary for correct diagnosis.
Structurally, the element consists of a housing, a contact group, springs and, depending on the type, a posistor or inductor. All these components must work in strict synchronization. If at least one element fails, the circuit breaks or, conversely, remains closed, which leads to incorrect operation of the compressor. In some cases, the relay may simply “stick” in one position.
⚠️ Attention: Residual currents may remain inside the relay, and the compressor itself is under high voltage. Before starting any work on removing or checking the relay, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator Ariston from the electrical network. Working with electrical appliances under voltage is deadly!
In addition, the relay performs a protective function. A thermal fuse is often built into the design, which opens the circuit when the motor windings overheat. This prevents the compressor from burning out when overloaded or jammed. If the relay switches off due to overheating, restarting is possible only after the unit has completely cooled down.
Typical symptoms of a relay malfunction
You can determine that the problem lies in the starting relay by the characteristic signs that the refrigerator exhibits Ariston during operation or an attempt to start. Knowing these symptoms will help you quickly locate the fault and not waste time checking other components, such as the thermostat or control board.
- 🔊 Characteristic click: you hear a loud click, followed by a motor hum that lasts a few seconds, and then another click and silence.
- ❄️ Lack of cold: the compressor is silent, the temperature in the chambers rises, although the indicators on the panel may be on.
- 💡 Flashing light: when you try to start the compressor, the light in the refrigeration chamber may briefly go out or flash due to a power surge.
- 🔥 Heating of the housing: The rear wall near the compressor gets very hot, but the motor itself does not start.
Often users confuse a relay failure with a malfunction of the compressor itself. If the motor hums but does not start, and the relay is working properly, the problem may be an interturn short circuit in the motor windings. However, if, when shaking the removed relay, a ringing sound is heard inside, as if from a loose nut, this is a sure sign of mechanical destruction of the internal components.
Another sign may be a burning smell or a melted relay body. This indicates that too much current passed through the contacts, which led to them burning. In such cases visual inspection it immediately makes it clear that the part requires replacement. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to complete failure of the compressor, the repair of which is not economically feasible.
Necessary tools for diagnostics
To properly check the refrigerator relay Ariston you will need a minimum set of tools that most home craftsmen will have. The presence of specialized equipment is not necessary, but the use of high-quality instruments will increase the accuracy of diagnostics.
The main tool will be multimeter (tester). It is necessary to measure winding resistance and check the integrity of contacts. Make sure the device is in good working order and has charged batteries, as inaccurate readings may lead to erroneous conclusions. If you don’t have a multimeter, you can use a simple “control” with a light bulb, but this is less safe and informative.
You will also need:
- 🔧 Screwdrivers: cross and flat for removing protective covers and dismantling the relay.
- 🧤 Gloves: to protect hands from sharp edges and possible dirt.
- 🧹 Brush: soft brush for cleaning contacts from dust and oxides.
- 📸 Smartphone: to photograph the connection diagram before disassembling.
In some cases, you may need fine-grained sandpaper or a needle file to clean the contacts if you plan to restore the old relay (although this is a temporary measure). However, for modern diagnostics it is enough to have clear access to contact groups. Make sure that the workplace is well lit, as compressor parts are often located in hard-to-reach places.
Step-by-step instructions for removing the relay
The process of removing the start relay on refrigerators Ariston is quite standardized, but requires accuracy. The compressor is the “heart” of the refrigerator, and it is very easy to damage its tubes or wires with careless movement.
First you need to gain access to the rear of the unit. Move the refrigerator away from the wall, providing free access to the compressor located in the lower niche. Remove the protective cover, which is usually secured with latches or screws. Be careful, plastic becomes brittle over time.
☑️ Preparation for removing the relay
Find the start relay. It is mounted on the side or top of the compressor and has a black or gray plastic housing. Wires from the network and from the engine itself are suitable for it. Carefully remove the retainer or bend the metal brackets holding the relay in place.
When removing the relay, do not make sudden jerks. It may sit tight due to vibrations and time. Rock it from side to side, gradually pulling it away from the compressor contacts. Please note that there may be three pins on the motor contacts and it is important not to bend them. After removal, visually inspect the part for cracks, burning or melting.
⚠️ Attention: Oil droplets may remain on the compressor contacts. Keep them off the floor to avoid slipping, and be sure to wipe the surface with a dry cloth before installing a new part. Oil should also not get inside the new relay.
Methods for checking a relay with a multimeter
The most accurate diagnostic method is to test the relay using a multimeter. This method allows you to determine the integrity of internal circuits and compliance of resistance with nominal values. Before starting measurements, switch the device to the resistance measurement mode (Ohm).
For posistor relays, which are most common in refrigerators Ariston, the test is performed as follows. Connect the multimeter probes to the contacts going to the starting winding. At room temperature, the posistor resistance should be low (usually several tens of ohms). If the device shows infinity or one on the screen, it means that the posistor has burned out.
Next you need to check the contacts responsible for the main winding. When cold they should be closed (resistance close to zero). If the multimeter shows an open circuit, it means that the contacts are not closing and the engine cannot be started. Also check that there is no short circuit between the relay body and the contacts.
The table below will help you interpret the multimeter readings when diagnosing various types of faults:
| Test type | Normal reading | Fault symptom | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thesistor resistance | 10-50 Ohm | Infinity or 0 Ohm | Relay replacement |
| Contacts of the main winding | 0-1 Ohm (closed) | Infinity (break) | Replacing the relay |
| Connection to the body | Infinity | Any resistance | Insulation breakdown, replacement |
| Thermal relay | 0 Ohm (contacts closed) | Open circuit | Cool or replace |
If you find that the resistance of the posistor changes when heated (you can gently heat it with a hairdryer without touching the probes), but the contacts of the main circuit do not open, this also indicates a defect. Serviceable relay should clearly respond to changes in temperature and state of the circuit. In case of doubt, it is better to replace the part, since its cost is small compared to the risk of compressor failure.
Is it possible to restore a burnt-out relay?
Theoretically, you can only replace the posistor inside the case, choosing a similar one in resistance. However, given the complexity of the process, the risk of repeated failure and the availability of new original or compatible relays for Ariston, restoring the old unit is considered economically inappropriate.
Replacing the relay and starting the system
Once the fault is confirmed, it is necessary to replace it. Buy a new relay that matches your compressor model. Part numbers are often indicated on the body of the old relay or in the technical documentation of the refrigerator Ariston. Compatibility in power and type of compressor is critical.
Installation is carried out in the reverse order of removal. Push the new relay onto the compressor contacts as far as it will go. Make sure it fits snugly and doesn't wobble. Connect the wires to the terminal block according to the photographs taken earlier. Check the reliability of all connections.
After assembly, do not rush to close the back panel. Plug in the refrigerator and listen. A characteristic click should be heard and the compressor should start with a smooth hum. If the startup was successful, let the unit run for 15-20 minutes, controlling the temperature. If everything is normal, install the protective cover in place.
Do not load the chambers with products immediately, let the system reach temperature. This will help the compressor operate in optimal mode and extend the life of the newly installed component.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to temporarily start a refrigerator without a relay?
Theoretically, you can start a compressor without a starting relay by applying voltage directly to the starting winding for a short time, but this is extremely dangerous and requires qualifications. Without a relay, the engine will not turn off the starting winding, which will lead to its rapid combustion. It is strictly not recommended to do this at home.
Why did the relay burn out on the new Ariston refrigerator?
The main reasons may be power surges in the network, frequent power outages or factory defects of the part itself. Also, an attempt to restart the refrigerator immediately after turning it off, when the pressure in the system has not yet equalized, can lead to an overload of the relay.
How much does it cost to replace the relay in the service?
The cost consists of the price of the part itself and the work of the technician. The part is inexpensive, but a specialist visit and diagnostics can increase the total cost. Self-replacement allows you to save on work, since the process is technically simple.
Is a relay from another brand suitable for Ariston?
The relay is selected not by the brand of the refrigerator, but by the model and characteristics of the compressor. If the parameters (power, type, contact arrangement) match, then installing an analogue from another manufacturer is possible. The main thing is compliance with the electrical characteristics.
How often do you need to change the starting relay?
The starting relay is not a consumable item and does not have a specific replacement period. It serves until it fails. With a stable voltage in the network and normal operating conditions, it can work for decades without intervention.