How to properly remove the Biryusa refrigerator relay cover: disassembly without damage

The refrigerator relay Biryusa is a small but critical unit responsible for starting the compressor and maintaining the temperature. Over time, its cover may require removal to clean contacts, replace a part, or diagnose faults. However, many owners encounter difficulties: plastic latches break, screws “stick”, and incorrect actions lead to a short circuit or equipment failure.

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions taking into account the features of the models Biryusa (from classic to modern), a list of necessary tools and list of common errorsthat beginners can use. We will also look at how to distinguish a start-up protection relay from a thermostat - their covers are removed differently, and it is dangerous to confuse these components.

If your refrigerator suddenly stopped freezing, makes clicks or buzzes, but does not start, the problem most likely lies in the relay. Do not rush to call a technician — in 60% of cases, you can remove the cover and clean the contacts yourself, saving up to 3,000 rubles on repairs.

1. Preparation: tools and safety precautions

Before you begin disassembling, make sure you have everything you need on hand. Missing even one tool may damage plastic parts or electrical contacts.

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (PH2 size is standard for most screws Turquish).
• 🔨 Flat screwdriver with a thin tip (for prying up the latches).
• 📸 Smartphone or camera —to fix the location of the wires in front shutdown.
• 🧤 Rubber gloves (protection from static electricity and accidental short circuits).
• 🔦 Flashlight —the lighting of the back wall of the refrigerator is often insufficient.

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator Biryusa was manufactured before 2005, it may use an old-style relay with asbestos gaskets. If they are damaged, dangerous fibers get into the air. In this case, it is better to disassemble them outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

Before starting work be sure to unplug the refrigerator from the mains and wait until the compressor has cooled down (at least 15 minutes) Live relay contacts can cause an electric shock even when the compressor is cold. the power is turned off due to the residual charge of the capacitor.

Unplug the refrigerator from the outlet

Wait for the compressor to cool down (15+ minutes)

Prepare tools and camera

Wear rubber gloves

Free up space around the refrigerator-->

2. Where is the relay in the Biryusa refrigerator?

In most models Biryusa the start-up relay is located on the compressor — metal cylinder in the lower part of the rear wall. It is attached to the compressor housing using a spring clip or screws and is closed with a plastic cover:

• 🔍 B older models 2000s) the relay can be placed on a separate board next to the compressor.
• 🔌 In modern refrigerators (after 2015) the relay is often integrated into a single unit with a thermostat.
• ❄️ In models with the system No Frost the relay can be hidden under the decorative panel.

To accurately identify the relay, pay attention to the following signs:

1. A box measuring approximately 5x5 cm with a plastic cover.
2. 2-3 wires (usually red, black and yellow) come from it.
3. The cover can be marked with: RTK-XX, RTP-1 or DANFOSS.

⚠️ Attention: Do not confuse the relay with thermostat —the latter is usually located inside the fridge compartment (behind the plastic panel) and has a round temperature regulator. Removing the thermostat cover requires other steps!

How to distinguish a relay from a thermostat?

Thermostat (thermostat) is responsible for temperature control and has a capillary tube going into the freezer. A relay is an electromechanical device that. starts the compressor. If there is a button or adjustment knob on the box, if only the contacts and wires are a relay.

3. Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the relay cover

The algorithm of actions depends on the type of cover fastening. Turkish there are three. option:

1. Screw fastening (the most common option).
2. Latches (in modern models).
3. Combined (screws + latches).

Step 1. Disconnecting the wires

Before removing the cover, take a photo of the location of the wires or mark them with tape Typical. pinout:

• 🔴 Red wire —phase (power).
• ⚫ Black wire —zero or common.
• 🟡 Yellow/green — grounding (if any).

Carefully remove the terminals from the contacts by pulling the connector (not the wire!) If the contacts are oxidized, do not apply force - process them WD-40 and wait. 5–10 minutes.

Step 2. Removing the cover

For screw fastening:

1. Unscrew 2-4 screws on the cover (usually they are located in the corners).
2. If the screws are stuck, use a screwdriver with force, but without jerking.
3. After removing the screws, pry the cover from the side with a flat-head screwdriver - it should come off easily.

For latches:

1. Insert a flat-head screwdriver into the groove between the cover and the relay body.
2. Press gently until you hear a click (usually 2-3 latches).
3. Do not apply excessive force - the plastic may crack!

⚠️ Attention: In some models Biryusa 18C and Biryusa 22 under There is a spring installed on the relay cover. When removing the cover, it may fly out - hold it with your finger!

4. Typical problems and how to avoid them

Even with careful disassembly, refrigerator owners Biryusa face typical difficulties. common ones and solutions:

One of the most unpleasant situations is broken screw. If this happens:

1. Try to unscrew the remaining screw with pliers.
2. If that doesn’t work, drill out the screw with a drill with a diameter of 2-3 mm.
3. Install a new screw with a slightly threaded larger diameter (for example, instead of M3 - M3.5).

What to do if the cover is cracked?

Plastic relay covers in Biryusa often break due to drying out of the material. Temporary solution:

• 🔧 Fix the crack with superglue (for example, Loctite 406).
• 🛠️ Strengthen the crack with epoxy resin.
• 🔄 If the lid is completely broken, find similar to disassembly (suitable for models Biryusa 6M, Biryusa 10).

5. Cleaning and diagnosing relay contacts

After removing the cover, you will see the inside of the relay: contacts, coil and moving core. The main reason. malfunctions - oxidation or burnt contacts:

• 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol (for degreasing).
• 📜 Sandpaper (grit size 600–1000).
• 🧲 Magnetic screwdriver (so as not to lose small details).

Procedure:

1. Take a photo of the internal structure of the relay (especially the location of the springs and contacts).
2. Wipe the contacts with alcohol to remove dirt and grease.
3. Carefully clean the burnt areas with sandpaper. Do not overdo it - just remove a thin layer of carbon deposits.
4. Check the mobility of the core - it should move freely without jamming.

⚠️ Attention: If during cleaning you find that the contacts are worn out by more than 30% or the core is jammed, the relay must be replaced. Temporary repairs can lead to overheating of the compressor and its failure.

How to check the relay. multimeter?

For diagnostics:

1. Set the multimeter to resistance test mode (200 Ohms).
2. Connect the probes to the coil contacts (usually these are terminals A and B).
3. Resistance of a working coil: 30–50 Ohm.
4. If the device shows 0 (short circuit) or ∞ (open), the relay is faulty.

6. Assembly and performance check

After cleaning or replacing parts, reassemble the relay in the reverse order:

1. Reinstall the core and spring (if removed).
2. Close the cover and secure it with screws or latches.
3. Connect the wires according to the photographs taken earlier.
4. Make sure that there are no exposed sections of wires that could cause a short circuit.

Checking functionality:

• 🔌 Turn on the refrigerator at network.
• 🎧 Listen: a click should be heard (the relay is activated) and the compressor will start.
• ⏱️ Wait 5-10 minutes - the refrigerator should start cooling.

⚠️ Attention: If after assembly the refrigerator Biryusa not turns on or the compressor hums, but does not start, it is possible:

• The wires are connected incorrectly (check the polarity!).
• The relay contacts are not sufficiently stripped.
• The compressor itself is faulty (diagnostics by a technician is required).

7. When is the best time to contact a technician?

Not all faults. the relay can be repaired independently. Calling a technician is requiredif:

• 🔥 The relay contacts show severe melting or burnt holes.
• 🔊 The compressor hums, but does not start, despite cleaning relay.
• 💥 When you turn on the refrigerator, the machine in the panel is triggered (short circuit).
• 🔧 The relay cover is broken and you cannot find a replacement.

Cost of replacing the relay at the service center:

⚠️ Attention: If you are not confident in your abilities, do not take risks. Incorrect repair of the relay can lead to compressor failure, and replacing it will cost 5-10 times more than calling a repairman to your home.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Biryusa refrigerator relay

Is it possible to clean the relay contacts without removing the cover?

No, high-quality cleaning is only possible with full access to the contacts. Partial spray treatment. (for example, Kontakt 60) will give a temporary effect, but will not eliminate the cause of the malfunction.

What is the service life of the relay in the Biryusa refrigerator?

The average service life of the start-up relay is 5–10 years. The duration of operation is affected by the frequency of the compressor switching on, voltage drops and build quality. In models, relays last longer due to the use of more durable materials.

What happens if you connect the wires to the relay incorrectly?

If the connection is incorrect, three scenarios are possible:

1. The compressor will not start (if the phase and zero are reversed).
2. The relay will be on constantly click, but the refrigerator will not turn on (incorrect coil connection).
3. Short circuit and combustion of the relay or compressor (the most dangerous option).

Always check the photographs or connection diagram!

Where to buy a new relay for Biryusa?

Spare parts for refrigerators Biryusa sold:

• In specialized spare parts stores (for example, Spare parts for refrigerators).
• In markets like Avito or Yula (used parts).
• In online stores (for example, 220-Volt.ru, All-Zapchasti.ru).

The cost of a new relay: from 500 to 2,000 rubles, depending on the model.

Is it possible to use a relay from another refrigerator?

Theoretically, yes, but only if:

• The relay has identical technical characteristics (voltage, current, type contacts).
• Suitable in size and mounting.
• Compatible with the compressor of your refrigerator (for example, a relay from Atlanta may fit Biryusaif the models are similar in year of manufacture).

It is best to select a relay according to the markings (for example, RTK-XX or DANFOSS 108N0012).