Compressor relay - a small but critical part of the refrigerator, responsible for starting and protecting the motor from overloads. When the unit stops turning on, makes clicks without starting, or works intermittently, the first thing to check is this particular unit. However, getting to the relay contacts is prevented by a plastic or metal cover, the removal of which often causes difficulty for beginners. In this article, we will look at how to properly dismantle the cover on a relay Danfoss, Embraco and other popular models without damaging fragile parts.
The procedure seems simple, but there are pitfalls here: from hidden latches to the risk of damaging the spring mechanism inside. We will describe in detail the tools, the sequence of actions for different types of mounts, and also warn about typical errors that lead to relay failure. If you have never disassembled a refrigerator, don’t worry: even a beginner can handle our instructions and photos in 10–15 minutes.
Preparation: tools and safety measures
Before you begin dismantling, make sure that you have everything you need on hand. Basic tool —a flat-head screwdriver with a thin sting (2–3 mm), but for some relay models a cross may be needed. Also prepare:
- 🔦 Table lamp or flashlight - lighting will make it easier to work with small parts.
- 📸 Smartphone - to photograph the original position of wires and contacts.
- 🧲 Magnet - useful for holding small screws and washers.
- 🧤 Thin rubber gloves - will protect from accidental cuts on the sharp edges of the metal cover.
Important: unplug the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before starting work. This is not only safe, but will also allow the compressor to cool down - hot parts are more difficult to dismantle. If the relay is located at the bottom of the unit (like Atlant or Samsung), move the refrigerator away from the wall to gain free access. For models with an overhead compressor (for example, Liebert), you may need a stepladder.
⚠️ Attention: Do not touch the relay contacts with your bare hands if they show signs of oxidation or soot. Oxides contain toxic compounds of copper and zinc - use gloves or a napkin.
Types of relay covers: how to determine your option
Compressor relay covers differ in material, method of fastening and design. The dismantling algorithm depends on this. Let's consider three main types:
| Lid type | Material | Mode of fastening | Examples of refrigerator models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snap-on | Plastic | Plastic fasteners around the perimeter | Indesit, Ariston, Beko |
| Screw | Metal or plastic | 1–2 screws on the front side | Samsung, LG, Bosch |
| Combined | Metal + plastic | Screw + latches | Liebert, Snaige, Gorenje |
| Removable (soldered) | Metal | Rivets or welding | Old models ZIL, Minsk |
To determine the type of cover, carefully inspect it from all sides. Snap-on models usually have small protrusions along the edges or holes for a screwdriver. Screw easy to identify by visible slots underneath Phillips or flathead screwdriver. If the cover is metal and does not have visible fasteners, most likely it is with rivets (these are found in refrigerators older than 15 years).
It is not recommended to remove covers with rivets - this will lead to irreversible deformation of the relay body. In such cases, it is easier to replace the entire relay.
Step-by-step instructions: remove the snap-on cover
This type of fastening is the most common, but also the most insidious: plastic clips are easy to break if you act roughly. Follow the algorithm:
- Step 1. Take a flat-head screwdriver and insert its tip into the groove between the cover and the base of the relay. Press (lightly) upward to lift one edge.
- Step 2. Run a screwdriver around the perimeter of the cover, unclicking the latches one at a time. Usually there are 3-4 of them.
- Step 3. When all the latches are released, carefully remove the cover by pulling it up. Do not make any effort - if the lid does not budge, it means that one of the latches is still holding.
If the latches are too tight, you can slightly heat the lid with a hairdryer (temperature 50–60°C). The plastic will become softer and the latches will snap off easier. The main thing is not to overheat, otherwise the cover will be deformed.
Inspect the cover for screws|Prepare a screwdriver with a thin tip|Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains|Take a photo of the original position of the wires-->
⚠️ Attention: On some relays Danfoss under the cover the spring is hidden. If it is lost or deformed, the relay will have to be changed - the compressor will not start.
Removing the screw cap: nuances and errors
Screw caps seem simpler, but there are pitfalls here. Firstly, screws often “stick” due to moisture (especially in refrigerators located in damp rooms). Secondly, they are easy to tear off if you apply too much force.
Action algorithm:
- Inspect the cover for rust. If the screws are rusty, treat them with
WD-40or vinegar 10 minutes before unscrewing. - Select a screwdriver exactly to the size of the slot. A screwdriver that is too wide or narrow will tear off the edges.
- Unscrew the screws counterclockwise, holding the cover with your other hand - it can come off sharply.
- If the screw does not budge, try lightly tapping the screwdriver handle with a hammer (not the tip!).
Typical mistakes:
- 🔧 Using an electric screwdriver - it can tear off the slot due to the high torque.
- 🔩 Trying to unscrew the screw with pliers - this deforms the head.
- 💦 Spilling
WD-40on the relay contacts can cause a short circuit.
What to do if the cover cannot be removed?
Sometimes, even after unscrewing the screws or snapping the latches, the cover seems to be “stuck” to the base. Causes and solutions:
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The cover “fits” too tightly | Deformation of the case from overheating | Carefully tap the edges with the wooden handle of a screwdriver |
| A crunching sound is heard under the cover | Oxidation of contacts or corrosion | Treat WD-40 and wait 10 minutes |
| The screws turn, but do not come out | The thread in the plastic is broken | Remove the screws with pliers, replace the relay |
If the cover still does not budge, do not use brute force - this can damage the spring mechanism or contacts inside the relay. In such cases, it is more advisable to replace the entire relay (the cost of a new one is from 500 to 1500 rubles, depending on the model).
How to check that the relay is working properly after removing the cover?
After After dismantling the cover, inspect the contacts: they should be clean, free of carbon deposits and oxidation. Also check the integrity of the spring and the mobility of the core. If you hear a knock when shaking the relay, this is a sign of breakdown.
Features of dismantling on popular refrigerator models
The design of the relay may differ depending on the brand of the refrigerator. Let's consider the nuances for the most common brands:
- Atlant i Beko: The cover is plastic, with 4 latches. Often one of them breaks the first time you remove it - be careful. There is a removable spring inside the relay, which is easy to lose.
- Samsung i LG: Metal cover with 2 screws. Screws often rust - treat them in advance. There may be an additional plastic gasket under the cover.
- Indesit i Ariston: Relay with combined fastening (screw + 2 latches). The screw is usually hidden under a sticker with a serial number.
- Liebert (server refrigerators): A cover for 3 screws, one of which can be a hexagon. A special key is required.
For refrigerators Snaige i Gorenje a relay with a transparent plastic cover is typical. It can be removed without tools by prying it with a fingernail or a plastic card. However, inside there is often a fragile plastic gear - do not drop the lid!
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Bosch series KAN the relay can be integrated into the control unit. Removing the cover in this case requires removing the entire panel - it is better to contact a specialist.
What to do after removing the cover: diagnostics and cleaning
When the cover is finally removed, the relay contacts will open in front of you. Here's what you need to do next:
- Inspection of contacts. Look for soot (black or brown spots), melting or green deposits (oxidation). Scale clean with fine sandpaper (
P1200), oxidation alcohol or a special contact cleaner. - Checking the spring. It should be elastic, without deformation. If the spring is stretched or broken, the relay must be replaced.
- Test with a multimeter. Ring the contacts in resistance mode. Between normally open contacts, the resistance should tend to infinity, between normally closed ones - close to zero.
If you find carbon deposits, it Do not clean with a knife or metal objects. - this will damage the contacts. liquid for cleaning electrical contacts (for example, Kontakt 60). After cleaning, wipe the contacts with a lint-free cloth soaked in alcohol.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the relay cover
Is it possible to remove the relay cover without disconnecting the refrigerator from the network?
No, this is extremely dangerous! Even if the compressor is not working, voltage up to 220V can remain at the relay contacts. Turn off the refrigerator and wait until the capacitors are discharged (5-10 minutes).
The latch on the lid is broken. Is it possible to operate the relay without it?
If one of the four latch is broken, the lid can be secured with electrical tape or a plastic clamp, however, replace the relay as soon as possible - an unfixed lid may. jump off, exposing the contacts.
After removing the cover, a small part fell out of the relay. What is it?
Most likely, it is a spring or a damper element. Without it, the relay will not operate correctly. Try to insert the part into place, using photographs from the Internet for your relay model. If you are not sure, take the relay to your dealer. service.
The relay cover cracked when removed. Is it possible to glue it?
The cracked plastic cover can be temporarily repaired with epoxy glue (for example, Super Epoxy MomentHowever, this is a short-lived solution - the glue may melt during the first heating. relay.
How to understand that the problem is in the relay and not in the compressor?
If you hear clicks when you turn on the refrigerator, but the compressor does not start, the relay is to blame in 80% of cases. If there are no clicks at all, the problem may be in the thermostat or. a compressor winding is broken. For accurate diagnosis, you need a multimeter.