Sudden stoppage of the compressor or its humming without starting often indicates a failure of the starting equipment. Owners of refrigerators Stinol often face the need to check or replace starting relayas it is this unit that takes the brunt of power surges. Self-diagnosis and dismantling of the part allows you to save significant money on calling a technician and quickly return the equipment to life.
The procedure for removing the relay does not require complex professional equipment, but requires strict adherence to safety precautions. Before starting any manipulations, it is necessary to completely turn off the power to the unit by disconnecting the power cord from the power supply. Ignoring this rule can lead to serious electric shock, since there is high voltage in the compressor circuit.
This article describes in detail the algorithm of actions for models Stinol-101, Stinol-102 and other modifications of this brand. We will analyze the structure of the unit, the reasons for its breakdowns and step by step through each stage of dismantling. Carefully following the instructions will help you avoid damage to the tubes or the compressor itself during operation.
Design and functions of the starting relay in Stinol refrigerators
Start relay is an electromechanical switch that supplies current to the starting winding of the compressor motor only at the moment of start. As soon as the rotor reaches the required speed, the device automatically opens the circuit, leaving only the main winding to work. In refrigerators Stinol relays of the RTP, RT series and their modern analogues are most often used, which are attached directly to the terminals of the compressor.
Structurally, the part consists of an inductance coil, a movable core and a contact group. When voltage is applied, current passes through the coil, creating a magnetic field that draws in the core and closes the contacts of the starting winding. If this mechanism jams or the contacts burn out, the compressor hums, but does not start, or does not show signs of life at all.
It is important to understand that the relay also performs a protective function. Inside the case there is often a bimetallic element that opens the circuit when overheating or excessive current. Removal of the Stinol relay is often required precisely because the contacts burn or the core return mechanism is broken, which makes the normal cycle of turning on the engine impossible.
- 🔌 Provides short-term connection starting winding to start the engine.
- 🛡️ Protects the compressor motor from overcurrent and overheating.
- 🔄 Automatically opens the circuit after the rotor gains speed.
⚠️ Attention: The relay may remain inside the housing residual stress. After removing the part, do not touch the internal contacts and metal elements with your fingers until you are sure that there is complete absence of charge.
The durability of this unit directly depends on the stability of the voltage in the network and the condition of the compressor itself. Frequent power surges can cause the contacts to stick, causing the starter winding to stay on too long and burn out. That is why, when replacing a relay, it is recommended to check the condition of the wiring in the house.
Symptoms of malfunction and the need for replacement
You can understand what starting relay has failed by characteristic sound and visual signs. The most common symptom is that the compressor tries to start, there is a loud clicking sound, a humming noise, and then the refrigerator goes silent. After some time, the cycle repeats. This indicates that the starting mechanism does not work or is stuck in the closed position.
Another clear sign is the absence of cold in the chambers when the light is working and the lamp is working. If you hear the engine humming, but it does not start, and there is a burning or burning plastic smell coming from the rear wall, most likely the problem lies in the electrical part of the starting unit. In such cases Stinol requires immediate intervention.
Sometimes the relay may simply not turn off the starting winding, which leads to overheating and eventual combustion of the engine. If you notice that the compressor runs continuously without stopping, and the temperature inside the chambers does not drop to the required values, this is a reason to carry out diagnostics. Also, the need for replacement is indicated by visible blackening of the case or melting of plastic elements.
Diagnostics can be carried out by carefully removing the casing and inspecting the part. If, when shaken, the relay makes a sound as if a metal object is dangling inside, it means that the core has come off or the mechanism is destroyed. A working device should be solid and heavy to the touch. Visual inspection of the contacts through the holes in the housing can also reveal carbon deposits.
Preparation for dismantling: tools and safety
Before you begin removing start relay from the refrigerator Stinol, you need to prepare a workplace and a set of tools. You don't need complex professional tools, but having good quality lighting and easy access to the rear wall of the unit is critical. Make sure that there is enough room for maneuver around the refrigerator.
For work you will need a flat-head and Phillips screwdriver, side cutters or pliers, as well as a multimeter for subsequent testing. It would be a good idea to have electrical tape and a new set of relays on hand if you plan to replace them immediately after diagnosis. All tools must be dry and in good working order to avoid short circuits.
☑️ Preparation for repair
The most important stage of preparation is complete disconnection from the power supply. It is not enough to simply turn off the refrigerator with a button, if there is one - you need to unplug the plug from the socket. This ensures your safety and prevents damage to the electronics if contacts are accidentally shorted during operation.
⚠️ Warning: Do not attempt repairs if the floor under the refrigerator is wet or if you are standing barefoot on a concrete base. Use a rubber mat or a dry wooden stand to isolate it from the ground.
It is also worth emptying the refrigerator of food in advance if there is a risk of it tilting too much or needing to be moved. Although access to the lower rear portion is usually sufficient to remove the relay, the stability of the unit is important. Ask an assistant to hold the refrigerator if it wobbles.
Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the relay from Stinol
The dismantling process begins by removing the protective casing at the bottom of the refrigerator, where the compressor is located. In models Stinol this is usually a metal or plastic panel secured with bolts or latches. Carefully unscrew the fasteners and remove the cover, gaining access to the motor and attachments.
Find the starting relay - it is placed directly on the side terminals of the compressor (three pins in a triangle) and is often covered with an additional plastic cover. Remove the retainer or frame, if present. Then carefully disconnect the wires going to the relay. In some models Stinol the wires can be soldered, in others they can be connected through connectors.
The relay itself is removed by moving downwards and slightly towards itself. It is held in place due to its tight fit on the contacts and weight. Do not use excessive force to avoid damaging the compressor's copper tubes. If the relay cannot be removed, check whether the wiring or mounting frame is in the way.
| Step | Action | Important detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Removing the casing | Do not lose the bolts, put them in a container |
| 2 | Disconnecting the wires | Remember or take a photo of the connection diagram |
| 3 | Removing the relay | Hold the compressor with your other hand for insurance |
| 4 | Inspection | Check the contacts for carbon deposits |
What to do if the wires are soldered?
If the wires approach the relay directly and are soldered, they must be carefully cut with side cutters, leaving a reserve length for subsequent soldering of the new relay. Do not damage the insulation of the suitable wires.
After removing the part, carefully inspect the seat on the compressor. There should be no traces of burning, oxidation or moisture. If you find black spots on the motor contacts, they must be cleaned with fine sandpaper before installing a new element. This will ensure reliable contact.
Diagnostics of the removed relay and checking the contacts
After you have managed to remove starting relay from the refrigerator Stinol, you need to carry out a detailed check of it. A visual inspection reveals melting of the housing, which clearly indicates overheating and the need for replacement. If the case is intact, we move on to deeper diagnostics using a multimeter.
Checking the integrity of the coil and contacts is carried out in the continuity mode. The resistance between certain contacts should be zero or close to zero, while other pairs of contacts should only "ring" at a certain relay position. To check the operation of the mechanism, you can carefully turn the relay over - in one position the contacts should close, in the other they should open.
- 🔍 Inspect the contacts for black carbon deposits or sparking.
- 🔊 Shake the relay: an extraneous knock inside indicates destruction of the core.
- 📉 Measure the resistance of the windings: it must correspond to the technical specifications.
If the relay is PT type (with a coil), check the free play of the core. It should move easily inside the coil under the influence of gravity. A stuck core is a common reason why a refrigerator won't start. In such cases, cleaning with alcohol sometimes helps, but it is safer to replace.
It is worth noting that even if the relay “rings,” it may not hold the load. The contacts can be coated with an oxide film, which conducts current during continuity, but creates high resistance when the compressor is operating. Therefore, if the relay has been removed and is more than 10 years old, it is more rational to replace it with a new one than to risk the compressor.
Installing a new relay and testing the operation
Installing a new one start relay on the refrigerator Stinol is done in the reverse order of removal. Make sure that the new part fully matches the old one in terms of markings and number of contacts. An incorrectly selected relay may not start the compressor or burn out in the first seconds of operation.
Push the relay onto the compressor pins until it stops. It should fit tightly and not wobble. Then connect the wires to the appropriate terminals. If you cut the wires, use twisting followed by soldering and insulation, or special connecting sleeves. Simple twisting is not acceptable due to the risk of oxidation and heating.
Perform a test run before installing the protective casing. Plug in the refrigerator and listen. The compressor should start with a characteristic hum, which after 1-3 seconds should be replaced by a smooth operating sound. If you hear a crackling sound or the buzzing is interrupted, immediately turn off the power and check the connection.
⚠️ Attention: Do not leave a running refrigerator unattended in the first 15-20 minutes after replacing the relay. Monitor the temperature of the body of the new part - it should not heat up excessively.
After a successful test, replace the metal panel and secure it. Make sure all wires are tucked away and away from hot parts of the compressor or moving parts. Only after this can you load food and operate the refrigerator in normal mode.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can the old one be repaired? starting relay Stinol?
Theoretically, you can disassemble the case, clean the contacts and put it back together, but this is a temporary measure. The factory seal is broken, and the reliability of such repairs is low. It is recommended to immediately install a new unit.
Why does the new relay burn out immediately after installation?
This may indicate a malfunction of the compressor itself (turn-to-turn short circuit) or problems with the voltage in the network. Also, the reason may be the incorrect selection of the relay model by power or type.
Where can you find the relay markings on the Stinol refrigerator?
The marking is applied to the side face of the plastic or black ebonite relay body itself. To read the inscription you will have to remove it. The information may also be on a sticker inside the refrigerator compartment.
What is the difference between RT and RTP relays?
RT (thermal) relays operate on the principle of metal expansion and are more sensitive to overloads, RTP (posistor) relays use a semiconductor element and are considered more modern and reliable for domestic conditions.
Do I need a special tool to remove the relay?
No special tool is required. Regular pliers are enough to remove the fixing bracket (if there is one) and a screwdriver to dismantle the compressor protective casing.