Sudden stoppage of the compressor or its humming without starting often indicates a failure of the start-up protection device. This is a small but critical part responsible for supplying voltage to the motor windings. Owners of equipment Indesit often face the need to replace this element, since its resource is limited by switching on and off cycles.
Doing the work yourself allows you to save a significant amount on calling a technician if you have basic skills in handling tools. However, before proceeding with disassembly, it is necessary to clearly understand the structure of the unit and follow the electrical safety rules. Disconnecting the device from the network is a mandatory first step, ignoring which is unacceptable.
In this article we will analyze the algorithm of actions that will help you safely remove the faulty part and install a new one. You will learn how to distinguish a burnt relay from a working one and what tools you will need for the job. Carefully following the instructions will minimize the risk of damage to other system components.
Diagnostics of a faulty starting relay
Before disassembling the unit, you should make sure that the problem lies in the starting mechanism. Often, users mistakenly blame the compressor, although the reason is trivial. Start relay is an electromechanical switch that provides an impulse to start the engine and protects it from overloads.
There are several obvious signs indicating a breakdown. If, when plugged into the socket, a click is heard, followed by the hum of the motor, but the start does not occur, and after a few seconds a second shutdown click is heard, this is a sure sign. Also, a malfunction is indicated by the lack of cold in the chambers when the light is working and the bulb is working.
Visual inspection may reveal traces of burning or melting of plastic on the body of the part. Sometimes a characteristic sound of dangling parts can be heard inside if the core has collapsed. To accurately check with a multimeter, you need to “ring” the contacts for a short circuit or open circuit.
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the relay the motor still does not start, the problem may be in the compressor itself or the interturn short circuit of the windings. Continued operation in this mode can lead to complete failure of the expensive unit.
You should not ignore the smell of burnt wiring that may come from the back of the refrigerator. This indicates that the electrical current was passing through a path with high resistance, causing heating. In such cases, replacing not only the relay is required, but also checking the wiring.
Necessary tools and preparation
Sophisticated industrial equipment is not required to successfully complete the task. A standard DIY kit is sufficient. The main thing is to ensure good lighting of the work area, since the back of the refrigerator is often dark.
You will need the following tools:
- 🔧 Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, depending on the type of screws).
- 🔨 Pliers or pliers for removing clamps.
- ✂️ Knife or scalpel for cleaning contacts (if necessary).
- 🧤 Dielectric gloves to protect hands.
- 📸 Smartphone for photographing the connection diagram.
Important to choose similar spare part. Relays may differ in the type of mounting, number of contacts and operating parameters. An article or number is usually stamped on the body of the old part, by which you can find a replacement in catalogs.
Prepare your work area: cover the floor or table with a soft cloth so as not to scratch the parts or lose small screws. Make sure in advance that the refrigerator is completely defrosted and moved away from the wall at a convenient distance.
Access to the compressor compartment
The compressor motor in refrigerators Indesit is located in the lower rear part of the case. Access to it is closed with a metal or plastic cover, which protects the internal mechanisms from dust and accidental damage.
The process of removing the cover is usually not difficult. In most models it is secured with four screws around the perimeter. Some modern modifications may use latches that require careful bending.
After removing the fasteners, put the cover in a safe place. You will have a view of the black cylindrical compressor tank, condenser grille and tube system. Be careful not to damage the copper tubes, as a refrigerant leak will require an expensive refill.
If heavy dust or cobwebs are visible on the compressor, it is recommended to carefully remove them with a dry brush. This will improve heat dissipation and allow you to see details better. However, do not use a damp cloth on electrical components.
| Element | Function | Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor | Refrigerant compression | Black cylinder with tubes |
| Relay | Start and protection | Plastic box on the side |
| Thermal relay | Overheat protection | Metal tablet on the body |
| Capacitor | Energy storage | Cylindrical element (not always) |
Step-by-step process for dismantling the relay
Now we move on to the actual removal of the part. The relay is placed directly on the terminals of the compressor windings. Depending on the model Indesit, it can be secured with a metal bracket or a plastic retainer.
The algorithm of actions is as follows:
- Carefully inspect the place where the relay is attached to the compressor.
- If there is a metal strip, carefully bend it or unscrew the screw holding the structure.
- Grip the relay body with both hands and rocking movements (left and right) remove it from the contacts.
- Disconnect the wire terminals suitable for the relay connector.
Do not use excessive force. If the part cannot be removed, check to see if any screw is still loose. Sharp jerks can break the plastic contacts of the compressor, the repair of which is extremely difficult.
After removing the part, remove the internal part from the plastic housing. Usually it is held on by latches. Inside you will see a coil, contacts and possibly traces of soot. This is the very device that we are changing.
☑️ Checklist before removal
Installation of a new part and assembly
Installation of a new element is carried out in the reverse order. Make sure the new relay has identical markings and pin locations. In some cases, it is possible to install universal analogues, but for Indesit it is better to use original components.
First, connect the wires to the corresponding terminals of the new device. The color marking should match the one you photographed earlier. Usually these are three wires: phase, neutral and ground (or common).
Then put the relay on the compressor rod. It should fit tightly and all the way. If a locking bracket is used, return it to its place and securely fasten it. Make sure that the wires do not touch hot parts of the compressor or sharp edges of the housing.
After installing all components, return the protective cover to its place and tighten the screws. Only after complete assembly can you turn on the refrigerator. The first minutes of operation are accompanied by a characteristic startup sound.
⚠️ Attention: Technical characteristics of compressors may vary in different series of refrigerators. Before installation, check the voltage and current parameters with the data on the nameplate of the new relay.
If the refrigerator starts and after 10-15 minutes the cooling process begins (checked by the temperature of the evaporator inside), then the repair was completed successfully. Leave the unit to operate in test mode for several hours.
What to do if the new relay clicks but does not start?
This may indicate that the compressor piston group is jammed. In rare cases, the “wedging” method by applying increased voltage helps, but this is work for professionals with special equipment.
Common mistakes and precautions
When doing self-repair, it is easy to make a mistake that will negate all efforts. One common problem is the relay not being fully seated onto the contacts. This causes sparking and rapid heating, which will again lead to breakdown.
Another mistake is ignoring the condition of the wires. If the insulation has melted or the wire is oxidized, it must be cleaned or replaced. The use of twists instead of soldering or high-quality terminals is unacceptable in vibration conditions.
List of what not to do:
- 🚫 Do not turn on the refrigerator if the protective cover is not installed.
- 🚫 Do not use relays from other types of compressors (for example, from refrigerators with inverter control).
- 🚫 Do not try to repair a burnt out relay by stripping the contacts - this is a temporary measure.
Remember that electric current dangerous to life. Even after disconnecting from the network, a charge may remain in the capacitors. Be careful and careful when working with electrical appliances.
Regular maintenance, including cleaning the condenser from dust and checking the doors for a tight fit, will extend the life of your refrigerator Indesit. Monitor the temperature conditions and do not overload the chambers with products.
Is it possible to use a relay from another refrigerator model?
The use of analogues is possible only if the electrical parameters and seat geometry completely match. However, Indesit it is strongly recommended to look for original spare parts or certified analogues, since incompatibility can lead to burnout of the compressor windings.
How long does the starting relay last on average?
The average service life is from 5 to 10 years, depending on the number of switching cycles and voltage stability in networks. Frequent power surges significantly reduce the service life of the part.
Why does the relay burn out repeatedly?
Repeated burnouts often indicate problems with the compressor itself (difficult starting) or low voltage in the electrical network. In such cases, simply replacing the relay will not solve the problem for a long time.