Sudden stopping the compressor or failure of the refrigerator Pozis to turn on often signals a failure of the start-up relay. This small but critical element is responsible for starting the motor and protecting its windings from overloads. In two-chamber models, such as Pozis-113 or RB-106, timely diagnosis and replacement of this part can bring the equipment back to life without calling a technician.
Process replacement does not require complex specialized tools, but requires strict adherence to safety precautions and an understanding of the principle of operation of the electrical circuit. Incorrect dismantling or installing an incompatible part can lead to the compressor burning out, so it is important to act consistently. In this article, we will analyze all the nuances of the procedure for various modifications of refrigerators Pozis.
Diagnostics of a faulty start relay
Before starting disassembly, you need to make sure that the problem lies in the relay, and not in the compressor itself or the wiring. A typical sign of a malfunction is a clicking sound when trying to start, followed by a humming sound, and after a few seconds the refrigerator turns off. If the compressor is hot to the touch, but does not start, there is a high probability that starting winding does not receive an impulse to start.
Sometimes the situation looks different: the refrigerator turns on, runs for a few seconds and turns off again. This may indicate that the relay protection is triggered due to jamming of the piston group or problems with the windings. An accurate diagnosis is made only after testing with a multimeter and visually inspecting the internal contacts for carbon deposits. It is also worth checking for a burning smell, which often accompanies an insulation breakdown inside the relay body.
For an initial check, you can carefully remove the relay and shake it near your ear. If a ringing or knocking sound is heard inside, it means that the mechanical part is damaged and the part must be replaced. In models with a thermal relay (RTK), the ceramic element inside may be broken, which also requires attention.
Preparation of tools and safety measures
Working with live electrical appliances is strictly prohibited, so the first step should always be to completely de-energize the device. Remove the plug from the socket and make sure that the back of the refrigerator is freely accessible. To work, you will need a minimum set of tools that can be found in every home.
The main task is to provide access to the compressor, which is located at the bottom of the rear panel. In two-chamber models Posis access may be limited by a decorative cover or casing that will need to be removed. It is important not to damage the copper tubes of the cooling system when manipulating the tool.
To carry out the work, prepare the following list of tools:
- 🔧 Phillips or flat screwdriver (depending on the type of screws on the casing).
- 🔌 Multimeter or tester to check the continuity of the circuit.
- 🧤 Dielectric gloves for protection against residual current.
- 📸 Smartphone for photographing the circuit connections before removal.
⚠️ Attention: Never carry out work to replace the relay if the capacitors in the circuit are not discharged, although in domestic refrigerators the risk is minimal, caution will not hurt. Make sure the floor under your feet is dry.
Access to the compressor and removal of the casing
Refrigerators Pozis are often equipped with a plastic casing that covers the compressor and condenser grille. This element not only improves aesthetics, but also directs air flow to cool the engine. Removing the casing is the first step in physically accessing the relay.
Fastenings may vary depending on the model year. Older series use screws, newer series use plastic latches or clamps. You need to act carefully so as not to break the plastic, which could become fragile over the years of operation.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
If the casing is held on by screws, they must be unscrewed counterclockwise. If latches are used, they must be carefully pressed out with a flat screwdriver, prying up the housing at the fastening points. After removing the protection, you will see a black cylindrical compressor with a plastic or metal barrel attached to the side - this is our desired relay.
Technology for dismantling the old relay
The process of removing the relay from the compressor is quite simple, but requires care. There are three contacts on the compressor housing, onto which the relay block is placed. It is fixed at the top or side with a metal clamp or plastic claws. Your task is to release the retainer and remove the part without damaging the wires.
First remove the retaining bracket. It can be spring or screw. If a screw is used, it must be removed. If the bracket is spring-loaded, you need to carefully press it out with a screwdriver and move it down or to the side. After this, the relay should be easily removed from the compressor contacts by moving downward.
However, simply removing the relay is not enough - you need to disconnect the wires going to it. This is critically important Do not reverse the polarity during reassembly. Before biting or unsoldering wires, take a clear photo or mark them with a marker. In some models, the wires are simply inserted into the terminals, in others they are soldered.
⚠️ Attention: When removing the relay from the compressor contacts, do not use excessive force. If the part cannot be removed, it may have become stuck or rusted. Carefully loosen it from side to side, trying not to damage the compressor output rods.
Relay compatibility table for Pozis
Refrigerators Position equipped with different types of compressors (often ATLANT or Danfoss), so the relays may differ. Installing the wrong part will result in the refrigerator either not starting or the motor winding burning out. Below is a table of the main types of relays found in these models.
| Relay type | Marking | Compatible compressors | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | RTP-1, RTP-2 | Atlant, Pozis (old) | Works with starting winding |
| Starting protection | RTK-1, RTK-2 | Atlant 1st series | Contains thermoelement protection |
| Combined | PTC (posistor) | Danfoss, Secop | Black plastic case, no moving parts |
| Protective | 3-pin | Universal | Protection only, without trigger mechanism |
When buying a new part, pay attention not only to markings, but also on the appearance of the contacts and the method of fastening. Universal relays often require the correct orientation when installed (arrow up). If you are not sure about the choice, it is better to remove the old relay and come to the store with it or compare photographs.
Can a universal relay be used?
Universal relays (for example, marked 117N0011) are suitable for many models, but require the correct orientation. If the arrow on the body does not point upward, the mechanism will not work correctly.
Installing a new relay and checking operation
After the new relay has been purchased, you need to install it in place. If the wires were disconnected, reconnect them strictly in accordance with the photographs taken earlier. Typically, phase and zero go to the input terminals, and contacts for the starting and operating windings go to the compressor.
Place the relay block onto the three pins of the compressor. Make sure it fits snugly and all the way. Secure the part with the metal bracket or screw that was removed earlier. Reliable fixation is important, since the vibration of a running compressor can weaken the contact, which will lead to sparking and heating.
After assembling all the elements and installing the casing in place, you can turn on the refrigerator. Pay attention to the start-up pattern: there should be a firm click and the compressor should begin to hum evenly. If you hear a hum, but there is no startup, or the protection is triggered after a couple of seconds, immediately turn off the device.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to repair an old relay rather than changing it?
Theoretically, if the problem is stuck contacts, they can be cleaned. However, in modern relays with posistors, repair is impossible. Considering the low cost of a new part and the high risk of repeated failure, repairing an old relay is considered impractical.
Why does a new relay burn out after a week?
This may indicate a more serious problem: a malfunction of the compressor itself (turn-to-turn short circuit), problems with the wiring, or power surges in the network. Also, the reason may be the incorrect selection of the relay type (the power or type of windings does not match).
Where can you find the relay markings on the Pozis refrigerator?
The markings are applied directly to the plastic or metal body of the relay. To see it, it is not necessary to remove the part completely - often it is enough to remove the compressor protective casing and illuminate the side of the engine with a flashlight.
Is it dangerous to change the relay yourself?
If you follow the electrical safety rules (disconnecting from the network), the risk is minimal. The main danger is electric shock when the device is turned on or damage to the refrigerant pipes due to careless handling of the tool. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to call a specialist.