Independent dismantling of the refrigerator relay Veko: from theory to practice

The refrigerator relay Veko is a small but critical component responsible for starting the compressor and protecting the system from overloads. When the refrigerator stops freezing, makes uncharacteristic clicks, or does not turn on at all, this device is often the culprit. You can remove the relay yourself in 20-40 minutes if you know the exact sequence of actions and have a minimum set of tools on hand.

In this article we will analyze the process of dismantling the relay on models Veko of different years of manufacture - from start-up protection relays the old model (before 2018) to modern ones electronic control units (2019–2026). We will pay special attention to safety measures: why you should not touch the contacts with bare hands, how to avoid a short circuit when turning off the power, and what to do if the relay is “stuck” to the compressor. You will also find a relay compatibility table for popular models Veko and a checklist for diagnosing a malfunction before starting work.

If you have never dealt with electrical components of refrigerators, do not be alarmed: The instructions are adapted for beginners. We will identify all the pitfalls that can turn a simple procedure into an expensive repair. For example, on models Veko RCFN-3105 i RCFN-3805 2020–2022, the relay is mounted not on latches, but on screws for a Phillips screwdriver - even some craftsmen miss this nuance.

Preparation for work: tools and equipment safety

Before you begin dismantling, make sure that you have everything you need. For most models Veko you will need:

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (PH2) - for the screws securing the relay and the rear panel.
• 🔧 Flat screwdriver - to carefully pry up the latches or plastic clips.
• 📏 Multimeter —to check the integrity of the relay circuit (optional, but recommended).
• 🧲 Magnet —to avoid losing small screws or springs during disassembly.
• 📸 Smartphone — for photographing the original location of the wires.

Important: if your refrigerator Veko was produced before 2017, you may need 8 or 10 mm wrench — on older models, the relay was sometimes attached to the compressor through a metal bracket with nuts. Check this in advance by looking behind the back panel.

⚠️ Attention: Some relays (especially on models with the system No Frost) may be energized even after the refrigerator is disconnected from the network. Always wait at least 5 minutes before starting work - this time is enough for the capacitors in the power circuit to discharge.

Also prepare the work space:

• 🪑 Position the refrigerator so that the back wall is easily accessible (move 50–70 cm from the wall).
• 💡 Lighting should be bright - use a table lamp or flashlight.
• 🧹 Place cardboard or fabric on the floor so as not to scratch the coating and not lose details.

Where is the relay located in the refrigerator Eyelid?

The location of the relay depends on the model and year of manufacture. In 90% of cases, it can be found in one of three places:

1. On the compressor —the most common location. The relay is attached to the compressor body (a black metal cylinder at the bottom of the refrigerator) and is covered with a plastic or metal cover.
2. In the electronic control unit - relevant for models with a display (for example, Veko RCFN-5201W 2021). The relay can be integrated into the board or connected to it by wires.
3. On the back wall - less common, but found on older models (before 2015). The relay is mounted on a separate bracket next to the compressor.

To accurately determine the location, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Remove the rear protective panel (it is attached to 4-6 screws).
3. Inspect the compressor - the relay usually takes the form of a small plastic or metal box with wires going to the plug and the compressor.

How to distinguish a relay from a thermostat?

A relay is a small block (the size of a pack of cigarettes) attached directly to compressor or near it. The thermostat is usually located inside the refrigerator compartment, behind a plastic panel, and is connected to a thin capillary tube.

If you are not sure that you have found the relay, pay attention to the labels. There may be markings on the device body:

• RSC-3, DANFOSS 103N0210 — typical designations for relays Veko.
• START CAPACITOR —indicates the starting relay.
• OVERLOAD PROTECTOR —overload protection (often combined with the starting relay).

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the relay from the compressor

Let's consider the most common case - dismantling the relay installed on the compressor. This process is suitable for most models Vekoincluding RCFN-3105, RCFN-3805, RCFN-4205 and their modifications.

Step 1. Disconnecting wires

Carefully disconnect all wires going to relay Usually there are two or three of them:

• 🔌 Power wire (comes from the plug or control unit).
• 🔌 Wire to the compressor (short, with a connector or terminal).
• 🔌 Ground wire (if present, usually yellow-green).

Do not pull the wires! Grip the connectors and lightly rock them from side to side if they do not give way. If the contacts are oxidized, treat them WD-40 and wait 2-3 minutes.

Step 2. Removing the fasteners

The type of relay mounting depends on models:

• 🔩 Screws —unscrew them with a Phillips screwdriver (on models 2019–2026).
• 🔗 Latch —pry them with a flat screwdriver (valid for Veko till 2018 year).
• 🔧 Metal bracket — loosen the nuts with an 8 or 10 mm wrench (found on old refrigerators).

⚠️ Attention: On models Veko RCFN-3105W i RCFN-3805W 2020, the relay can be glued to the compressor with thermal paste. Do not try to tear it off by force - heat it with a hair dryer (temperature no higher than 60°C) or carefully pry it around the perimeter.

Step 3. Removing the relay

After removing the fasteners, carefully pull the relay towards you. If it does not give in:

• Check for hidden latches or screws.
• Make sure that all wires are disconnected.
• Do not use excessive force - there may be fragile parts (springs, contacts) inside the relay.

If the relay is still “stuck” to the compressor, use plastic pick or a thin screwdriver to pry it evenly around the edges. Do not use metal objects - they can damage the compressor housing.

Features of dismantling the relay on different Veko models

The design of the relay and the method of its attachment may vary depending on the year of manufacture and series of the refrigerator. The table below shows the key differences for popular models:

If your model is not in the table, focus on the year of manufacture:

• 📅 Until 2017 —most likely, a mechanical relay on latches or a bracket.
• 📅 2018–2020 —transition period, both options are possible (mechanical or electronic).
• 📅 After 2021 —electronic or hybrid relays on screws with thermal paste.

⚠️ Attention: On models with the system No Frost (for example, Veko RCFN-5201W) the relay can be part of an electronic module. In this case, replacement will require a soldering iron and skills in working with microcircuits. If you are not confident in your abilities, contact a specialist.

How to check the removed relay for functionality?

Before installing a new relay, make sure that the old one is really faulty. For this you will need a multimeter. Follow the instructions:

Checking the starting relay:

1. Switch the multimeter to resistance test mode (200 Ohms).
2. Connect the probes to the relay contacts (usually they are marked as S i M or Start i Main).
3. The resistance should be within 15–40 Ohm. If the device shows OL (open) or 0 (short circuit), relay faulty.

Checking the thermal protection (overload protector):

1. Find a metal plate or reset button on the relay (usually labeled Reset).
2. Heat the relay with a hairdryer (temperature 60–80°C) for 1–2 minutes.
3. Test the contacts with a multimeter. If after heating the circuit does not open, the protection does not work.

If you do not have a multimeter, you can test the relay “by ear”:

• 🔊 Connect the relay to the compressor and apply power supply (for 1–2 seconds!).
• A working relay will emit one clear click when the compressor starts.
• If audible multiple clicks or silence - relay is faulty.

Typical errors when removing the relay and how to avoid them

Errors when dismantling the relay can lead to damage to the compressor, a short circuit or even a fire. Here are the most common mistakes and ways to prevent them:

• ⚡ Working under voltage —never touch the relay or wires without disconnecting the refrigerator from the power supply. Even when it is turned off, a charge may remain on the capacitors.
• 🔧 Using the wrong tools —do not replace the Phillips screwdriver with a flathead one and vice versa. This damages the screw slots and complicates further assembly.
• 📸 No photos of wires —if you mix up the wires during reassembly, the refrigerator may always fail. fix the original connection.
• 🔥 Overheating of the relay during dismantling —if the relay is glued, do not heat it with a hair dryer for more than 3-5 minutes. Temperatures above 80°C can damage the plastic parts.
• 💧 Moisture ingress —do not work in damp conditions (for example, if the refrigerator has just been defrosted). Condensation on the contacts leads to corrosion.

Another common mistake is when removing the relay. If it does not yield, do not tighten it. pliers and do not hit with a hammer. It is better to check again: use of excessive force when removing the relay. If it does not give way, do not pull it together with pliers or hit it with a hammer. Better check again:

• Are all the screws unscrewed?
• Are there hidden latches left?
• Is the relay stuck to the compressor (in this case) In case, a hair dryer will help)?

If you have damaged the relay or compressor housing, do not try to repair it yourself. Contact a service center Veko or a trusted technician. The cost of repair will be cheaper than replacing the compressor due to a short circuit.

Installing a new relay: nuances. and recommendations

Installing a new relay is the reverse process of dismantling, but with several important nuances. Follow these instructions to avoid mistakes:

Step 1. Preparing a new relay

• Compare the new relay with the old one - they should be the same identical by markings and dimensions.
• If the old relay had thermal paste, apply it in a thin layer to the new one (use paste for processors, for example Arctic MX-4).
• Clean the compressor contacts from oxidation (use an eraser or sandpaper 1000).

Step 2. Connecting the wires

• Follow the photo taken before dismantling. If it is not there, refer to the color marking:
  • 🔴 Red/brown - phase (power).
  • 🔵 Blue - zero.
  • 🟢 Yellow-green - grounding.
  • ⚫ Black - wire to the compressor.
• Make sure the wires are not strained or twisted.

Step 3. Attaching the relay

• If the relay is on screws, tighten them crosswise to avoid distortion.
• If the relay is on latches, press until it clicks.
• For a relay on thermal paste, press it evenly for 10–15 seconds.

Step 4. Checking operation

• Connect the refrigerator to the network.
• Listen: there should be one click (compressor starting) and a slight hum.
• If the refrigerator does not turn on or multiple clicks are heard, check the wire connections or test the new relay with a multimeter.

⚠️ Attention: After installing the new relay, do not immediately turn on the refrigerator at full power. Let the compressor run for 10-15 minutes in a gentle mode (set the temperature to +5°C) to avoid this. overload.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing the relay in the refrigerator. Veko

Is it possible to replace the relay on a Veko refrigerator without disconnecting from the power supply?

No, this is extremely dangerous! Even when turned off, voltage up to 220V can remain on the relay capacitors. Always remove the plug from the socket and wait at least 5 minutes before starting work.

What. Is a multimeter needed to check the relay?

Any digital multimeter with a resistance test mode (ohmmeter) and continuity testing is suitable. For example, DT-830B or Mastech MS8229. The main thing is that it can measure resistance up to 200 Ohms.

What to do if the new relay also fails. does it work?

Probable reasons:

• Faulty compressor (check its resistance: there should be 15-30 Ohms between the windings).
• Problems with thermostat or control unit.
• Wrong connection of wires (check the photo).

If you are not sure of the diagnosis, contact a specialist.

How much does a relay for a Veko refrigerator cost?

The price depends on the type of relay:

• Mechanical (DANFOSS, RSC-3) - 800–1500 ₽.
• Electronic (with thermal protection) - 1500–2500 ₽.
• Original Veko relay - 2000–3500 ₽ (ordered from official dealers).

Before purchasing, check the markings of the old relay or the model of the refrigerator.

Is it possible to repair relay or just replace it?

Mechanical relays (before 2018) can sometimes be repaired: you can clean the contacts, replace the spring or thermal protection. Electronic relays (after 2019) are impractical to repair - they are non-separable and sensitive to soldering. In both cases, replacement is more reliable. data-i="283">How to check defrost in a Samsung refrigerator: step-by-step instructions