How to properly remove the relay from a Vestel refrigerator: instructions with photos and tips

Turkish brand refrigerators Vestel are known for their reliability, but even they are not immune from breakdowns. One of the most common malfunctions is failure starting or protective relay, which is responsible for starting the compressor and protecting against overloads. If your refrigerator stops freezing, makes clicks, but does not turn on, or the compressor hums, but does not start, the problem is most likely in the relay.

You can remove the relay from the refrigerator Vestel you can do it yourself, without resorting to the services of a technician. However, the process requires accuracy and knowledge of some nuances. In this article, we will look in detail at how to determine the type of relay in your model, what tools you will need, and how to dismantle the part without the risk of damaging the compressor or electrical circuit. You will also learn how to test the relay for functionality and what mistakes beginners most often make.

Before you start work, please note: if your refrigerator is still under warranty, independent repairs may void it. In this case, it is better to contact the service center Vestel. For the rest - forward to the step-by-step instructions!

1. Types of relays in Vestel refrigerators: how to determine your model

Refrigerators Vestel are equipped with two main types of relays:

• 🔹 Start-protective relay (combined) - combines the functions of starting the compressor and protecting against overheating. Most often found in models Vestel NK-4101W, CK-3551 and similar ones.
• 🔹 Start + separate protective relay - two separate elements that are installed on old-style compressors (for example, in series SK-200).

To accurately determine the type of relay in your refrigerator, look at the compressor on the back of the unit. Usually the relay is attached directly to the compressor housing and has a characteristic rectangular or round shape. It may also have a sticker with markings, for example:

• 📌 DANFOSS 103N0210 - a popular relay for models Vestel with compressors. data-i="70">or Embraco.
• 📌 ASCO R-1 or R-2 —found in refrigerators in the mid-price segment.
• 📌 Vestel OEM —original relays that are installed at the factory.

If the markings are worn out or missing, pay attention to the color and shape of the case:

• 🟢 Green or black relay with a metal mount - most likely DANFOSS.
• 🟤 Brown plastic relay with a round base - typical ASCO.
• ⚪ White plastic case with latches - original relay Vestel.

⚠️ Attention: B refrigerators Vestel with a system No Frost (series NK) the relay can be hidden under the compressor protective casing. Do not confuse it with the thermostat, which is located inside the chamber!

2. for dismantling: tools and safety measures

Before removing the relay, make sure that you have everything you need. Here is the minimum set of tools:

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (PH2) - for unscrewing the compressor mounts.
• 🔧 Flat screwdriver - may be needed for prying. latches.
• 🔧 Pliers —for carefully removing the terminals.
• 🔧 Multimeter —to check the relay after dismantling.
• 📸 Smartphone — take a photo of the connection diagram before disconnecting the wires!

Also prepare your workplace:

• 🧹 Move the refrigerator away from the wall to gain access to the back panel.
• 🔌 Disconnect the refrigerator from the network —it is necessary to work under voltage! dangerous.
• 🧊 If the refrigerator was turned on, wait 10-15 minutes for the compressor to cool down.

Important! If your refrigerator Vestel equipped inverter compressor (for example, in models NK-6202WX), the relay can be built into the control board. In this case, independent repair is not recommended - it is better to contact a specialist.

⚠️ Attention: Do not touch the compressor pipes with bare hands if it has recently been running. The temperature can reach +90°C!

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

Now let's move on to the process itself. Follow the instructions strictly step by step to avoid mistakes:

1. Remove the back cover of the refrigerator.
   

   Usually it is attached to 4-6 screws. Carefully set it aside.

2. Find the compressor.
   

   It is black. a metal cylinder with tubes and a relay attached to the side.

3. Take a photo of the wire connections.
   

   This will help you reconnect them correctly. Pay attention to the colors and location of the terminals.

4. Disconnect the wires from the relay.
   

   Perhaps. You will need to slightly press the clamps or pry them with a screwdriver. Do not pull the wires - this can damage the terminals!

5. Remove the relay mount.
   

   Depending on the model, the relay can be attached:

   • 🔩 On screws (unscrew them with a Phillips screwdriver).
   • 🔗 On latches (gently press them with a flat screwdriver).
   • 🧲 On magnetic holder (just pull up).

Remove the relay from the compressor.

If it is “stuck”, do not use excessive force - try lightly rock it from side to side.

On some models Vestel (for example, CK-3350) the relay can be hidden under a protective coverIn this case:

1. Remove the casing by unscrewing 2-3 screws.
2. Under it you will see a relay attached to the compressor.
3. Further actions are the same as described above.

4. How to check the removed relay for operation

Before buying a new relay, make sure that the old one is really faulty. For this you will need multimeter. data-i="149">multimeter

1. Check the resistance between the terminals.
   

   Set the multimeter to resistance measurement mode (200 OhmConnect the probes to the relay contacts:

   • 🔌 Between S (start) and M (common) - the resistance should be 10–30 Ohm.
   • 🔌 Between S and L (line) - the resistance should tend to ∞ (open circuit).

Check the protective part of the relay.

If the relay is combined, shake it - there should be no extraneous sounds inside (for example, rattling). This may indicate damage to the bimetallic strip.

Check the heating element.

There should be resistance between the terminals M and L (depending on the model). If the multimeter shows 1–5 Ohm (depending on the model). If the multimeter shows 0 (short circuit) or ∞ (open), the relay is faulty.

Also inspect the relay visually:

• 🔥 Darkening or melting on the body - a sign overheating.
• 💧 Traces of rust —indicate moisture ingress.
• 🧲 Cracks on plastic —can lead to malfunction of the mechanism.

⚠️ Attention: If the multimeter shows unstable values (for example, the resistance “jumps”), this may indicate compressor malfunctionand not the relay. In this case, motor diagnostics will be required.

5. Typical mistakes when removing a relay and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to even more serious damage. Here are the most common of them:

• ❌ Mixed-up wires when connecting back.
  If you connect the wires incorrectly, the compressor can burn out in a few seconds! Always check the photograph taken before dismantling.
• ❌ Using excessive force when removing the relay.
  

  This may damage the compressor mounts or break the wires. If the relay cannot be removed, check that all the screws are unscrewed.

• ❌ Operation without disconnecting the refrigerator from the network.
  

  Even if the compressor is not working, voltage may remain on the control board. This is life-threatening!

• ❌ Buying a relay “by eye.”
  

  Relays for Vestel NK-3100 and Vestel CK-200 may look the same, but have different characteristics. Always check the markings!

Another common problem is damage to the sealing rubber on the compressor. If you accidentally break it when removing the relay, the compressor may begin to “suck” air, which will lead to increased load and overheating. In this case, the rubber must be replaced or sealed with silicone sealant.

What to do if, after replacing the relay, the compressor does not start?

If you are sure that the relay is working, but the compressor still does not work, check:

- Voltage in the socket (should be 220-230 V).

- Integrity of the compressor windings (check with a multimeter).

- Operation of the thermostat (perhaps it does not give a signal to start).

If the compressor hums but does not start, the problem may be in inter-turn short circuit the windings. In this case, the motor will need to be replaced.

6. Where to buy a new relay for a Vestel refrigerator

If diagnostics show that the relay is faulty, it needs to be replaced. Here's where you can find original and compatible parts:

• 🛒 Official service centers Vestel.
  

  Here you are guaranteed to get an original relay, but the price may be higher than analogues.

• 🛒 Online spare parts stores.
  

  Popular sites: Spare parts for refrigerators, 220-Volt, All-Zapchasti. Search by marking, for example: Relay DANFOSS 103N0210 for Vestel.

• 🛒 Markets or electronics stores.
  

  Here you can find universal relays (for example, RTK-1 or RTP-1), but they are not suitable for all models.

• 🛒 Used relay from disassembly.
  

  Cheap option, but risky - there is no guarantee that the part serviceable.

Average cost of a new relay for Vestel in 2026:

• 💰 Original relay Vestel OEM — 1 200–2 500 ₽.
• 💰 Analogue (DANFOSS, ASCO) — 800–1 500 ₽.
• 💰 Universal relay - 500–900 ₽.

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a relay, check whether it is suitable for refrigerant type in your refrigerator. For example, for models with R600a (isobutane) and R134a different relays may be required.

7. Installing a new relay: step-by-step algorithm

Installing a new relay is as easy as removing the old one. The main thing is to follow the reverse sequence of steps:

1. Compare. old and new relay.
   

   They must match in:

   • 🔌 Number and location of terminals.
   • 📏 Dimensions and shape of the case.
   • 🔤 Marking (if any).

Install the relay on the compressor.

Secure it in the same way as the old one (with screws, latches or a magnet).

Connect the wires.

Use the photo taken before dismantling. If in doubt, check the connection diagram. (usually it is in the instructions for the refrigerator).

Check the reliability of the fastenings.

Make sure that the relay is not loose and the contacts fit tightly.

Install the back cover of the refrigerator.

Tighten all the screws, but not tighten them.

Connect the refrigerator to the network and check the operation.

The compressor should start in 5-10 minutes. If it turns off immediately, there may be a connection error.

If after installing a new relay the refrigerator is unstable (it often turns off, does not gain temperature), check:

• 🔌 Correct connection of the wires.
• 🌡️ The operation of the thermostat (it may be incorrectly calibrated).
• ⚡ Network voltage (at low voltage the compressor may not start).

Frequently asked questions about the relay in Vestel refrigerators

❓ Is it possible to repair the relay yourself without buying a new one?

In most cases, the relay cannot be repaired, since it consists of a sealed housing with springs and contacts. However, sometimes it helps:

• 🔧 Cleaning contacts (if they are oxidized).
• 🔥 Replacing the heating element (in combined relays).

But such measures are temporary. For reliable operation, it is better to install a new relay.

❓ How to distinguish a faulty relay from a faulty one. burnt out compressor?

Main symptoms:

• 🔊 The relay clicks, but the compressor does not start → problem in the relay or motor starting winding.
• 🔇 The relay is silent, the compressor does not respond → the thermostat is faulty or open circuit.
• 🔥 The compressor hums, but does not start, the relay is hot → interturn short circuit in the motor.

Accurate diagnostics can only be carried out multimeter.

❓ Is the relay from the Atlant refrigerator suitable for Vestel?

In some cases - yes, but only if:

• 🔧 The relay has the same terminals and resistance.
• 📏 Suitable for dimensions and mounting.
• 🔋 Designed for the same compressor power.

It is better not to take risks and buy a relay designed specifically for Vestel.

❓ How long does it take to replace a relay?

If you have the tools and experience - 20–40 minutes. Beginners may need up to 1–1.5 hours, especially if you have to disassemble the protective casing or look for a connection diagram.

❓ Is it possible to start a refrigerator without a relay?

Technically yes, but highly not recommendedWithout a relay:

• ⚡ The compressor may burn from overload.
• 🔥 There is no protection against overheating.
• ⚠️ The refrigerator will work unstable.

If the relay burns out and a new one is not at hand, you can temporarily connect the compressor via starting capacitor, but this is risky!