The situation when your Ariston Hotpoint refrigerator stops cooling or makes a characteristic click, and then silence, often indicates a malfunction of the start-up relay. This small but critical unit is responsible for starting the engine and protecting against overloads. If the compressor hums but does not start, or, conversely, is silent, the problem in most cases lies precisely in this element of the electrical circuit.
Replacing the relay yourself is a real opportunity to save on calling a technician, since the dismantling process itself does not require complex specialized equipment. However, working with electrical appliances always carries the risk of electric shock. Therefore, before starting any manipulations, it is necessary to strictly observe safety precautions and clearly understand the structure of the unit.
In this article we will analyze in detail how to correctly and safely remove the relay from your compressor Hotpoint refrigerator, how to determine the type of installed device and what to look for when inspecting the contacts. Correctly performed dismantling is half the success of the repair, allowing you to avoid damage to the compressor tubes or the motor itself.
Fault diagnosis and tool preparation
Before proceeding with disassembly, you need to make sure that the problem really lies in the relay. The main signs of failure of this component are frequent clicks at intervals of several seconds, failure to start the motor when the light in the chamber is on, as well as heating of the compressor housing without it starting to work. Sometimes the relay may simply not show signs of life, which indicates a complete break in the circuit.
To carry out the work, you will need a minimum set of tools, which can be found in every home. The main thing is to prepare everything in advance so as not to leave the unit open for a long time. The main tools will be:
- 🔧 A flathead and Phillips screwdriver (the sizes depend on the model of screws in your Ariston).
- 🔦 A powerful flashlight for illuminating the engine compartment.
- 🧤 Dielectric gloves to protect your hands.
- 📸 Smartphone for photographing the wiring diagram.
It is important to note that in some models Hotpoint refrigerators the relay can be combined with a capacitor, forming a single unit. Visually inspect the back wall: if you see a plastic box placed directly on the compressor rod, most likely we are talking about a classic one. starting relay. If there is a bundle of insulated wires going to the motor, you may have an inverter model, where the relay is located in the electronic control unit.
⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator is under warranty, independently removing the seals from the compressor unit may lead to denial of warranty service. In such cases, it is better to contact an authorized service.
Safety measures when working with the compressor
Working with the back of the refrigerator requires increased caution. The compressor is not only an electric motor, but also part of a sealed system filled with refrigerant under pressure. Inaccurate movement can lead to damage to copper tubes, which will result in freon leakage. and expensive repairs.
The first and most important step is to completely disconnect the device from the power supply. It is not enough to simply turn off the button, if there is one, you must unplug the plug. After this, you should wait at least 10-15 minutes for the capacitors in the electrical circuit to discharge and the pressure in the system to decrease.
It is also worth paying attention to. condition of the floor and the environment. Do not carry out repairs in a damp bathroom or in a wet kitchen. If the floor is concrete, lay a rubber mat or a dry wooden board to avoid short circuits. When working with Ariston refrigerator try not to pull the wires by force - plastic clips become brittle over time and break easily.
Another important aspect is the temperature regime. If the refrigerator has just been running and the compressor is hot, let it cool completely. This will protect you from burns and allow you to work more comfortably in a confined niche space.
Access to the engine compartment of the Ariston refrigerator
In refrigerators Hotpoint Ariston access to the compressor is usually carried out from behind. Depending on the model, the compressor can be opened immediately or closed with a protective panel. In modern models, a metal or plastic cover is often used, secured with screws or clips.
If your unit has a rear panel, carefully unscrew all the fasteners in a container so that they do not get lost. After removing the cover, you will have a view of the motor-compressor and condenser. (black coil) and, in fact, the relay itself, mounted on the engine rod.
Sometimes access can be difficult due to accumulated dust and cobwebs. In this case, it is recommended to carefully vacuum the engine compartment using a soft nozzle. Dust on the relay can create a conductive layer that provokes a breakdown, so keep this unit clean. is important.
Types of relays in Hotpoint refrigerators and their features
Understanding which relay is installed in yours refrigerator, is critical for proper dismantling. In technology Ariston Hotpoint most often there are two main types of devices: posistor (starting) and induction. They differ in their operating principle and appearance, although they are mounted in a similar way.
Posistor relays are compact plastic ones. boxes, often black or gray. Inside them there is a ceramic element (posistor), which, when heated, changes the resistance, opening the starting winding. Such relays are usually easily removed, as they are held by friction and clamps.
Induction relays have a more complex design with a coil and a movable core. They are heavier and are often equipped with an additional thermal protection relay. models Hotpoint they can be combined, where the starting and protective devices are combined into one housing. The type can be determined by the markings on the housing or by the number of contacts.
Step-by-step instructions for removing the relay
The dismantling process requires care and sequence. Do not use excessive force, as the plastic of old refrigerators becomes very brittle. Follow the algorithm so as not to damage adjacent components.
First, you need to remove the protective cover, if there is one. Often the relay is closed with a metal or plastic bracket, which is secured with a spring or screw. If a screw is visible, unscrew it. If there is a spring bracket, carefully bend it flat. with a screwdriver.
Then you should disconnect the electrical connectors. The wires approach the relay through the terminal block. By pressing the clamps of the block, remove it from the relay contacts. Do not pull on the wires themselves - this can lead to their breakage at the base.
The most critical point is to remove the relay from the compressor rod. It is put on. tightly, on friction.Grip the relay with both hands (or use pliers with soft jaws wrapped in a cloth) and, shaking it from side to side, gently pull it down. network
☑️ Relay removal algorithm
After removal, inspect the inside of the relay. If there are traces of burning, melted plastic or a characteristic burning smell, the device definitely needs to be replaced. Also check the contacts on the compressor rod - they should be clean, free of oxides.
⚠️ Attention: When removing the relay, make sure that moisture, dust or small parts do not get inside the open compressor. The holes on the rod must remain sealed until the new element is installed.
Compatibility and markings table
When selecting a new relay, it is important to take into account not only the brand of the refrigerator, but also the characteristics of the compressor itself. In technology Ariston motors from different manufacturers can be used (Danfoss, Secop, Embraco, Aspera), and their relays may differ in mounting location and electrical parameters.
|Electronic unit|Integrated into the board|Low (the relays themselves rarely break)|
| Compressor type | Characteristic marking of the relay | Mounting features | Frequency of use in Ariston |
|---|---|---|---|
| Danfoss / Secop | 101N0011, 101N0021 | Vertical, 3 pins | High (old models) |
| Embraco | R6, R4, PTM | Horizontal or vertical | Medium |
| Aspera (Tecumseh) | PTT, PTC series | Universal | High (new models) |
| Inverter |
Please note that the markings on the relay body are the key to finding an analogue. Even if you have not found the original Hotpoint, a compatible analogue with the same parameters (power, type of refrigerant, installation position) will work correctly.
Is it possible to install a relay of a different power?
Theoretically, it is possible if the seat matches. However, a relay with a lower power will burn out faster, and a relay with a larger power may not open the circuit, which will lead to the combustion of the compressor winding. It is better to look for an exact analogue.
Frequent errors during dismantling and installation
One of the most common mistakes is ignoring the orientation of the relay. There is often an arrow or inscription on the device body indicating how it should be installed relative to the compressor axis. If you place a posistor relay upside down, it will not work or will burn out instantly. UP / TOP, indicating how it should be installed relative to the compressor axis. If you place a posistor relay upside down, it will not work or will burn out instantly.
Another mistake is poor terminal contact. When reinstalling, make sure that the connectors snap into place until you hear a characteristic click. The vibration of a running compressor can loosen a poorly seated contact, which will lead to sparking and heating.
Some craftsmen try to clean the contacts of the old relay with sandpaper and put it back. In the case of posistors, this is meaningless, since the ceramic element itself degrades, and not just the contacts. This measure gives only a temporary effect.
Also do not forget about the thermal fuse if it comes with or is built into the relay. Check its integrity with a multimeter. If it “rings”, then the circuit is intact. If not, it also needs to be changed.
Checking performance after replacement
After the new relay is installed, do not rush to close the back cover. Plug in the refrigerator and listen. The compressor should start confidently without a series of clicks. The motor should start running smoothly, without humming or vibration.
During the first 10–15 minutes of operation, periodically (carefully!) touch the body of the new relay. It shouldn't get too hot. Only a slight increase in temperature is acceptable. If the relay gets hot, immediately turn off the device, the problem is due to incorrect selection or installation.
Make sure that cold has begun to accumulate in the chambers. This can take from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the model Ariston refrigerator. If the cold has started, but there is no noise, the repair can be considered successful.
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the relay the compressor does not start again or the machine in the panel knocks out, the problem may be deeper - in the compressor itself (interturn short circuit) or in the wiring. In this case, professional diagnostics are required.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to replace the relay with a universal one if the original is not found?
Yes, you can. The main thing is that the electrical parameters (current, voltage) and the geometry of the seat on the compressor rod match. Universal relays often come with a set of adapters for different types of motors.
Why did the new relay burn out after a week?
A common reason is unstable voltage in the network or a malfunction of the compressor itself (difficult starting, jamming). It is also possible that the relay was installed with the wrong side up.
Is it necessary to change the capacitor when replacing the relay?
If the capacitor is a separate element and is not visually damaged (not swollen, not leaking), it is not necessary to change it. However, if it comes in a single unit with a relay, the entire assembly must be replaced.
How much does it cost to replace a relay in a service?
The cost consists of the price of the part and the work of the technician. On average, replacement work takes 20-30 minutes, but calling a specialist can cost more than the part itself.