The situation when the refrigerator Beko stops freezing, but continues to hum or, conversely, is silent, often indicates problems in the electrical circuit engine. In most cases, the culprit of the malfunction is the starting relay, which is responsible for starting the motor-compressor. This is a small but critically important part, without which refrigeration unit it will not be able to start working or will constantly try to start, making characteristic clicks.
Independent replacement of this component is a completely solvable task for a person who has minimal skills in handling tools and understands the basics of electrical safety. However, before you begin active actions, you must clearly understand that any work with electrical appliances requires a complete disconnection from the network. Refrigerator repair It starts not with a screwdriver, but with ensuring your own safety and preparing the workplace.
In this article we will look in detail at how to identify a fault, what tools will be needed and how to do it correctly remove the old relay from the compressor Beko. We will also look at the nuances of diagnosing and installing a new part so that you can return your refrigerator to functionality without calling a technician.
Diagnostics of a faulty start relay
The first sign that starting relay has failed is the characteristic sound of the unit. The refrigerator may turn on, hum for a few seconds, and then hear a loud click, after which the motor stops. After some time, the cycle repeats. This means that the motor windings are receiving power, but the rotor cannot be started, and thermal relay the protection switches off the circuit to prevent overheating.
Another scenario is complete silence. If, when turned on, the refrigerator does not make any sounds, although the light inside is on, this may indicate that the contacts inside the relay have oxidized or burned out completely, and the circuit simply does not close. In some models Beko a faulty relay can also cause knockout of plugs or circuit breakers in the panel.
⚠️ Attention: If, when you try to turn on the refrigerator, you smell a burning smell or see sparking in the compressor area, immediately stop trying to start and remove the plug from the socket. Further operation in this condition may lead to a fire.
For a more accurate diagnosis, a visual inspection and a “shaking test” can be performed. The removed relay (we'll tell you how to remove it below) should not make rattling sounds when shaken. If something is loose inside, it means the mechanical part is destroyed. Also pay attention to the condition of the plastic: blackening or melting of the case is a sure sign that the part must be unconditionally replaced.
Checking the integrity of the contacts using a multimeter gives the most accurate result. In normal condition, the resistance of the coil and contacts should correspond to the technical parameters of the specific model. If the device shows a break or short circuit, then electrical circuit it is broken, and restoration of the part is impossible - replacement is required.
Required tools and safety measures
Before starting disassembly, you must prepare a minimum set of tools. You don't need complex professional equipment; a basic home DIY kit is enough. The main thing is to make sure that all the tools are in good condition and the insulation on them is not damaged, since the work will be carried out in close proximity to electrical components.
- 🔧 Screwdrivers: Phillips and flat (for removing the back cover and dismantling the clamps).
- 🔌 Pliers: will be needed for carefully removing the terminals and fixing them wires.
- 🧤 Dielectric gloves: additional protection when working with electrical contacts.
- 🧼 Contact cleaner spray: for removing oxides from connectors before installing a new part.
It is strictly forbidden to carry out any manipulations with the electrical components of the refrigerator while it is connected to the network. Even after unplugging from the outlet, a residual charge may remain in the capacitors, so let the device sit for 10-15 minutes before starting work. This simple rule will protect you from unpleasant surprises.
It is also important to ensure good lighting of the work area. The back of the refrigerator is often covered in a layer of dust, and poor light can cause you to miss a small crack in a wire or connect a terminal incorrectly. If the room is dark, use a portable lamp or flashlight. Beko often covered in a layer of dust, and poor light may cause you to miss a small crack in the wire or connect a terminal incorrectly. If the room is dark, use a portable lamp or flashlight.
☑️ Preparation for repair
Access to the compressor and removal of the protective cover
The compressor in refrigerators Beko is located in the lower rear part of the case. To access it, you need to move the unit away from the wall, ensuring free passage on all sides. Do not forget that the refrigerator is heavy, so it is better to carry out this operation together so as not to damage the floor or back.
On the back wall you will see a metal or plastic panel covering the engine compartment. It is usually secured with several screws around the perimeter. Use the appropriate screwdriver to unscrew them. In some models, the panel may be held on by latches, which requires careful prying with a flat tool.
After removing the panel, a view of the compressor will open - this is a black “tank” of a cylindrical or spherical shape. A plastic box is attached to the side or top of it, to which the wires fit. It is inside this box that our desired start relayis located. Before touching metal parts, touch a grounded object to discharge static electricity.
Pay attention to the condition of the tubes leaving the compressor. They must not have traces of oil or mechanical damage. If you notice oily leaks in the area of the pipes, this may indicate depressurization of the system, and repairs may require more serious intervention than simply replacing the relay.
The process of dismantling the old relay
Dismantling begins with disconnecting the electrical wires. A harness fits to the relay and is secured with terminals. Carefully, without jerking, remove the connectors. If they are stuck or rusty, do not use brute force - it is better to spray them with a cleaning spray or carefully pry them off with pliers, being careful not to damage the contacts themselves.
The relay itself is mounted on the compressor rod (three contact pins). It can be additionally secured with a metal bracket or a plastic retainer. If there is a staple, it must be loosened with pliers. Then the relay body must be carefully removed from the pins by shaking it from side to side. Sudden movements can break the ceramic base or oxide layer on the contacts of the compressor.
- 📸 Take a photo of the location of the wires before disconnecting, so as not to mix up the polarity during assembly.
- 🧊 Let the compressor cool completely if it has been running recently, so as not to get burned on metal parts.
- 🔍 Inspect the pins on the compressor: they should be smooth and clean, without carbon deposits.
It is important to remember the orientation of the relay. The housing usually has a marking UP or an arrow indicating the top position. Incorrect installation of a new part (upside down) will result in the refrigerator not working or the new part burning out. Connection diagram must be reproduced exactly.
Nuances of relay mounting
In some Beko models, relays can be integrated into a common control unit or have a non-standard mounting. If you see that the relay is filled with compound or is part of a complex electronic module, replacing it yourself may not be possible without special equipment. In such cases, it is better to contact a service center.
Compatibility and relay characteristics table
When purchasing a new spare part, it is extremely important to take into account its characteristics. Relay for Beko may differ in power, type (RTK, RTO, posistronic) and contact location. Using an unsuitable part will lead to rapid failure of both the relay itself and the compressor.
| Relay type | Motor power (W) | Design features | Frequency of faults |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTK (Heat Protective) | up to 150 | Has a heating element and a bimetallic plate | High |
| Posistor (PTC) | 150 - 300 | Contains a ceramic element that changes resistance | Medium |
| Combined | up to 250 | Combines start-up and thermal protection functions in one housing | Low |
| Electronic | Any | Controlled by a microprocessor, rarely found in older models | Low |
When choosing an analogue, please pay attention attention not only to the brand, but also to the labeling. The numbers on the case, such as 12-15A or 220Vmust match the original. If it is impossible to find an exact analogue, it is permissible to install a universal relay with similar parameters, but this requires precise tuning or selection.
You should not chase the lowest price. Cheap Chinese analogues often have low quality plastic and contacts, which leads to repeated failure after a few months. Original spare parts Or certified replacements from well-known brands will last much longer.
Installing a new relay and assembling the system
Installation is carried out in the reverse order. First make sure the new relay is oriented correctly (marking up or arrow). Carefully push it onto the compressor pins as far as it will go. Do not use excessive force - the part should fit tightly, but without distortion.
Then connect the electrical terminals. They should snap into place with a characteristic click. If the terminal is loose, you can gently tighten it with pliers, but be careful not to crack the relay housing. After connecting, check again whether all the wires are connected according to the photographs or diagram taken earlier.
Attach the fixing bracket or plastic holder, if provided by the design. Make sure that the relay is not loose and is securely attached to the compressor housing. The vibration of a running motor should not loosen the connection.
Now you can replace the protective back cover and screw it in place. Do not leave the compressor open as this will cause dust to accumulate and possibly cause a short circuit. After assembly, let the refrigerator stand in the off state for another 10-15 minutes before starting it for the first time.
First launch and performance check
After everything is assembled, turn on the refrigerator. In the first seconds you can hear a hum, which after 1-3 seconds should be replaced by the smooth sound of a running compressor. If you hear a click and the motor stops talking, it means that the problem is not solved or the new part is faulty/does not fit.
Pay attention to the operation of the refrigerator compartment. Within 30-40 minutes the inside should become noticeably colder. If your refrigerator Beko equipped with a digital display, check to see if it displays error codes related to temperature or motor operation. The absence of errors is a good sign.
⚠️ Attention: If, after replacing the relay, the compressor runs continuously without stopping for more than 2 hours and does not reach the desired temperature, this may indicate a freon leak or a thermostat malfunction. In this case, replacing the relay was only a partial solution.
Regularly check the temperature in the chamber using an external thermometer during the first day of operation. This will help ensure that the operating cycle (on/off) is correct. For modern models, a normal mode is considered to be in which the motor runs about 30-40% of the total time.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to repair an old one? relay, and not change it?
Theoretically, if the problem is only burnt contacts, they can be cleaned. However, given the low cost of a new part and the high probability of repeated failure of the restored relay, repair is considered impractical. In addition, there may be a burnt-out coil or a destroyed posistor inside, which cannot be repaired.
Why did the relay burn out? What is the reason?
The main reasons: frequent power surges in the network, wear and tear as a result of long-term operation, overheating of the compressor due to contamination of the condenser (grid at the back) or a malfunction of the motor itself (turn-to-turn short circuit), which consumes increased current.
Will a relay from another refrigerator be suitable for Beko?
Only if the technical characteristics match: engine power, connection type (2 or 3 contacts), voltage and overall dimensions. Visual similarity does not guarantee performance. Always check the markings.
How long does it take to replace a relay?
For an experienced technician, this process takes 15-20 minutes. For a beginner who acts carefully and according to the instructions, this can take about 40-60 minutes, including diagnostics and preparation.
What to do if the new relay clicks, but the compressor does not start?
This may mean that the compressor itself is jammed (mechanical failure inside the motor) or a problem in the motor windings. It is also possible that the new relay is defective. Try lightly tapping the compressor housing (not too hard!) during startup - sometimes this helps to move the rotor, but this is a temporary measure.