Brand refrigerators Biryusa deservedly popular due to their reliability, but even the highest quality equipment eventually fails building. One of the most common reasons why a compressor stops working is a faulty start-up relay. This small but critical element is responsible for starting the motor and protecting its windings from overloads. If you notice that your refrigerator has stopped freezing, and the motor hums for a couple of seconds and clicks when it turns off, the problem with a 90% probability lies in this unit.
The appearance of the relay may differ significantly depending on the year of manufacture of the model Biryusa and the type of compressor installed. Older models often feature massive black plastic cases, while modern versions are equipped with compact white or gray modules. Understanding exactly what this part looks like in your modification is necessary for the correct selection of spare parts for repairs. An error in selection can lead to re-combustion of the compressor or simply prevent the unit from starting.
In this article we will analyze in detail the visual differences between the different types of relays used in refrigerators Biryusa. You will learn how to distinguish an induction device from a posistor device, what markings to look for on the case and what to pay attention to during the initial inspection. Competent diagnostics begins with a visual analysis, and knowledge of design features will help you save time on finding the right spare part.
Design and purpose of the starting relay
The starting relay is an electromechanical switch that supplies voltage to the starting winding of the compressor only at the moment launch. As soon as the motor rotor reaches the required speed, the relay opens the starting winding circuit, and the motor continues to operate on the main winding. In refrigerators Biryusa this element is often combined with a thermal protective device that turns off the power in case of overheating or current overload. Start relay is the link between the electrical network and the motor of the refrigeration unit.
The device body is usually made of heat-resistant plastic, which protects the internal contacts from dust and moisture. Inside there are moving and fixed contacts, an inductor or a posistor (thermistor), as well as an opening mechanism. Visually on the case you can see holes for the compressor pins and terminals for connecting wires. It is by the location of these holes and the shape of the case that the compatibility of a part with a specific model is often determined. Biryusa.
It is important to understand that the relay operates under harsh conditions: constant vibrations, temperature changes and electrical loads lead to wear of the contacts. Over time, the silver on the contacts burns out, and the spring mechanism weakens. Thermal protection, built into the housing, can also lose its properties, ceasing to respond to dangerous heating of the windings. Therefore, a visual inspection should include checking not only the integrity of the housing, but also the condition of the internal elements, if it is possible to see them.
Basic types of relays used in Biryusa
Over the long history of refrigerator production Biryusa engineers have used various types of starting devices. The most common are two main types: induction (electromagnetic) and posistor (thermal). Induction relays, often found in older Soviet and post-Soviet models, have a more complex mechanical design with a moving core. PTC analogues, typical of modern models, work on the principle of changing resistance when heated and do not have moving mechanical parts in the trigger circuit.
An induction relay is easily recognized by the characteristic sound of operation and the presence of a movable rod inside. When voltage is applied, current passes through the coil, creating a magnetic field that draws in the core and closes the contacts of the starting winding. A posistor relay looks like a small tablet or disk inside a plastic case. When current is applied, the posistor heats up, its resistance increases sharply, and the current in the starting winding practically stops. Relay type directly affects the fault finding algorithm and diagnostic method.
Relays are also classified according to the mounting method: on a bracket or directly on the pins compressor. In refrigerators Biryusa the most common option is direct fitting onto the compressor terminals, which simplifies the design, but requires an exact match of the mounting dimensions. Some models are equipped with a relay with a remote mount, where a separate wiring harness leads to the compressor, and the unit itself is mounted on the frame or wall of the refrigerator compartment.
- 🔹 Induction relays: massive black case, a characteristic click is heard when starting, the presence of a movable mechanical core inside.
- 🔹 Posistor relays: compact white or gray case, operate almost silently (except for the click of the protection), inside there is a ceramic element.
- 🔹 Combined blocks: combine start-up and protection functions in a single non-separable case, often have a specific “cup” shape.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to install an inductive relay instead of a posistor relay or vice versa without checking the connection diagram. Despite the external similarity of the terminals, their operating principles are different, and the compressor can burn out after a few minutes of operation.
Visual signs of a part malfunction
You can determine that the relay has failed not only by the absence of cold, but also by a number of visual and sound signs. The first alarm signal is a characteristic clicking sound: the compressor tries to start, a click is heard, the motor hums for 2-3 seconds and clicks again, after which there is silence. This cycle can repeat indefinitely until you unplug the refrigerator. At this moment starting device does not perform its function of opening or closing the circuit at the right moment.
When externally examining the removed relay, pay attention to the condition of the plastic. If the case is melted, blackened or has cracks, this indicates overheating of the internal contacts or breakdown of the insulation. Often on the inside of the cover you can see traces of soot or soot, which indicates sparking of the contacts. In some cases, if you shake the relay near your ear, you can hear the sound of internal parts falling off - this is a sure sign that the part requires immediate replacement.
Another important visual marker is the condition of the contacts on the connector. If the pins that are inserted into the compressor have oxides, green deposits or signs of corrosion, the contact will be unstable. This results in a voltage drop and the inability to generate sufficient force to start the engine. Also check the integrity of the wires going to the relay: the insulation should not be frayed or melted. Oxidation of contacts is a common cause of false diagnostics when a working relay is replaced without cleaning the terminals.
☑️ Relay diagnostics refrigerator
Compatibility and markings table
When selecting spare parts for a refrigerator Biryusa it is extremely important to focus not only on the appearance, but also on the markings on the body. Compressor manufacturers (for example Atlant, Donbass, Secop) use different designation standards. The table below shows the main types of relays that are found in various series of refrigerators Biryusa, and their visual differences.
| Relay type | Marking on the body | Appearance | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Posistor | RTK-X, R-3, 100M | Black or white plastic case, 3 pins in a row | Atlant compressors, old Biryusa |
| Induction | P-1, P-2, P-4 | Massive black case, often with a metal bracket | Soviet models, powerful compressor |
| Combined | 33.604, 117M20 | Compact white “cup”, put on top | Modern models Biryusa, Secop |
| Universal | PTC (no number) | Small black tablet inside the case | Requires selection by current and diameter |
Please note that markings may be erased or difficult to read due to use. In such cases, it is necessary to count the number of compressor pins and measure their diameter. A standard compressor has three terminals arranged in a triangle. The distance between the centers of the pins and their thickness are key parameters. Relay markings Also indicates the rated current for which it is designed, which is critical for operational safety.
If you find a relay with similar markings, but from a different manufacturer (for example, Atlant instead of the original Biryusa), make sure that the refrigerant type and compressor power are the same. Modern universal relays often have a wide range of operating currents, making them suitable for replacing several models of original parts. However, it is best to look for a complete analogue using the catalog number indicated in the technical documentation.
Where can I find the marking?
The marking is usually applied to the top edge of the case or to the side wall next to terminals. If the paint has worn off, try carefully rinsing the case with alcohol - sometimes remnants of numbers are visible under a layer of dirt.
Instructions for removing and replacing the relay
Replacing the start relay is a procedure accessible even to a beginner, but requires compliance with safety precautions. Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the electrical outlet. Unplug the unit and move the unit away from the wall to gain access to the rear. Remove the cardboard or plastic cover covering the compressor area by unscrewing the mounting screws or removing the latches.
Locate the compressor - this is the black metal “barrel” at the bottom of the refrigerator. The relay is usually placed directly on the side of its pins. Carefully remove the retaining bracket or bar, if present. Then grab the relay body and, slightly rocking it from side to side, pull it towards you. Do not use excessive force to avoid damaging the compressor tubes. If the relay is stuck, you can gently tap it with the handle of a screwdriver, but it is better to use a special contact cleaning agent.
After removing the part, inspect the seat on the compressor. The pins must be clean, without traces of burning. The new relay is installed in the reverse order: align the holes with the pins and press firmly until it stops. Make sure the relay sits straight and does not wobble. Secure the fixing bar and check the reliability of the wire connections. Replacing the relay Completed, you can turn on the refrigerator and listen to the motor start.
⚠️ Attention: The compressor may be hot after prolonged operation. Let it cool for 30-40 minutes before dismantling, so as not to get burned and not to damage the sensitive elements of the relay due to temperature changes.
Common mistakes in diagnostics and selection
One of the most common mistakes is replacing the relay without checking the compressor itself. If the refrigerator motor Biryusa has an interturn short circuit or jamming, the new relay will burn out after a few seconds or minutes of operation. Therefore, if after replacing the part the situation repeats, it is necessary to check the resistance of the motor windings. Compressor malfunction Often disguised as a breakdown of the starting equipment.
Another mistake is using a relay with the wrong one current range. Installing a relay that is too powerful may result in it not turning off the starting winding in time, causing the motor to overheat. A relay that is too weak, on the contrary, will not be able to start the compressor, and the protection will constantly operate. Carefully study the technical specifications indicated on the case. Universal relays with adjustable parameters require precise adjustment, which is difficult to do at home.
Some craftsmen try to “reanimate” an old relay by stripping the contacts or knocking out the insides. In modern sealed enclosures this is almost impossible to do efficiently. An attempt to disassemble most often leads to final breakdown of the mechanism. In addition, the seal is broken, and moisture gets inside, which causes corrosion. It is better to purchase a new part, the cost of which is disproportionately lower than the risk of losing products and repairing the compressor.
- 🔸 Ignoring the condition of the wiring: replacing the relay without checking the wires may be useless if the cable is broken.
- 🔸 Incorrect orientation: some relays only work in a certain position (arrow UP), installation upside down will disturb work.
- 🔸 Lack of fixation: if the relay dangles on the pins, vibration will quickly destroy the contacts or lead to sparking.
When choosing a spare part in a store, do not hesitate to compare the weight of the parts. A high-quality relay is usually heavier than its cheap counterparts due to the use of copper in the coils and high-quality housing materials. Light parts that “rattle” when shaken often turn out to be defective or refurbished. Trust trusted brands and specialized stores of spare parts for household appliances.
Is it possible to use a relay from another refrigerator on Biryusa?
Yes, you can if the electrical parameters (current, voltage) and geometric dimensions of the seat match. Relays from Atlant, Indesit or Stinol refrigerators with similar compressors are often suitable. The main thing is the correspondence of the type (induction/posistor) and the current load.
Why does the relay heat up during operation?
A slight heating of the housing is acceptable, since electric current passes inside. However, if the relay becomes too hot to touch, it is a sign of overload, poor contact, or a faulty compressor. In this case, operation should be stopped.
How much does it cost to replace a relay in a service?
The cost consists of the price of the part itself (usually from 300 to 1000 rubles) and the work of the technician. In service centers, the price with work can range from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles, depending on the region and the complexity of access to the node.
How to check a relay with a multimeter?
You need to ring the circuit between the contacts. In the initial state, the starting winding circuit can be open (for induction) or closed (for posistors in a cold state). The resistance should be close to zero when closed and infinity when open. The exact test scheme depends on the type of device.
What to do if the new relay clicks, but the refrigerator does not turn on?
This may mean that the relay is working, but the problem is in the compressor (jammed piston) or in the wiring. It is also possible that a relay with an inappropriate operating current has been selected. It is necessary to measure the starting current and the resistance of the motor windings.