How to replace the start relay on an Atlant refrigerator: a complete guide

The situation when the refrigerator Atlant suddenly stops cooling, and the compressor either hums, but does not start, or it clicks and immediately goes silent, familiar to many owners of this equipment. Most often, the reason for this behavior is the failure of start relay a small but critical element of the electrical circuit. It is this that supplies the starting impulse to the motor winding, allowing it to gain the necessary speed.

Fortunately, replacing this part does not require calling a specialist and complex professional equipment. DIY Repair in this case it is quite possible and allows you to save a significant amount, since the part itself is inexpensive, and the replacement process takes from 15 to 30 minutes. The main thing is to observe safety precautions and strictly follow the algorithm of actions described in this article.

Before starting disassembly, you need to make sure that the problem lies in the relay, and not in the compressor or thermostat itself. If you hear characteristic clicks and the engine tries to start, but immediately stalls, the probability of a faulty starting device is more than 80%. In this article we will analyze all the nuances of diagnostics, selection of a new spare part and its installation.

The principle of operation and symptoms of a malfunction of the starting relay

The starting relay in refrigerators Atlant performs the function of an automatic switch. When the compressor is turned on, it supplies voltage to the starting winding, creating the necessary torque. As soon as the motor rotor reaches the desired speed, the relay opens the starting winding circuit, and the motor continues to operate on the main winding. If this mechanism is broken, starting becomes impossible.

There are several obvious signs indicating that start relay requires replacement. First of all, these are periodic clicks from the rear of the unit, accompanied by attempts to start the engine. Also, a malfunction may be indicated by strong heating of the compressor housing in the absence of cold in the chambers.

• 🔊 The compressor hums for 5-10 seconds, then a click is heard and it goes silent.
• 🔥 The motor housing gets very hot, although the refrigerator does not freezes.
• 💡 The light inside is on, but ventilation and cooling do not work.
• ⚡ You can hear the smell of burning or melted plastic in the compressor area.

It is important to understand that ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious consequences, including combustion itself compressor. Constant attempts to start without a successful start create overcurrent, which is destructive to the motor windings. Therefore, at the first signs of unstable operation, diagnostics should be carried out.

⚠️ Attention: If, after several attempts to turn on, you feel a persistent burning smell or see sparking, immediately unplug the refrigerator. Further operation in this mode is a fire hazard.

Sometimes the cause may be not only mechanical wear of the contacts, but also moisture ingress or oxidation of the terminals. However, in most cases, especially in models Atlant older than 5-7 years, it is necessary to replace the part with a new one.

Diagnostics and preparation for repair

Before buying a new spare part, it is necessary to carry out an initial diagnosis in order to finally be convinced of the culprit breakdowns. To do this, you will need a minimum set of tools: a screwdriver, pliers and, preferably, a multimeter for testing the circuit. Without an electrical check, a “random” replacement may not work if the problem lies deeper.

First you need to gain access to the compressor. The refrigerator Atlant is moved away from the wall, providing access to the rear panel. The compressor is usually located in the lower niche, covered with a casing. Remove the protective cover by unscrewing the fastening screws or releasing the latches.

On the shank of the compressor you will see a black plastic box - this is the starting relay. Carefully remove it by squeezing the latches. Inside, you may see burnt contacts or even smell a burning smell, which will be the final confirmation of the need for replacement. If there are no visual defects, use a multimeter in continuity mode.

Check the integrity of the contacts: if the circuit does not ring or, conversely, rings constantly (short circuit), the part is faulty. It is also worth inspecting the wires going to the relay: they should be intact, without traces of melted insulation.

If the diagnostics have confirmed that the relay is broken, we proceed to selecting a suitable replacement. It is important to choose a model that matches the power of your compressor.

Choosing a compatible starting relay for Atlant

Refrigerators Atlant are equipped with compressors from various manufacturers, including the Minsk plant’s own designs, as well as motors Secop (formerly Danfoss) and Embraco. Therefore, there is no universal relay “for all Atlants” - it is necessary to select the part strictly for the compressor model.

There is always a marking on the body of the old relay. This can be an alphanumeric code (for example, RT, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6) or a series designation. For compressors Atlant relays of the RTK or RSO series are most often used. The number in the name indicates the permissible current and power of the motor.

• 🔍 RTK-1 — for low-power single-phase compressors (up to 1/8 hp).
• 🔍 RTK-2 — for medium-power engines (up to 1/4 hp).
• 🔍 RTK-3 —for more powerful units (up to 1/3 hp).
• 🔍 R-1, R-2, R-3 —analogues for Danfoss/Secop compressors.

When purchasing, pay attention not only to the markings, but also to the type of contact connection. They should match the connector on your compressor. If you are not sure of the choice, it is better to remove the old relay and photograph its markings to show the seller or find an exact analogue in the catalog.

Can a universal relay be used?

Universal relays often have a wide range of operating currents, but their installation requires resoldering contacts or using adapters. For the Atlant refrigerator, it is better to use original spare parts or direct analogues (RTK, RSO), as they guarantee correct operation of the protective mechanism and long service life of the compressor.

It is not recommended to use a relay with a lower rated current than required. This will lead to its rapid burnout. Using a part with a large power reserve is also undesirable, since the protection may not work in time in an emergency.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the relay

The process of replacing the start relay on the refrigerator Atlant is technically simple, but requires care. The most important rule: all work is carried out only with the power supply completely disconnected from the network. Do not neglect this rule to save a couple of minutes.

First remove the old relay. It is held on the compressor terminals due to friction and clamps. Gently rock the piece from side to side and pull it down. Do not use excessive force to avoid damaging the copper tubes or motor leads.

Next, you need to disconnect the wires. In some models Atlant wires are inserted into the relay terminals, in others they can be soldered. If the wires are at the terminals, simply pull them out with pliers. If they are soldered, you will need a soldering iron: heat the contact and carefully remove the solder, freeing the wire.

Install the new relay in the reverse order of removal. Insert the wire terminals into the corresponding sockets of the new housing. Make sure they fit snugly and don't wobble. Then slide the relay onto the three pins of the compressor. It should go in all the way, and the marking (usually an arrow or the inscription UP) should look up.

After installation, check the reliability of the fastening. The relay should not fall off when slightly shaken. If everything is done correctly, you can replace the compressor protective casing and turn on the refrigerator.

⚠️ Attention: When installing, pay attention to the orientation of the relay. An incorrect position (for example, upside down) will disrupt the operation of the internal mechanism and can lead to instantaneous combustion of the new part.

The first start after replacement may be accompanied by an unusual sound - this is normal, the system is entering operating mode. However, after a few minutes the hum should become smooth and quiet.

Nuances for different compressor models

Refrigerators Atlant were produced with different types of motors, and the relay design may differ. In older models, relays with a posistor were often used, in newer ones - electromagnetic ones. Understanding these differences will help you avoid installation errors.

For compressors Secop (Danfoss) it is typical to install a relay together with a thermal protective device in a single housing or in the form of a prefabricated structure. It is important to align the guides correctly here. An error in positioning can lead to the fact that the thermal fuse will not fit tightly to the motor housing, and the overheating protection will not work.

In models with compressors Atlant of our own design, relays of the RTK series are often found. Their peculiarity is the presence of a movable core. When installing such relays, shocks and strong shaking must be avoided, since mechanical damage to the core will damage the part even before the first switch on.

• 🛠 Check the condition of the contact pad on the compressor - it must be clean.
• 🛠 Make sure that the thermal relay tightly covers the housing motor.
• 🛠 Do not confuse phase and zero when connecting if the wires are not color-coded.

If you change the relay on an inverter refrigerator (although this is rare for them, more often there are electronics), the procedure will be radically different and will require contacting a service center. The described instructions are relevant for classic linear compressors.

Checking operation after replacement

After successful replacement of the relay and assembly of all elements, the moment of truth comes - the first start. Plug in the refrigerator and listen. The compressor should start on the first try, without long hums or clicks. The sound of operation should be smooth, without vibrations or knocks.

During the first 15-20 minutes of operation, check the heating of the compressor. It may be warm, but not hot. If the motor runs smoothly and begins to cool (you can check by placing your hand on the evaporator inside the freezer after 30-40 minutes), then the repair was successful.

Pay attention to the operating cycle: the refrigerator should turn itself off when it reaches the set temperature and turn on again when it increases. If the compressor runs continuously for more than an hour without turning off, the problem may be not only in the relay, but also in a freon leak or a malfunction of the thermostat.

If you observe deviations from the norm, repeat the contact check. Often the problem lies in poor fit of the terminals or oxidation, which was not eliminated during replacement.

Common mistakes and precautions

When repairing refrigerators on their own Atlant novice craftsmen often make typical mistakes that can negate all efforts. One of the most common is ignoring the cleanliness of contacts. Dirt and oxides create resistance, leading to heating and repeated breakdown.

Another mistake is installing the relay “at random”, without checking the markings. Visually, different models may look the same, but have different current characteristics. Installing an unsuitable relay will lead to its rapid failure or damage to the compressor.

It is also worth remembering about safety. Although the voltage of 220V seems familiar, in combination with the metal body of the refrigerator and possible humidity it poses a real threat. Always work with dry shoes and dry hands.

⚠️ Attention: Never try to repair a refrigerator under voltage. Even briefly touching exposed wires while the compressor is running can cause serious injury.

Following these simple rules will allow you to safely and effectively restore the functionality of your refrigerator.

Questions and answers (FAQ)

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

Theoretically, some craftsmen try to start the compressor directly by closing the contacts manually, but do this categorically prohibited. Without a relay, the compressor will not be able to reach operating mode; the windings will overheat and burn out in a few minutes. In addition, this creates a risk of short circuit and fire.

Why did the new relay burn out immediately after installation?

There may be several reasons: the wrong model was selected (wrong current), incorrect installation (skewed, not fully put on), or the problem lies deeper - for example, an interturn short circuit in the compressor itself, which creates an overload. It is also possible that the thermal protective relay, which is paired with the starting relay, is faulty.

Where can I find the relay markings if they are erased?

If the markings on the case are not readable, you can try to determine the model by the compressor catalog number (pasted on the metal body of the motor) or by the appearance and number of contacts. It is best to take a photo of the old relay and show it to a specialist in a spare parts store or find an analogue from the photo on the Internet, comparing the location of the terminals.

How long does a starting relay last on average?

The service life of a starting relay Atlant depends on the quality of electricity in the network and the number of switching cycles refrigerator. On average, a high-quality relay lasts 5-10 years. Frequent power surges and unstable network operation can reduce this period to 2-3 years.