If your the refrigerator Beko stopped freezing, and instead of the usual hum, you only hear a quiet click or complete silence, the problem most likely lies in the engine starting system. Often the culprit of such a malfunction is starting relay, which fails due to voltage surges or natural wear of the contacts. Replacing this unit on your own is a very real task for a home craftsman, which does not require complex professional equipment.
In this article we will look in detail at how to diagnose a breakdown, select the appropriate part and install it correctly in place. You will learn the difference between protective and starting relays, what tools you will need for work and how to avoid common mistakes during repairs. Safety is the main priority, so you should start any work only after completely disconnecting the device from the power supply.
Ignoring symptoms of a malfunction can lead to more serious consequences, even compressor combustion. Therefore, if you notice that the engine hums but does not start, or, on the contrary, makes frequent clicks, you should not put off repairs. Competent and timely replacement of the relay will extend the life of your refrigerator Beko for many years.
Symptoms of malfunction and initial diagnostics
Before disassembling the unit, you need to make sure that the problem is really in the relay, and not in the lack of electricity or a broken thermostat. The first and most obvious sign of failure of the trigger mechanism is a characteristic sound. If you hear the compressor struggling to start, making a humming sound, followed by a sharp click and silence, this is a classic symptom. The engine cannot gain speed, and thermal protection forcefully opens the circuit to prevent overheating of the windings.
Another method of initial testing is tactile. Carefully touch the back wall of the refrigerator in the area of the compressor (only if you are sure it is safe to touch). If the motor is hot, but the inside of the refrigerator itself remains warm, this indicates that the cooling cycle is not starting. It is also worth paying attention to the frequency of clicks: if they are repeated every few minutes, the protection system turns on and off cyclically.
⚠️ Attention: If after the click you smell a burning smell or see sparking, immediately stop trying to plug in the refrigerator. This may indicate an interturn short circuit or a serious problem with the wiring.
For accurate diagnosis, you will need a multimeter. With its help, you can ring the relay contacts for open circuits or short circuits. In good condition, the resistance should correspond to the technical characteristics of the specific model. If the device shows infinity or zero where it should not be, the part requires replacement. It is important to check not only the relay itself, but also the wires suitable for it for oxidation.
Design and types of relays in Beko refrigerators
In refrigerators of the brand Beko, as in most modern models, electromagnetic starting relays are used. Their main function is to briefly supply voltage to the starting winding of the compressor at the moment of start. As soon as the engine reaches the required speed, the relay opens the starting winding circuit, and the motor continues to operate on the main winding. In parallel, it is often installed thermal relay, which opens the circuit when the permissible temperature is exceeded.
Structurally, the device is a plastic case, inside which there are contacts, an inductor and a movable core. Some models Beko use a combined relay (pts-rk), which combines start-up and protection functions. Understanding the principle of operation helps to avoid installation errors, since incorrect orientation of the part can lead to its immediate failure.
The principle of operation of an electromagnetic relay
When the refrigerator is turned on, current passes through the relay coil, creating a magnetic field. This field draws in the core, which closes the contacts of the starting winding. When the current in the working winding drops to the nominal value (the engine has started), the core, under the influence of gravity or a spring, returns to its original position, opening the starting circuit.
It is worth noting that different series of refrigerators can use relays from different manufacturers, such as Danfoss, Indesit or original components Beko. Despite the external differences, the principle of their operation remains similar. However, when purchasing a spare part, it is important to pay attention to the number of contacts and the method of fastening, since they may differ even within the same brand.
Necessary tools and preparation for repair
To successfully replace a relay, you do not need a whole arsenal of professional tools. A minimal set is enough, which most home craftsmen can find. The main thing is to provide yourself with convenient access to the back of the refrigerator and good lighting of the work area.
- 🔧 Screwdrivers (phillips and flat) - for removing protective covers and terminal clamps.
- 🔨 Pliers or pliers - for carefully removing wires and fixing clamps.
- 🧤 Dielectric gloves - to ensure safety when working with electrical components.
- 📸 Smartphone with a camera - for photographing the connection diagram before dismantling.
Before starting work, be sure to unplug the refrigerator and move it away from the wall. You'll need some wiggle room around the back panel. If the model is built-in, you will need to first dismantle it from the niche or provide access from the rear through special hatches, if they are provided for by the design of the furniture.
☑️ Preparation for repair
It is also important to prepare a work surface where you will put the removed screws and parts so that they do not get lost. If the compressor has been running recently, let it cool for 15-20 minutes to avoid getting burned and to reduce the load on the plastic elements when removing.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the relay
The replacement process begins with removing the compressor protective casing. It is usually secured with several screws or latches. Be careful when removing the cover to avoid damaging the plastic clips, which become brittle over time. After removing the casing, you will see the compressor (black metal tank) and the relay attached to its end.
The next step is to remove the old relay. It can be mounted on latches or a metal bracket. Carefully disconnect the wires going to the terminals. It is critical here not to confuse the polarity and purpose of the contacts. This is why we recommended taking a photo before starting work. If there is no photo, carefully study the markings on the relay itself and the diagram drawn on the inside of the electrical unit cover.
| Work stage | Action | Important nuances |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Removing the casing | Unscrew the screws, remove the cover | Do not lose the screws, ensure the integrity of the plastic |
| 2. Dismantling the relay | Remove from the compressor rod, disconnect the wires | Keep strictly horizontal, do not pull the wires |
| 3. Installing a new | Connect the wires, put them on the rod | Observe the orientation "upside down" or according to the marking |
| 4. Check | Close the casing, plug in | Listen to startup, check for cold |
When installing a new relay, make sure that it sits tightly on the three contacts of the compressor. Often the relay has a marking UP or an arrow indicating the top position. Incorrect installation may result in the mechanism not working or burning out immediately after switching on. After connecting the wires, securely fix the casing and turn on the refrigerator.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to start the compressor without a relay installed or with a damaged relay housing. This is guaranteed to lead to burnout of the engine starting winding.
Features of choosing a spare part
Choosing the right relay is the key to successful repairs. Refrigerators Beko can have different modifications installed depending on the year of manufacture and model of the compressor. The main parameters when choosing are engine power, number of contacts and type of fastening. Original spare parts have an article number indicated in the technical documentation, but often they can be replaced with universal analogues.
When purchasing, pay attention to the power range indicated on the case (for example, 1/5 - 1/4 hp). If you take a relay that is designed for a motor that is too powerful, it may not open the circuit, which will lead to overheating. If it is too weak, the contacts will constantly spark and stick. Universal relays are often marked PTC (posistor), which indicates a solid-state operating principle that has replaced mechanical ones.
It is also worth considering that some modern models Beko are equipped with inverter compressors. In such systems there is no classic starting relay - its functions are performed by an electronic control unit. If you have an inverter refrigerator and it does not start, the problem is most likely not in a simple relay, but in the board or the motor itself, and more complex diagnostics will be required here.
Common mistakes during self-repair
Even with instructions, inexperienced craftsmen often make mistakes that nullify all efforts. One of the most common is ignoring the condition of the wires. If the terminals are oxidized or the wire is broken, replacing the relay will not work. Be sure to clean the contacts and check the integrity of the insulation before assembly.
Another mistake is incorrect installation of the relay “upside down”. Mechanical relays operate under the influence of gravity: the core must fall down, breaking the circuit. If you turn the case over, the mechanism will jam, and the compressor will either not start or will work constantly on the starting winding, which will quickly disable it.
- 🚫 Trying to repair a burnt-out relay by gluing or stripping the contacts is a temporary measure that poses a fire hazard.
- 🚫 Using unsuitable ones analogues without checking the power parameters.
- 🚫 Forgetfulness when connecting grounding, which increases the risk of electric shock.
It is also worth mentioning the error associated with forced start. Some "craftsmen" try to start the compressor directly, bypassing the relay. This can only be done for short-term diagnostics by an experienced technician. Long-term operation without protection will lead to overheating and jamming of the piston group.
Prevention and extension of service life
In order for the new relay to last a long time, it is important to ensure stable operating conditions for the refrigerator. Power surges in the network are the main enemy of electronics and starting equipment. Installing a voltage stabilizer or at least a surge protector with protection will help smooth out peaks and protect the compressor Beko from overloads.
Regular cleaning of the back wall of the refrigerator from dust and animal hair is also important. Contamination impairs heat transfer, the compressor works with increased load and heats up, which reduces the life of the protection relay. It is enough to vacuum the radiator grille and the area around the motor once every six months.
⚠️ Attention: If power surges often occur in the room where the refrigerator is located, installing a stabilizer is a mandatory preventive measure, and not just a recommendation.
Make sure that the doors are closed tightly and the condition of the seals. If warm air constantly enters the chamber, the compressor is forced to work almost non-stop. In this mode, the thermal relay experiences constant cycles of heating and cooling, which leads to metal fatigue and rapid failure. Timely defrosting (for No Frost systems - checking drainage) also reduces the load on the unit.
Is it possible to install a relay from another brand of refrigerator on Beko?
Yes, this is often possible if the electrical characteristics (power, cut-off current) and the geometric dimensions of the seat match. However, it is better to look for original spare parts or specialized analogues recommended for compressors installed in Beko equipment.
How much does it cost to replace a relay at a service center?
The cost consists of the price of the part and the work of the technician. On average, the service is cheaper than calling out for complex compressor repairs. Self-replacement allows you to save a significant amount, since the part itself is inexpensive.
Why did the new relay burn out immediately after installation?
There may be several reasons: a power surge in the network, a malfunction of the compressor itself (an interturn short circuit), incorrect installation (inverted position) or a defective new part. It is also worth checking the starting capacitor, if it is in the circuit.
How long can a refrigerator with a faulty relay work?
Theoretically, several cycles, but this is extremely dangerous. Constant attempts to start without a successful start stall the compressor, heat up the wiring and can lead to a fire. It is strictly not recommended to operate equipment with a faulty trigger mechanism.