When a two-chamber refrigerator Atlant stops freezing, and the compressor either hums but does not start, or clicks and immediately goes silent, in 80% of cases the start relay is to blame. This is a small but critical part that provides the starting impulse to the engine. Many owners of equipment are frightened by such a breakdown, believing that a very complex repair is required, involving calling a technician and replacing the entire unit.
In fact, starting relay is a consumable item that is in immediate access, often without even having to move the refrigerator away from the wall. In this article we will look in detail where to look for this unit in models Atlant with two cameras, how to safely remove it and determine whether it can be repaired or requires immediate replacement.
Understanding the location and operating principle of this element will allow you to save a significant amount on after-sales service. It is only important to observe safety precautions and strictly follow the algorithm of actions, since we are talking about electric current and a sealed cooling system.
The principle of operation and purpose of the starting relay
Start-protective relay in refrigerators Atlant performs a double function: it ensures the start of the compressor engine and protects it from overloads. When the refrigerator is turned on, a current passes through the winding, which heats the bimetallic plate or activates the electromagnetic mechanism. This closes the contacts that supply increased voltage to the starting winding of the motor.
As soon as the motor rotor reaches the required speed, the current in the circuit drops and the relay opens, turning off the starting winding. If the motor does not start or it overheats, the thermal relay opens the circuit completely, preventing combustion of the compressor windings. It is the characteristic click that you hear when the refrigerator is operating that this mechanism produces.
- 🔌 Provides a short-term supply of current to the starting winding to start the engine.
- 🛡️ Opens the power circuit when the compressor overheats or jams.
- ⚙️ Controls the switching of operating modes of the electric motor.
In two-chamber models Atlant relays of different types are used: posistor (operate by heating a ceramic element) and induction (electromagnetic). Not only its location, but also the method of checking serviceability depends on the type of relay.
The exact location of the relay in Atlant models
In the vast majority of two-chamber refrigerators Atlant the starting relay is located at the bottom of the unit, directly on the compressor. The compressor is a black metal cylinder mounted on a frame in a niche at the back of the refrigerator. To get to the relay, you need to move the refrigerator away from the wall and remove the back protective panel (cardboard or metal), if any.
The relay is placed directly on the compressor output shaft (three pins) and secured with a metal bracket or plastic clip. In modern models Atlant with the No Frost system, the relay can be hidden under an additional plastic casing, which is secured with latches. In old Soviet models and early versions Atlant the relay could be placed separately, but in modern two-chamber units it is always in conjunction with the compressor.
⚠️ Attention: Before any manipulations with electrical components, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the mains! It is possible for capacitors to remain energized even after being unplugged, so let the equipment stand for 5-10 minutes.
Sometimes owners confuse the relay with a thermostat or defrost timer. Remember: the relay is always attached to the compressor, and the thermostat is located inside the fridge compartment or on the outside of the housing, and the timer is at the top of the unit or behind the control panel.
The algorithm for removing and dismantling the part
The process of removing relays in refrigerators Atlant is standardized, but requires care. First, remove the back cover at the bottom of the refrigerator. You will see the compressor and the tubes and wires that go to it. Find a black or white plastic box on the side of the motor.
Dismantling is carried out in the following sequence:
1. Remove the metal retaining bracket (if any) by prying it with a flat-head screwdriver.
2. Disconnect the connector with the wires going from the relay to the network.
3. Gently pull the relay down, removing it from the three pins of the compressor.
It is important not to use excessive force so as not to damage the ceramic posistor inside or crack the housing. If the relay is tightly seated, you can slightly rock it from side to side. On some models Atlant the relay is connected to a capacitor, which will also need to be disconnected.
☑️ Checklist before removing the relay
Diagnostics and signs of malfunction
Determine what came out of It is possible to build the relay, and not the compressor itself, based on external signs. If, when turned on, the refrigerator hums for 3-5 seconds, then a click is heard and the hum stops - this is a classic symptom of a faulty starter or jammed motor.
Visual inspection of the removed relay often provides the answer. Open the case (it usually consists of two halves). If you see blackening, melted plastic inside, or smell a burning smell, the part definitely needs to be replaced. The posistor should not dangle or crumble.
- 👂 Characteristic knocking or crackling noise when the compressor is operating.
- 🌡️ The compressor gets very hot, but no cold is generated.
- ⚡ Knocking out plugs or circuit breakers in the electrical panel when startup.
Checking with a multimeter is the most reliable way. Ring the relay contacts: in normal condition, the resistance should be in a certain range (usually tens of ohms). If the device shows an open circuit (one on the screen) or a short circuit (zero), the relay is faulty.
Relay compatibility table for Atlant refrigerators
When purchasing a new part, it is important to know the markings. For different series Atlant (MHM, KHT) different modifications are used. Below is a table of correspondence of the most popular models.
| Atlant refrigerator series | Compressor type | Relay marking (example) | Relay type |
|---|---|---|---|
| MXM-1700, 1800 | Atlant, Danfoss | RTK-S, 33.600.46 | Posistor |
| MXM-2808, 4000 | Atlant | R-3, R-4 | Induction |
| No Frost (series 5000+) | Embraco, Atlant | 112863, 112862 | Posistor with capacitor |
| Two-compressor | Atlant | RT-21, RT-22 | Posistor |
When ordering spare parts in the store, be sure to remove the old relay and take it with you or take a photo of the markings. Externally similar parts may have different resistances and will not fit your motor.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to repair a burnt out relay by soldering or stripping the contacts. This is a temporary measure that can lead to a fire or permanent failure of an expensive compressor.
Replacement and first start
Installation of a new relay is carried out in the reverse order. Push the part onto the compressor pins until it stops, making sure that it sits evenly. Attach the fixing bracket. Connect the connector with wires. Make sure that the wires do not touch the hot compressor tubes.
Before plugging in, let the refrigerator stand in an upright position for at least 2-3 hours (especially if it was transported lying down). This is necessary for the oil to drain into the compressor crankcase.
What to do if the new relay also clicks?
If the situation has not changed after replacing the relay, the problem may be in the compressor itself (turn-to-turn short circuit) or in the wiring. It is also worth checking the capacitor paired with the relay.
Turn on the refrigerator and listen. Startup should be smooth, without long delays or loud clicks. The compressor should operate smoothly, without vibration.
Frequently asked questions when searching for a relay (FAQ)
Is it possible to start an Atlant refrigerator without a relay?
Theoretically, you can start it by applying voltage directly, but this is absolutely impossible to do in a domestic environment. The refrigerator will operate without protection, which will lead to overheating and combustion of the compressor in a few minutes or even seconds.
Why does the relay heat up during operation?
Slight heating of the relay body (up to 60-70 degrees) is normal, since currents are switched inside. However, if the housing melts or has traces of soot, it means that a part with unsuitable characteristics has been selected or there is a problem with the compressor.
Where to buy an original relay for Atlant?
It is better to buy original spare parts in authorized service centers of the brand Atlant or specialized spare parts stores for household appliances. In the markets there is a high probability of buying a Chinese analog of low quality.
How much does it cost to replace a relay by a master?
The cost consists of the price of the part itself and the work of the master. On average in the market, this can range from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles, depending on the region and the urgency of departure.