The situation when Indesit refrigerator turns on and offand heat remains inside is one of the most common problems in the operation of household appliances. This is usually accompanied by a characteristic click, followed by the hum of the motor for a few seconds, and then the device goes silent again. At this moment, the compressor does not have time to start or is forcibly turned off by the overheating protection system, which indicates a serious malfunction in the electrical or mechanical part of the unit.
This behavior cannot be ignored, since constant attempts to start create a critical load on the electric motor windings. If the problem is not corrected promptly, a simple repair can turn into an expensive compressor replacement. The owner needs to listen carefully to the sounds that the equipment makes and check the main components responsible for starting the engine and controlling temperature.
Further diagnostics depend on how long ago the problem appeared and whether it has changed over time. Often the cause is a simple power surge or failure of an inexpensive sensor, but in the worst case it is a refrigerant leak. We will analyze in detail all possible failure scenarios so that you can determine the course of action.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any diagnostic work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Working with live electrical components is deadly.
Malfunctions of the start-protection relay
The most likely reason that Indesit refrigerator clicks and does not start is the failure of the start-protection relay. This small plastic block, attached to the compressor, is responsible for supplying a starting impulse to the motor winding and protecting against overloads. Inside the relay there is a coil and a movable core, which wear out over time or burn out due to voltage surges.
When the relay is faulty, it cannot close the circuit of the starting winding, which is why the compressor only hums, but does not rotate. After a few seconds, the thermal protection is triggered, opening the circuit, and you hear that same shutdown click. It is often impossible to determine a breakdown visually, so it is necessary to test the contacts with a multimeter or completely replace the unit with a new one.
It is worth noting that relays come in different types: posistor and induction. For each model Indesit (for example, series DF or DS) a strictly defined standard size is suitable. Installing an unsuitable relay can lead to rapid combustion of the compressor, so when purchasing a new part, be sure to check the markings.
How to check the relay yourself?
To check, remove the relay from the compressor and shake it. If a knock is heard inside (as if from broken glass), then the ceramic posistor is broken and the relay must be replaced. You can also ring the contacts: in normal condition, the resistance should be close to zero or infinity, depending on the circuit, but not “float.”
Problems with the thermostat and sensors
The second most common cause of cyclic on and off is a malfunction of the thermostat (thermostat) or electronic temperature sensor. The main task of this element is to control the temperature in the chamber and send a signal to the compressor to start or stop. If the thermostat contacts are “stuck” or the sensor transmits incorrect data, the refrigerator may behave inappropriately.
In mechanical models, the thermostat is a device with a capillary tube that is inserted into the evaporator. If the tube is damaged or fill gas leaks, the contacts open prematurely, preventing the compressor from reaching the desired temperature. In electronic models Indesit No Frost a sensor that could oxidize or fail is responsible for this.
Diagnostics of the thermostat is usually carried out by closing its contacts. If, when the thermostat is removed from the circuit, the compressor starts and operates normally, then the problem is in the temperature controller. However, this method is only suitable for experienced craftsmen, as it requires disassembling the inside of the chamber.
Freon leakage and clogged capillary tube
A more serious situation occurs when the refrigerator turns on, hums and turns off due to problems in the refrigeration circuit. Most often, this indicates a refrigerant (freon) leak or a clogged capillary tube. When there is a leak, the pressure in the system drops, and the compressor, trying to gain temperature, works non-stop until it overheats and turns off due to thermal protection.
If the capillary tube is clogged, which is often caused by oil oxidation products or moisture in the system, freon cannot circulate through the system. contour. The pressure at the compressor outlet increases sharply, the motor hums, but there is no cold. After some time, the protection is triggered and the unit turns off. After an hour or two, the process is repeated.
It is difficult to diagnose a leak or blockage at home. An indirect sign may be swelling of the rear wall inside the freezer or, conversely, the complete absence of frost on the evaporator when the motor is running. Also pay attention to the temperature of the condenser (grid at the back): if it is cold or only partially warm, there is a lack of freon.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Sound character | Condenser temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Click, hum 5-10 sec, turn off | Start relay | Loud click, hum | Cold |
| Works for a long time, does not turn off, warm | Freon leak | Quiet, smooth operation | Barely warm or cold |
| Humming, clicking, cycle repeats frequently | System clogged | Humming with intermittently | Hot at the compressor, cold further |
| Turns on and off chaotically | Thermostat | Relay clicks | May be normal |
Compressor malfunctions
The most unpleasant option is an interturn short circuit in the windings of the compressor itself or its mechanical wear. If motor-compressor is damaged, it may try to start, consume huge current and immediately knock out the protection. Unlike problems with the relay, replacing the starting device will not help here.
An interturn short circuit can only be determined by measuring the resistance of the windings with a multimeter. The values must correspond to the passport data for the specific model Indesit. If the resistance of one of the windings is significantly lower than normal or shows a short circuit to the housing, the compressor must be replaced.
It is also worth checking the condition of the wiring going to the compressor. Melted insulation or oxidized contacts in the terminal box can create additional resistance, cause heating and false protection trips. Visual inspection of the wires often helps to identify obvious installation defects.
Influence of voltage in the network
Unstable voltage in the electrical network is a common reason why Indesit refrigerator turns on and off. Modern compressors are sensitive to voltage fluctuations. If the network drops below 190-200 Volts, the starting current may not be enough to start the rotor, and thermal protection is triggered.
The opposite situation - voltage surges above normal - is also dangerous. In this case, the start relay or control electronics (if any) may burn out. To protect expensive equipment in conditions of unstable power supply, it is recommended to use voltage stabilizers or voltage control relays.
You can check the voltage using a multimeter by connecting it to the outlet when the refrigerator is trying to start. If at this moment the readings of the device drop sharply, the problem lies in the wiring of the apartment or the general network of the house, and not in the refrigerator itself.
⚠️ Attention: The use of cheap Chinese stabilizers with a low reaction speed may not save the compressor, and in some cases even harm it. Choose equipment with a power reserve.
Errors in operation and placement
Sometimes the reason lies not in a breakdown, but in improper operation. If the refrigerator is installed too close to the wall, the cooling radiator does not have time to release heat, which leads to overheating of the compressor and its frequent shutdowns. The gap between the back wall and the furniture is also important.
Loading the chamber with warm products or not closing the door tightly causes the unit to work in increased mode. The thermostat does not give the command to stop, the temperature inside rises, and as a result, the system may go into emergency mode or turn on cyclically, trying to cool the volume.
Check the rubber seals on the doors. If they are worn out or dirty, cold air escapes and warm air enters. The compressor is forced to turn on more often than it should in the cycle, which reduces its resource.
☑️ Diagnostics before calling a technician
When you need to call a technician
If you have checked relay, thermostat and mains voltage, but the refrigerator still does not freeze and turns off cyclically, most likely the problem requires professional intervention. Repairing the refrigeration circuit (filling with freon, removing blockages, replacing the compressor) requires special equipment: a vacuum pump, a pressure gauge station and scales.
An independent attempt to solder pipes or replace a compressor without skills can lead to damage to the new unit or a fire hazard. In addition, refilling requires precise knowledge of the type and amount of refrigerant indicated on the nameplate Indesit.
The technician will conduct a full diagnostic, check the tightness of the system under pressure and evacuate the circuit before refilling. This guarantees long and reliable operation of the equipment after repair.
Prevention of repeated breakdowns
To avoid recurrence situation, keep the capacitor clean. Dust and animal hair clinging to the black grille at the back impair heat transfer and cause the compressor to wear out. Regular vacuuming will extend the life of the unit.
Do not place hot pots in the refrigerator and try not to keep the door open for more than 30 seconds. These simple rules will help the thermostat work correctly and not cause unnecessary engine starts.
Regularly check the condition of the seals and, if necessary, wash them with warm water and soap. An elastic band is a guarantee that the cold will remain inside, and the compressor will turn on only when it is really necessary.
Why does the refrigerator turn on immediately after being turned off?
This may indicate a malfunction of the thermostat, which “sees” high temperature where there is none, or a freon leak, due to which the cold does not accumulate. It is also possible that the relay contacts may stick.
Is it possible to operate the refrigerator if it clicks frequently?
For a short time - yes, but not for long. Constant pull starts lead to overheating of the compressor windings and can cause combustion. It is better to eliminate the cause of the clicks.
How much does it cost to replace the starting relay with Indesit?
The cost of the relay itself is low (usually a few hundred rubles), but if you call a technician, you will have to pay for the work and travel. Replacing it yourself saves your budget.
What to do if, after defrosting, the refrigerator starts to turn on frequently?
Check whether the appliances are completely dry. If there is moisture left inside, it could get on the contacts or in the sensors. Let the refrigerator stand turned off for another 12-24 hours.