Owners of refrigeration equipment often encounter a situation where the unit stops freezing, but at the same time makes a characteristic humming sound that ends abruptly with a click. Start relay is one of the key elements of the compressor electrical circuit, and its malfunction is one of the most common causes of such symptoms. If you notice that the motor-compressor is trying to start, but immediately stalls, the problem most likely lies in this unit.
Searching for a relay in technology Beko does not require complete disassembly of the housing, since the manufacturer has placed this element in an easily accessible place to simplify maintenance. However, before proceeding with dismantling, it is important to understand that there are live elements inside the compressor compartment. The start relay in Beko refrigerators is always mounted directly on the side rod of the compressor and covered with plastic casing. This is a standard diagram for most models, regardless of whether you have a two-chamber unit or a No Frost system.
Next we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions that will help you safely get to the required part, check its performance and make a decision on replacement. You should not ignore the first signs of a malfunction, since repeated attempts to start a faulty compressor can lead to more serious consequences, including burning out the motor windings.
Localization of the starting relay in the Beko design
To find the relay, you do not need to look for it inside the refrigerator or freezer. All starting equipment is located in the lower rear part of the unit, in the so-called compressor zone. In refrigerators Beko access to this unit is organized as conveniently as possible: just move the refrigerator away from the wall and remove the back metal panel, if any, or simply gain access to the bottom of the case.
The compressor itself looks like a black metal “barrel”, to which copper tubes and electrical wires fit. The relay is a small box made of black or white plastic, placed directly on the contact pins coming out of the compressor housing. Thermal relay and the starting device are often combined into one unit, which simplifies the design, but requires careful attention during diagnostics.
⚠️ Attention: Before any manipulations with electrical components, be sure to unplug the refrigerator! Even after turning off, there may be a residual charge in the capacitors, so let the equipment sit for 10-15 minutes before starting work.
The location may vary slightly depending on the series. In some models Beko with a bottom freezer, access may be slightly limited by a plastic plinth, which must be carefully removed. In Side-by-Side models or built-in series, access is provided through ventilation grilles or after removing the decorative panel.
Algorithm for accessing the compressor compartment
The process of gaining access to the relay in refrigerators Beko is quite simple and does not require specialized tools, except screwdrivers. It is important to act sequentially so as not to damage the fragile plastic fastening elements and copper tubes that fit to the compressor.
First, you must ensure free access to the rear wall of the unit. Move the refrigerator at least 50-70 cm away from the wall. This will allow you to move freely around the device and provide good illumination of the work area. If you have a model with an open compressor (no back cover), then the next step is a visual inspection. If the compressor is covered with a metal sheet, it must be dismantled.
Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the protective panel. The screws are usually located around the perimeter of the sheet. After unscrewing them, carefully set the panel aside, being careful not to catch or bend the condenser grille (black coil on the back wall) if it protrudes.
☑️ Preparation for access
When access is open, you will see a black cylindrical or pear-shaped compressor There will be a plastic box protruding from its end or side (depending on the model) - this is the desired unit. Wires coming from the thermostat or electronic control module are suitable for it.
Dismantling and visual diagnostics of the part
Before removing the relay, carefully inspect its external condition. There should be no traces of burning, melting or cracks on the plastic case. If you see black scorch marks or smell burnt plastic, this is a sure sign that contact group the inside is burnt out.
For dismantling in most models Beko you do not need to unscrew the screws. The relay is held in place by a tight fit on the compressor pins and is secured with a metal bracket or plastic latches. Carefully remove the retaining bracket (if there is one) and pull the relay housing down or to the side to remove it from the contacts.
After removing the device from its seat, open the plastic housing. It usually consists of two halves held together with latches. Inside you will see a coil, moving core and contacts. Pay attention to the condition of the contacts: they must be clean and free of carbon deposits. Also check the integrity of the bimetallic plate of the thermal relay, which is often built into the overall structure.
- 🔍 Visual inspection: Look for traces of soot, melted plastic or deformation of internal elements.
- 👃 Smell: A strong smell of burnt insulation indicates overheating and a short circuit inside relay.
- 🔊 Sound: If a knocking sound is heard when shaking a working relay, this may indicate destruction of the internal mechanical parts.
- 🧊 Condensation: The presence of moisture inside the relay case indicates a leak or condensation due to temperature changes.
Often owners confuse the starting relay with a capacitor, which is also located nearby. The capacitor is usually cylindrical in shape and connected in parallel, while the relay fits directly onto the compressor pins. Be careful when identifying parts.
Is it possible to restore an old relay?
Theoretically, if the contacts are simply burnt, they can be cleaned with fine sandpaper. However, the resource of such a restored element will be extremely low. In cold storage conditions, the relay is under high load and the reconditioned part may fail within a few days, risking damage to the compressor. Replacing with a new original or a high-quality analogue is the only reliable solution.
Table of symptoms of malfunction and their meaning
Understanding the symptoms helps to accurately determine that the problem lies precisely in the starting device, and not in the compressor itself or the refrigerant circulation system. Below is a table that helps classify signs of failure.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Click and silence | Faulty start relay or winding break | Checking the relay with a multimeter |
| Humming for 5-10 seconds, then clicking | Sticking relay contacts or jamming of the compressor | Replacing the relay, checking the compressor |
| The compressor is hot, does not start | The thermal protection relay has tripped | Allow to cool, check the current |
| Frequent on/off | Incorrect operation of the thermal relay | Replacing the starting-thermal unit |
It is important to note that if after replacing the relay the situation repeats, the problem may be deeper. Perhaps it itself is faulty motor-compressor, which consumes too high a starting current, which is why the new relay quickly fails. It is also worth checking the wiring for contact oxidation.
In some cases, the cause may be low voltage in the network. If the voltage drops below acceptable limits, the compressor cannot develop the required power to start, and the relay is constantly activated, opening the circuit. In such cases, it is recommended to use a voltage stabilizer.
Rules for selecting and installing a new relay
When purchasing a new part for a refrigerator Beko it is critically important to consider the type of compressor and its power. Relays are selected not only by the brand of the refrigerator, but also by the marking of the compressor itself (for example Aspera, Danfoss, Secop). There are no universal solutions here, and installing an unsuitable relay can lead to instantaneous burnout of the windings.
Pay attention to the number of pins. In household refrigerators, relays with 3 contacts are most often found (one phase input and two for windings), but there are other configurations. Matching the rated current is also important. If you install a relay with a lower current, it will constantly knock out; if it is large, it will not protect the compressor during overload.
⚠️ Attention: Never install a relay designed for compressors of a different type (for example, low starting torque instead of high). This can lead to the fact that the compressor simply will not start and will hum until it burns out.
Installation of a new element is carried out in the reverse order of dismantling. Push the relay onto the compressor pins as far as it will go, making sure that the contacts are tightly connected. Then attach the retaining bracket or snap the housing. Connect the wires to the terminals, observing polarity if indicated (although in AC starting circuits this is often not critical, it is better to follow the color markings or diagram on the case).
Checking functionality after replacement
After you have installed the new relay and assembled all the protective panels, you can begin testing. Plug in the refrigerator. In the first seconds you may hear a characteristic click - this is normal, as the trigger mechanism is activated. After a few seconds, the compressor should start working, and a quiet hum of the operating unit will appear.
Pay attention to the operating cycle. The compressor should run continuously for 10-15 minutes and then turn off (thermostat clicking). If the refrigerator turns on, runs for a few seconds and turns off again with a click, the relay may be faulty again or incorrectly selected. Also check the temperature of the condenser (grid at the back) - it should begin to gradually increase.
- ✅ Successful start: The compressor runs smoothly, without vibrations or humming.
- 🌡️ Temperature set: After 30-40 minutes, the inside of the chambers should become noticeably colder.
- 🔌 Relay heating: The body of the new relay may warm up slightly during operation, but should not be scalding hot.
- 🔇 Lack of noise: Extraneous sounds (crackling, ringing) should be absent.
If the problem persists after replacement, do not rush to blame the new part. Perhaps the fault lies in the thermostat, which does not give a start command, or in the starting capacitor, if your model has one. In difficult cases, professional diagnostics with measurement of starting currents are required.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to repair a refrigerator relay Beko yourself without replacement?
Theoretically, if the problem is only burnt contacts, they can be cleaned. However, the design of modern relays is often non-removable or the seal is broken after opening. Considering the low cost of a new part compared to the risk of burning out the compressor, repairing the old relay is considered impractical.
Why does the relay burn out immediately after replacement?
This can happen for three reasons: the relay power is incorrectly selected (does not match the type of compressor), the compressor itself is faulty (interturn short circuit), or problems with the voltage in electrical networks. Also, the reason may be poor contact at the place where the wires are connected.
Where to buy an original relay for Beko?
Original spare parts are best purchased at authorized Beko service centers or specialized spare parts stores for household appliances. When purchasing, be sure to tell the seller the exact model of your refrigerator or, even better, the markings of the old relay and compressor.
How long does it take to replace a relay?
For an experienced technician, the process takes 15-20 minutes. For a beginner who is faced with this task for the first time and does everything carefully, this may take about 40-60 minutes, including time for searching for tools and diagnostics.