Does the refrigerator click when turned on: is it normal or a signal of a breakdown?

You are standing in the kitchen, and suddenly a distinct sound is heard from under the refrigerator click either the relay has worked, or something has broken. The sound repeats with alarming regularity, especially when the compressor tries to start. What is this: normal operation of equipment or the first sign of an impending breakdown? In this article, we will analyze all the possible causes of clicks - from harmless to critical, we will learn to distinguish them by the nature of the sound and frequency, and also provide a checklist for self-diagnosis.

Let us reassure you right away: in 80% of cases, clicks are normal operation of the start-up relaythat controls the startup compressor. But if the sound is accompanied by other symptoms (the refrigerator does not freeze, often turns off, the body heats up), we may be talking about a malfunction. We have collected the experience of refrigerator repair specialists Atlant, Samsung, Indesit i LGso that you can accurately determine the source of the problem - and understand when it is time to call a specialist, and when simple cleaning is enough.

Important: the article does not replace professional diagnostics, but will help you save money on visiting a technician if the problem turns out to be trivial. All instructions are adapted for modern models with a system No Frost and drip defrosting.

1. Why does the refrigerator click when turned on: is it normal or not?

Clicks during operation of the refrigerator are almost always a sound starting relay (or starting relayas it is also called). This small unit is responsible for starting the compressor and protecting it from overloads. When you plug in the refrigerator or the thermostat gives a command to cool, the following happens:

• 🔌 Electric impulse enters the relay.
• 🔊 Click No. 1 - relay closes the contacts, supplying current to the compressor.
• ⚙️ The compressor begins pumping refrigerant.
• 🔊 Click No. 2 (after 5–15 seconds) - the relay opens the circuit if the compressor does not start (protection from overheating).

Normally you should hear 1-2 clicks at intervals of several seconds each time the compressor starts. If the refrigerator is working properly, there will be no further sounds - only the quiet hum of the motor. It is worth paying attention to:

• 🔄 Frequent repeated clicks (every 2-5 seconds) - a sign that the compressor cannot start.
• 💥 Loud popping noises (like a blow to metal) - there may be a problem with the motor winding.
• 🔥 Clicks with a burning smell —the relay or compressor has burned out.

If clicks are accompanied lack of cooling, check:

1. Is the refrigerator connected to the outlet (sometimes the plug does not fall out completely).
2. Is the power indicator on the panel lit (if any).
3. Is the temperature in the room too high (above +30°C may block startup).

2. Types of clicks and their meaning: how to determine the problem by sound

Not all clicks are the same. Based on their character, we can guess which part of the refrigerator is causing the sound. We have collected typical “sound portraits” of malfunctions in the table:

Especially dangerous frequent clicks with pauses. This is a sign that the compressor is trying to start, but cannot due to:

• 🔋 Low voltage in the network (less than 200 V).
• 🧊 Stuck compressor (often after a long period of inactivity).
• 🔥 Burnt start relay (contacts do not close).

For accurate diagnostics, take a multimeter and check:

1. The voltage in the socket (should be 220–240 V).
2. The resistance of the compressor windings (between conclusions C-S, C-R, S-R).
3. Integrity of relay contacts (ring in resistance mode).

3. Frequent clicks and the refrigerator does not freeze: top 5 reasons

If clicks are repeated with enviable regularity, and the refrigerator has stopped cooling, the problem lies in one of the five systems - from. simple to complex.

1. Faulty start-up relay

The relay is the most vulnerable part. Over time, its contacts get burned, the spring weakens, or the core jams. data-i="133">burn

• 🔊 Clicks every 3-5 seconds (like a metronome).
• 🧊 The compressor does not start, although there is current.
• 🔥 Possible smell of burning plastic.

Solution: replacing the relay (the cost of the part is from 500 to 2000 ₽ depending on the model). For refrigerators Samsung and LG universal relays are often suitable RBM-1 or DANFOSS 103N0240.

2. compressor

If the compressor has not been running for a long time (for example, after defrosting or transportation), its piston may jam due to moisture or rust Signs:

• 🔊 One loud click, then. silence (the compressor does not hum).
• 💡 The light inside is on, but there is no cooling.

Solution: try manually turning the compressor shaft (via the relay) or let the refrigerator stand turned off for 12-24 hours. If this does not help, replace the compressor.

3. Compressor winding burned out

If there is an interturn short circuit or a winding break, the compressor cannot start, and the relay clicks idle. Signs:

• 🔥 Burning smell from the compressor.
• 🔌 The relay clicks, but the motor does not start.
• 📉 There is a high resistance on the compressor housing (checked with a multimeter).

Solution: only replacing the compressor (repairing the winding is not cost-effective).

4. thermostat or temperature sensor

If the thermostat is “lying” and constantly gives the command to turn on, the relay will click more often than usual. Signs:

• 🌡️ The refrigerator turns on too often or does not turn off.
• ❄️ There is ice in the freezer, and the refrigerator compartment is warm (or vice versa).

Solution: replacing the thermostat (the part costs 300–1500 ₽). Models with No Frost may require diagnostics of the electronic unit.

5. Power supply problems

Low voltage in the network or power surges cause the relay to operate more often. Signs:

• ⚡ Clicks coincide with the blinking of the lights in the house.
• 🔌 Other devices also work unstable.

Solution: connect the refrigerator via voltage stabilizer (for example, Resanta ACH-1000/1-Ts).

Check the voltage in the socket with a multimeter|Inspect the relay for melting|Ring the compressor windings|Check the operation of the thermostat (turn the knob)|Connect the refrigerator to another socket-->

4. How to check the relay and compressor yourself: step-by-step instructions

If you decide to deal with the problem yourself, follow this algorithm. Attention: perform all work only after disconnecting the refrigerator from the network!

Step 1: Take out the relay

The relay is attached to the compressor (usually at the bottom behind the refrigerator). To remove it:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply.
2. Unscrew the mounting plate. (a Phillips screwdriver may be required).
3. Carefully remove the relay, remembering the location of the wires (better take a photo).

Step 2: Checking the relay

Take a multimeter and:

1. Install continuity mode (or resistance).
2. Ring the relay contacts in the off state - there should be infinite resistance (the circuit is open).
3. Shake the relay: if something rattles inside, it means it is broken spring or core.

If the relay does not ring or rattles, it needs to be replaced.

Step 3: Check the compressor

The compressor usually has three terminals: C (common), S (starting winding), R (working winding). Check the resistance:

• C-S + C-R = resistance of the working winding (usually 20–50 Ohm).
• S-R = resistance of the starting winding (usually 10–20 Ohm).
• If at least one value 0 Ohm (short circuit) or ∞ (break) - the compressor is faulty.

How to find the compressor terminal diagram?

On most compressors, the terminals are marked with letters C, S, R. If there is no marking, look for this data on the compressor model (it is indicated on the sticker). For popular brands (Embraco, Secop, Matsushita), the diagrams are available in the open. access.

Step 4: Checking the thermostat

For mechanical thermostats (for example, in refrigerators Atlant or Biryusa):

1. Remove the handle thermostat.
2. Short the two wires going to the thermostat (jumper made of wire).
3. If the compressor starts, the thermostat is faulty.

5. When to call a technician: 3 critical symptoms

Not all breakdowns can be fixed on your own. Contact a specialist if:

⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator is connected to the network, but it smells like burning, pull it out immediately. plug! This is a sign of a short circuit that can lead to a fire.

• 🔥 Smell of burning or smoke from under the refrigerator - the compressor or relay has burned out.
• 💧 A puddle of oil under the compressor -depressurization of the system, refilling is required. frequency data-i="222">Breakage
• ⚡ Electric shock when touching the body — breakdown to the body, life-threatening!

The cost of repair depends on the problem:

For refrigerators with electronic control (for example, Samsung RL-60 or LG GA-B489), diagnostics of the control board may be required. In this case, repairs will cost: Parts for refrigerators of imported brands ( 3000–8000 ₽.

⚠️ Attention: Parts for refrigerators of imported brands (Liebert, Beko) can be supplied to order (waiting period - up to 2 weeks). Check availability with the specialist before leaving.

6. Prevention: how to avoid clicks and breakdowns

To ensure that the refrigerator operates quietly and without failures:

• 🔌 Use a stabilizer voltage - will protect against surges in the network.
• 🧹 Clean the rear grille from dust once every 6 months (dust impairs the cooling of the compressor).
• ❄️ Defreeze the refrigerator if ice forms thicker than 5 mm (for models without No Frost).
• 🔄 Do not turn on the refrigerator immediately after transportation —let the oil drain into the compressor (wait 4–6 hours).
• 🌡️ Do not place the refrigerator next to the stove or radiator —overheating shortens the life of the compressor.

For models with No Frost additionally:

• 🌀 Once a year, clean the fan from ice and dust.
• 🔊 If new noise appears (creaking, crackling), check the fan blades for icing.

7. Frequently asked questions about refrigerator clicks

❓ Why does a new refrigerator click more often than an old one?

Modern refrigerators (especially those with No Frost) are equipped with more sensitive relays and electronic control boards. They can click when:

• Switching modes (for example, super freeze).
• Fan operation. (in models with No Frost).
• Automatic defrosting (defrosting cycle).

If clicks are not accompanied by cooling failure, this is the norm.

❓ Is it possible to replace the relay yourself?

Yes, if you know how to use a screwdriver and multimeter. Algorithm:

1. Buy a relay of the same model (or a universal one that matches the parameters).
2. Disconnect the refrigerator, remove the old relay.
3. Connect a new relay strictly according to the scheme (photo of the old connection will help).
4. Check the operation of the refrigerator.

Difficulty: 3 out of 5 (care is required when working with contacts).

❓ Why did the clicks become louder over time?

Over the years, the relay parts wear out:

• Contact they burn —the click becomes sharper.
• Spring weakens —the core beats harder.
• The relay housing looses —the sound is amplified due to vibration.

If there are no other symptoms besides the volume (the refrigerator freezes normally), you don’t have to worry. But if there are clicks. steel frequent —check the relay.

❓ The refrigerator clicks but does not turn on - what to do first?

Sequence of actions:

1. Check if there is light in the refrigerator (is the light on?). If not, the problem is in the socket or power cord.
2. Listen to see if the compressor is humming. If not, the relay protection has tripped.
3. Turn off the refrigerator for 10 minutes, then turn it on again.
4. If that doesn’t help. — check the relay and the compressor (see section 4).

❓ Can the refrigerator click due to low voltage?

Yes. If the voltage in the network is lower 190 V, the compressor cannot start and the relay clicks idle. Solutions:

• Connect voltage stabilizer.
• Check if the network is overloaded (turn off other powerful devices).
• If the problem is in the house, contact the manager company.