The situation when your Biryusa refrigerator emit characteristic clicks instead of the usual humming of the engine, always causing alarm. Instead of a uniform low-frequency noise, you hear a sharp sound followed by silence or attempts to start. This is a clear signal that the control system or the unit itself is trying to start the cooling cycle, but encounters an obstacle.
In most cases, this sound indicates the activation of the start relay or thermostat. Don't panic, as in many cases the problem can be solved by replacing an inexpensive element or making a simple adjustment. However, these signals cannot be ignored: constant attempts to start can lead to overheating of the motor windings and expensive repairs of the compressor.
In this article we will analyze in detail the mechanics of the operation of the units that produce sounds and will help determine whether the problem lies in the electrical or mechanical part of the unit. Understanding the nature of sound is the first step to restoring the performance of the equipment.
The mechanism of clicking in the starting system
To understand why the refrigerator clicks, it is necessary to consider the process of starting the electric motor. At the moment of connection to the network, voltage is applied to the stator windings, and the starting relay closes the circuit of the starting winding. It is at this moment that a loud click is heard - this is the magnetic core retracting, closing the contacts.
If the engine is working properly, it picks up speed, the current drops, and the relay opens the starting circuit, emitting a second, quieter click. If the motor does not start, the relay opens the circuit almost immediately to prevent the windings from burning out. The cycle repeats: click - silence - click. This is a protective reaction of the system.
In models Biryusa with mechanical control, an electromechanical relay is responsible for this process. In more modern electronically controlled versions, clicking noises may be produced by contactors on the control board. In any case, the sound indicates the physical movement of the contacts under the influence of the electromagnetic field.
⚠️ Attention: If the clicks are accompanied by a burning smell or a buzzing sound that ends abruptly, immediately unplug the device. Continuing to operate in this mode is guaranteed to lead to failure of the compressor.
Malfunctions of the start-up relay
The most likely reason why The Biryusa refrigerator clicks and does not turn onlies in the start-up relay. This small block, placed on the compressor rod, is responsible for supplying voltage to the starting winding. Over time, the contacts inside the relay oxidize or burn, which increases resistance and interferes with normal starting.
The second option is failure of the relay coil or bimetallic plate. If the coil is burned out, no magnetic field will be created and the contacts will not close, although the sound of the attempted operation may persist due to vibration of loose parts. The bimetallic plate responsible for overload protection may “stick” or open the circuit too quickly.
Relay diagnostics are often carried out by exclusion. If you hear a rattling sound when you tap on the relay body (with the refrigerator unplugged), it is possible that the internal part has broken off. A visual inspection may reveal blackening of the contacts, which is a clear indication for replacement.
The replacement process usually does not require calling a technician if you have minimal skills with tools. However, it is important to remember safety: any work is carried out only after the device is completely disconnected from the power supply.
Problems with the thermostat and electronics
The source of sound can be not only the engine relay, but also thermostat. In mechanical models, this device is a sealed flask with gas, which expands or contracts when the temperature changes, pushing the membrane. This membrane opens or closes electrical contacts, which is accompanied by a characteristic click.
If clicks occur frequently, but the cold does not accumulate, the thermostat may be “stuck” in the open state or, conversely, does not give a signal to start. In refrigerators with a No Frost system and electronic control, clicks can be generated by relays on the control board that switch the operation of fans or defrosting heating elements.
A malfunction of the temperature sensor can also lead to chaotic switching on and off of the compressor. The electronics receives incorrect data about the temperature inside the chambers and tries to compensate for the error by frequently starting the motor.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Sound character |
|---|---|---|
| One click, silence | Burned start relay | Loud, sharp |
| Series of frequent clicks | Thermostat is faulty | Clicking, rhythmic |
| Clicking and humming | Compressor jammed | Deep, low |
| Clicks in the upper part | Defrost relay (No Frost) | Quiet, electric |
Mechanical faults of the compressor
The most unpleasant scenario is when the clicks come from the motor-compressoritself. This may mean that the piston group is seized. In this case, the starting relay tries to start the engine, a closing click is heard, the motor makes a frantic attempt to turn over (often accompanied by a dull hum), but cannot budge. The protection relay is activated and opens the circuit.
Another mechanical problem is a broken rod or damage to the valves inside the compressor. In such cases, the sound may be metallic, ringing, reminiscent of blows. This indicates that the internal parts are hanging out and hitting the housing or each other.
⚠️ Attention: Attempts to “wedge” the compressor by applying increased voltage or hitting the housing are strictly prohibited. This can lead to depressurization of the system and release of refrigerant.
If diagnostics show that the problem is in the “heart” of the refrigerator, repairs are usually not economically feasible. Replacing a compressor is expensive and requires professional refilling of the system with freon.
Is it possible to restore a jammed compressor?
In rare cases, craftsmen use the “wedging” method by applying voltage to the starting winding in the reverse phase, but success is less than 10%. Most often, a complete replacement of the unit is required.
The influence of voltage drops in the network
Unstable power supply is the scourge of many regions. If the voltage in the network drops below the permissible threshold (usually 190-200 Volts), the Biryusa refrigerator may not start on the first try. The relay will click, trying to turn on the motor, but the current power will not be enough to create the required torque.
Constant operation in low voltage conditions leads to overheating of the windings and rapid wear of the starting equipment. Clicking in this case is a sign that the equipment is “suffocating” from lack of energy.
To protect expensive equipment, it is recommended to use voltage stabilizers. They equalize the current parameters and provide a smooth start, extending the service life of the compressor.
Do-it-yourself diagnostics and procedure
Before calling a technician, you can carry out primary diagnosis. It will help you narrow down your search and possibly save your budget. It is important to act consistently and take precautions.
Here is an algorithm that will help determine the source of the problem:
- 🔌 Checking the network: Make sure there is voltage in the outlet and it is stable. Try plugging another powerful device into this outlet.
- 👂 Sound localization: Put your ear to the back wall. If the click comes from below, it is a relay or a compressor. If there is a thermostat or board on top or side.
- 🔨 Tap test: Gently tap the handle of the screwdriver on the start relay housing. If after this the refrigerator starts, the relay definitely needs to be replaced.
- 🌡️ Checking the thermostat: Turn the temperature control knob counterclockwise until it stops. If the clicks have stopped and the motor is silent, there may be a problem with the sensor.
☑️ Diagnostic checklist
If simple methods did not help, a more in-depth check using a multimeter will be required. It is necessary to “ring” the compressor windings for breaks or short circuits, and also check the integrity of the relay contacts.
When you need to call a technician
There are situations when self-repair is not only useless, but also dangerous. If you do not have the skills to work with electrical appliances under voltage, it is better not to take risks.
Be sure to contact the service center if:
- 🛑 The tightness is broken: You hear hissing or smell chemicals (freon leak).
- 🔥 There are signs of burning: The wire is melted, the relay is blackened, the smell of burnt insulation is felt.
- ❄️ No cold: The compressor is working (or clicking), but the chambers are warm. This may indicate a clogged capillary or a refrigerant leak.
Service center specialists Biryusa have access to original spare parts and specialized equipment for charging and evacuating the system.
How much does it cost to replace a start relay?
The cost consists of the price of the part itself (usually from 500 to 1500 rubles, depending on the model) and the work of the technician. In regional services, departure and replacement can cost 2000-3000 rubles. In authorized centers the price will be higher, but you will receive a guarantee for the work.
Is it possible to operate the refrigerator if it clicks?
For a short time - it is possible if it continues to freeze. But long-term operation in the mode of constant starts (clicks) will lead to overheating of the motor windings. If the clicks are frequent and the cold does not build up, operation should be stopped until the malfunction is eliminated.
Why does the new Biryusa refrigerator make clicking sounds?
In new models, clicks can be caused by thermal expansion of the plastic body or metal of the evaporator during the first cooling. This is fine. If the relay clicks when you try to turn it on, it may be a manufacturing defect or damage during transportation.
How to extend the life of the starting relay?
The main enemy of the relay is frequent switching on and off. Do not place the refrigerator near heat sources, keep the condenser at the back clean, and do not load the compartment with hot foods. A stable voltage in the network is also critically important.
What to do if the relay clicks, but the compressor is cold?
If the compressor is cold, it means it is not working at all. Most likely, there is no voltage coming to the engine due to an open circuit (a relay, thermostat or wiring has burned out). It is necessary to test the circuit with a multimeter.