The compressor relay’s purpose is to start the compressor. A faulty relay can result in the compressor failing to cycle on. Testing the relay can help determine if it needs to be replaced.
Caution: Please read our safety information before attempting any testing or repairs.
Important Safety Notice: Before testing a compressor relay, unplug the refrigerator to avoid an electrical shock hazard. Additionally, if the compressor uses a capacitor, it must be discharged first to avoid the risk of electrical shock.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Screwdriver (Phillips and flat-head)
- Multimeter
- Needle-nose pliers
- Safety gloves
Steps to Test the Compressor Relay
Step 1: Safety First
- Turn Off Power: Ensure that the refrigerator is unplugged to prevent any electrical shock.
- Discharge the Capacitor: If the compressor uses a capacitor, discharge it first to avoid the risk of electrical shock. (Refer to the section “How to Discharge a Capacitor” for detailed instructions.)
Step 2: Access the Compressor Relay
- Locate the Compressor: The compressor is typically located at the lower rear of the refrigerator, labeled “A” in the illustration.
- Remove the Access Panel: Use a screwdriver to remove the screws and take off the access panel to reach the compressor.
- Find the Terminal Box: The compressor relay is located in the terminal box at the position labeled “B” in the illustration. The terminal box is usually a small box attached to the side of the compressor.
Step 3: Remove the Relay
- Open the Terminal Box: Use a screwdriver to open the terminal box cover.
- Disconnect the Relay: Carefully disconnect the relay from the compressor terminals. You may need to use needle-nose pliers to gently pull the connectors off the relay terminals. Label the wires if necessary to ensure proper reconnection later.
Step 4: Test the Relay
- Set the Multimeter: Set your multimeter to the ohms setting (Ω) to test for continuity.
- Test the Relay Terminals:
- Identify the terminals on the relay. There are usually three: the start terminal (S), the run terminal (R), and the common terminal (C).
- Touch one probe of the multimeter to the common terminal (C) and the other probe to the start terminal (S). You should get a low resistance reading.
- Next, touch one probe to the common terminal (C) and the other probe to the run terminal (R). Again, you should get a low resistance reading.
Step 5: Evaluate the Results
- Normal Readings: If the multimeter shows continuity (a low resistance reading) between the common (C) and start (S) terminals and between the common (C) and run (R) terminals, the relay is likely functioning properly.
- Faulty Relay: If the multimeter shows no continuity (infinite resistance) between any of these terminals, the relay is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Steps to Replace the Compressor Relay (if necessary)
Step 6: Replace the Relay
- Obtain a Replacement Relay: Make sure to get a relay that is compatible with your refrigerator model.
- Connect the New Relay: Attach the new relay to the compressor terminals, ensuring the correct placement of the start, run, and common terminals.
- Secure the Terminal Box: Close the terminal box cover and secure it with screws.
Step 7: Reassemble and Test
- Reattach the Access Panel: Replace the lower access panel and secure it with screws.
- Restore Power: Plug the refrigerator back in and turn on the power.
- Test the Refrigerator: Observe the refrigerator to ensure the compressor cycles on correctly.
Tips and Warnings
- Use Proper Tools: Ensure you use the correct tools to avoid damaging the relay or other components.
- Consult the Manual: Always refer to your refrigerator’s user manual for specific instructions related to your model.
- Use Genuine Parts: If the relay needs to be replaced, use genuine replacement parts for optimal performance and longevity.
- Seek Professional Help: If you are unsure about any step or if the problem persists, consider seeking help from a professional technician.
By following these steps, you can effectively test and, if necessary, replace the compressor relay in your refrigerator, ensuring it operates correctly and efficiently. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will help extend the lifespan of your appliance.
