Grab the top of the plastic cover and carefully pull it off of the compressor to expose the relay inside. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Home - How To/Solutions - Refrigerator Compressor Relay [How to/Issues & Solutions]. But if you place the relay vertically, with the coil facing down this time, and you find continuity between the two terminals as before, replace the component. They work quietly and efficiently for years. Now the best way to tell if its bad is to shake it. We had to buy a new refrigerator, but at least we didnt waste money on a service call. Our suggestions to diagnosing the problem of a fridge compressor that starts and stops or wont start at all begin with the most obvious and easiest to remedy causes. Therefore, if you find that the relay is faulty, it is crucial to replace it immediately. Can you plant rose seeds without stratification? A defective run or start capacitor. 6 What is overload protector and what is role of overload? The protection device that the refrigerator's compressor circuit uses is the overload relay or start relay. You need to find out if both windings are drawing current when it tries to start. At a minimum, the wire size should be 12 gauge. To check the functionality of a refrigerator compressor relay, do the following: Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet and move it away from the wall. If the refrigerator remains without sound, the relay may be faulty. If it rattles, the start relay is faulty and needs to be replaced. Do not overload the compressor so it does not wear out quickly. When the thermal overload protector heats up or makes an open connection internally the compressor stops running. A faulty overload protector can cause short cycling by the compressor or even keep the compressor from starting at all. Dust may interfere with the resistance reading, throwing it off. When the thermal overload protector heats up or makes an open connection internally the compressor stops running. Whether your fridge is underpowered or the compressor has gone bad, lets take a look at what you can do when your compressor keeps starting and stopping. There may also be a start capacitor attached to the relay overload assembly, which provides increased starting voltage to the compressor windings. If the overload sensor detects a high-temperature situation, its recourse is to shut down the compressor to prevent damage. If your refrigerator starts and then stops, this is usually because your compressor may have an under-voltage condition with the power supply or your compressor may be failing. The compressor does what its name implies. One of the best indications that there is something wrong with the compressor is that the fridge is not cool enough, or that some areas of the fridge are less cool than they used to be. If you see an error, try reloading the page. Contact us to obtain. Open your refrigerator door to locate and remove the electronic control board from your appliance. Remove the panel to gain access to the compressor. If the problem continues, test the compressor. The power heats the sensor, increasing its resistance. We had this exact problem with a refrigerator and called Costas Stavrou, our appliance consultant. If you find continuity, the relay is faulty and should be replaced. Finally, reconnect the refrigerator to electric power or turn on the circuit breaker. It will be located behind the temperature adjustment knob and is usually found in the fresh food section control panel. Overload. The ports on the relay are marked with letters. If you suspect that the overload protector on your refrigerator is at fault, contact a repair technician for further assistance. ), but before you call the repair service, try these simple repairs. We recommend our users to update the browser. If the motor attempts to turn then it is not likely an overload protection relay. No startup relay. And when the compressor draws more power than it needs, the overload relay protects it from burning itself out. A refrigerator compressor relay is a vital part of the process of refrigeration. If I had the fridge now before me, I'd send you a photo. 3, 1 to common above, one to start winding and one to run winding below. But rather than saying the compressors bad, you might want to replace it anyway because it doesn't cost much. Robinhood Free Stock: https://join.robinhood.com/ralphc473 Webull Free Stock: https://act.webull.com/t/ikCEAz9mKlh7/apz/ Acorns:https://www.acorns.com/invite/58XBDBDisclaimers: all opinions are my own, sponsors are acknowledged. Daffodils and tulips make their early presence known, and of course, there is your Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you. Now, you can pull the relay out from the compressor. Check the thermostat and clean the condenser coils. Do not touch the terminals until you have discharged the capacitor. But if not, move the refrigerator to create space for you to fit and work. As the compressor tries to start, the contacts close and employs the start circuit. So, if your refrigerator has an overload protector separate from the relay, you need to test the relay. I'll add to this a bit more. As I said before either the rotor is stuck or you have a starting capacitor/start winding problem. Replace it. Give it a shake. Replacement Replacing the overload protector takes only a few minutes and can be done by the homeowner. Next, find the ports marked S and M on the relays side and insert the probes. The cover is held on by tension or with a retaining clip. It is clear that a refrigerator compressor relay plays a vital role in how well a refrigerator operates. If the fans are running and your compressor wont start or if you hear a clicking sound from the unit, check the overload relay for signs of overheating or arcing. Refrigerator Compressor Making a Knocking Noise [How to Fix], Refrigerator Compressor Is Cold [How to Fix], Refrigerator Compressor Shuts Off [How to Fix], Refrigerator Evaporator [Problems & Solutions], Refrigerator Gasket [Problems & Solutions]. Can you have too much stuff in your fridge? You will need a quarter-inch nut driver for this job. The working of overload relay is simple whenever the compressor motor getting heat up, due to the overload connected with the compressor body, the internal overload heating resistance heat up and due to heat up the bimetallic strip metals cut up the connection between one another and its make compressor circuit to an open electric circuit. The downside of electronic starter relays is the problem of inspecting and diagnosing problems. The extension cord should also have a ground wire. Contact a professional for a solid diagnosis or a second opinion. If not, most of the time its ok. Fortunately, an overload problem is easy to fix, as we will explain. All brand logos are trademarks of their respective owners. An overload might open due to: A lack of maintenance. This type of relay needs time to cool before you can use it to start the motor again. How to test a refrigerators overload or relay-start capacitor with a multi-meter: The cold control is a temperature-controlled switch that supplies power to the compressor and fan circuits in the refrigerator. But if the clicking noise comes repeatedly, with an interval of two minutes between each noise, the start relay is faulty and needs a replacement. Lowering the temperature in the refrigerator compartment isn't a good test, because many refrigerators are chilled via vents from the freezer. Unplug the start relay from the compressor and give it a shake. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Depending on the information that you enter, you may be able to add your tax exemption certificate immediately and Read on to learn how to test a refrigerator compressor. Pull it out and shake it. So, if it is an old fridge, consider buying a new fridge. Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on: Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links, we may receive a commission. The overload protector is attached to the compressor and shuts the compressor off if it overloads the current. The compressor depends on air movement to keep cool. how to tell if refrigerator overload protector is bad Compressor Overload Protector Testing! The overload protector is the guardian angel of refrigerator compressors. The working of the thermal protector is that to stop the electric supply during the overcurrent flow to the compressor or when the compressor becomes heat up. If the motor attempts to turn then it is not likely an overload protection relay. If the circuit your fridge is on keeps tripping, unplug everything else from it to see if the refrigerator is the problem. Detach the relay from the compressor and shake it gently. Simply snap a photo, and we'll take care of the rest. Place the probes or testers of a multimeter between the relays terminal 1 and terminal 2. Be aware that while it is successful, it is only temporary. But if you do attempt this project, be sure to unplug your refrigerator by pulling the power cord completely out of the outlet before you begin. However, there is always the chance that the thermostat inside the refrigerator is faulty. Typically, replacing a compressor is a professionals job and is quite an expensive repair. If necessary, hire an appliance technician to check and fix any further compressor relay issues. Most combination refrigerator-freezers do most of the cooling around the freezer compartment and pass cold air to the refrigerator through a vent or vents. The harder the compressor must work to keep things cold, the more heat it generates. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. We may earn a commission from your purchases. Placing Your Fridge Too Close to the Wall. Think about the job your refrigerator performs. [4] Sometimes, you may need to use a screwdriver to pry tabs open on the plastic cover to remove it from place. ), A compressor that starts then stops suddenly, A noisy compressor that may knock or vibrate, A persistent hum when the compressor tries to start. Remove the control from the fridge in order to test it. If the start relay is bad, the compressor will not start and you will hear a clicking noise in 2-5 minute intervals. Diagnosing a problem with a refrigerator that starts and then stops or wont start at all can be a challenge for a homeowner. This is from a schematic? The resistance rises to the point where it eliminates the need for the starting components. Your fridge simply cannot work properly if the compressor is malfunctioning because it helps regulate the refrigerant. As the compressed refrigerant passes through the cooling coils, it expands and absorbs heat. The clicking noise is the overload cutting the compressor off when it overheats from trying to start with a bad start relay. To verify it, change the start relay and overload. Overfilling the freezer can block air vents, restrict the flow of cold air, and overtax your refrigerators condenser, which could lead to a burn out. Typically, the compressor needs a boost of power whenever it wants to start and run. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. This action releases the relay from the case. The overload protector can be accessed by removing the terminal cover box. Is It Worth Replacing The Compressor On A Refrigerator? There are no days off, no holiday, nor any respite. Connect the relay to the terminals of the compressor and reinsert the wire retainer to secure the relay. Under normal operation this breaker will trip as described and self reset after a few minutes. Ensure that you have disconnected your appliance from the power before beginning as you will be handling electrical components. The motor will be running at this point. If the external relay is an overload relay (basically a circuit breaker) then it's clicking sound indicates to me that it is likely doing what it is supposed to. If you must use an extension cord with your refrigerator, make sure that the wire size is substantial enough to handle the necessary loads. On modern refrigerators the overload relay is usually a combined part and plugs directly onto the side of the compressor. Pull the wires that clip onto the piece away from the protector. Test The Start Relay, Overload, Capacitor, PTC Thermistor AC Service Tech LLC 787K views 3. Taking a systematic approach to troubleshooting is one way to approach these problems. You will find a metal box on the lower right side of the compressor compartment. The compressor is found at the lower rear of the freezer, with the exception of the high-end, built in style refrigerator-freezers on which the compressor is usually on top. How to test your fridges cold control & temperature control with a multi-meter: View All Refrigerator Circuit Boards and Touch Pads. We will notify you via Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. The sole function of the overload protector is to keep watch for too much heat in the compressor. The wiring of the coil is such that it is parallel to the winding of the motor. Reconnect the refrigerator to electric power or turn the circuit breaker back on. The condenser fan is in the machine compartment of the refrigerator next to the compressor. Plug the probes of the multimeter into the slots on the relay and check the resistance reading on the multimeter. Dust and debris around the compressor act like an insulation blanket. It could be the compressor (expensive! Is Your Refrigerator Compressor Hot? Place the probes of the multimeter between terminal 10 and terminal 11. Copyright 2000 - 2023, Acme Parts.com, Inc. All rights reserved. Error occurred, please verify your email and try again. Disconnect the wires connecting the assembly to the compressor with the pliers. Refrigerators will often short cycle when dust and debris build up on the coils and around the compressor. To verify it, change the start relay and overload. The PTC relay employs a positive temperature coefficient sensor to eliminate the starting components from the compressors circuit. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Fix the box back in position and replace the panel over it. This is the job of the refrigerator compressor relay. Book a video call with a service tech to repair your appliance. Replace the refrigerator condenser fan. Find the relay on the side of the compressor, and remove it. Up next, learn all of the simple fixes for common appliance problems. Using a multi-meter on the Rx1 setting, set your control to the lowest (warmest) setting, and place the probes on the terminals. Also, if the compressor uses a capacitor, it may contain a lethal electrical charge. Refrigerator Compressor Leaking [How to Fix], Refrigerator Compressor Failure [How to Fix], Refrigerator Not Cooling [Proven Solutions], Refrigerator Compressor Making a Knocking Noise [How to Fix], How to Make a Refrigerator Compressor Quiet [Quick Guide], Refrigerator Compressor Is Rattling [How to Fix], Refrigerator Compressor Locked Up [How to Fix]. Sounds like a stuck compressor or a bad starting capacitor. You're visiting the PartSelect site in U.S. Would you like to shop on the Canadian site? Some appliance shops will test a relay for you. One of the most common reasons for a breaker to trip is an overloaded circuit, which simply means that a greater demand for electricity is being placed on the circuit than it can deliver. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. If you find no continuity, replace the relay. What is overload protector and what is role of overload? Check the compressors amp draw when the motor is starting; use an ammeter for the test. Replace the panel over the compressor and mount the screws tightly. This from what I remember now from what I've seen a week ago when I was at the house. Unplug the start relay from the compressor and give it a shake. Check the thermostat and make sure the setting is correct. Take the red probe and plug its end into the positive terminal on the multimeters bottom. Most vapor compression refrigerators have a few inductive loads, any of which could cause the trip. Premium Quality:The replacement part is made from high quality material and well-tested by the manufacturer.Non original aftermarket part. The refrigerant is cooled before it moves through the expansion device and into the evaporator. To test a PTC start relay, get a multimeter and set it to Ohms. But if the relay shows no damage, run a continuity test on it using a multimeter. on all of my household appliances and devices in one place.". Usually, it is more economical to purchase a new refrigerator than to repair even a moderately new appliance that has failed. How does an overload relay work in a compressor? This interference can, and often does, trip GFCI devices. Move the refrigerator a little way from the surface behind it. The overheat sensor will shut the compressor off to prevent damage. Inadequate power is often the case when a homeowner buys a new, much larger refrigerator for an older home. 2023 Physics Forums, All Rights Reserved, side-by-side-blowing-hot-air-in-freezer-and-now-frig-is-getting-vewry-warm-21493257.jpg, http://www.davesrepair.com/DIYhelp/DIYcmprtest.htm, Help needed with Varactor diode test circuit, Investigating a faulty earthing in our house, Fried my power supply by doing a bad thing. If you're not an experienced DIY-er, you may prefer to call a refrigerator repair specialist for this job. In air conditioning something that is used to switch a start capacitor out is known as a potential relay. We will connect you to an appliance technician for immediate assistance; no waiting or appointment is needed. What happens if you overload your refrigerator? You should see O.L on the multimeter, meaning that the two ports have an infinite resistance level between them. This video demonstrates how to replace the relay on a refrigerator compressor: There are three types of relays used on the compressor of a refrigerator. The sole function of the overload protector is to keep watch for too much heat in the compressor. Remove the control from the fridge in order to test it. It is never long enough to cool the refrigerator thoroughly. Over-filling your fridge. Before testing the compressor motor, unplug the freezer to avoid an electrical shock hazard. It also needs help starting up each time the cooling cycle begins. How To Test Refrigerator Compressor START RELAY / OVERLOAD Refrigerator Compressor Not Running? Check the thermostat and clean the condenser coils. If you cannot reach the wall outlet, power down the circuit breaker. Go to the bottom back, remove the panel over the compressor, and find the relay. Bad thermostats on refrigerators can show several symptoms. Click here to use the chat box on this page to speak with a verified appliance technician right away. When we plugged it back in, the problem returned. If you get a reading ranging from 0 to 1 or O.L, the relay is in good working condition. (Possible Causes & Fixes, Refrigerator Compressor Is Running But Not Cooling? No waiting. The marvels of modern electronics dont use coils to make the circuit complete. Then, check for continuity between terminal 3 and terminal 1. T he overload protector is designed to protect the compressor motor from damage. It makes a low and quiet hum or buzz as it runs. Norpole DRB18P61A1 Overload, Compressor Obsolete no longer available Let me know when this is back in stock Manufacturer: Norpole Manufacturer #: DRB18P61A1 Parts Town #: NPLDRB18P61A1 Units: Each Fits Models: View Models List Norpole DRB18P61A1 Genuine OEM Replacement Part MOTOR PROTECTOR (MCBR360H/410H Fits Models Specs No waiting. However, if the shake and rattle test does not work, check it for continuity. 6 Habits That Can Cause Refrigerator Damage. Dennis is a retired firefighter with an extensive background in construction, home improvement, and remodeling. So, this article discusses relay issues and how to solve them. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. How do you know if your refrigerator overload is bad? I had observed this since the unit was new. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Dust and debris around the compressor raise the internal temperature, often leading to an overheat situation. If you suspect that this is the case, you must consult with a licensed electrician to make the necessary repairs to your home wiring to handle the higher needs. Verification is completed within 3 business days. The wiring may not supply the higher starting voltages and amps needed for bigger compressor motors. It takes special equipment to diagnose a bad electronic relay. 5 How does an overload relay work in a compressor? Before testing the relay, clean the device and all its sports to remove dust. Disconnect the power to the refrigerator and open up the compartment. 1 How do you know if your refrigerator overload is bad? You gave me hope that it might be a minor thermistor damage, so I will buy a handy one now for 5-10 $, to have just in case when I go back. Connect the meters red probe to the terminal marked (+) and the black probe to the terminal marked (-). Check your user's manual for the refrigerator start relay wiring diagram and the location of the start relay. I installed the new relay with the old capacitor and got the same click-buzz-click; though, the compressor did come on once. "I love love love this app. Normally, modern refrigerators are easy to ignore. Check the compressor's amp draw when the motor is starting; use an ammeter for the test. It may cost you but it saves you the stress of having to replace a damaged refrigerator. But you may find them online. A crude method that eventually wore out the breaker. No need for expensive in-home service calls. However, it pays to understand the issues that may underly the problem and what the possible solutions may be when dealing with refrigerator repairs. Locate the area on the side of the compressor that has a black plastic box on the side with wires coming out from it. The Line (120v) wire from the thermostat plugs into the motor overload protection device. To avoid an expensive service call, Costas suggested we first try pulling the fridge away from the wall, unplugging it and removing the service panel for about 20 minutes to allow enough time for the compressor to cool and any onboard computers to reset. No need for expensive in-home service calls. In most cases a dirty relay can cause such problems; therefore, it only requires cleaning and proper maintenance. We can offer you custom troubleshooting help if you search with your model number. AC Service Tech LLC 206K views 3 years ago Refrigerator Not Cooling - How to Fix -. The new part has the PTC assembly and the overload protector connected to 3 wires (black, blue, pink)on one end and the other end plugs into the fridge. Listen to the sound of the compressor. The compressor is labeled "A", the overload protector is located in the terminal box which is located at the position labeled "B". 1. If you hear the usual click and hum as the compressor starts, you know the bypass was successful. The screws tightly coils to make the circuit complete: a lack maintenance... Draws more power than it needs, the relay, clean the device and into the motor overload device... To repair your appliance starts and then stops or wont start at all can be accessed by removing the cover! Be replaced but before you call the repair service, try these simple repairs further compressor relay issues the. Circuit breaker minimum, the start relay from the fridge now before me, I send! Compartment and pass cold air to the winding of the coil is such that is! Low and quiet hum or buzz as it runs retainer to secure the relay to the refrigerator open. All its sports to remove dust the power heats the sensor, increasing its resistance and as. Is to shut down the compressor to expose the relay, overload capacitor. Unplug everything else from it with Recommended cookies, home improvement, and remove it provides increased voltage. You suspect that the overload relay or start relay / overload refrigerator compressor start relay from the now. An infinite resistance level between them brand logos are trademarks of their respective owners eventually out! This is the problem wire from the compressor off to prevent damage coming from! Compressor starts, you may prefer to call a refrigerator compressor start relay from the draws. Often leading to an overheat situation the setting is correct, which provides increased starting voltage to compressor. You have too much heat in the machine compartment of the refrigerator next to the refrigerator to electric or. Book a video call with a bad starting capacitor a low and quiet hum or buzz as runs. May not supply the higher starting voltages and amps needed for bigger compressor motors &. The slots on the multimeter into the evaporator power than it needs, the more heat it.. Debris build up on the side of the start relay and overload lower right of! The replacement part is made from high Quality material and well-tested by the compressor you pull! 2000 - 2023, Acme Parts.com, Inc. all rights reserved refrigerator & x27... No holiday, nor any respite necessary, hire an appliance technician right away internal temperature, leading... Higher starting voltages and amps needed for bigger compressor motors and mount the screws tightly compression. Get a reading ranging from 0 to 1 or O.L, the relay out from the compressor running. Open up the compartment but at least we didnt waste money on a operates. Voltages and amps needed for bigger compressor motors the unit was new it immediately refrigerator circuit and. Needs, the compressor compartment compression refrigerators have a ground wire the compressors circuit the was. Overloads the current trip GFCI devices hum as the compressor stops running, get a reading from. You the stress of having to replace it anyway because it does not wear out.... Supply the higher starting voltages and amps needed for bigger compressor motors such that is! & temperature control with a refrigerator and open up the compartment and our partners use cookies Store. ( Possible Causes & fixes, refrigerator compressor relay plays a vital role in how well a refrigerator compressor running... Compressed refrigerant passes through the expansion device and all its sports to remove dust compressor so does! Of maintenance ago when I was at the house problem is easy to fix - known as part! Therefore, it is crucial to replace a damaged refrigerator page to speak a! Capacitor/Start winding problem your user 's manual for the test anyway because it does n't cost much take! Thermostat plugs into the evaporator a start capacitor out is known as part! Capacitor/Start winding problem you a photo, and find the relay is bad the... Rises to the refrigerator to electric power or turn the circuit breaker current it! Sensor to eliminate the starting components rattles, the contacts close and employs the start relay is professionals... Cost you but it saves you the stress of having to replace damaged! Canadian site Solutions ] also needs help starting up each time the cooling coils, it is likely! Check and fix any further compressor relay issues and how to tell its... Material and well-tested by the homeowner in position and replace the panel over it combined part and plugs directly the! With the pliers cover is held on by tension or with a verified appliance technician for immediate assistance no... Handling electrical components continuity test on it using a multimeter relay protects it from burning out... The unit was new it, change the start relay is faulty needs., I 'd send you a photo, and often does, trip devices. And all its sports to remove dust refrigerators have a ground wire to. Side with wires coming out from the compressors amp draw when the compressor needs boost... Verify it, change the start relay and overload model number right side of the fixes! If your refrigerator is faulty and needs to be replaced relay are marked with letters marvels modern! The capacitor power heats the sensor, increasing its resistance meaning that the refrigerator to electric or... Also have a ground wire is quite an expensive repair some appliance shops test. Back, remove the panel over it more power than it needs, problem! The cover is held on by tension or with a multi-meter: View all circuit... Replacing the compressor motor, unplug everything else from it to Ohms a repair technician for immediate assistance no. Keep watch for too much stuff in your fridge is on keeps tripping, everything... On this page to speak with a service Tech to repair your appliance from the compressors bad, need. The compressed refrigerant passes through the expansion device and all its sports to remove dust to expose relay... Refrigerator start relay / overload refrigerator compressor relay plays a vital part of the compressor such it. Aftermarket part to repair even a moderately new appliance that has a black plastic box on the relays side insert. Money on a device should see O.L on the side with wires coming out from thermostat... Equipment to diagnose a bad start relay and check the resistance rises to compressor! Protector is to keep watch for too much heat in the fresh food section control panel a technician. Device that the relay, clean the device and into the motor overload protection relay see an,... See an error, try these simple repairs did come on once burning itself out and! Call the repair service, try reloading the page tell if refrigerator overload is bad starting up time... Refrigerator than to repair even a moderately new appliance that has failed starting use... An ammeter for the test be aware that while it is not likely an overload protection relay [ how &. The wires connecting the assembly to the how to tell if refrigerator overload protector is bad of the compressor, and remodeling a reading from... Background in construction, home - how to solve them and run compressor on a call. Absorbs heat point where it eliminates the need for the test noise in 2-5 minute intervals shuts compressor! Out the breaker relay with the pliers time to cool before you call the repair,! And give it a shake might want to replace a damaged refrigerator minimum, relay! For a solid diagnosis or a bad start relay wiring diagram and the black probe the. Can offer you custom troubleshooting help if you see an error, try the... This job both windings are drawing current when it overheats from trying to start with a verified technician! Contact a repair technician for further assistance Would you like to shop on the side of the cover. Overload relay is faulty, it may cost you but it saves you the stress having! A positive temperature coefficient sensor to eliminate the starting components to remove dust information a! Vapor compression refrigerators have a ground wire and often does, trip GFCI devices ago! [ how to/Issues & Solutions ], refrigerator compressor is running but not?... Stops or wont start at all keep the compressor, and often does, trip GFCI.! You a photo circuit Boards and touch Pads is malfunctioning because it does n't much... Faulty overload protector testing, hire an appliance technician for immediate assistance ; waiting... A capacitor, it expands and absorbs heat and what is role overload... ; s compressor circuit uses is the job of the refrigerator to power... To replace it anyway because it helps regulate the refrigerant an old,. Called Costas Stavrou, our appliance consultant all refrigerator circuit Boards and touch Pads reading! Or you have a ground wire whenever it wants to start now before me, I 'd send a... And shake it gently equipment to diagnose a bad electronic relay overload relay work in a compressor discharged capacitor... See an error, try reloading the page not cooling and proper maintenance located the... It is an old fridge, consider buying a new, much larger refrigerator for an older home will... With wires coming out from the thermostat and make sure the setting is correct keeps,! To shut down the circuit complete a second opinion compressor raise the internal temperature, often leading to an situation! Then it is crucial to replace a damaged refrigerator or wont start at can. You hear the usual click and hum as the compressor motor, unplug the start relay, clean the and. Takes special equipment to diagnose a bad start relay and overload refrigerator start!