A bad start capacitor can also cause problems. The overload relay is a protection device used in the compressor circuit on your refrigerator. How to Test a Refrigerator Relay Switch. If it rattles, this relay is bad and can be replaced for about $20. For a refrigerator that never turns on, the problem might also be a start relay switch, a bad motor start capacitor or even a bad compressor motor. When the compressor trays to start the voltage drops and the relay drops out then the voltage is back so it trys to start again. This is a small box on the side of the compressor with several wires feeding in and out. The refrigerator relay and compressor relationship is an important one that not only saves energy and ensures the proper operation of your appliance but also ensures that the refrigerator doesn't overheat. The idea being that if the problem is just a bad start relay (very common), this can be repaired easily and inexpensively compared to replacing the entire compressor (or refrigerator). When you say rattle I am guessing you mean the relay is buzzing, if this is the case the voltage may be low, loose connections in the outlet can cause this to happen. Power is applied to the compressor motor windings through the overload device, and the relay is used to add the start winding in the circuit until the compressor is at running speed. How To Test the Overload Protector. 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 … So, if your fridge stops making cold air, there could be a problem with the PTC relay. T he overload protector is designed to protect the compressor motor from damage. A refrigerator requires a compressor to keep the interior cold. 4. If you shake the relay but there is no rattle, chances are fairly good that the relay is good, but your compressor is bad. https://homeguides.sfgate.com/tell-relay-switch-fridge-bad-45169.html Check the Start Relay. If the compressor is clicking on and off, or worse, not running at all, check the start relay. Hold the relay in your hand, and give it a bit of a shake. The compressor is what creates the cold air that keeps your refrigerator cold. Now, given a refrigerator compressor cant run continuously, it requires jump-starting; a role left for the refrigerator relay. https://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-test-a-refrigerator-start-relay If the unit gets too hot, other parts of the refrigerator might go bad, overheat or even wear out. A positive temperature coefficeint relay, also known as a PTC or a start relay, starts the compressor inside of your fridge. Often, the relay can perform poorly if it is very dirty, or if one or more wires have been loosened from repeated wear. 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