Is your refrigerator not cooling properly and you suspect it may be due to a faulty start relay? Don’t worry, you can easily bypass the start relay to troubleshoot the issue without having to call a technician. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps on how to bypass the start relay on your refrigerator in simple and easy-to-understand language. Let’s get started!
The start relay on a refrigerator is a crucial component that helps the compressor start up and run efficiently. However, if the start relay fails, it can prevent the compressor from starting, causing the refrigerator to stop cooling. In such cases, bypassing the start relay temporarily can help you keep your refrigerator running until you can get a replacement part.
Before attempting to bypass the start relay, it’s important to understand that this is only a temporary solution and should not be considered a long-term fix. Bypassing the start relay can cause the compressor to run continuously, which can lead to overheating and potentially damaging the compressor.
Here are the steps to bypass the start relay on a refrigerator:
1. Unplug the refrigerator: Always unplug the refrigerator from the power source before attempting any repairs or modifications to avoid any electrical hazards.
2. Locate the start relay: The start relay is typically found on the side or back of the refrigerator near the compressor. It is a small box-shaped component with wires connected to it.
3. Disconnect the wires: Carefully disconnect the wires connected to the start relay, noting down the placement of each wire for reconnection later.
4. Bypass the start relay: Connect the two wires that were connected to the start relay directly to the compressor terminals to bypass the start relay and allow the compressor to start running.
5. Test the refrigerator: Plug the refrigerator back in and listen for the compressor to start running. If the compressor starts running, the bypass was successful. Monitor the refrigerator for any cooling issues or unusual noises.
Remember, bypassing the start relay is only a temporary solution. It’s best to replace the start relay as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the compressor or other refrigerator components.
If you’re not comfortable bypassing the start relay yourself, it’s best to seek the help of a professional appliance repair technician. They have the necessary skills and tools to diagnose and repair the issue with your refrigerator effectively.
1. How can I bypass the start relay on my refrigerator?
You can bypass the start relay by unplugging the refrigerator and locating the start relay, which is usually located near the compressor. You can then remove the start relay and connect the two wires that were attached to it directly to the compressor.
2. Why would I need to bypass the start relay on my refrigerator?
If your refrigerator is not cooling properly or not turning on at all, it may be due to a faulty start relay. Bypassing the start relay can help determine if the issue is with the relay itself or another component of the refrigerator.
3. Is it safe to bypass the start relay on my refrigerator?
Bypassing the start relay is a temporary solution to troubleshoot the issue with your refrigerator. It is not recommended to leave the start relay bypassed for an extended period of time as it can cause damage to the compressor or other components of the refrigerator. It is best to consult a professional technician for a more permanent solution.
