Step-by-step fix
Step 1: Confirm the start relay is a likely cause
- Listen near the back of the freezer for a repeated click or short hum from the compressor area.
- Check whether the freezer has power and basic functions like interior lights or controls still work.
- Feel the compressor carefully after the freezer has been plugged in for a while. A failed relay often leaves the compressor trying to start but not running normally.
- Rule out simple issues first, like a tripped breaker, loose plug, or temperature control set too warm.
- Make sure your replacement relay matches your freezer model before opening anything.
If it works: The freezer has power, the compressor is not starting normally, and the start relay is a reasonable repair to try.
If it doesn’t: If the freezer is completely dead, troubleshoot the power supply, control, or wiring first instead of replacing the relay.
Stop if:- You smell burnt wiring, see melted insulation, or find obvious damage around the compressor terminals.
- The compressor shell is leaking oil or the refrigerant lines are damaged.
- You are not confident identifying the relay on the side of the compressor.
Step 2: Unplug the freezer and open the compressor area
- Move food if needed so the door can stay closed during the repair and the freezer stays as cold as possible.
- Unplug the freezer from the wall outlet.
- Pull the freezer out enough to reach the lower rear panel comfortably.
- Remove the screws holding the rear access panel and set the panel and screws aside.
- Locate the compressor at the bottom rear. The start relay is usually attached to the side of the compressor near the electrical terminals.
If it works: The freezer is unplugged and you can clearly reach the compressor and relay area.
If it doesn’t: If you cannot access the rear panel safely because of tight space or flooring concerns, get help moving the freezer before continuing.
Stop if:- The access panel is sharp, bent, or damaged in a way that makes removal unsafe.
- You find heavy scorching, melted plastic, or rodent-damaged wiring in the compressor compartment.
Step 3: Remove the old start relay
- Take a clear photo of the relay, overload, and wire positions before disconnecting anything.
- If there is a retaining clip or cover, remove it carefully and keep it nearby.
- Pull the wire connectors off the relay or overload by gripping the connector, not the wire itself.
- Slide or pull the old relay assembly straight off the compressor terminals.
- Inspect the old relay for signs of failure such as rattling pieces inside, burn marks, or a melted connector.
If it works: The old relay is off the compressor and the wire layout is documented.
If it doesn’t: If the relay feels stuck, wiggle it gently while pulling straight off the terminals instead of prying hard against the compressor.
Stop if:- A compressor terminal is cracked, loose, or pulls out with the relay.
- The wire connector is burnt badly enough that it will not make a secure connection to the new part.
Step 4: Install the new relay
- Compare the new relay to the old one so the terminal layout and connector style match.
- Transfer any overload protector or related piece if your replacement setup requires reusing it and it is in good condition.
- Push the new relay firmly onto the compressor terminals until it seats fully and evenly.
- Reconnect the wires exactly as shown in your photo.
- Reinstall any retaining clip or protective cover so the relay stays secure.
If it works: The new relay is fully seated, the wires are back in place, and nothing is loose around the compressor terminals.
If it doesn’t: If the new part does not fit the terminals or wire connectors cleanly, stop and verify the part match before forcing anything.
Stop if:- The replacement part does not match the original connection layout.
- Any terminal connection feels loose enough to slip off during operation.
Step 5: Reassemble and restore power
- Reinstall the rear access panel because the freezer needs proper airflow through the compressor area.
- Push the freezer back carefully without pinching the power cord.
- Plug the freezer back in.
- Listen for the compressor to start. A normal start is usually a brief hum followed by steady running, not repeated clicking.
- Give the freezer several minutes to settle into normal operation.
If it works: The freezer powers back up and the compressor starts without repeated clicking.
If it doesn’t: If the compressor still only clicks or hums briefly, unplug the freezer again and recheck the relay fit, wire connections, and part match.
Stop if:- The breaker trips, you see sparking, or you smell overheating after restoring power.
- The compressor becomes extremely hot quickly and still will not start.
Step 6: Verify the repair holds in real use
- Let the freezer run for several hours and check that the interior is getting colder.
- Listen for a normal compressor cycle instead of repeated start attempts.
- Check again later that frozen food is staying solid and the cabinet temperature is recovering.
- Look behind the freezer one more time to make sure the access panel is secure and there are no unusual smells or noises.
If it works: The compressor starts and runs normally, the clicking is gone, and the freezer returns to proper cooling.
If it doesn’t: If cooling does not return after the relay replacement, the problem may be the overload, capacitor if equipped, wiring, control issue, or a failing compressor.
Stop if:- The freezer still will not cool and the compressor will not stay running after the new relay is installed.
- You hear loud buzzing, see overheating, or notice repeated shutdowns that point to a deeper compressor problem.
Replacement Parts
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FAQ
What does a freezer start relay do?
The start relay helps the compressor start running. If it fails, the compressor may click, hum briefly, or fail to start at all.
How do I know if the start relay is bad?
Common signs include repeated clicking from the compressor area, a freezer that has power but is not cooling, or a relay that smells burnt or rattles when shaken after removal.
Can I replace a freezer start relay myself?
Many homeowners can handle it if they unplug the freezer, access the compressor safely, and install the exact matching part. Stop if you find burnt wiring, damaged terminals, or signs of compressor failure.
Will a new start relay fix every no-cool problem?
No. It helps when the compressor is not starting because of a relay failure. If the compressor itself is failing or another electrical part is bad, the freezer may still not cool after replacement.
Do I need to replace the overload protector too?
Sometimes the relay and overload are sold together, and sometimes they are separate. Follow the replacement part setup you bought and reuse only parts that are in good condition and match properly.