Step-by-step fix
Step 1: Confirm this is the right repair
- Listen near the back of the refrigerator for a repeated click or brief hum from the compressor area, followed by silence.
- Check whether the interior lights and fans still work while the refrigerator is not cooling properly.
- Pull the refrigerator away from the wall enough to inspect the lower rear area.
- Look for signs that point away from this repair, such as a dead refrigerator with no lights, a heavily frosted evaporator problem, or obvious damage to the compressor tubing.
If it works: The refrigerator has power, but the compressor is not starting normally and the symptoms fit a failed start relay and overload assembly.
If it doesn’t: If the refrigerator is completely dead, the fans never run, or the compressor is already running and the unit still does not cool, this is probably not the right repair path.
Stop if:- You smell burned wiring insulation, see melted connectors, or find damaged compressor pins.
- The compressor shell is extremely hot, leaking oil, or the copper tubing is damaged.
Step 2: Unplug the refrigerator and open the compressor area
- Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet.
- Move it out carefully so you can work behind it without straining the water line, if equipped.
- Remove the lower rear access panel with a screwdriver or nut driver and set the screws aside.
- Locate the compressor. It is the black metal can near the bottom rear of the refrigerator, and the start relay and overload assembly will be attached to its side.
If it works: You have safe access to the compressor and can clearly see the relay and overload assembly.
If it doesn’t: If you cannot reach the compressor area safely, get help moving the refrigerator or stop and schedule service.
Stop if:- The outlet, power cord, or plug shows heat damage or arcing.
- You find rodent damage, exposed wiring, or standing water in the work area.
Step 3: Remove the old relay and overload assembly
- Take a clear photo of the wiring before disconnecting anything.
- If there is a retaining clip or cover over the relay assembly, remove it and keep it nearby.
- Pull the wire connectors off the relay and overload terminals by gripping the connector, not the wire itself.
- Slide or pull the relay and overload assembly straight off the compressor terminals. Some assemblies separate into two pieces, while others come off together.
- Check the old part for obvious failure signs like rattling pieces inside, burn marks, or melted plastic.
If it works: The old relay and overload assembly is off the compressor, and the wiring is documented for reassembly.
If it doesn’t: If the part is stuck, wiggle it gently while pulling straight outward. Do not pry hard against the compressor pins.
Stop if:- A compressor terminal pin is loose, cracked, or pulls out with the old part.
- The wire terminals are badly burned or too loose to reconnect securely.
Step 4: Install the new relay and overload assembly
- Compare the new part to the old one and make sure the terminal layout and connector positions match.
- Push the new relay and overload assembly onto the compressor terminals firmly and evenly until it seats fully.
- Reconnect the wires to the same terminals shown in your photo.
- Reinstall any retaining clip or protective cover that came off with the old part.
- Make sure no wires are rubbing against the compressor, fan blade, or sharp cabinet edges.
If it works: The new relay and overload assembly is fully seated, wired correctly, and secured in place.
If it doesn’t: If the new part does not fit the compressor terminals or the wire connections do not match, recheck the replacement part using your refrigerator model information before forcing anything.
Stop if:- The replacement part does not match the original well enough to install securely.
- Any wire connector feels too loose to stay attached during operation.
Step 5: Reassemble and restore power
- Reinstall the rear access panel before testing. The refrigerator needs normal airflow through the compressor area.
- Move the refrigerator back carefully, leaving enough space so the cord and any water line are not pinched.
- Plug the refrigerator 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 refrigerator several minutes to settle into normal operation.
If it works: The refrigerator powers back up and the compressor starts without repeated clicking.
If it doesn’t: If it still clicks and fails to start, the compressor itself, wiring, or another electrical component may be the real problem.
Stop if:- The new part smokes, sparks, or gets hot immediately.
- The compressor trips repeatedly within a few minutes even with the new relay installed.
Step 6: Verify the repair held in real use
- Check again after 15 to 30 minutes to confirm the compressor is still running normally or cycling normally instead of clicking off right away.
- After several hours, confirm the freezer is getting cold and the fresh food section is improving.
- Listen for a stable sound pattern from the back instead of repeated start attempts.
- Watch over the next day for normal temperatures and no new burning smell or hot electrical odor.
If it works: The compressor starts reliably and the refrigerator returns to normal cooling.
If it doesn’t: If cooling does not return even though the compressor now starts, there may be another sealed-system or airflow problem that needs diagnosis.
Stop if:- The refrigerator still will not cool after the compressor starts normally for several hours.
- You notice overheating, electrical odor, or repeated shutdowns after the repair.
Replacement Parts
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FAQ
What does a bad refrigerator compressor start relay sound like?
A common sign is a click, a short hum, and then another click as the compressor fails to start. This may repeat every few minutes while the refrigerator stops cooling.
Can I replace just the relay, or do I need the overload too?
Many replacements are sold together because both parts work as a set on the compressor. If your replacement is an assembly, install the full matching assembly rather than mixing old and new pieces.
Will a new start relay fix every refrigerator that is not cooling?
No. It helps when the compressor is not starting properly. If the compressor already runs, or the refrigerator has a different fault like a fan problem, defrost issue, or sealed-system failure, this repair will not solve it.
How long should I wait to know if the repair worked?
You should usually know within minutes whether the compressor starts normally. Full cooling takes longer, so give the refrigerator several hours to show clear improvement and up to a day to stabilize.
What if the new relay still clicks and the compressor will not run?
That usually points to a deeper problem such as a failing compressor, damaged wiring, or another electrical fault. At that point, further diagnosis or professional service is the better next step.