How To Test the Compressor Relay
The compressor relay's purpose is to
start the compressor. A faulty relay can result in the compressor
failing to cycle on. The relay is accessed from the lower rear of the
refrigerator the
relay is located in the terminal box which is located at the side of the compressor.
Before testing a compressor relay, unplug the refrigerator to avoid
an electrical shock hazard. Also, if the compressor uses a capacitor,
it must be discharged first to avoid the risk of electrical shock.
Beneath the terminal cover is found the compressor relay , overload protector and the electrical
terminals of the compressor motor.
Remove the compressor relay by pulling it straight off from the compressor.
Pull the wire off of the side terminal of the relay. It is connected
with a slip on connector. Firmly pull the connector, do not pull on the
wire. You may need to use a pair of needle-nose pliers.
Inspect the connector and terminal for corrosion. If either is corroded they should be cleaned or replaced.
There are two types of relays you may encounter, wire coil and solid
state. If the relay has an exposed wound wire coil it can be tested for
continuity. Otherwise, the relay is of solid state design and requires
specialized equipment for testing.
Test the compressor relay for continuity using a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting X1.
With the relay upside down, place the probes into the terminals
labeled "S" and "M". The multimeter should display a reading of zero
ohms, indicating continuity (or if using a continuity tester, it should
light up).
With the probes still in place, turn the relay over. You should hear
the click of the magnetic switch engaging. The multimeter should now
display an ohm reading of infinity (or the tester should not light up).
Turn the relay upside down again, place the probe on the "S" terminal and place it on the side terminal labeled "L".
The multimeter should now display a reading of zero ohms
(continuity). Turn the relay over and the reading should change to
infinity.
With the relay upside down place one probe on the "L" terminal and the other probe on terminal labeled "M".
The multimeter should display a reading of zero ohms. Turn the relay over and the reading will stay the same, zero ohms.
If the compressor relay does not pass all of these tests, it should be replaced.
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It's not the relay. I replaced it and it's still not cooling. Any idea of what's the problem? Can it be the thermostat or control board needs to be replaced? The fan runs, the compressor runs (I think).. I can feel it vibrating like it's running and it gets warm. I really appreciate your help!
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