What does a capacitor do on a refrigerator compressor?

The run capacitor of the refrigerator is an important component in its start up relay. The run capacitor assists the refrigerator compressor, which should only run for a few minutes in any given hour. If it runs longer than that, the compressor can overheat or its motor can burn out.

How does a refrigerator compressor relay work?

The overload relay is a protection device used in the compressor circuit on your refrigerator. 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.

What happens if the capacitor fails on a refrigerator?

Firstly, the fridge will not get cool enough. And the compressor fan will stop working from time to time or will stop completely, and the compressor will keep on clicking on and off, and things inside the refrigerator will not be cool enough.

Can fridge compressor run without a capacitor?

Compressors were never meant to operate without a motor-run capacitor. The problem will occur because the hard-start Kit will briefly replace the failed motor-run capacitor thereby allowing the compressor to restart.

Can a fridge compressor work without a capacitor?

Single-phase compressors of the fridges need a start capacitor, which will assist the motor to start. However, regardless of the brand of fridge, you have got, these capacitors at times fail to deliver. And when that happens, the compressor simply fails to start.

Can fridge work without relay?

A compressor can’t run continuously, so the relay is used. This is an electrical switch that tells the compressor when to turn on or off depending on the need for cool air inside the unit. If the relay fails, however, the compressor might not ever kick on, so you may have to bypass the refrigerator’s relay system.

How do you bypass a capacitor on a refrigerator?

Use a flathead screwdriver to press down on the space between the relay and its casing. Then, press on the relay itself and pull it out to remove it from the refrigerator. Slide the wire from the relay so it’s accessible.

Which type of capacitor is used in refrigerator?

Refrigerator capacitors are usually used to keep the compressor running and they are located in the back, bottom section of the refrigerator. Most are either 12 or 15 uF (mfd). Also, most are interchangeable as long as you match up the uF rating.

Can you bypass a refrigerator capacitor?

You’ll need to remove the metal connecter attaching it to the relay system first and then use pliers to strip some of the wire (no more than ¼ inch) on either side. Using electrical tape, connect both ends of the wire back to the relay housing so it completely bypasses the missing relay and closes the circuit.

How do you check if a capacitor is working properly?

One way to check if a capacitor is working is to charge it up with a voltage and then read the voltage across the anode and cathode. For this it is necessary to charge the capacitor with voltage, and to apply a DC voltage to the capacitor leads. In this case polarity is very important.