What is PTC starter in refrigerator?

What is PTC starter in refrigerator?

A positive temperature coefficeint relay, also known as a PTC or a start relay, starts the compressor inside of your fridge. The compressor is what creates the cold air that keeps your refrigerator cold. So, if your fridge stops making cold air, there could be a problem with the PTC relay.

What is a PTC starter relay?

A PTC relay means positive temperature coefficient is a starting device for refrigerator compressors. It is responsible for providing power to the start winding for a brief moment to help start the cooling compressor motor.

How do PTC relays work?

A PTC relay uses a positive temperature coefficient thermistor to remove the start winding and/or start capacitor from the circuit. A PTC thermistor is basically a resistor whose resistance increases on an increase in temperature.

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 I know if my refrigerator compressor relay is bad?

The Shake and Rattle Test Unplug the start relay from the compressor and give it a shake. If you can hear rattling on the inside of the start relay, then the part is bad and will have to be replaced. If it’s not rattling and appears to be in good condition, you may have a problem with the actual compressor.

Can you bypass a PTC relay?

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.