How does a PTC relay with capacitor 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.

What is PTC in fridge compressor?

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 does the refrigerator run capacitor do?

The run capacitor helps the compressor kick on and off while maintaining a constant temperature in your fridge and freezer. You may need to replace your run capacitor if your refrigerator or freezer section will not start, if they are too warm, or if your refrigerator has become too noisy.

Can refrigerator work without capacitor?

An electrical problem is often the main cause of issues with the refrigerator’s run capacitor. Wiring may become disconnected over time, or circuitry can go bad. Without this functioning system, the PTC won’t have backup and the compressor may not run properly.

How can I check my PTC?

Both PTC as well as NTC thermistors can be roughly checked by using an analogue multimeter. Keep the analogue multimeter in resistance mode. Connect the multimeter terminals to the thermistor leads. Polarity is not an issue here.

What happens if refrigerator capacitor is bad?

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.

How do you bypass a compressor relay 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.

How do you bypass a refrigerator 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.