Can I keep running the equipment with this fault active?

Generally no. Faults on Appliance units are emitted when a sensor, safety, or control circuit is outside its operating envelope. Running through an active fault risks compressor, heater, or control-board damage. Diagnose and clear the fault first.

What part is most commonly replaced for Frigidaire Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement?

The most frequently replaced parts for Frigidaire Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement are listed in the Parts Reference section of this guide with OEM part numbers and typical price ranges. Check the table for direct replacements.

Is Frigidaire Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement a DIY repair or do I need a technician?

Sensor swaps, fan motor replacements, and condenser cleaning are typical DIY-level repairs. Anything involving refrigerant, gas, or high-voltage (>240V) work requires a licensed technician for both safety and code-compliance reasons.

Frigidaire Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement

Q: What does Frigidaire Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement mean?

Compressor clicks but won't start, or warm fridge and no compressor run. Replacing the failed PTC relay or overload protector restores compressor operation.

Q: How do I fix Frigidaire Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement?

Follow the step-by-step diagnosis below. The most likely fix is identified by checking power, sensor resistance, and control-board signals in order — using a multimeter and the part numbers documented in the parts reference table.

Frigidaire Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement — What This Part Does

The compressor start relay (PTC) energizes the compressor’s start winding briefly at startup to get the motor spinning. The overload protector opens the circuit if compressor current or temperature gets too high, preventing motor damage from overheating or locked-rotor conditions. Both parts are mounted directly on the compressor terminals at the back of the refrigerator.

These components fail from age-related degradation, repeated heat cycling, or exposure to high compressor temperatures. A failed PTC relay may show internal resistance out of range (normal is 3 to 12 ohms at room temperature), open circuit, or burned contacts. A failed overload trips open when it should be closed, or the bimetal element inside no longer resets. Loose connections on the compressor pins or a hard-starting compressor can also destroy the relay or cause nuisance overload trips.

Jump to Replacement Steps

Signs It Needs Replacing

Compressor clicks but won’t start You hear a click every few minutes as the overload tries to close, but the compressor never runs and the fridge stays warm.
Compressor hums briefly then stops The motor tries to start, draws high current, and the overload protector trips immediately, shutting it down.
No compressor sound at all The relay or overload is open circuit, so no power reaches the compressor even when the thermostat calls for cooling.
Burn marks or melted plastic on the start device Visual inspection of the relay assembly shows charring, cracking, or melted terminals from electrical arcing or heat.
Refrigerator runs warm but fans work The evaporator and condenser fans run normally, but the compressor never starts, so no refrigerant circulates.
Relay rattles or feels loose The PTC element inside has broken free, or the housing has cracked, and the part feels abnormally light or makes noise when shaken.

How to Replace It

Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet and wait 5 minutes for capacitors to discharge.
Pull the fridge away from the wall to access the rear lower panel where the compressor is located.
Remove the screws securing the rear access cover and lift it off to expose the compressor and start relay assembly.
Locate the start relay and overload protector mounted on the side of the compressor, usually held by a retaining clip or bracket.
Pull the relay and overload assembly straight off the compressor terminals with a gentle back-and-forth wiggle (do not pry against the terminals).
Disconnect the wire leads from the old relay, noting their positions or taking a photo for reference.
Test the old PTC relay with a multimeter set to ohms: check for 3 to 12 ohms at room temperature between the relay terminals (infinite resistance or zero ohms means failure).
Slide the new relay and overload assembly firmly onto the compressor pins until fully seated, then lock the retaining clip in place.
Reconnect the wire leads to the new relay exactly as they were on the old unit.
Replace the rear access cover, push the refrigerator back into position, and plug in the power cord.
Listen for the compressor to start within 2 to 3 minutes (if it clicks and stops immediately, the compressor itself may be locked or failing).

The Part You Need

Part	Notes
Frigidaire compressor start relay and overload kit	Amazon \| Find your model and serial number on the plate inside the fresh-food compartment (usually upper left or right wall). Search that model number with ‘compressor relay kit’ to match the exact replacement for your compressor. The relay and overload are typically sold together as one assembly.

If this part is failing you may also see one of these codes:

When to Call a Pro

If the new relay and overload trip immediately or the compressor still won’t start after replacement, the compressor windings may be shorted, the motor mechanically locked, or the sealed system has internal damage. Compressor replacement requires refrigerant recovery, brazing, vacuum, and recharge, which are EPA-certified tasks. Also call a pro if you’re uncomfortable working near live compressor terminals or if the compressor is hard to reach without removing additional cabinetry or the refrigerator’s entire back panel.