How to Change a Freezer Compressor Relay Switch

The compressor on a freezer is the motor that runs the appliance. When activated by a relay switch, the unit forces refrigerant gas under high pressure through the condenser coils to lower the temperature to the specified level. If the relay switch is defective, the compressor will not start. The compressor and relay are located on the back of the appliance at the bottom. Replacing the relay switch takes less than an hour.

Screwdriver set

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug the freezer's power cord or shut off electricity at the circuit breaker for the appliance. Slide the freezer away from the wall and turn it at an angle to reach the back panel.
- 2
  Remove the cover on the relay switch located at the bottom right corner, to the right of the oval or football-shaped compressor. The cover may snap off with gentle pressure or pop off when prying two clips on one side, depending on the model.
- 3
  Release the three wires connected to the relay switch, making a note of where each colored wire connects. The wire colors may vary with the model, but are often red, black and green, denoting positive, negative and ground, respectively. Some relay switches connect with screw terminals that must be loosened with a screwdriver and others attach the wires with clips that release when pressing a tab.
- 4
  Remove the screws holding the switch to the bracket inside the freezer bottom. Take the switch to an appliance parts shop for a replacement.
- 5
  Attach the new switch to the bracket with screws and connect the three wires in the same orientation as the old switch.
- 6
  Replace the cover over the relay assembly.
- 7
  Slide the freezer back to its original position and restore the electricity.

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