How to Replace the Relay Switch in My KitchenAid Superba Refrigerator

The KitchenAid Superba refrigerator comes as a side-by-side or a bottom mount refrigerator. Both models of the refrigerator have a relay switch that connects to the compressor. If the relay switch goes bad, the refrigerator will not cool properly. You can replace the relay switch without having to replace the compressor and the repair only takes minutes.

Phillips screwdriver
Flat-head screwdriver (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug your KitchenAid Superba refrigerator’s power cord from the outlet.
- 2
  Scoot the KitchenAid refrigerator away from the wall to allow you access to the back panel.
- 3
  Locate the screws along the lower back panel of the refrigerator, unscrew them, and then remove the panel.
- 4
  Locate the compressor at the bottom of the refrigerator. The relay switch is connected to the compressor and is held in place by a wire retainer.
- 5
  Squeeze the sides of the wire retainer together, while pulling upward, until it pops off.
- 6
  Remove the relay from the compressor by pulling it off. The relay just snaps into place on the compressor and you should be able to remove it with ease. If you cannot remove the relay, use a flat-head screwdriver to help you pry it off the compressor.
- 7
  Note the position of the two wires connected to the relay, and then pull the two wires out from the relay. The other ends of wires are connected to the compressor’s connector.
- 8
  Pull the capacitor off the relay. The capacitor is black and has a green wire attached to the other end of it that connects to the compressor. The relay switch should now be disconnected from everything.
- 9
  Plug the black capacitor into the new relay switch and then reverse the instructions to install the new relay switch.

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