297237702â Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is a compressor start relay designed for use on Frigidaire refrigeration units and related models. It is an electrical switching â¤device (often⢠supplied as part of a start relay/overload assembly)⣠that momentarily⣠routes current to the compressor’s start winding to produce the additional torque needed to â˘bring the compressor âmotor up⢠to operating speed.
inside the appliance, the start relay interfaces directly with the refrigerator’s â˘singleâphase hermetic compressor, the incoming⤠line voltageand any associated overload protector or start capacitor circuitry. the relay’s function is timeâlimited or conditionâdependent: it closes or changes resistance during the starting interval and then drops out once the compressor has reached run speed, preventing continuous engagement of the start âwinding. Proper âfunction of this component affects compressor starting current, âmotor thermal stressandâ overall refrigeration cycle reliabilityand it âis typically mounted either on the compressor shell or within the control/access compartment with connections to the compressor’s terminal block.
In this article readers will find a technical overview of the 297237702 start relay, including how it operates, typical applications âand compatibility considerations, common failure modes and diagnostic symptoms (suchâ as humming, repeated relay clickingor no start âconditions), recommended troubleshooting checks a technician can performand practical considerations for replacement âor sourcing a compatible unit. Emphasis is placed on electrical tests, observing inâservice behaviorand ensuring correct part identification and safe procedures when servicing âcompressor starting components.
Table of contents
- Function âŁand Role of the Refrigerator Start Relay in Compressor motor Control
- How the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay Works inside the Appliance
- Common Failure Symptoms and Electrical Indicators of Start Relay Malfunction
- Replacement Considerations, Compatibility and StepâbyâStep Installation for the 297237702 Start Relay
- Q&A
- The Way Forward
Function and Role âŁof the Refrigerator Start âŁRelay in Compressor Motor Control
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is the âswitching device that momentarily energizes the compressor’s start winding to get the motor up to running speed and then removes that circuit so only the runâ winding carries current. in many Frigidaire and OEM â˘fridge designs the relay is either a thermal/PTC element âor an electromechanical device matched âto the compressor’sâ terminal configuration; correct compatibility is steadfast by⣠the compressor’s terminal layoutâ (two- or three-terminal), the type of starter the⢠motor requiresand the mounting/connector arrangement. Technically, âŁthe relay must⢠provide sufficient current âto the start circuit for a short interval and then open reliably to avoid overheating the start⢠winding, so replacement with a â˘part such as 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator Start Relay should be verified⣠against the compressor spec ratherâ than by model number alone.
- Humming âŁwith no startor frequent clicking at the relay when the compressor fails to start.
- Compressor that starts â˘intermittently âor runs briefly then stops (short cycling).
- Excessive heat at the relay housing or visible burn/discoloration indicating internal failure.
- Tripped breakers or high inrush current consistent with a stuck â¤start circuit.
Functionally the relay senses either voltage/current conditions⣠or heats a PTC element so it disconnects the start winding after the motor reaches sufficient speed; this prevents continuous current through the start winding and reducesâ stress on the motor. For practical troubleshooting, technicians confirm relay behavior with an isolated continuity and resistance check,â inspect for thermal⣠damageand compare terminal markings to the compressor plate; replacement is straightforward when the electrical characteristics and terminal arrangement match. Using theâ correct relay avoids nuisance failures: for example, swapping a PTC starter intoâ a circuit designed for an electromechanical relay can âŁproduce â¤poor â˘starting⤠performance or premature relay failure.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Thermal/PTC or⣠electromechanical starter that connects the start winding briefly |
| Compatibility | Match compressor terminal count and starterâ type (2âterminal or 3âterminal); verify against compressor data plate |
How the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start âRelay Works inside the Appliance
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay supplies the brief high starting current required by the compressor’s start winding so the motor can accelerate to operating speed. In many models this relay is a thermal âor electromechanical device that closes â¤the start circuit only during the initial fractionâ of a⣠second and then opensâ it once the compressor reaches run speed; some variants use a Positiveâ Temperature Coefficient (PTC) element or â¤a relay coil with a timed dropout. Proper operationâ means the relay will make aâ single, short â¤engagement on each âstart cycle – repeated cycling, âŁsustained engagementor a failure to close areâ all indications of âŁrelay or compressor-starting issues â˘rather than normalâ behavior.
Technicians test the relay⢠by âchecking for continuity across the start and run terminals,measuringâ coil â˘resistance,and observing inrush current with a clamp meter during a start attempt; a relay that never closes,clicks repeatedly,or allows the compressor to hum without starting is typically faulty. Compatibility requires matching the relay’s terminal configuration (common/start/run), voltage ratingand current/thermal characteristics to the⣠compressor⢠and cabinet wiring – replacing âŁwith âa part thatâ differs in amp âor dropout behavior can lead âto hard⢠starts or premature failures. For practical troubleshooting, âalways isolate power before disconnecting terminals and confirm replacement specifications against the refrigerator model and the compressor label.
- Common failure symptoms: repeated clicking, compressor â˘hum without startor no motor engagement.
- Quick compatibility checks: verify terminal labels (C,S,R),voltage rating (usually ~115âŻVAC),and amp/thermal ratings against compressor data.
- basic tests: continuity between terminals and observing transient inrush current during⣠a start attempt.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | Providesâ momentary connection to the compressor âstart winding to generate initial torque. |
| Typical voltage | Approximately 115 VAC for most household Frigidaire âsingleâphase compressors. |
| Terminals | Common⤠(C),Start (S),Run (R) – terminal layout must match harness andâ compressor leads. |
| Common symptom | Clicking ânoise with compressor failing âto start or continuous humming of the compressor motor. |
Common Failure Symptoms and Electrical Indicators of Start Relay Malfunction
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay âŁprovides the brief high-torque âconnection to the compressor’s start winding that isâ required to turn the motor shaft past its locked-rotor position. In properly matched applications the relay closes onlyâ for the first⣠fraction⣠of a second, then drops out so the run winding carries normal line voltage; a mismatch, degraded PTC elementor failed mechanical contact can leave the startâ circuit open or continuously engaged. Technicians will see this part used on a⣠range of Frigidaire models that share the â¤same compressor âfamily; understanding whether the relay is a thermal/solid-state PTC type or a âmechanical relay is essential as the expected electrical behavior and test methods differ between types.
Commonâ electrical indicators of start-relay malfunction âinclude absent or excessive inrush current during cranking, repeatedâ clickingâ at the relay or compressorand abnormal temperature rise at the relay or compressor terminals. Diagnostic checks âŁincludeâ measuring line voltage at the compressor during attempted start, using a clamp meter to observe the inrush (startup) current spikeand performing continuity/resistance â˘checks on the relay terminals after⤠isolating power. For example, a humming compressor⢠with no inrush spike typically indicates an open start circuitâ or failed relay element, whereas a relay that shows continuity âat rest butâ produces continuous high current at the compressor suggests the start winding â˘is being held in and the relay is not releasing. Always isolate power before âremoving the relay and compare measured values to manufacturer service data or â¤known-goodâ units to confirm⤠a fault.
- Compressor hums but does not start; relay may click or feel âŁhot.
- Intermittentâ starts or long⤠crankâ times at initial power-up.
- Excessive running current or tripped overloads indicating start winding â˘stuck in circuit.
- Visible discoloration or burnt terminals on the relay housing or connector.
| Item | description |
|---|---|
| Absent inrush current | Start path open orâ failed PTC âelement; compressor cannot âŁovercome locked rotor. |
| Prolonged high current | Start winding held in circuit (relay â¤stuck closed) or motor problemâ causing overload. |
| Intermittent clicking | Fatigued contacts or thermal cycling of relay component âŁcausing unreliable engagement. |
Replacement Considerations, Compatibility and âStepâbyâStep Installation for the 297237702 Start Relay
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is a âcontrol deviceâ that momentarily energizes âthe â˘compressor’s start winding or applies a start⢠assist to âovercome the locked-rotorâ torque at start-up. â˘Functionally, relays of this type are either current-sensing or PTC-based and must match the compressor’s electrical characteristics (nominal line voltage, start/run winding impedance and expected âŁinrush current). When âŁreplacing the relay, verify that the replacement matches the âcompressor terminals andâ includes any required integrated overload protector; a relay that fits physically âbut has different switchingâ behavior or thermal protection can allow excessive start current⤠orâ fail toâ drop out, causing repeated âunsuccessful start attempts. Typical field diagnostics are listening for rapid clicking, prolonged humming without spinor a compressor that runs only when manually rocked; verifying winding resistance and checking âfor continuity to ground will help distinguish relay faults â¤from compressor winding failures before installation.
Installation requires basic electrical safety,correct part selection,and verification of correct seating onâ the compressor terminals so the internal contactsâ make reliable connection. After removing the fresh-food access panel andâ theâ old relay, transfer mounting orientation and wire positions exactly, âŁand ensure any rubber boot or protective shroud is reinstalled âto prevent moisture ingress. After powerâ is restored, observe the compressor’s start behavior and measure inrush and steady-state current with a clamp meter to confirm the ârelay allows normal start and release; an abnormally highâ locked-rotor current or âpersistent buzzing âindicates either a mismatched ârelay or an internalâ compressor fault that needs further evaluation.
- Disconnect power at the âŁwall before touching the relay or compressor terminals.
- Confirm replacement part number and âterminal layout against the compressor nameplate.
- Remove access â˘cover, note wire positionsand gently pull theâ old relay off the compressor pins.
- Seat the ânew relay fully on the compressor pins and reattach any rubber boots or clips.
- Re-energize and monitor compressorâ start current and audible operation for several minutes.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| typical voltage | 120 VAC single-phase (verify nameplate) |
| Connector â¤type | Push-on blade terminals to match compressor pins |
| Common symptoms | Humming, clicking, failure-to-start, intermittent starts |
Q&A
What is â˘the 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator start relay and what doesâ it do?
297237702 is a replacement start relay device used on many frigidaire (and âsome â¤Kenmore) refrigerators. The start relay provides a momentary boost or connection to the compressor’s start winding when the âcompressor âfirst⤠attempts to start. that boost helps the compressor overcomeâ initial inertia and begin running on the main winding. without a working start relay the compressor may hum, âclickor fail to start and the⢠refrigeratorâ will not cool properly.
What are the â˘common symptoms of a failing 297237702 start relay?
Common signs include: repeated clicking from the âŁback of the fridge, âa humming compressor that âŁdoes notâ run, intermittent cooling,â long runâup attemptsâ followed by thermal tripsand sometimes visible burning, corrosionor a burnt smell âfrom the relay âarea.These symptoms are typical of a â¤bad start relay but â˘can alsoâ indicate other problems⢠(e.g., compressor motor failure or electrical faults).
How can I âsafely test the 297237702 start relay?
Alwaysâ unplug the â¤refrigerator before working on it. Visual inspection is the first step: look forâ burn âmarks,â loose or melted terminals. For electrical testing use a digital multimeter: remove the relay from the compressor⤠terminals and check for continuity; a wholly open⢠circuit usually means failure. For PTC (solid state) start devices âŁresistance may change with temperature; absence of expected continuity or a short to ground indicates a bad part. âIf you’re unsureâ or the relay appears OK but the compressor still won’t â˘start, âŁhave a qualified technician testâ compressor windings and measured starting current – do not attempt live voltage bench tests âunless you âare trained.
Can I replace the 297237702 âmyself âŁand how âhard is the job?
Yes – replacement is usually straightforward for âsomeone comfortable with basic hand tools. Typical âsteps: unplug the refrigerator, pull it away⤠from â˘the wall, access the compressor compartment (rear lower panel), remove the old relay fromâ the compressor terminals (note wire locations), install the new relay and reconnect wires, reinstall panelsand restore power. The job typically takes 15-30 minutes. Important: always disconnect mainsâ power first and ensure â¤the⤠replacement part matches the original exactly.
How do I confirm that 297237702 is⤠compatible with my⤠refrigerator model?
check⢠your refrigerator’s model number (inside the fridge or onâ the âŁrear/cabinet tag) and crossâreference it with the part number in the Frigidaire parts list or on reputable appliance partsâ websites.Many âonline parts sellers allow you to enter your appliance model to confirm compatibility. If in doubt, contact Frigidaire customer support or an authorized parts dealer to verify the correct start relay for your model.
Should I buy the OEM 297237702â or is⢠an aftermarket relay OK?
OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts are recommended as they are built âto match the manufacturer’s specifications and terminal layout. Quality âaftermarket relays can be acceptable if they are explicitly listed as compatible with your model⤠and meet the same electrical and mechanical specifications. Avoid cheap, unverified substitutes.If you have a highâvalue appliance âŁor recurring compressor issues,using the OEM⣠part reduces the risk of incompatibility.
What is the difference between a start relay and an overloadand does 297237702 include both?
A start relay helps engage the compressor’s start winding for initialâ starting torque. An overload protector protects the compressor âfrom overheating and excessive current by opening⤠the circuit if temperatures or current get â˘too high. Some refrigerators use separate start relay and overload devices; â¤others use a combined start relay/overload assembly. Whether 297237702 includes both functions⣠depends on the exact assemblyâ version – check the part description or the original part to confirm.
If Iâ replace the start ârelay and the compressor still won’t start, what should I do?
If a verified good relay doesn’t restore compressor operation, the problem might potentially be the compressor motor (seized or internally shorted), wiring, control boardor overload device. at⢠thatâ point you⢠should stop further DIY troubleshooting and call a qualified appliance technician. They can measure compressor winding resistances andâ insulation, check start and run currentsand determine whether the compressor âneeds repair âor replacement. Attempting advanced electrical diagnosticsâ or refrigerant service without⤠certification can be unsafe⢠and illegal â¤in some âjurisdictions.
The Way Forward
The⤠297237702⣠Frigidaire refrigerator start relay⤠is a small but critical component that helps initiate the compressor’s operation and maintain reliable cooling performance. â¤when functioningâ correctly, the relay â˘supports â¤efficient compressor âstartup, reduces strain on electrical componentsand contributes to consistent temperature âcontrol; when âŁit fails, symptoms such as intermittent cooling, unusual noisesor a compressor that struggles to start can appear, âŁpotentially affecting food safety and appliance longevity.
Because symptoms of relay failure can overlap with â¤other refrigeration âissues, accurate diagnosis and, when appropriate, timelyâ replacement of the 297237702 start relay are important for restoring proper operationâ and preventing further âdamage.Using the correct replacement part and observing safe work practices-orâ engaging a qualified technician-helps ensure the repair is effective and durable. Prompt, informed action minimizes downtime and can be a cost-effective way to maintain â¤appliance performance and reliability.
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