297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is a compressor start relay designed for use on Frigidaire refrigeration units; it is indeed an electromechanical/solid-state auxiliary device that controls the initial energization of the compressor’s start winding. As a discrete start relay assembly it is mounted at or near the compressor and interfaces with the compressor motor terminals and the refrigerator’s control circuitry to provide the short-duration starting torque required by the hermetic compressor motor.
Inside the appliance the start relay’s primary role is to momentarily connect (or allow connection to) the compressor’s start winding or start capacitor during motor startup and then remove that circuit once the motor reaches run speed. It thus interacts directly with the compressor motor windings, any start capacitor or PTC elements, the thermal overload protector, and upstream control devices such as the thermostat or electronic control board. Proper sizing and function of the relay affect inrush current, starting torque, and the thermal and electrical stresses on the compressor; environmental factors such as heat, vibration and contact wear are common contributors to relay degradation.
In this article readers will find a technical overview of how the 297237702 start relay operates, guidance on compatibility with Frigidaire compressor types and chassis configurations, common failure symptoms (for example humming, repeated attempts to start, high measured current, or intermittent operation), step-by-step troubleshooting and test methods appropriate for a technician (visual inspection, continuity and resistance checks, amp-draw verification and substitution testing), and practical replacement considerations including mounting, electrical connections and matching of overload/start device characteristics. The focus is on diagnostic and service data that aids accurate fault isolation and correct component replacement in field and shop environments.
Table of Contents
- H2: Functional Role of the Start Relay in Refrigerator Compressor Start Circuits
- H2: How the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay Works Inside the Appliance - Electrical Operation and Mechanical Switching
- H2: Common Failure Symptoms and Operational Indicators of a Failing Start Relay
- H2: Troubleshooting Procedures and diagnostic Tests for Start Relay Faults
- Q&A
- The Way Forward
H2: Functional Role of the Start Relay in Refrigerator Compressor Start Circuits
The start relay’s primary role is to route a brief, higher starting current to the compressor’s start winding and then remove that circuit once the motor attains running speed.The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is an example of this component used on many Frigidaire compressors; it senses either current or voltage conditions and engages the start path for a short interval so the compressor develops sufficient torque to accelerate. In practical terms, the relay must match the compressor’s terminal layout and starting characteristics-mismatched coil ratings or terminal arrangements can leave the start winding energized too long or never provide adequate starting torque, leading to repeated overload trips or premature compressor stress.
technicians diagnose relay-related failures by observing behavior at startup and by basic electrical checks: a faulty relay often produces a rapid clicking noise,continuous compressor humming without spinning,or intermittent starts followed by thermal overload trips. Useful on‑bench checks include visual inspection for heat damage, verifying continuity across the expected terminals with an ohmmeter, and using a clamp meter to compare starting current against typical values for the compressor.For field replacement, confirm the replacement part number and terminal pinout, secure the relay and any associated overload protector, and retest startup under normal load to ensure the compressor disengages the start circuit properly.
- common symptoms: rapid clicking, loud humming with no start, repeated overload trips, visible burn or melting on relay housing.
- Diagnostic checks: visual inspection,continuity/resistance checks across start/run/common,clamp-meter measurement of start current.
- Compatibility checks: match terminal layout, mounting style, and electrical ratings to the compressor model before installing a replacement.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | provides temporary current path to the start winding and disconnects it once the compressor reaches running speed. |
| Terminals | Typically three connections: common (C), start (S), run (R); verify pin arrangement on the relay and compressor harness. |
| Failure signature | Compressor hums but does not start, frequent thermal overload trips, relay clicking or visible damage. |
H2: How the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay Works Inside the Appliance – Electrical operation and Mechanical switching
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is a compact switching device placed in series with the compressor’s start winding to provide the extra torque needed to bring the motor up to speed. Electrically it closes the start circuit at initial power-up and then opens it once the motor reaches operating RPM; some designs achieve this with a current-sensitive electromechanical contact or a thermistor (PTC) that increases resistance with heat to remove the start winding from the circuit. In practical terms the relay’s electrical ratings, terminal configuration, and mounting must match the compressor and cabinet harness to ensure correct timing, contact capacity, and mechanical fit during replacement or diagnostics.
- Primary function: engage the compressor start winding briefly to produce starting torque.
- Common failure symptoms: rapid clicking,compressor hum without start,or intermittent starts.
- compatibility concerns: match terminal layout, voltage rating, and physical mounting to the original relay.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | Momentary connection of the start winding during compressor spin-up |
| Typical voltage | Match refrigerator line voltage (usually 120 V for North american models) |
| Common failure symptom | Compressor hums but fails to start; audible clicking on attempted starts |
| Technical check | Verify continuity/contacts and compare inrush current to specification before replacement |
On a component level the relay acts as the timing element in the starting circuit: while the run winding remains connected continuously, the start winding is briefly energized by the relay to overcome rotor inertia. Mechanical degradation (sticking or pitted contacts), thermal drift in a PTC element, or loss of internal connection will alter the relay’s switching behavior and either leave the start winding energized too long or prevent proper engagement at all. For service technicians this behavior explains why measuring terminal resistances, observing audible start events, and confirming the relay’s physical and electrical compatibility with the compressor are the most reliable diagnostics before installing a replacement part.
H2: Common Failure Symptoms and Operational Indicators of a Failing Start Relay
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay functions as the switching device that momentarily connects the compressor’s start winding to the supply to develop the required starting torque, then removes that connection so the compressor runs on the run winding. Relays for refrigerators may be thermal, current-sensing, or electronic in design; regardless of type, correct mechanical and electrical compatibility with the compressor and chassis mounting is required. Technicians shoudl verify that the relay’s terminal layout and rated voltage match the compressor and the appliance wiring harness before replacement, and consult the appliance model or compressor data plate to confirm that 297237702 is an appropriate match for a given Frigidaire unit.
Failure of the start relay produces predictable operational indicators that distinguish it from other causes such as sealed-system or thermostat faults. Common behaviors include repeated clicking, a humming compressor that never reaches run speed, intermittent starts that resolve after cooling, and progressive warming of the refrigerator compartments. Diagnostic checks that help isolate the relay include a clamp-meter measurement of start inrush current, resistance/continuity checks across start and run terminals (with power removed), and visual inspection for heat damage or burn marks on the relay housing. Below are typical symptoms and what they usually indicate in practice.
- Compressor hums but does not start – start circuit not engaging or relay stuck open.
- Repeated clicking at compressor – relay attempting to engage and failing (thermal cycling or internal fault).
- Fridge temperature rising gradually – frequent failed starts reducing compressor runtime.
- Relay hot to the touch or visible scorch marks - internal short or overheating leading to imminent failure.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Continuity between terminals | With power removed, expected low resistance between run and start when relay is actuated; open circuit suggests failed internal connection. |
| Start inrush current | Excessively low or absent inrush (measured with clamp meter during attempted start) indicates the start winding is not being energized by the relay. |
H2: Troubleshooting Procedures and Diagnostic Tests for Start Relay faults
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay functions as the switching device that momentarily connects the compressor’s start winding during motor startup and then removes it once the compressor reaches running speed. In practical terms, a correctly working start relay supplies the brief extra torque needed to overcome static friction; a failed relay will typically produce symptoms such as repeated clicking at the compressor, a continual humming without rotation, or no attempt to start. Compatibility matters: this relay is designed to mate with specific frigidaire compressor terminal layouts and with either thermal (PTC) or electronic relay circuits depending on model-installing an incompatible relay can prevent proper start-sequence timing or damage the compressor motor.
- Visual/sound symptoms: repeated click/hum at compressor, intermittent starts, or overheating of relay housing.
- Quick mechanical test: with power removed, gently shake the relay-excessive rattle or signs of burning indicate failure.
- Multimeter checks: continuity and resistance between specified start/run/ common terminals; an open circuit often denotes a failed relay.
- Electrical verification: measure compressor current with a clamp meter during start-excessive inrush or no current flow helps isolate relay vs. compressor windings.
- Substitution test: replacing with the correct OEM-equivalent relay can confirm diagnosis when measurements are inconclusive.
Troubleshooting should begin with safety: disconnect mains before removing the relay from the compressor terminals. After that, perform a visual inspection for heat discoloration or oil deposits (which can indicate compressor failure). Using a multimeter, verify ther is not a complete open circuit between the relay’s start and common terminals; note that PTC thermistors and solid‑state relays will show different static resistances, so consult Frigidaire documentation or the relay label for expected values. If the relay passes continuity checks but the compressor still does not start, measure supply voltage at the compressor during a start attempt and capture inrush current with a clamp meter-low/no inrush suggests an open start circuit or failed relay contact, whereas excessive inrush with stalled rotation suggests internal compressor issues. A concise reference for common test interpretations is shown below to help correlate measurements with likely faults.
| item | Description |
|---|---|
| Open circuit on start terminal | Indicative of failed relay or broken internal connection; replace relay and retest. |
| No inrush current at startup | Start circuit not engaging-check relay actuation voltage and continuity, and verify correct relay type for the compressor. |
Q&A
What is the 297237702 frigidaire refrigerator start relay and what does it do?
The 297237702 is a start relay (sometimes called a start device) used on certain Frigidaire refrigerators. Its job is to give the compressor a short boost or control the start winding so the compressor can start turning. Once the compressor is running, the relay disconnects the start winding so the compressor runs on the run winding only.
What are the common symptoms of a failing 297237702 start relay?
Typical symptoms include: the refrigerator not cooling, the compressor clicking on and off repeatedly, a humming or buzzing sound from the compressor, very high current draw at startup, or the compressor overheating. You may also notice the relay housing is discolored, burned, or has a burnt smell.
How can I test the 297237702 start relay to see if it’s bad?
Start with a visual inspection: look for burn marks,melting,or broken terminals and smell for burning. If it’s a removable relay,remove it and do the following tests: 1) Shake test - a loose rattle from a mechanical relay can indicate failure. 2) Continuity test with a multimeter – check for continuity between the appropriate terminals (consult the relay wiring diagram or service manual; PTC-style relays may not show simple resistance values). 3) Current test – measure compressor starting current with a clamp meter; very high current or failure to start suggests a bad relay. For a definitive test, a qualified technician may perform a controlled “jump” to see if the compressor will start, but do not run a compressor bypassed for long. If the relay shows visible damage, fails continuity checks, or the compressor won’t start during testing, replace the relay.
Can I replace the 297237702 relay myself? What precautions do I need to take?
yes, a competent DIYer can replace it, but always unplug the refrigerator first. Common steps: disconnect power, access the compressor area (usually at the back or bottom), remove the old relay/overload from the compressor terminals, install the new relay making sure terminals are seated securely, and restore power to test. Precautions: turn off power before working, avoid touching live terminals, note how connectors are arranged, and don’t run the compressor with the relay bypassed except for a very brief test by a trained person. If you’re uncomfortable or the relay is part of an integrated module or sealed assembly, hire a qualified appliance technician.
Is the 297237702 the only part I should replace when the relay fails?
Frequently enough the relay is replaced alone, but many technicians recommend replacing the relay and the overload (if they are separate but matched devices) together as both handle compressor startup. If the relay is integrated into a start device kit, replace the whole kit. Also verify the compressor and other components (start capacitor on some models, evaporator fan, temperature control) to make sure they aren’t causing the relay failure. If the compressor windings are damaged, replacing the relay will not fix the problem.
How do I know if 297237702 is the correct replacement for my refrigerator?
Do not rely on refrigerator model appearance alone. Check the appliance model number (usually on a sticker inside the fridge or on the back) and cross-reference it with the part number. Use Frigidaire’s parts lookup or a reputable parts supplier to confirm compatibility. The 297237702 number should be matched with your exact model; if unsure, provide the refrigerator model number to the parts supplier or technician for confirmation.
What tools and parts do I need, and how much does the 297237702 typically cost?
you’ll generally need basic hand tools (screwdriver or nut driver to access the compressor compartment), a multimeter and optionally a clamp meter for testing, and, of course, the replacement start relay. The part itself is typically an inexpensive component-prices vary by supplier and location but are usually in the low tens of dollars. If you hire a technician there will be labor charges on top of the part cost.
If I replace the 297237702 relay and the fridge still won’t cool, what should I check next?
If replacing the relay doesn’t restore cooling, inspect other common causes: the compressor itself (windings shorted or open), the start capacitor (if the model uses one), the start overload or PTC device, a failed run capacitor or control board, evaporator fan failure, a blocked capillary/blocked evaporator, or refrigerant leaks/sealed-system issues. Measure compressor current and check for continuity of compressor windings. At that point,if you’re not experienced with sealed-system diagnostics and repair,call an appliance technician; sealed-system repairs generally require certified refrigeration technicians and special equipment.
the Way Forward
The 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator start relay is a small but critical component that helps initiate compressor operation by providing the necessary electrical push at start-up. Its proper function ensures reliable cycling of the refrigeration system, protects the compressor from electrical stress, and contributes to consistent cooling performance and energy efficiency.When functioning correctly,the relay supports overall appliance longevity and stable temperature control.
As relay failure can present with symptoms that overlap other refrigeration issues-such as inadequate cooling, unusual noises, or intermittent compressor activity-accurate diagnosis is essential. Testing or inspection by a qualified technician, or by following the manufacturer’s diagnostic procedures if performed by a informed DIYer, helps confirm whether the 297237702 relay is the root cause. Correct identification prevents unnecessary parts replacement and reduces the risk of further damage to the compressor or electrical system.
When the 297237702 start relay is confirmed to be faulty, timely replacement with the appropriate part and proper installation restores reliable compressor start-up and minimizes the likelihood of recurring failures. Prioritizing correct diagnosis, using the specified replacement part, and following safety and manufacturer guidelines will deliver the best outcome for appliance performance and longevity.
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