297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is a compressor start relay used in Frigidaire refrigeration appliances; it is an electrical switching/protection device that provides the temporary high-current feed or starting torque control required to engage the compressor motor’s start winding during motor startup.The component commonly exists as a small electromechanical or solid‑state module mounted on or near the compressor and is specified to tolerate the inrush currents and thermal stresses associated with motor starting.
Inside the appliance the start relay interfaces directly with the compressor motor windings, the run circuit and the thermal overload protector, and it is commanded by the refrigerator’s control circuit or thermostat. Its principal role is to momentarily connect the start winding (or modify the start circuit impedance) long enough to bring the compressor up to speed, after which the relay opens and the motor continues on the run winding; correct relay operation is therefore integral to initiating the refrigeration cycle and coordinating with protection devices to prevent motor overheating or sustained high-current conditions.
This article will explain the 297237702 relay’s function and typical electrical/physical characteristics, describe how to verify compatibility with specific compressor and appliance models, summarize common failure symptoms to look for (for example hard‑starts, humming, tripped breakers, or loss of cooling), and outline practical troubleshooting checks and replacement considerations for technicians, engineers, and informed appliance owners. Coverage will include diagnostic priorities, what measurements and observations are most useful, and factors to consider when sourcing and installing a replacement so the relay performs reliably with the compressor and protection circuitry.
Table of Contents
- function and Role of the Start Relay in Refrigerator Compressor Systems
- How the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay Works Inside the Appliance
- Common Failure Symptoms and Diagnostic Indicators of a Faulty Start Relay
- compatibility, Replacement Considerations, Installation Steps, and Troubleshooting Procedures
- Q&A
- In Retrospect
Function and Role of the Start Relay in Refrigerator Compressor Systems
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay provides the brief high-torque connection required to energize a compressor’s start winding during motor startup. Mounted at the compressor terminals or in the appliance electrical compartment, the relay connects the start winding only long enough for the motor to accelerate; once the compressor current falls to its run level the relay opens (or the PTC element increases resistance) and the motor continues on the run winding alone.Correct function reduces inrush time and prevents continuous high current through the start winding, protecting the compressor from overheating or mechanical stress.
Technicians should match the relay’s terminal configuration, voltage rating, and physical mounting to the compressor; a relay that physically fits but has different activation characteristics can allow improper start torque or fail to drop out, causing repeated stalls or excessive current draw. common field diagnostics include listening for the relay click during attempted starts, measuring line voltage at the compressor during start, and checking for a burnt odor or visible damage on the relay casing. Replacement with the specified 297237702 part or an equivalent specified by Frigidaire ensures mating terminals and electrical characteristics are consistent with the original design.
- symptoms of relay or start-circuit failure: continuous compressor hum without start, repetitive clicking, freezer warming while lights and fan run, or higher-than-normal start amperage.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Terminals | Common (C), Start (S), Run (R) – relay must match compressor terminal layout |
| Function | Momentary connection of start winding until compressor reaches operating speed |
| field test | Audible click at start, measure voltage at terminals and observe compressor current spike then drop |
How the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay Works Inside the Appliance
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay provides the brief high-current connection the compressor needs to overcome static friction and begin its refrigeration cycle.Inside the appliance the relay sits between the compressor’s common,start and run terminals and momentarily routes current to the start winding of the hermetic motor. Most relays are engineered to sense the motor’s current or temperature change and then open the start path once the compressor reaches synchronous speed; some revisions of this part use electromechanical contacts while others employ solid-state timing/thermistor elements, but the functional goal is the same-apply start torque for a fraction of a second and then remove it to prevent overheating and allow the run winding to maintain operation.
Understanding the relay’s behavior helps diagnose operational faults and confirms compatibility with specific Frigidaire compressors. A correctly functioning 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay will click only at startup and remain open during steady running; failures typically present as repeated humming without start, rapid cycling, or occasional hard starts. Technicians check terminal fit, visual signs of heat or carbon tracking, and basic electrical characteristics (continuity and expected resistance ranges) to distinguish relay faults from compressor motor or capacitor issues. In replacements, match the relay’s terminal layout and electrical characteristics to the appliance model to ensure reliable engagement and proper timing of the start circuit.
- Common symptoms of relay failure: compressor hums but does not start, startup clicking, and intermittent starts.
- Operational behavior: supplies start winding briefly then disengages based on current/temperature feedback.
- Compatibility note: must match terminal arrangement and ratings of the Frigidaire compressor; cross-references may differ by model year.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | Momentary connection to compressor start winding to provide starting torque. |
| Interface | Connects to compressor common, start, and run terminals via spade connectors; timing persistent by relay design. |
| Typical failure modes | Stuck contacts, degraded thermistor/timing element, internal arcing or heat damage leading to no-start or intermittent starting. |
| Diagnostic clues | Audible clicks at startup, humming without rotation, visible heat discoloration, and unexpected resistance readings. |
Common Failure Symptoms and Diagnostic Indicators of a Faulty Start Relay
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is the device that momentarily connects the compressor’s start winding to the supply to overcome initial torque requirements and then drops out once the motor attains running speed. Depending on the design it may be a PTC element or an electromechanical relay, but its function is the same: permit high inrush current briefly while protecting the run circuit thereafter. Failure modes typically manifest as an inability to start the compressor, repeated clicking as the relay attempts and fails to engage, or the compressor running hot and drawing excessive current if the start circuit remains engaged. Confirm compatibility with the refrigerator model and compressor nameplate before replacing the relay to ensure correct engagement timing and current-handling characteristics.
- Rapid or repeated clicking at the compressor on attempt to start
- Compressor hums but does not spin; refrigerator gradually warms
- Intermittent starts or long crank times followed by normal operation
- Burnt odor, visible scorch marks, or relay overheating
Diagnostic indicators for a faulty start relay include open-circuit continuity checks, abnormal resistance on PTC devices, and improper compressor current profiles measured with a clamp meter. A healthy start event shows a short, high inrush current followed by a steady, lower run current; absence of the inrush or a continuous high draw implicates the start relay or a locked rotor condition.Practical troubleshooting steps are: verify model and part compatibility, measure continuity and resistance where applicable, observe current traces during attempted starts, and perform a controlled swap with a known-good relay when available. Do not bypass the start relay to attempt a start without proper protection, as this can damage the compressor and void service warranties.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| continuity/Resistance | Open circuit indicates failure; measurable resistance or a PTC characteristic should be present per service data. |
| Current profile | Expected: short high inrush then steady run current. No inrush or continuous high current indicates relay or compressor fault. |
| Visual/thermal inspection | Scorching, melted terminals, or hot-to-the-touch housing point to internal relay failure. |
Compatibility, Replacement Considerations, Installation Steps, and Troubleshooting Procedures
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is a control device that supplies an initial surge of current to the compressor’s start winding and then disengages once the motor reaches running speed. In practice this relay must match the compressor’s inrush current, terminal configuration, and mounting style; OEM direct-fit relays like this one will generally have the correct spade-terminal layout and electrical ratings for specific Frigidaire models, while universal relays require verification of ampacity and pin mapping. Common failure modes include a relay that sticks closed (causing continuous start-winding current and overheating), one that fails open (compressor hums but does not spin), or intermittent contact that leads to rapid cycling; these behaviors help distinguish a relay fault from a locked compressor or a failed start capacitor in systems that use one.
Installation and troubleshooting emphasize safe, measured diagnostics: Disconnect power before accessing the compressor, compare the replacement relay’s terminal labels and ratings to the original, and observe compressor start behavior after replacement (a healthy compressor typically begins to spin within a few seconds). Practical diagnostic steps include listening for relay clicks, using a multimeter to check continuity and resistance across start/run terminals, and measuring supply voltage under load; if a new relay does not restore normal operation, test the compressor windings and locked-rotor current as the next step or consult a sealed-system technician.For replacements, consider replacing the relay and overload together when they are a combined assembly, and always verify part compatibility against model-specific service literature or the compressor data plate.
- Symptoms: humming without start, frequent restart cycling, burning odor, or compressor overheating.
- Quick checks: relay click on power-up, continuity between relay terminals, correct supply voltage at compressor.
- Installation notes: match terminal layout,secure mounting,and confirm overload/relay assembly if present.
- When to escalate: persistent locked-rotor current or abnormal winding resistances indicate compressor service rather than relay replacement.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| voltage Rating | Typically 115-120 V AC for household Frigidaire units (verify on relay body) |
| Terminals | Spade terminals: common, start, and run; verify pin mapping before installation |
| Compatibility | Direct-fit for specified Frigidaire models; confirm match using model number or compressor specifications |
Q&A
What is the 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator start relay and what does it do?
The 297237702 start relay is a small electrical component that helps the refrigerator compressor start.It momentarily connects the compressor’s start winding (or changes the current path) to provide the extra torque needed to start the motor and then drops out so the compressor runs on its run winding. Some assemblies also include an overload protector; others are separate parts. Without a working start relay the compressor may hum, click, or fail to start.
What symptoms indicate the start relay (297237702) is failing?
Common symptoms include: compressor humming but not starting, repeated clicking or rapid cycling, refrigerator not cooling, compressor running hot or unusually noisy, a fridge that cools intermittently, or higher-than-normal energy use. You may also notice a burnt smell or visible damage on the relay. These symptoms can also be caused by other issues (capillary thermostats, sealed system problems, or a seized compressor), so proper diagnosis is critically important.
How can I test the 297237702 start relay safely?
First, unplug the refrigerator. Remove the relay from the compressor (usually on the compressor’s side).Visual inspection can reveal burning or corrosion. For an electrical check,use a multimeter to test for continuity between the relay’s terminals according to the service manual - a completely open or shorted circuit indicates failure. Some relays can be shaken to detect a loose/mechanical rattle (indicative of failure). Do not apply line voltage to test unless you are trained and have proper safety safeguards. If in doubt, have a qualified technician perform the test.
Is the 297237702 relay compatible with my Frigidaire or other-brand refrigerator?
compatibility depends on the refrigerator model and compressor type. The 297237702 is used in manny Frigidaire (and some Kenmore/other) models, but you should verify compatibility by checking your refrigerator’s model number, the part number on the old relay, or the manufacturer parts list. Buying the exact OEM part number or an approved replacement ensures correct fit and electrical characteristics.
can I replace the start relay myself and what is the basic replacement procedure?
Yes, replacing a start relay is a common DIY repair if you are comfortable with basic appliance work. General steps: unplug the fridge, locate and remove the access panel (usually rear-bottom), remove the old relay from the compressor terminals (pull straight off or remove retaining clip), install the new relay in the same orientation, reattach any retaining hardware, replace the access panel, and power the refrigerator back on. Never work on electrical components with the appliance plugged in and avoid damaging compressor terminals or wiring. If you’re unsure,hire a technician.
Can I bypass a bad start relay to get the compressor running?
Bypassing the start relay is not recommended. Doing so can force current through the start winding continuously, overheating and permanently damaging the compressor. A temporary bench trick might be used by experienced technicians for diagnostic purposes, but it’s unsafe for untrained users and risks severe equipment damage and fire. Replace the relay rather than attempting a bypass.
Where can I buy a genuine 297237702 start relay and what should I look for?
Buy from authorized Frigidaire parts dealers, major appliance parts retailers, or the manufacturer’s parts website to ensure you get a genuine or approved replacement. Look for matching part numbers,proper seller reputation,and a return policy or warranty. Avoid sellers that can’t verify compatibility with your refrigerator model.
How much does the 297237702 start relay typically cost and is it covered by warranty?
Start relays are generally inexpensive parts (typically a small fraction of the total repair cost), though prices vary by seller and region. If your refrigerator is still under manufacturer warranty or an extended service plan, the part or the labor to replace it may be covered-check your warranty terms and contact Frigidaire or the retailer where you bought the appliance for specifics. Keep receipts and part numbers for any warranty claim.
In Retrospect
The 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator start relay is a small but essential component that enables the compressor to start reliably by momentarily engaging the motor’s start winding. Proper operation of the start relay supports stable cooling performance, efficient energy use, and overall appliance longevity; conversely, a failing relay can lead to symptoms such as humming, intermittent or no cooling, and excessive cycling that, if unaddressed, may contribute to more serious compressor stress or failure.
Accurate diagnosis is important because similar symptoms can stem from other components (thermostat,start device,capacitor,sealed-system issues,or electrical supply).Verifying the relay’s condition-using appropriate testing methods or diagnostic tools-helps ensure the problem is correctly identified and prevents unnecessary parts replacement. When a relay is confirmed faulty, replacing it promptly with the correct, compatible part minimizes downtime and reduces the risk of additional damage.
Replacement of a defective 297237702 relay with a properly specified unit, performed according to manufacturer guidance or by a qualified technician, is a cost-effective step to restore reliable refrigerator operation. Prioritizing correct diagnosis, safe handling, and use of compatible replacement parts helps maintain appliance performance, uphold safety standards, and protect the longer-term investment in the refrigeration system.
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