297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is an electrical start device used to initiate the compressor motor in Frigidaire refrigerators. the component is a start relay or start device (available in electromechanical or solid‑state designs) that momentarily connects the compressor’s start winding-or engages a start capacitor-during motor startup, then removes the start circuit onc the motor reaches running speed. as an OEM part number, 297237702 identifies the specific relay design and connector configuration intended for certain Frigidaire models.
Inside the appliance, the start relay is part of the sealed refrigeration system’s electrical starting circuit and directly interfaces with the compressor motor, the thermal overload protector, and the appliance’s control thermostat or electronic control board. It sees line voltage from the mains and is responsible for supplying the additional starting torque required to overcome compressor inertia; after start it must reliably open or switch to avoid continuously energizing the start winding.Proper operation affects compressor current draw, starting success, and coordination with overload protection and any start capacitors present.
In the following article readers will find a technical description of how the 297237702 start relay functions, which compressor and refrigerator models it is compatible with, common failure modes and symptoms (for example clicking at startup, a humming compressor that will not run, or intermittent starts), and diagnostic methods a technician can use to verify the relay versus other components. The article will also cover practical replacement considerations such as verifying part number and electrical ratings, connector and mounting compatibility, safety precautions (power isolation and handling of sealed‑system components), and guidance to help determine when a relay replacement is appropriate versus further compressor or control system service.
Table of Contents
- Function and Operational Role of the refrigerator Start Relay in the Compressor Circuit
- How the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay Operates Within the Compressor, Overload, and Control Circuitry
- Common Failure Symptoms, Electrical Signatures, and Diagnostic Tests for a Faulty Start Relay
- Compatibility, Replacement, and Installation Procedures for the 297237702 Start relay Across Frigidaire Models
- Q&A
- The Way Forward
Function and Operational Role of the Refrigerator Start Relay in the Compressor Circuit
The start relay in a refrigerator compressor circuit provides a timed boost to the compressor’s start winding so the motor reaches running speed; the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is an OEM-design component that performs this function for compatible Frigidaire compressor models. When the compressor attempts to start, the relay momentarily connects the start winding (or introduces an altered circuit characteristic in the case of a solid‑state/thermistor device) to produce additional torque, then opens or changes state once the motor reaches near‑synchronous speed. The relay is selected to match the compressor’s terminal arrangement and inrush requirements; using an incorrect relay can allow the compressor to hum without starting, cycle excessively, or overheat the motor.Note that some assemblies pair the relay with a separate thermal overload protector, while others include both functions in one housing, so verify whether the 297237702 is the proper configuration for your compressor before replacing parts.
Technically, the relay is a control device that is not designed to run continuously-it must reliably disengage after start to avoid overheating the start winding-and its failure modes produce distinctive service symptoms. Field technicians commonly confirm relay operation by observing start behavior, listening for click/hum patterns, and checking terminal continuity or swapping with a known good unit; if the compressor is cold and will not start but hums, the start relay is a primary suspect. For clarity, common symptoms and a short reference for the relay’s electrical role are listed below to aid troubleshooting and parts selection.
- Symptoms indicating possible relay failure: repeated clicking, compressor hum without rotation, intermittent starts, or rapid short cycling.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Terminals | Common (C), Start (S), Run (R) – connects start winding temporarily during startup |
| Primary function | Provide momentary start current/torque, then disengage to leave run winding energized |
How the 297237702 frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay Operates Within the Compressor, Overload, and Control Circuitry
The 297237702 frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is a small electromechanical/electronic module that momentarily connects the compressor’s start winding to the line to produce the extra torque required to bring a locked rotor up to operating speed. In typical installations the relay is mounted near the compressor and works together with the thermal overload protector and the refrigerator’s control/thermostat or main PCB: the control supplies line power, the relay closes to energize the start winding, and once the compressor reaches run speed the relay drops out so the motor continues on the run winding only. The relay must match the compressor’s terminal arrangement and starting characteristics (such as S,R,C terminal layout and intended inrush behavior) to operate reliably in the compressor/overload/control circuitry loop.
behaviorally, a functional start relay will provide a short, high-current connection to the start winding and then release; failures typically present as repeated clicking, a humming compressor that won’t start, or intermittent starting that eventually leads to overheating of the relay or tripping of the overload. Technicians evaluate compatibility by confirming terminal layout and checking for continuity, correct switching action, and thermal ratings consistent with the compressor and overload protector. Practical examples: a refrigerator that hums but never starts often points to a failed relay or welded contacts, while a relay that intermittently engages may eventually allow the overload to open and leave the system inoperative-replacement with the specified part number or an exact-equivalent relay is the practical remedy.
- Common symptoms: humming/no-start, rapid clicking, intermittent starts, or burned relay housing.
- Functional role: momentary start-winding connection coordinated with thermal overload and control supply.
- Compatibility checks: terminal arrangement (S/R/C), current rating, and thermal cut-out coordination.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| S (start) | Connects to the compressor start winding during motor start-up. |
| R (Run) | Connected to the run winding; remains energized while compressor runs. |
| C (Common) | Supply/common connection shared by start and run windings. |
| Thermal Overload | Series protector that opens on excessive current/temperature to protect the motor. |
Common Failure Symptoms, Electrical Signatures, and Diagnostic Tests for a Faulty Start Relay
The compressor start device provides a short-duration connection to the compressor’s start winding so the motor can overcome static friction and accelerate to run speed. Technically, the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is intended to energize the start circuit of compatible Frigidaire three-terminal hermetic compressors; when it fails the most common behaviors are a hard-starting compressor (long hum without spinning), repeated clicking as the overload protector opens, elevated run-time temperatures, or a compressor that does not attempt to start at all. Electrical signatures to look for include an open circuit at the relay start terminal, intermittent internal contact continuity (audible rattle in mechanical relays), or an absence of the brief inrush current that normally appears during start-any of which will prevent the start winding from contributing torque during the initial milliseconds of motor startup.
- Compressor hums but does not run or starts slowly
- Clicking noise with frequent overload trips
- Warm refrigerator/freezer and extended run cycles
- Intermittent operation or relay rattle when shaken
Diagnostic checks combine safe low-voltage continuity tests and live measurements: with power removed, verify relay terminals for continuity and for shorts to chassis (an open or shorted start terminal indicates relay failure); with power applied use a clamp meter to observe inrush current-lack of the expected high inrush for a few tenths of a second implies the start circuit did not engage.Voltage probing at the compressor start terminal during an attempted start should show a near-line voltage pulse that quickly drops as the start winding is removed; absence of this pulse points to the relay or its internal PTC/solid-state element. A practical field procedure is: visually inspect and swap with a known-good identical relay (such as a verified 297237702 unit) or measure resistance and inrush values against manufacturer specifications, always disconnect mains before continuity checks and use appropriate PPE when performing live current or voltage tests.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| No inrush current | Clamp-meter shows low steady current instead of a short-duration high inrush → start relay not engaging or open start circuit. |
| Open start terminal | Ohmmeter (power off) reads infinite between start and common/run on relay → replace relay. |
| Intermittent rattle/click | Audible relay noise and intermittent continuity → mechanical contact failure or degraded solid-state element; bench-swap or replace. |
Compatibility, Replacement, and Installation Procedures for the 297237702 Start Relay Across frigidaire Models
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay performs the essential function of engaging the compressor’s start winding for a brief interval so the compressor can reach operating speed; after that interval the relay removes the start winding and allows the run winding to carry the load. In practice this relay is either a current-sensing or solid-state device that must match the compressor’s terminal layout, coil voltage, and overload protector arrangement. Technicians should verify the compressor model stamp and compare terminal orientation and harness connectors rather than relying solely on appliance model lists, because compatible fit depends on physical mounting, the presence of a separate overload, and whether the relay uses a sensing coil or a PTC element. Faulty relays typically present as repeated clicking, a humming compressor that fails to start, or elevated starting current, all of which can be confirmed with a clamp ammeter and a compressor capacitor/relay bench test.
For replacement and installation, follow a controlled procedure: disconnect power, access the compressor compartment, label or photograph terminal positions, remove the old relay and any integrated overload or harness clip, then fit the 297237702 while ensuring secure terminal connections and correct orientation. After installation, restore power briefly to observe the compressor start sequence and measure starting current; abnormal noise, overheating, or continued failure to start indicates either incorrect compatibility or a failing compressor. Use the checklist below to confirm compatibility and to reduce rework during service.
- Confirm compressor model and terminal configuration before ordering the relay.
- Verify whether the overload is separate or integrated and match accordingly.
- Label terminals and take a photo to preserve wiring order during replacement.
- Test start-up current after installation to confirm proper engagement of the start winding.
| Item | description |
|---|---|
| Function | Temporarily connects the compressor start winding to initiate motor rotation. |
| Terminal type | Three-prong compressor terminals (S, R, C) – confirm pin mapping before installation. |
| Common symptoms | Clicking relay, humming compressor, failed starts, or excessive start current. |
| Tools required | Screwdrivers, multimeter/ohmmeter, clamp ammeter, and safety gloves. |
Q&A
What is the 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator start relay and what does it do?
The 297237702 start relay is a small electrical device that helps the refrigerator compressor start by briefly energizing the compressor’s start winding. It may also include an overload protector. Without a functioning start relay the compressor will not start or will struggle to start,causing poor or no cooling.
what are the common symptoms of a failing 297237702 start relay?
Typical signs include: the compressor hums but does not run, repeated clicking or clicking every few seconds, the refrigerator not cooling, a buzzing or rattling noise from the relay area, or a burned electrical smell. Sometimes the compressor will run intermittently or overheat. These symptoms can also be caused by other compressor or electrical faults, so diagnosis is crucial.
how can I test the start relay to see if it’s bad?
Turn power off to the refrigerator and unplug it. Remove the relay from the compressor terminals and visually inspect for burn marks, melted plastic, or a strong burnt smell. A simple “shake” test (rattle) can indicate a bad relay but is not definitive. Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the relay terminals-an open circuit where continuity is expected indicates a bad relay. For a definitive diagnosis,a technician can check compressor start current with a clamp meter or swap in a known-good relay.
Can I replace the 297237702 relay myself, and how hard is the replacement?
Yes, many owners can replace it themselves if they are comfortable working safely around appliances. basic steps: unplug the refrigerator, pull it away from the wall, remove the access panel on the back, disconnect the relay from the compressor spade terminals (note terminal positions), fit the new relay and secure any cover or clip, and replace the access panel.Always disconnect power first. If you’re unsure, hire a qualified appliance technician.
Will replacing the start relay always fix a compressor that won’t start?
No. While a failed start relay is a common cause of a non-starting compressor, the underlying problem can be a defective compressor, seized motor, electrical wiring fault, or low refrigerant in some situations. If a new relay doesn’t restore normal operation, further diagnosis (current draw measurements, resistance checks, or compressor testing) is needed.
Is the 297237702 an OEM part and can I use an aftermarket or global relay instead?
297237702 is sold as a Frigidaire OEM replacement for specific models.Aftermarket or universal relays and hard-start kits can work if they are electrically compatible with your compressor (matching terminal layout and start characteristics). Always verify compatibility with your refrigerator model and prefer OEM or reputable aftermarket parts.Incorrect parts can fail or damage the compressor.
What causes start relays like the 297237702 to fail prematurely?
Common causes include electrical surges, repeated hard starts, overheating, moisture or corrosion, mechanical wear in the compressor that increases starting stress, and manufacturing defects. Poor ventilation or dirty condenser coils can force the compressor to run harder and contribute to relay/overload failures.
How much does a replacement 297237702 start relay cost and where can I buy one?
Prices vary but the relay itself is typically inexpensive (often in the range of $10-$40). Buy from Frigidaire-authorized parts dealers, appliance parts retailers, or reputable online marketplaces. Confirm the part number against your refrigerator model and seller return policy. If you’re not comfortable installing it, add a technician’s labor cost to the total.
The Way Forward
The 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator start relay is a small but critical component that helps engage the compressor motor at startup. By momentarily providing the correct electrical boost, the relay ensures the compressor begins running reliably, which in turn maintains proper cooling performance and preserves the appliance’s efficiency. When functioning correctly, the start relay contributes to steady operation, lower energy consumption, and the prevention of undue stress on the compressor.
Because symptoms of a failing start relay-such as humming, intermittent cooling, or repeated start attempts-can mimic other faults, careful diagnosis is essential. accurate testing and exclusion of related components (for example, the overload protector and compressor) help avoid needless parts replacement and ensure the underlying issue is addressed. when diagnosis indicates the relay is the source of the problem, timely replacement with the correct part restores reliable operation and reduces the risk of further damage.
recognizing the role of the 297237702 start relay and treating suspected failures with proper diagnostic methods and appropriate replacement preserves refrigerator performance and longevity. For homeowners and technicians alike, following a measured, safety-conscious approach to diagnosis and repair helps protect the appliance, its contents, and overall energy efficiency.
Professional Appliance Service
If your appliance requires professional diagnosis or repair, visit
Revolff Home Services
for expert appliance repair services.
For local appliance service information see
Dryer repair Henderson
.
Replacement parts for many appliance models can also be found at
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.
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