The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator start Relay is a compressor start device used on single‑phase household refrigeration systems; it is indeed the component that momentarily engages the compressor’s start winding (or or else assists the motor circuit) during initial energization. Physically small and typically mounted on or near the compressor, a start relay can be implemented as an electromechanical switch, a solid‑state relay, or a PTC/current‑sensing element and is specified to handle the line voltage and inrush currents characteristic of the appliance compressor motor.
Inside the refrigerator electrical system the start relay sits between the incoming mains, the compressor motor windings (start and run), any start capacitor present, and the overload protector, and it is ultimately controlled by the thermostat or control board. Its role is to provide the higher torque or transient current path needed to bring the compressor up to speed and then remove the start circuit once the motor reaches running speed; proper operation therefore affects compressor start reliability, cycle behavior, and protection against repeated long starts that can lead to overheating or motor damage. Because the relay directly interfaces with the compressor and protection devices, its specifications and condition influence electrical load, thermal stress, and system serviceability.
In this article readers will find a technical overview of the 297237702 start relay’s function and electrical behavior, guidance on compatibility and correct submission within Frigidaire models and equivalent compressor types, common failure symptoms to recognize (for example persistent clicking, compressor hum without start, intermittent starts, or signs of heat/pitting), and practical troubleshooting and replacement considerations a technician or experienced owner should evaluate. Coverage will include what measurements and observations are useful for diagnosis, how the relay interacts with overloads and capacitors during faults, and the selection criteria-electrical ratings, mounting and connector interfaces, and safety precautions-to ensure a proper and reliable replacement without making procedural assumptions about specific appliance models.
table of Contents
- Function and Role of the Start Relay in Frigidaire Refrigerator Compressors
- How the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay Works Inside the Appliance: Electrical Operation and Mechanical Interaction
- Common Failure Symptoms and Diagnostic Indicators of a Faulty Start Relay
- Compatibility and Replacement Considerations with Step-by-Step Installation and Troubleshooting
- Q&A
- Key Takeaways
How the 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator Start Relay Works Inside the Appliance: electrical Operation and Mechanical Interaction
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay functions as the temporary power path that energizes a compressor’s start winding (or start capacitor circuit) long enough for the hermetic motor to reach run speed. Electrically it closes a high-current connection at start, then opens once the motor’s back‑EMF or reduced starting current indicates the rotor has achieved sufficient speed; some relays use a current-sensing coil while others use a thermal/PTC element to time the dropout. In practice this part must match the compressor’s voltage and terminal layout so the start path engages at the correct threshold and duration without overstressing the run winding or tripping the overload protector.
mechanically the start relay sits adjacent to the compressor terminals and interacts directly with the overload protector and compressor case,so poor mounting or corroded terminals can alter its effective contact resistance and timing. Typical failure modes include a relay that sticks closed (continuous start winding current), one that never closes (no start current), or one that exhibits high contact resistance causing motor heating; these failures present as humming without starting, frequent short cycles, or thermal trips. For technicians, confirm compatibility by matching terminal arrangement and amperage ratings, and corroborate symptoms with multimeter continuity and voltage observations before replacing the relay.
- Common symptoms of relay failure: humming/no-start, intermittent starts, and rapid thermal trips.
- Key behaviors: provides timed start current, drops out at run speed, interfaces with overload protector.
- Compatibility checks: terminal layout, rated voltage/amperage, and compressor model match required.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | Provide momentary high current to compressor start winding or start capacitor circuit |
| Electrical behavior | Closes on start, opens at run; current‑sensing or thermal/PTC dropout methods |
| Typical terminals | common (C), Start (S), Run (R) – verify physical layout before replacement |
| Diagnostic clue | Humming compressor with no spin indicates likely start circuit or relay fault |
Common Failure Symptoms and Diagnostic indicators of a Faulty Start Relay
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator start Relay is a small electromechanical device that supplies momentary current to the compressor start winding so the compressor can overcome initial inertia and begin normal operation. In normal behavior the relay closes only long enough to energize the start coil and then opens or drops out, allowing the run winding to sustain the motor. If the relay is electrically or mechanically degraded it will either fail to make a reliable contact, stick closed, or overheat; any of these faults can prevent the compressor from starting, cause excessive running current, or produce repeated short cycling.Technicians should confirm that the replacement relay matches the compressor’s voltage and inrush current ratings and the appliance’s mounting/terminal configuration rather than assuming worldwide compatibility.
- Compressor hums but does not start, sometimes followed by a click when it trips
- Intermittent starting or prolonged crank attempts before the compressor runs
- Burnt smell, scorched relay housing, or oil residue near terminals
- Relay rattles when shaken or shows visible contact/terminal damage
Diagnosing a faulty start relay combines visual, audible, and electrical tests: visually inspect for heat damage or oil seepage; listen for humming or repeated clicking at start; shake the relay to detect lose internals. Electrical checks include continuity between the common and start terminals, comparing measured winding resistance with compressor specifications, and using a clamp meter to observe inrush current - a failed relay often produces high inrush without a accomplished start. A practical field test is to substitute a known-good relay (or temporarily use a documented hard-start device) to determine if the compressor reliably starts; for safety, disconnect power before swapping components and verify model compatibility. The table below summarizes quick checks and expected diagnostic outcomes.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Visual inspection | Look for burn marks, melted plastic, oil leaks, or loose terminals indicating thermal or internal failure |
| Audible behavior | Humming without start or repeated clicking suggests the relay is not engaging/start winding not energized |
| Electrical measurement | Continuity between start and common when engaged, correct resistance values per compressor data, and abnormal inrush current indicate relay or compressor start-circuit issues |
Compatibility and Replacement Considerations with Step-by-Step Installation and Troubleshooting
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator start Relay is a small electromechanical component that provides the initial torque needed to bring the compressor up to speed by momentarily energizing the compressor’s start winding (or switching a start capacitor into the circuit, depending on compressor design).When selecting a replacement, match the electrical characteristics (rated supply voltage, locked-rotor current or RLA, and terminal configuration) and the physical mounting style; mismatches in terminal layout or overload protection type (PTC resistor, three-terminal relay, or solid-state start device) can prevent installation or cause poor starting behavior. For example, installing a relay with the correct voltage but a different overload trip curve may allow the compressor to run briefly and then stall repeatedly under high load, so confirm both electrical ratings and fitment against the fridge model’s service data or the compressor nameplate.
Follow a systematic approach for replacement and troubleshooting to isolate start-relay faults from compressor or control failures.Always disconnect power before accessing the compressor; remove the rear access panel, note wire positions, and photograph terminals for reassembly. Basic steps include inspecting the old relay for burn marks or odor, measuring continuity of the run and start terminals with a multimeter (compare to service values), and substituting a correctly specified replacement to verify behavior. Typical symptoms that point to a start-relay problem are repeated clicking at the compressor, a humming compressor that fails to spin up, or intermittent starts after extended rest periods. After replacement, monitor inrush current and temperature during the frist hour of operation to ensure the compressor attains normal running speed without excessive current draw.
- Disconnect power and remove rear access panel.
- Document wire positions, remove the relay/overload assembly from the compressor.
- Perform continuity/resistance checks and compare to service literature.
- Install a matched relay (voltage, RLA, terminal layout), reattach wires, restore power, and observe start behavior.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Part | 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay – start device for compressor; verify OEM cross-reference for model fit. |
| Electrical | Match supply voltage and locked-rotor/current specifications to the compressor nameplate. |
| Symptoms | Clicking, humming with no spin, intermittent starts; confirm relay before replacing compressor. |
Q&A
What is the 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator start relay and what does it do?
The 297237702 is a compressor start relay (also called a start device) used on some Frigidaire refrigerators. Its job is to provide a momentary electrical boost or connection to the compressor’s start winding so the compressor can overcome initial inertia and begin running.Once the compressor reaches running speed the start relay disconnects the start winding so the compressor runs on the run winding only.
How do I know if the start relay (297237702) is bad?
Common symptoms of a failing start relay include: compressor humming but not starting,fridge not cooling or cooling poorly,frequent clicking noises (relay trying to engage),or the compressor starting briefly after tapping it. Visual signs include burn marks, melted plastic, or a rattling sound inside the relay. Note that these symptoms can also be caused by other problems (sealed-system faults,bad capacitor,or a locked compressor),so confirm with testing before replacing parts.
Can I test the 297237702 start relay myself? If so, how?
Yes, simple tests are possible but must be done safely. Always disconnect power first. Remove the relay from the compressor terminals and inspect it visually. For a quick functional check, gently shake the relay-if you hear loose parts it’s suspect. Use a multimeter to check for obvious open circuits (continuity) on mechanical relays, but note that many modern relays are PTC/solid-state and will read differently; a continuity reading alone may not prove proper operation. The safest practical test for many technicians is to swap in a known-good starter or replace the relay and see if the compressor starts. If you are not comfortable with electrical testing around the compressor, get a technician.
Are the start relay and overload the same thing? How are they different?
No. The start relay temporarily connects the start winding to get the compressor running. The overload protector is a thermal device that protects the compressor motor from overheating and excessive current; it will open (cut power) if the compressor draws too much current or gets too hot. On some compressors the start relay and overload are separate parts and on others they are integrated into one module; when replacing, verify whether your model uses separate or combined components and match the correct part number (297237702) to your refrigerator.
How do I replace the 297237702 start relay safely?
Basic replacement steps: 1) Unplug the refrigerator or switch off the breaker. 2) Move the fridge away from the wall and remove the lower back/service panel to access the compressor. 3) note or photograph wire positions, then gently pull the relay off the compressor terminals (some have a clip or cover to remove first). 4) Install the new 297237702 by pressing it onto the same terminals and reattaching any covers/clips. 5) Replace the service panel, restore power, and listen/observe whether the compressor starts and the refrigerator begins cooling. if the compressor still fails to start, stop and call a technician-do not repeatedly attempt restarts. If you are unsure at any step, hire a qualified appliance technician.
Is replacing the start relay something I can do myself, or should I call a technician?
Replacing a start relay is a common DIY repair for people comfortable working around appliances and electrical connections: it is indeed a simple component swap and does not normally involve refrigerant. However, if you are not comfortable removing panels, working with 120/240V wiring, or diagnosing compressor/sealed-system issues, call a technician. Also call a pro if the compressor is seized, the unit trips breakers, or there are signs of a sealed-system problem (oil stains, loss of refrigerant, etc.).
How do I make sure 297237702 is the correct part for my refrigerator?
Verify compatibility by checking your refrigerator’s model number (usually on a label inside the fridge or on the back) and cross-referencing it with the part number. Use Frigidaire’s parts lookup, the appliance manual, or a reputable parts supplier to confirm that 297237702 is listed for your model. Many parts have cross-reference numbers or aftermarket equivalents-if uncertain, provide the fridge model and serial to the supplier or technician to confirm fit.
How much does a 297237702 start relay typically cost and where can I buy one?
Price varies by seller and whether the part is OEM or aftermarket; expect a general range typically between about $10 and $40 USD. you can buy the relay from Frigidaire-authorized parts dealers, appliance-parts websites, large online marketplaces, or local appliance repair shops. Always buy from reputable sources and confirm the part number and return policy in case of compatibility or functionality issues.
Key Takeaways
The 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator start relay is a small but critical component that helps the compressor begin its cooling cycle. By momentarily supplying the compressor with the extra current needed at startup,the relay ensures reliable motor engagement and protects the compressor from prolonged stress and potential overheating. in systems using this specific relay, correct fit and electrical characteristics are vital for preserving normal cooling performance and extending the service life of the refrigeration system.
Accurate diagnosis is essential when a refrigerator shows signs such as failure to cool, repeated clicking, humming without startup, or intermittent operation. These symptoms can result from a faulty start relay but may also be caused by issues with the compressor, start capacitor, wiring, or the control board. Performing the appropriate tests - visually inspecting components, measuring continuity and resistance, and observing compressor behavior during startup – reduces the risk of needless parts replacement and helps target the true root cause.
When testing confirms relay failure, replacing it with the correct 297237702 Frigidaire start relay, following manufacturer instructions, and observing safety precautions will restore reliable starting function and help prevent further damage to the compressor. For complex or uncertain diagnoses,consulting a qualified appliance technician is recommended. Proper replacement and maintenance of the start relay is a cost-effective step that supports consistent refrigerator performance and reduces the likelihood of more extensive repairs.
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