297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is the OEM-designated start device used on certain Frigidaire residential refrigerators to initiate compressor operation; it is an inline electrical start relay (a small switching device or solid-state start component) that momentarily supplies the compressor’s start winding with the additional current or phase shift required to generate starting torque. The part is typically compact, mounts near or on the compressorand is intended to work in concert with the compressor’s run winding and overload protector.
Inside the appliance, the start relay controls the brief connection of the start winding so the single-phase hermetic compressor can overcome static inertia and begin normal rotation. It directly interfaces with the compressor motor terminals and is part of the motor starting circuit that is governed by the thermostat or control board and protected by an overload device; its correct function affects compressor current draw, starting torqueand the broader refrigeration cycle, including evaporator and condenser performance.
In this article you will find a technical overview of how the 297237702 start relay functions, how to determine compatibility with specific Frigidaire models, common failure symptoms to watch for (for example, humming, failure to startor intermittent operation), systematic troubleshooting approaches a technician can use, and practical replacement considerations such as matching electrical characteristics, connector types, and safe handling practices.The aim is to provide the technical context necessary for diagnostics and informed replacement decisions without addressing sealed-system repairs beyond the relay and associated electrical components.
Table of Contents
- Function and Role of the Start Relay in the Compressor Start-Run circuit
- How the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay Works Inside the Appliance
- Common Failure Symptoms and Diagnostic Electrical/Mechanical Indicators
- Replacement Considerations, Model Compatibility and Installation Best Practices
- Q&A
- Wrapping Up
Function and Role of the Start Relay in the Compressor Start-Run Circuit
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator start Relay is the component that provides the short-duration connection to the compressor’s start winding so the motor can develop the torque required to accelerate from rest. The relay either uses a current-sensing element or a thermistor/timed circuit to engage the start winding for a fraction of a second and then disconnect it once the compressor reaches running speed; this drop-out characteristic prevents overheating and ensures the motor operates on the run winding alone. For proper operation the replacement relay must match the compressor’s starting current, terminal arrangementand drop-out behavior so the relay disengages at the correct RPM and dose not allow excessive current through the start circuit.
- Common operational symptom: repeated humming without rotation followed by overload trips (start winding not being disconnected).
- Normal audible behavior: a brief click at start when the relay engages and then releases.
- Types encountered: PTC/thermistor relays, potential relaysand electronic solid-state relays-each has different electrical characteristics.
- Replacement check: verify terminal configuration, coil/resistor valuesand mounting to ensure compatibility with the compressor nameplate.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | Momentary connection of the start winding to supply; automatic dropout once motor near-run speed. |
| Typical failure signs | Compressor hums or clicks, fails to start, or repeatedly trips overload protector. |
| Compatibility note | Match starting current, terminal layoutand dropout characteristics to the compressor and refrigerator model. |
For diagnostics, technicians measure continuity and resistance across the relay terminals, observe whether the relay physically engages at startor substitute a known-good unit with identical specifications; bench-testing a relay with the compressor disconnected avoids misleading load effects. When replacing the unit in the field,record terminal labels and measure coil/resistance values to confirm equivalence rather then relying solely on visual similarity-incorrect relay selection can allow high inrush currents,prevent triumphant starts,or cause repeated compressor cycling.
How the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay Works Inside the Appliance
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start relay is a small electromechanical/electronic device that provides a timed or current-sensed boost to the compressor’s start winding so the motor can develop initial torque and begin rotation. Inside the appliance it sits in series with the compressor start terminal and either relies on a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) element, a current-sensing switch, or an electronic timing circuit to connect the start winding only during the brief high-torque requirement at startup; once the compressor reaches normal speed the relay opens the start path and leaves the run winding energized. Technicians should verify that the relay’s electrical ratings and terminal layout match the compressor and harness before replacement, since mismatched voltage or terminal configuration can prevent proper engagement or cause overheating of the start circuit.
Functionally, the relay monitors the compressor’s electrical behavior and changes state after a fraction of a second, so failure modes are predictable: a relay that fails closed can overheat the start winding and trip the internal overload, while a relay that fails open will allow the compressor to hum without ever starting. Practical troubleshooting steps include listening for relay engagement at startup, checking for continuity or abnormal resistance between start/run terminals with a multimeter, and observing whether the compressor draws excessive current or cycles the overload. For service decisions, compare the relay’s terminal markings and rated supply voltage to the compressor nameplate and use a known-good relay or manufacturer part number to confirm compatibility.
- Common symptoms: repeated clicking, compressor hum without start, intermittent startsor tripped overloads.
- Service checks: visual inspection for burn marks, resistance checks across terminalsand verifying proper mounting to the compressor housing.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | Momentarily energizes the compressor start winding to produce initial torque, then disconnects it. |
| Typical terminals | Line, Start, Run (match labels on relay to compressor terminals). |
| Failure indicators | Compressor hums but does not start, repeated clickingor overheating/tripped overload. |
Common Failure Symptoms and Diagnostic Electrical/Mechanical Indicators
The start relay provides the brief high-torque assist that the compressor needs to leave the start position and reach normal running speed; on many frigidaire units this function is accomplished by a small electromechanical or PTC-containing module that cycles power to the compressor’s start winding. A failing module commonly found as part number 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay will manifest in electrical and mechanical symptoms: the compressor may only hum and never start, the relay housing can become discolored or hot to the touchor the circuit breaker may trip on attempted starts. Technicians should confirm that a replacement matches terminal layout, thermal trip characteristicsand mounting style for the specific Frigidaire compressor - swapping to a physically similar relay with different electrical ratings can leave the compressor unprotected or still unable to start.
- Audible humming from the compressor with no run cycle
- Repeated clicking at start-up or rapid relay cycling
- Higher-than-normal inrush current or nuisance tripping of protection
- Intermittent starts where the compressor runs sometimes but fails other times
- Visible overheating, melted plasticor burn marks on relay terminals
Diagnostically, use a multimeter and clamp ammeter: measure continuity and resistance of the start and run windings (start winding resistance is typically low and should not be open), check for proper supply voltage to the relayand capture inrush current at start-an absent or vrey brief inrush combined with no compressor rotation indicates a failed start device, while excessive inrush suggests a locked-rotor or shorted winding. Mechanically inspect the relay for burned contacts, arcingor a tripped internal thermal element; a relay that measures open on the start terminal or shows intermittent continuity under gentle vibration should be replaced. In practice, confirm fault by temporarily fitting a known-good relay of identical specifications or measuring amp draw against the compressor’s stamped nameplate values before ordering replacement parts like the 297237702 unit.
Replacement Considerations, Model Compatibility and Installation Best Practices
the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is a control device that provides the momentary current path to a compressor’s start winding during motor start-up and then drops out once the motor reaches running speed. Typical relays are either PTC (positive temperature coefficient) devices or current/voltage-operated relays; both types must match the compressor’s terminal configuration (two‑terminal run/start or three‑terminal run/start/aux). Symptoms of a failing relay include a humming or clicking compressor,no start on power-up,or intermittent starts; these behaviors result from insufficient start torque or a relay that does not open correctly. Verify compatibility by matching terminal count, mounting styleand rated voltage/amperage to the refrigerator’s wiring diagram and compressor label rather than relying solely on part number cross-references.
Follow safe installation practices and practical diagnostics to ensure a reliable replacement: disconnect power, remove the access panel, note or label each wireand replace the relay with one that matches the electrical ratings and terminal layout. After mechanical installation, confirm the compressor’s start and run coil resistances with a multimeter and, if available, perform a fast-start test while observing inrush behavior; excessive current or failure to switch out indicates either a mis-specified relay or a compressor fault. Use the checklist below for common checks and replacement steps and refer to the refrigerator’s service manual for torque values and panel removal procedures.
- Confirm compressor terminal type (2 vs. 3) and match relay type accordingly.
- Match rated voltage/amperage and physical mounting to avoid stress on leads or connectors.
- Label wires before removal,inspect overload protector,and replace if corroded or damaged.
- Verify coil resistances and perform a controlled start test while monitoring current draw.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Terminal configuration | Two-terminal (start+run) vs. three-terminal (start, run, aux/centertap) affects relay type |
| Rated voltage | Typically 115-120 V AC for domestic Frigidaire units; match exactly |
| Common symptoms | Humming/clicking compressor, failed starts, increased run-time |
Q&A
What is the Frigidaire part 297237702 start relay and what does it do?
The start relay is an electrical device that helps the refrigerator compressor start. It briefly routes extra current to the compressor’s start winding or switches in a start device (PTC or capacitor) so the motor overcomes initial inertia. Once the compressor is running, the relay drops out and the compressor continues on its run winding.Part 297237702 is the replacement start relay assembly used on certain Frigidaire refrigerators.
What are the common symptoms of a failing start relay on a refrigerator?
Typical signs include the compressor trying to start but clicking on and off,a humming or buzzing noise without the compressor running,icebox getting warm while the lights and fans still work,intermittent cooling,or the compressor running continuously at high current. In many failures the compressor won’t start at all and the relay may be warm or show burn marks.
How can I test the start relay to know if it’s defective?
First unplug the fridge. remove the relay from the compressor (usually under a plastic cover) and inspect visually for burning or broken terminals. For simple checks: shake the relay – a rattling sound can indicate internal breakage.Use a multimeter to check for continuity according to the relay design (consult service manual); many PTC style relays will show higher resistance or open when bad.A more definitive test is measuring compressor start current with a clamp ammeter: a failed relay frequently enough causes excessive locked-rotor current or repeated start attempts. If unsure, swapping with a known-good relay or replacing the relay is a low-cost diagnostic.
Can I replace the start relay myself and what safety steps should I take?
Yes, many owners can replace the relay. Safety steps: unplug the refrigerator before working, locate the compressor access panel, remove the relay (note and/or photograph wire positions), disconnect connectorsand install the new relay in the same orientation. Avoid forcing terminals and ensure a snug connection.Reinstall the access cover and restore power; listen for normal start behavior. If you are uncomfortable with electrical work or if the compressor still fails to start after replacement, call a qualified appliance technician.
Is the start relay the same as the overload protector or start capacitor?
No. The start relay is a switching device (often a PTC or relay) that helps energize the compressor start winding. The overload protector is a thermal device mounted on the compressor that opens the circuit if the compressor overheats or draws excessive current. A start capacitor (used on some compressors) stores energy to give an extra boost at startup; many domestic refrigerators do not use a separate start capacitor but some do. All three can be related to starting problems, so if replacing the relay doesn’t fix the issue, the overload or other components might potentially be faulty.
How do I confirm part 297237702 is compatible with my Frigidaire refrigerator?
Check the model number of your refrigerator (usually on a sticker inside the fridge or on the door jamb) and consult the Frigidaire parts list or the appliance manual. Enter the refrigerator model on Frigidaire’s official parts lookup or a reputable parts supplier to confirm that 297237702 matches. If in doubt, contact Frigidaire support or an authorized service center to verify compatibility before purchasing.
How long do start relays typically last and how much does a replacement cost?
Start relays can last many years but are exposed to heat and electrical stress so failure can occur unexpectedly. Lifespan varies widely depending on usage and ambient conditions. Replacement relays are usually inexpensive: commonly in the $10-$50 range for the part, not including labor if you hire a technician. Prices vary by supplier and whether you buy OEM or aftermarket parts.
After replacing the start relay, the compressor still won’t run – what should I check next?
If the new relay doesn’t restore compressor operation, check the overload protector (often attached to the compressor) for continuity and physical damage, verify incoming power to the refrigeratorand listen for any click when the compressor tries to start. A technician may test the compressor windings with an ohmmeter to check for open or shorted windings and measure start/locked-rotor current. Persistent failure can indicate a bad compressor or other control board issues and may require professional diagnosis and repair.
Wrapping Up
The 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator start relay plays a critical role in initiating compressor operation and maintaining reliable cooling performance. By controlling the initial surge of current to the compressor motor, this component helps the compressor start smoothly, reduces electrical stressand contributes to overall appliance efficiency and longevity.
Accurate diagnosis and appropriate replacement of a failing start relay are essential to restoring normal function and preventing further damage to the compressor and associated components. Recognizing common symptoms such as intermittent cooling, repeated clicking, or an unusually noisy start sequence should prompt testing by a qualified technician or use of proper diagnostic procedures; when replacement is required, using the correct 297237702 part and following manufacturer guidance ensures compatibility and safe operation.
Addressing start relay issues promptly helps maintain food safety, energy efficiencyand appliance lifespan. By combining careful diagnosis, correct replacementand adherence to safety and warranty considerations, owners and service professionals can minimize downtime and achieve reliable, long‑term performance from Frigidaire refrigeration equipment.
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