297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator Start Relay is a start-relay assembly intended for use with singleâphase refrigerator compressors. The component is a temporaryâengage device-available in PTC⣠(positive â¤temperature coefficient) or electromechanical designs-that provides the required starting â¤torque by momentarily energizing the compressor’s âstartâ winding and then removing that circuit once the motor reaches running âspeed.
Inside the appliance, the start relay isâ part â˘of the compressor start circuit and directly interfaces with â¤the compressor terminals, theâ overload protector, the line powerâ supplyand theâ refrigerator’s⢠control/thermostat. âProper operation of the relay reduces inrushâ stress on theâ motor, prevents stalled⢠startsand â˘helps maintain the refrigeration cycle; conversely, a failed relay can cause the compressor to⤠hum, âŁoverheat,⤠draw excessive current, âor fail to âstart. The relay is typically mounted at or near⤠the compressor terminal block or on the compressor housing and must withstand vibration,temperature variations,and theâ electrical load of the motor start sequence.
In this article you will âŁfind a âtechnical overview of how the 297237702 Frigidaire âRefrigerator⤠Start Relay functions, guidance on compatibility and electrical specifications, common failure âsymptoms to recognize, practical troubleshooting checks (including electrical and âoperational tests)and considerations for safe and⢠correct replacement. The data is presented for technicians, engineersand applianceâ ownersâ who need to diagnose startârelated compressor issues and select an appropriate replacement without relying on marketing claims or nontechnical descriptions.
Tableâ of Contents
- Function and Roleâ of the Refrigerator Start Relay⤠in compressor Start-Up and Motor Protection
- How the 297237702 Frigidaire âRefrigerator⤠Start Relay Works âŁInside⢠the⤠Appliance
- Common Failure Symptoms, Diagnostic Tests, â¤and âElectrical Measurements for Start Relay Faults
- Replacement Considerations, compatibility⢠with Frigidaire Models and Step-by-Step Installation â¤Guidelines
- Q&A
- In Retrospect
Function⤠andâ Role of the Refrigerator Start Relay âŁin Compressor Start-Up and Motor âProtection
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay provides the transient connection or impedance change required to⢠energize the compressor’s start winding during motor spin-up. In typical compressors the start winding needsâ additional current for the first fractionâ of a second to â˘produce â˘the torque necessary to overcome static friction and⢠refrigerant pressure; âthe start relay either momentarily connects âthe start⢠winding (electromechanical/current relay) or alters circuit âresistance/impedance (PTC or⤠solidâstate designs) until the motor â¤reaches nearârunning speed, then removesâ that circuit. The relay works in conjunction with the compressor’s overload protector and âŁthe run winding; correct replacement requires matching terminal layout,â coil/relay typeand rated inrush characteristics to the compressor âto avoid poor â˘startingâ performance or âincreased wear.
Beyond initiating start-up,the start relay âcontributes to motor protection byâ ensuring the start winding âis not continuously energized,whichâ would cause⣠excessive heating and premature failure. A properly functioning relay âlimits the duration and magnitude ofâ starting current⢠andâ coordinates with the thermal overload to clear stalled conditions; common failure modes include stuck contacts, degraded PTC⢠responseor internal shorts that allow theâ compressor to hum without starting. For service, technicians should compare terminal markings, rated current/voltageand physical mounting; replacements should match the compressor’s electrical âcharacteristics rather⤠then relying solely⢠onâ case appearance to ensure reliable starting and protection in normal operating conditions.
- Compressor hums but⤠does ânot start or starts intermittently
- Repeated clickingâ at âthe relay or compressor on-off cycling
- Extended crank time with higher than normal inrush current
- Relay becomes hot to the touch or shows visible âŁdamage
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | Provides⢠temporary start winding connection or impedance change to produce starting torque |
| Behavior | Engages âduring spin-up, âthen drops â˘out to prevent⢠continuous start âwinding âcurrent |
| Compatibility | Must match compressor terminal⤠configuration and starting/currentâ characteristics |
How the 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay Works Inside the Appliance
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator⢠Start Relay âis a control device that delivers a short-duration boost of current to the compressor’s start winding so the hermetic motor can overcome static friction and accelerate to operating speed.Inside theâ appliance it sits at the compressor terminals and works in concert with the run winding and the overload protector: when âthe relay senses the initial âinrush or provides a timed start pulse it closesâ the path to the start winding, then⤠opens or drops out once âŁthe motor reaches normal speed.Relays of this family can be â˘electromechanical, current-sensing âor solid-state; regardless of internal âdesign, the intended behavior is â¤the same – provide a repeatable, âtime-limited or condition-limited âstart current while avoiding continuous energization of the⤠start winding.
- Common failure symptoms: repeated clicking without compressor start, continuous hummingor compressor⢠overheating after multiple⢠start attempts.
- Installation checks: confirm terminal layout and electrical rating match the compressorand verify â¤the associated overload protector is intact before â¤replacing the relay.
- Diagnostic steps: audible click, continuity checks â˘across relay terminalsand bench-testing with theâ correct line voltage can â˘help isolate relay versus compressor motor faults.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | Provides momentary⤠current to the compressor start winding andâ disconnects it once the motor reaches operating speed. |
| Typicalâ supply | Household âline voltage (typical example: 115-120â V AC) for most residential Frigidaire units; confirm rating on the part label. |
| Compatibility notes | Must match compressor terminal configuration andâ current/voltage rating; compatible with specific⤠Frigidaire compressor⤠models-verify model numbers â¤before â¤replacement. |
Behavior under fault conditions⣠is predictable and useful for troubleshooting: a relay â˘that fails closed will keep â¤the start winding energized and can cause âŁrapid overheating or motor insulation damage, while a relay that fails open prevents start current and leaves the compressor unable to start. Technicians use a combination of visual inspection (burn marks, melted plastic), electrical âmeasurements (ohms between terminals, proper coil impedance where applicable)and functional tests with the correct supply voltage to confirm relay operation. When replacing the part, match the 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator Start Relay or an approved equivalent⣠by terminal layout âand âratingsand retestâ the system under load to ensure stable âstarts and correct interaction â˘with theâ overload protector and thermostat control.
Common failure Symptoms, âDiagnostic Testsand Electrical Measurements for Start Relay Faults
The 297237702 Frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is the component that provides a brief âŁhigh-torque connection to the compressor’s start winding so âthe motor can accelerate to its running â˘speed. Inâ operationâ the relay (or start device) momentarily⤠routes mains voltage to the start coil and then drops out once the compressor reaches speed; a failed relay⣠either never âengages the start winding or fails to release it. âIn practise⤠this manifests as âa compressor âthat only hums, a repeated click at frequent intervals, intermittent starting that âŁcauses long run cyclesor a compressor that starts but runs hot. Confirming compatibility with yoru Frigidaire model and the relay’s terminal⣠layout is necessary before replacement as âmechanical form⤠factor and connector orientation varyâ between compressor/manufacturer combinations.
Diagnosing âa suspected start-relay fault âcombines visual inspection with electrical âmeasurements.⣠Visually check for heat discoloration, melted plastic, â¤or loose terminals; electrically,⢠isolate power before resistance checks and then⤠verify continuity between the relay’s start/run terminals⣠and the compressor windings with an ohmmeter. With â¤power âapplied âand the compressor attempting to start,measure mains voltage at the relay output and use a clamp ammeter to capture the inrush/current spike; a properly âworking relay âpasses mains to the start windingâ only during the initial spike and then the compressor⢠current settles to a lower running amperage. Typical diagnostic checks include checking for low-ohm start windingâ (order of magnitude: single-digit to low tens of ohms)â versus higher â¤run-winding resistance, confirming a large⢠starting-current spike followed by a smaller running currentand observing âthat the relay physically switches the start terminal only during the start interval.
- Common symptoms: âhumming compressor, repeated relay clicking, intermittent starts, high initial⣠current thatâ does⣠not dropor frequent breaker trips.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Supply voltage at relay | Should be nominal line voltage (~115-120â VAC in âtypical North american systems) present at the relay input during start attempt. |
| Start-winding resistance | Low-ohm range⤠(generally single-digit to low tens of ohms depending â˘on âcompressor); significantly higher or open indicates âwinding or connection fault. |
| Run-windingâ resistance | Higher than start winding; used to compare with start winding to âdetectâ shorted turns or âopen circuits. |
| Starting current (inrush) | Noticeable spike above running⢠current (commonly multiple â¤timesâ running amps); if spike is absent while supply âis present, the⢠relay may not engage. |
| Relay switching behavior | Relay âshould âapply start winding only⤠during startup. Continuous application or no application indicates a⢠failing relay or control circuit â˘issue. |
Replacement Considerations, Compatibility with Frigidaire Models and Step-by-Step Installation Guidelines
The â297237702 frigidaire Refrigerator Start Relay is a âcompressor start device âŁused âin many Frigidaireâ refrigerators to provide an initial boost to the⢠hermetic compressor âmotor. Technically, this â¤relay âis part of the start circuit and typically incorporates âa PTC or electronic start element that momentarily increases current⢠to the âstart âwinding, then⤠drops out to allow the run winding to take over. Failure modes include intermittent clicking, âŁa compressor that hums⢠but⢠willâ not start, excessive heat at the relay housingor repeated short-cycle behavior. Compatibility depends onâ the compressor â¤family,â terminal arrangement (usually a three-terminal configuration: S, Rand C),â and enclosure mounting; verify terminal layout and nominal⤠supply (commonlyâ 115 VAC) before ordering a replacement to ensure proper fit and function across Frigidaire model series and âŁcompressor batches.
Replacement involves â˘basic electricalâ safety andâ validation⤠steps rather than complex adjustments: isolate mains power,⤠access the compressor area (rear access panel or under-shelf compartment depending on âŁmodel), remove the old relay/overloadâ assembly,â and â¤compare terminals and âmounting âwith the newâ unit. After installation, monitor starting current and compressor behavior for several start cycles; if âthe â¤compressor still fails to âstart, inspect the start and run windings with a â¤low-resistance meter and âcheck the âstart capacitor (if present) and â˘theâ overload protector. For field technicians, a⤠correct match of terminal â˘configuration and âŁmechanical fit is as âcritical as electrical rating to avoid repeated failures or damage to the compressorâ motor.
- Disconnect power before any service.
- Compare terminal⣠labels â¤(S, R, C) and âphysical mounting before installing the new relay.
- After replacement, restore power and observe at least 3 start cycles â˘for normalâ operation.
- If problems persist, measure⣠winding âresistance and starting current or replace the compressorâ assembly.
| Item | description |
|---|---|
| Nominal Voltage | Typically 115 VAC for household Frigidaire units (verify label). |
| Terminal configuration | Three-terminal start device (S = start, R = ârun, C = common); confirm before install. |
| Common Symptoms | Clicking relay, compressor hums without starting,⣠overheating at relay housing. |
| Compatibility âŁCheck | Match terminal layout, mounting styleand electrical rating; cross-reference model/serial numbers when â¤available. |
Q&A
What is the 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator start relay and âŁwhat does it do?
The 297237702 is a start relay/overload assembly used on certain Frigidaire/Electrolux refrigerators. Itâ helps the compressor start by momentarily supplying the start winding and protecting the compressor from damage during a stallâ condition. If the relay or overload fails,the compressor may not start,will hum,or will click on âŁand off repeatedly.
What symptoms indicate the⢠start âŁrelay (297237702) is failing?
Common symptoms include:â refrigerator not âcooling, compressor humming but not starting, a clicking noise every few seconds as the relay âŁtries to start the compressoror a warm compressor. A burnt âsmell âor visible scorch⣠marks onâ theâ relayâ are also signs of failure. Note that similar symptoms can be caused by a sealed system âfault (low refrigerant) or aâ bad thermostat/control.
How can⢠I test⤠the 297237702⣠start relay to confirm it’s bad?
Always disconnect power first. For a removable relay/overload assembly, visually inspect for burns, cracksor melted plastic. With a multimeter you can check for continuity across⣠the relay’s terminals and the overload protector;⣠an open circuit⢠where continuity is expected âŁindicates a fault. Someâ modern PTC or solid-state relays won’tâ give definitive resistance readings – â˘inâ those cases a functional⢠swap with a known-good⤠relay or replacing the relay is the recommended test. âDo not apply mainsâ voltage to⤠test unless you are trained and using âproper equipment.
Is theâ 297237702 a⤠direct replacement for my model refrigerator?
297237702 is an â¤OEM â˘part used on specific Frigidaire/Electrolux models, but compatibility depends on your refrigerator model number. Always âverify⤠fit by⣠checking the refrigerator model and the OEM partâ reference before buying. If unsure,consult the appliance model’s parts list or contact Frigidaire/authorized parts supplier to confirm âcompatibility.
How do I replace the 297237702 start relay – can I do it myself?
Basic replacement is âstraightforward for someone comfortable with appliances: unplug the refrigerator, locate the compressor at the back, remove the protective cover, pull off the old relay/overload module (it ofen clips onto compressor terminals)and â˘install the new unit âin theâ same orientation. âŁReinstall the cover and restore power. take safety precautions (power off,⤠avoid touching sharp sheetâ metal) and make sure the part matches the original.if⤠you’re uncomfortable working near the compressor or⣠cannot âaccess âit easily, call a qualified technician.
how much does a 297237702 start relay cost and are there⢠aftermarket⢠options?
OEM relays like 297237702 âtypically cost in the range ofâ about $10-$40 âŁdepending on supplier and whether it’s âsold with an â¤overload or mounting hardware. Aftermarket equivalents exist and can be less expensive; tho, âŁusing OEM âŁor a âreputable aftermarket part is recommended â¤to⢠ensure proper electrical ratings and fit. âLabor costs for professional replacement will add to the total if you don’t do it yourself.
could replacing theâ relay fix all compressor start problems?
Not always. If âthe relay or overload is faulty, replacing⣠it often restores compressor starting.⣠However, if⢠the compressor itself is seized, the start or run windings are burned outor âŁthere is a sealed-system issue like a refrigerant leak,â replacing the relay won’t fix the problem. If the compressor still doesn’t run after⤠a known-good relay is installed,a⤠technician willâ need to âdo further electrical tests or inspect â˘the sealed system.
Any safety or âwarrantyâ considerations when replacing the 297237702?
Always disconnect power before servicing.â Avoid âworking on high-voltage controls⤠and do not attempt sealed system repairs (refrigerant handling)⣠unless certified. Using third-party parts can affect warranty coverage-check your refrigerator’s warranty terms.Keep receipts and â¤document the part number if you âneed warranty â¤support⢠or professional follow-up service.
In âRetrospect
The 297237702 Frigidaire refrigerator start relay plays a critical role in initiating compressor operation by momentarily supplying the proper current to the start winding.As aâ small but essential component in the ârefrigerator’s starting circuit,a reliable start â˘relay contributes directly to consistent cooling performance,efficient energyâ use and the prevention of more serious⢠compressor or electrical failures that can compromise food safety and increase repair costs.
As symptoms of a failing⤠start relay-such as repeated clicking, âa motor that struggles to startor intermittent cooling-can resemble other electrical or refrigerantâ problems, accurate diagnosis is crucial. Confirming the relay asâ the root cause before replacement helps avoid needless parts changes and ensures the underlying issue is addressed⣠correctly. When replacement is appropriate,â using the correct⢠part and proper âinstallation practices minimizes the risk of repeat failure and â˘protects the appliance’s operational integrity.
understanding the⢠function of theâ 297237702 â˘start relay and respondingâ to clear diagnostic indicators supports â¤reliable refrigerator performance and long-term component health. Routine attention to symptoms, adherence â˘toâ manufacturer guidanceand, when needed, professional diagnosis â˘and replacement âŁwill help maintain safe, efficient operation âŁand reduce âthe likelihood âof more costly repairs down the line.
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