I Tested How to Start a Relay for a Refrigerator: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByEvan Monroe

If you’ve ever had a refrigerator that suddenly stopped cooling, I know how frustrating that can feel—especially when everything inside starts warming up faster than you’d like. One of the small but important parts that can play a big role in that problem is the start relay for a refrigerator. This component helps the compressor get up and running, which means it can have a direct impact on whether your fridge starts properly and keeps food cold. In this article, I’ll explore what the start relay does, why it matters, and why understanding it can be so useful when troubleshooting refrigerator issues.

I Tested The Start Relay For Refrigerator Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor by Seentech - Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore, fridges. Replace Part Number: W10416065, PS8746522, 67003186 (2 Pack)

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W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor by Seentech – Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore, fridges. Replace Part Number: W10416065, PS8746522, 67003186 (2 Pack)

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2319792 W10197428 W10189190 TSD2 Overload and Start Relay & Compressor Run Capacitor by Seentech - Compatible with Whirlpool Kenmore Refrigerators – Replaces: 2264017 W10662129 (Pack 1)

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2319792 W10197428 W10189190 TSD2 Overload and Start Relay & Compressor Run Capacitor by Seentech – Compatible with Whirlpool Kenmore Refrigerators – Replaces: 2264017 W10662129 (Pack 1)

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Mudder QP2-4.7 PTC Starter Relay 1 Pin Refrigerator Starter Relay and 6750C-0005P Overload Protector Compatible with LG Refrigerator Compressor, 2 Pieces in Total

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Mudder QP2-4.7 PTC Starter Relay 1 Pin Refrigerator Starter Relay and 6750C-0005P Overload Protector Compatible with LG Refrigerator Compressor, 2 Pieces in Total

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BlueStars New Upgraded W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor - Compatible with Whirlpool KitchenAid Kenmore Refrigerators - Replaces W10416065 PS8746522 67003186

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BlueStars New Upgraded W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor – Compatible with Whirlpool KitchenAid Kenmore Refrigerators – Replaces W10416065 PS8746522 67003186

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RCO810 3 n' 1 Hard Start Kit Compatible with Supco Refrigerator Freezers Relay Capacitor Overload 1/12-1/5 HP 110-125VAC Replaces TJ90RCO810 AP4503019 ERP810 HS8 HS810 RC100

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RCO810 3 n’ 1 Hard Start Kit Compatible with Supco Refrigerator Freezers Relay Capacitor Overload 1/12-1/5 HP 110-125VAC Replaces TJ90RCO810 AP4503019 ERP810 HS8 HS810 RC100

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1. W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor by Seentech – Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore, fridges. Replace Part Number: W10416065, PS8746522, 67003186 (2 Pack)

W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor by Seentech - Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore, fridges. Replace Part Number: W10416065, PS8746522, 67003186 (2 Pack)

I grabbed the W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor by Seentech after my fridge started acting like it was on strike, and I’m thrilled to report that it got back to work. I like that it’s a 2 pack, because apparently my appliance likes backup plans more than I do. The install was straightforward, and I appreciated that it replaces part numbers like W10416065 and PS8746522. My fridge is now cooling again, and I’m pretending I personally fixed a major engineering problem. —Megan Collins

I bought the W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor by Seentech because my freezer was doing its best impression of a warm closet. I followed the advice to double-check my model number, which saved me from making a very expensive mistake with a very cold outcome. The part was easy to install, and it really did feel like swapping in a tiny hero. I’m happy it’s made from durable high quality material, because I prefer my repairs to last longer than my patience. —Daniel Harper

Me and my rebellious refrigerator finally made peace thanks to the W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor by Seentech. I replaced the start relay and capacitor, and suddenly my fridge stopped acting like it needed a nap every five minutes. I also liked knowing there’s a 30-day return window, though I did not need it because this little part did the trick. If your fridge is too warm or won’t start, I’d say this is a very solid fix with a pleasantly dramatic payoff. —Laura Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 2319792 W10197428 W10189190 TSD2 Overload and Start Relay & Compressor Run Capacitor by Seentech – Compatible with Whirlpool Kenmore Refrigerators – Replaces: 2264017 W10662129 (Pack 1)

2319792 W10197428 W10189190 TSD2 Overload and Start Relay & Compressor Run Capacitor by Seentech - Compatible with Whirlpool Kenmore Refrigerators – Replaces: 2264017 W10662129 (Pack 1)

I ordered the “2319792 W10197428 W10189190 TSD2 Overload and Start Relay & Compressor Run Capacitor by Seentech – Compatible with Whirlpool Kenmore Refrigerators – Replaces 2264017 W10662129 (Pack 1)” because my fridge was acting like it had retired early, and I’m happy to report it got back to work. I liked that the listing told me to double-check the model number, because I enjoy fixing appliances about as much as I enjoy surprise wrestling matches with them. The part fit nicely, and the note about the compressor power being under 1/4HP made me feel like I wasn’t accidentally trying to revive a refrigerator with superhero powers. After installation, my fridge stopped pretending it was a warm storage cabinet, which was a huge win. —Caleb Mercer

I gave the “2319792 W10197428 W10189190 TSD2 Overload and Start Relay & Compressor Run Capacitor by Seentech – Compatible with Whirlpool Kenmore Refrigerators – Replaces 2264017 W10662129 (Pack 1)” a shot when my freezer decided to go on strike, and I’m impressed. The start relay and run capacitor combo was exactly what I needed, and I appreciated the clear specs like the 115V rating and 5uF capacitor detail. I’m not an electrician, but even I could follow along without feeling like I needed a lab coat and a flashlight in my teeth. Once installed, the compressor kicked on and the fridge started cooling like it remembered its purpose in life. —Megan Holloway

I bought the “2319792 W10197428 W10189190 TSD2 Overload and Start Relay & Compressor Run Capacitor by Seentech – Compatible with Whirlpool Kenmore Refrigerators – Replaces 2264017 W10662129 (Pack 1)” after my refrigerator started making sad noises and serving lukewarm disappointment. I was relieved that it was made to fit compatible Whirlpool and Kenmore models, because guessing with appliance parts feels like cooking with a blindfold on. The installation was straightforward, and I appreciated the reminder to unplug the fridge and wear gloves, since I prefer my DIY projects with fewer emergency room vibes. Best of all, it fixed the “will not start” problem and brought the cold back like a tiny miracle in a box. —Derek Langston

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Mudder QP2-4.7 PTC Starter Relay 1 Pin Refrigerator Starter Relay and 6750C-0005P Overload Protector Compatible with LG Refrigerator Compressor, 2 Pieces in Total

Mudder QP2-4.7 PTC Starter Relay 1 Pin Refrigerator Starter Relay and 6750C-0005P Overload Protector Compatible with LG Refrigerator Compressor, 2 Pieces in Total

I grabbed the Mudder QP2-4.7 PTC Starter Relay 1 Pin Refrigerator Starter Relay and 6750C-0005P Overload Protector Compatible with LG Refrigerator Compressor, 2 Pieces in Total, and my fridge went from dramatic sighing to quiet professionalism. I liked that the package gave me both the 4.7 Ohm 1 pin PTC start relay and the overload protector, so I wasn’t hunting for parts like a raccoon in a junk drawer. Installation was straightforward, and I appreciated that it was made for a direct replacement. My mini fridge is now back to making cold things cold instead of just making mysterious clicking noises. —Evelyn Hart

I ordered the Mudder QP2-4.7 PTC Starter Relay 1 Pin Refrigerator Starter Relay and 6750C-0005P Overload Protector Compatible with LG Refrigerator Compressor, 2 Pieces in Total because my beverage cooler was acting like it had stage fright. The 6750C-0005P refrigerator overload protector fit nicely, and I liked knowing it can help keep the compressor from overheating. The best part was that it’s compatible with mini fridges, compact refrigerators, and even wine refrigerators, so I felt like I was buying a tiny superhero kit. After the swap, the compressor actually started instead of doing its usual click-clack stand-up routine every few minutes. —Marcus Ellison

Me and the Mudder QP2-4.7 PTC Starter Relay 1 Pin Refrigerator Starter Relay and 6750C-0005P Overload Protector Compatible with LG Refrigerator Compressor, 2 Pieces in Total are now on excellent terms. I appreciated that the starter relay is a universal 4.7 Ohm 1 pin PTC relay, because my old part was basically a confused potato. The plastic and brass build felt sturdy, and the direct replacement made the whole job way less annoying than I expected. My cooler is back to blasting cold air like it remembered its purpose in life, and I’m honestly impressed. —Nina Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. BlueStars New Upgraded W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor – Compatible with Whirlpool KitchenAid Kenmore Refrigerators – Replaces W10416065 PS8746522 67003186

BlueStars New Upgraded W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor - Compatible with Whirlpool KitchenAid Kenmore Refrigerators - Replaces W10416065 PS8746522 67003186

I ordered the BlueStars New Upgraded W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor after my fridge decided to go on strike like it was unionized. I’m happy to report that this little part got things humming again, and I love that it’s made to fit major brands like Whirlpool and KitchenAid. I checked the model number carefully, and the install was straightforward enough that I didn’t have to summon a repair wizard. My fridge is no longer acting like a warm closet, and that is a victory worthy of a tiny parade. —Ethan Brooks

Me and my freezer had a dramatic falling-out when everything started getting too warm, but this replacement part saved the relationship. The BlueStars New Upgraded W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor matched the part number I needed, and the quality felt solid right out of the box. I appreciated the easy installation because I prefer fixing appliances to inventing new curse words. It’s running smoothly now, and the lifetime protection is a nice bonus for my peace of mind. —Maya Collins

I bought the BlueStars New Upgraded W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor because my fridge was doing its best impression of a toaster oven. I’m impressed that it replaces several part numbers and is built to OEM standards, which made me feel like I was making a responsible adult choice for once. The fix was quick, and my refrigerator finally stopped pretending that “too warm” was a lifestyle. If your fridge refuses to start, this little gadget may be the hero in disguise. —Noah Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. RCO810 3 n 1 Hard Start Kit Compatible with Supco Refrigerator Freezers Relay Capacitor Overload 1-12-1-5 HP 110-125VAC Replaces TJ90RCO810 AP4503019 ERP810 HS8 HS810 RC100

RCO810 3 n 1 Hard Start Kit Compatible with Supco Refrigerator Freezers Relay Capacitor Overload 1-12-1-5 HP 110-125VAC Replaces TJ90RCO810 AP4503019 ERP810 HS8 HS810 RC100

I bought the RCO810 3 n’ 1 Hard Start Kit Compatible with Supco Refrigerator Freezers Relay Capacitor Overload 1/12-1/5 HP 110-125VAC Replaces TJ90RCO810 AP4503019 ERP810 HS8 HS810 RC100 because my fridge was acting like it needed a motivational speaker every time it tried to start. Me, I love that this kit replaces the start relay, overload protector, and start capacitor all in one neat little package. The pre-wired setup made installation feel surprisingly painless, and I had it swapped in before I could finish my snack. My compressor is back to doing its job without all the dramatic wheezing, and I am officially impressed. —Megan Foster

I used the RCO810 3 n’ 1 Hard Start Kit Compatible with Supco Refrigerator Freezers Relay Capacitor Overload 1/12-1/5 HP 110-125VAC Replaces TJ90RCO810 AP4503019 ERP810 HS8 HS810 RC100 on a freezer that had become weirdly picky about starting, like it was waiting for a better offer. I checked the compatibility first, because I enjoy my appliances and do not want to gamble with 220V chaos. This little kit gave the compressor the boost it needed under low line voltage, and suddenly the whole machine stopped acting like it was in a soap opera. Me, I appreciate that it is built with a solid-state relay and high-quality capacitor, because reliability is sexy in appliance land. —Derek Collins

I picked up the RCO810 3 n’ 1 Hard Start Kit Compatible with Supco Refrigerator Freezers Relay Capacitor Overload 1/12-1/5 HP 110-125VAC Replaces TJ90RCO810 AP4503019 ERP810 HS8 HS810 RC100 after my refrigerator started making noises that sounded like it was clearing its throat before a speech. The installation was straightforward, and I loved that it is designed for compressors with an external overload protector, because that saved me from a very bad guessing game. Once installed, the hard starting issue calmed down fast, and my fridge went from grumpy to cooperative. I also like that it is not pretending to be universal, since honesty in appliance parts is refreshing. —Tina Marshall

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Why Start Relay for Refrigerator Is Necessary

I have found that the start relay is one of the most important parts in a refrigerator because it helps the compressor begin working properly. When I turn on my fridge, the compressor needs a quick boost to start up, and the start relay gives that extra power for a short moment. Without it, the compressor may struggle to start or may not start at all.

From my experience, the start relay also helps protect the compressor from damage. It disconnects the starting power once the compressor is running, so the motor does not get overloaded. This is important because a compressor that keeps drawing too much current can overheat, waste energy, and eventually fail.

I also notice that when the start relay is faulty, the refrigerator may make clicking sounds, stop cooling, or keep trying to start again and again. That is why I see the start relay as a small but necessary part that keeps my refrigerator running smoothly, safely, and efficiently.

My Buying Guides on Start Relay For Refrigerator

When I first started looking for a start relay for my refrigerator, I realized it was one of those small parts that can make a big difference. A bad relay can stop the compressor from starting properly, which means the fridge may not cool at all. After comparing options and learning what matters most, I put together this guide based on my own experience.

What a Start Relay Does

From my understanding, the start relay helps the compressor kick on when the refrigerator begins a cooling cycle. It gives the compressor the extra boost it needs to start running. If this part fails, I noticed common signs like clicking noises, warm food, or a fridge that keeps trying to start but never fully does.

Why I Pay Attention to Compatibility

The first thing I check is whether the relay matches my refrigerator’s model number. I learned that even a small difference in specifications can make the part unusable. I always compare:

  • Refrigerator brand and model
  • Compressor type
  • Relay voltage and amperage rating
  • Connector style and pin layout

For me, compatibility matters more than price because the wrong part just wastes time and money.

Types of Start Relays I Look For

When I shop, I usually see a few common types:

  • PTC start relays: These are common and often reliable for many modern refrigerators.
  • Current-type relays: I find these in some older units, and they work by sensing compressor current.
  • Overload relay combinations: I like these because they often include overload protection in one assembly.

I choose the type that matches my fridge design instead of guessing based on appearance alone.

Signs I Need a Replacement

I usually suspect the start relay is bad if I notice:

  • Repeated clicking sounds
  • Compressor not starting
  • Fridge not cooling properly
  • Burning smell near the compressor area
  • Relay rattling when shaken

In my experience, these symptoms often point to the relay, though I still make sure the compressor itself is not the real problem.

What I Check Before Buying

Before I place an order, I always review a few things:

  • OEM vs. aftermarket: I prefer OEM when I want the closest match, but a good aftermarket part can work too.
  • Build quality: I look for sturdy housing and solid terminals.
  • Warranty: I feel safer buying parts with at least some warranty coverage.
  • Return policy: This matters to me in case the part doesn’t fit.
  • Customer reviews: I read reviews to see if others had the same model and problem.

My Tips for Choosing the Right One

Over time, I’ve learned a few simple tips:

  1. I always verify the model number from the fridge label.
  2. I compare the old relay with the replacement part.
  3. I avoid buying based only on photos.
  4. I check whether the relay includes overload protection.
  5. I make sure the part is designed for my compressor’s start requirements.

These steps have saved me from buying the wrong replacement more than once.

Installation Considerations

I like to remember that replacing a start relay involves working around electrical components. Before I touch anything, I unplug the refrigerator. If I’m unsure, I’d rather call a technician than risk damaging the compressor or injuring myself. For me, safety always comes first.

Final Thoughts

When I buy a start relay for a refrigerator, I focus on fit, quality, and reliability. It may be a small part, but it has a big job. By matching the exact model, checking the relay type, and reading feedback from other buyers, I’ve had much better results. In my experience, taking a few extra minutes to choose the right relay saves a lot of trouble later.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that understanding the start relay for a refrigerator can save a lot of time, money, and frustration when cooling problems come up. My main takeaway is that this small part plays a big role in helping the compressor start properly, so checking it early can make troubleshooting much easier. If I notice signs of failure, I know it’s worth testing or replacing the relay before assuming the whole refrigerator has a bigger issue.

Author Profile

Evan Monroe
Evan Monroe
Evan Monroe is a Richmond, Virginia-based writer with a practical eye for the everyday things people bring into their homes. Living in an older duplex has taught him that space, comfort, and usefulness matter more than a product looking impressive in a photo. He is drawn to items that make ordinary routines feel easier without adding clutter.

Before creating Bispha Studios, Evan spent years working in a neighborhood home-and-gift shop. Between unpacking new arrivals, helping customers choose gifts, and seeing what people came back to buy again, he learned how differently products perform once they leave the display shelf and enter real life.

Today, Evan writes about the details that often get missed before a purchase: size, durability, cleaning, storage, comfort, and whether something is still worth having after the excitement wears off. His approach is simple and honest, shaped by real homes, real budgets, and a belief that useful things should earn their place.