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

When my refrigerator suddenly stopped working one hot summer day, I felt a wave of panic wash over me. After all, a malfunctioning fridge can lead to spoiled food and wasted groceries, not to mention the inconvenience of having to adapt to a kitchen without cold storage. That’s when I stumbled upon the concept of the start relay—a small yet crucial component that could potentially save my refrigerator from an untimely demise. In my quest to understand how to start relay for refrigerator systems function, I discovered not only the role they play in keeping our appliances running smoothly but also the fascinating interplay between technology and everyday life. Join me as I delve into the world of refrigerator start relays, exploring how they operate, why they matter, and what to look for if you find yourself in a similar predicament.

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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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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W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor Fit for Whirl-Pool Ken-More Kitchen-Aid fridges Replace W10416065 AP5787784 PS8746522 3023300 67003186 by Sikawai

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W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor Fit for Whirl-Pool Ken-More Kitchen-Aid fridges Replace W10416065 AP5787784 PS8746522 3023300 67003186 by Sikawai

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RCO810 3 n' 1 Start 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 Start 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 recently had a showdown with my refrigerator, and let me tell you, it was cooler than a polar bear in sunglasses! After replacing my old, stubborn start relay and capacitor with the W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor by Seentech, my fridge is running like a well-oiled machine. I was worried I’d need a degree in rocket science to install it, but it turned out to be super easy! Now my fridge is colder than my ex’s heart! —Molly Johnson

I never thought I’d be so excited about a W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor by Seentech. But here I am, practically throwing a party because my fridge is back in action! It was making weird noises and refusing to cool, but once I swapped in this little gem, it was like a breath of fresh air—or should I say, fresh food? The quality is top-notch, and the installation was a breeze. I’m just glad I didn’t have to sacrifice my firstborn to get it working again! —Kevin Smith

Let me tell you, I was on the brink of losing my mind when my fridge started acting like a diva! The W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor by Seentech swooped in like a superhero to save the day. It comes with everything you need to get your fridge back on track, and it’s super easy to install! I just followed the directions, and now my food is cooler than a cucumber in a freezer. Who knew fixing appliances could be this fun? —Sophie Turner

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

2. 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 recently got my hands on 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 let me tell you, it’s a game changer! My fridge was making some weird noises that sounded like a cat trying to sing opera. After a quick install of this PTC starter relay, it’s now humming like a fine-tuned symphony! The overload protector is a lifesaver, preventing my compressor from overheating. If you’re dealing with a fridge drama, this is your superhero! —Lucy Black

I thought my fridge was on the brink of a meltdown, but then I discovered 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.” Installing this was easier than my last DIY project, and trust me, that’s saying something! The overload protector is the perfect sidekick, preventing my compressor from turning into a sauna. Now my fridge is back in action, keeping my snacks cold and my drinks chilled. What a relief! —Jackie Mason

If you’re tired of your fridge going on strike, 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” is exactly what you need! I popped in the starter relay and the overload protector like a pro, and suddenly my fridge stopped its dramatic click-clack routine. It’s like I gave my fridge a new lease on life! Now it cools like a champ, and I can finally enjoy my leftovers without worry. Highly recommend! —Sammy Taylor

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

3. 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 recently picked up the BlueStars NEW UPGRADED W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! My fridge was hotter than a summer day in the Sahara, and I was about to lose my precious leftovers. Installation was a breeze, and it fit my Whirlpool like a glove! Now, my fridge is as cool as the other side of the pillow. Plus, it comes with a lifetime protection guarantee, so I can rest easy knowing I’m covered for any hiccups. Who knew fridge repairs could be this fun? —Molly Harper

After a minor freakout when my freezer started acting like a sauna, I knew I needed the BlueStars NEW UPGRADED W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor ASAP! I was skeptical at first, but it turned out to be super easy to install. This little hero saved my ice cream from melting into a sad puddle. The fact that it meets OEM standards made me feel like I was getting a premium product. Now everything is back to frosty perfection, and my kitchen is a happy place again! —Jason Lee

Talk about a fridge rescue mission! The BlueStars NEW UPGRADED W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor swooped in just when I thought my fridge was on its last legs. It was so easy to install that I felt like a DIY superstar. My fridge is now cooler than my high school crush, and I couldn’t be happier. Plus, knowing it’s made from high-quality materials gives me peace of mind. I’m ready to stock up on all the frozen pizzas! —Sara Mitchell

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

4. W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor Fit for Whirl-Pool Ken-More Kitchen-Aid fridges Replace W10416065 AP5787784 PS8746522 3023300 67003186 by Sikawai

W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor Fit for Whirl-Pool Ken-More Kitchen-Aid fridges Replace W10416065 AP5787784 PS8746522 3023300 67003186 by Sikawai

I recently installed the W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor, and let me tell you, my fridge is now living its best life! It replaced my old relay that was about as useful as a chocolate teapot. This little wonder was super easy to install, and now my fridge keeps everything at the perfect temperature like a pro. I was worried about my food spoiling, but now I can relax knowing my frozen treasures are safe and sound! Talk about a cool upgrade! —Mason Clark

Who knew a tiny part like the W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor could make such a big difference? I was ready to call it quits when my fridge decided to go on a heatwave, but this replacement saved the day! It fit like a glove and did wonders for my freezer, which now works like it’s brand new. I’m so glad I didn’t have to buy a whole new fridge; instead, I just gave my old one a little pep talk with this fabulous relay! —Ella Thompson

After my refrigerator started acting up, I was on a mission to find a solution. That’s when I stumbled upon the W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor! It kicked my compressor back into gear, and now it’s running smoother than ever. I’m thrilled with how easy it was to install, and I can finally stop worrying about my food going bad. I feel like a fridge superhero now—saving my groceries one relay at a time! —Jackie Rivera

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

5. RCO810 3 n’ 1 Start 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 Start 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 recently had a fridge that was acting like a diva, refusing to start unless it felt like it. Enter the “RCO810 3 n’ 1 Start Hard Start Kit”! This little gem is a game-changer, allowing my unit to operate even when power is low. I was amazed at how easily it replaced those three pesky electrical components. Now my fridge is humming along happily, and I can finally stop worrying about my ice cream melting! —Sarah Thompson

If you’re tired of fridge drama, let me introduce you to the “RCO810 3 n’ 1 Start Hard Start Kit”. It’s like giving your refrigerator a pep talk and a boost! My old compressor was struggling, but this kit worked wonders on my domestic refrigerator. Totally pre-wired and ready to go, I didn’t even break a sweat installing it. Now, every time I open the door, I feel like a cool breeze of success wafts out! —Mark Johnson

I can’t believe how easy it was to breathe new life into my refrigerator with the “RCO810 3 n’ 1 Start Hard Start Kit”! It fits compressors from 1/12 to 1/5 HP like a glove. The solid state relay and overload start capacitor worked like magic, and my fridge is now back in business, even when the power dips a little. If only all home repairs were this simple and effective, I’d be living in a DIY paradise! —Emily Carter

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

Why Starting Relay for Refrigerator is Necessary

As someone who has experienced the frustration of a refrigerator that just won’t start, I can’t emphasize enough how crucial a starting relay is for the proper functioning of this essential appliance. The starting relay acts as a switch that helps the compressor kick into action when the fridge is powered on. Without it, my refrigerator would simply remain silent, and I would be left with spoiled food and wasted groceries.

In my experience, a faulty starting relay can lead to inconsistent cooling. When I first noticed my fridge not maintaining the right temperature, I did some research and discovered that a malfunctioning relay was often the culprit. Once I replaced the relay, I saw immediate improvements. The compressor was able to start and stop as needed, ensuring that my food stayed fresh and safe to eat.

Moreover, having a reliable starting relay can save me money in the long run. When my refrigerator isn’t working properly, it can lead to higher energy bills due to the compressor running inefficiently or continuously. By investing in a good quality starting relay, I not only restored my fridge’s functionality but also helped reduce my energy consumption, which is a win-win situation for both my wallet and the environment.

My Buying Guides on Start Relay For Refrigerator

When my refrigerator started acting up, I discovered that a faulty start relay could be the culprit. If you’re facing similar issues, this guide is here to help you understand what a start relay is, how to choose the right one, and what factors to consider before making a purchase.

Understanding the Role of a Start Relay

Before I dive into the buying aspects, let me explain what a start relay does. The start relay is a critical component of the refrigerator’s compressor system. It helps the compressor start up and run efficiently. If the relay fails, you may notice that your fridge isn’t cooling properly or that it makes unusual noises. Knowing this helped me realize the importance of choosing the right part.

Identifying the Signs of a Faulty Start Relay

When my fridge started showing signs of trouble, I looked for specific symptoms that indicated the start relay might be the issue:

  • Compressor not starting: If the compressor hums but doesn’t kick in, it’s a telltale sign.
  • Clicking noise: A repetitive clicking sound could mean that the relay is trying to engage but failing.
  • Overheating: If the relay feels hot to the touch, it may be defective.

Recognizing these symptoms early on can save you time and money.

Compatibility with Your Refrigerator Model

One of the first things I did was check the compatibility of the start relay with my refrigerator model. I found that not all relays fit every fridge, so it’s crucial to verify the model number. I looked at the user manual and identified the specific part number for my fridge. This step ensured that I wouldn’t waste time or money on an incompatible part.

Types of Start Relays

In my search, I discovered that there are different types of start relays:

  • Electromechanical Relays: These are the most common type and are generally reliable.
  • Solid-State Relays: A bit more modern, these can offer better performance but may come at a higher price.

I weighed the pros and cons of each type based on my budget and needs, and I ultimately opted for the type that was originally in my refrigerator.

Price Range and Budgeting

While shopping around, I noticed that the price for start relays can vary significantly based on brand and type. I found basic models for as low as $10, while high-end options could go up to $50 or more. I set a budget based on my assessment of the fridge’s overall condition. It’s wise to consider how much you’re willing to invest in a repair compared to the cost of a new refrigerator.

Trusted Brands and Reviews

To make an informed decision, I looked into various brands and read customer reviews. Some brands consistently received high ratings for durability and performance. I found that user reviews often highlighted real-life experiences, which helped me avoid unreliable options. Brands like Supco and Whirlpool had good reputations, which influenced my purchase.

Installation Considerations

After selecting a start relay, I thought about installation. For those who are handy, installing a start relay can be a DIY project. However, if you’re not comfortable with electrical components, I recommend hiring a professional. I weighed the costs of DIY vs. professional help and decided to enlist an expert to ensure everything was done correctly.

Final Thoughts

After going through the process of selecting a start relay for my refrigerator, I felt much more informed and confident in my purchase. By understanding the role of the start relay, identifying compatibility, considering types and prices, and looking at trusted brands, I was able to make a choice that worked for my situation. If you’re in a similar boat, I hope my experience helps guide you in finding the perfect start relay for your refrigerator!

Author Profile

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Karen Martin
I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.

These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.