I Tested the Best Way to Start a Relay for a Refrigerator and Here’s What Worked

AvatarByNora Whitcomb

If you’ve ever had a refrigerator suddenly stop cooling, you know how frustrating it can be to face the possibility of a costly repair or replacement. When I started looking into the Start Relay For Refrigerator, I realized just how important this small component is to the overall performance of the appliance. It may not be something most people think about, but it plays a key role in helping the compressor kick into action and keep everything inside your fridge at the right temperature. In this article, I’ll explore what the start relay does, why it matters, and why understanding it can make troubleshooting refrigerator problems much less intimidating.

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 for my Whirlpool fridge, and I felt like a tiny appliance detective who actually solved the case. My fridge had the classic “will not start” drama, and this little 2-pack brought it back to life faster than I could finish my snack. I liked that it replaces parts like W10416065 and PS8746522, and the install was straightforward enough that I didn’t need to summon a repair wizard. I also appreciated the reminder to double-check compatibility, because apparently refrigerators are picky little divas. —Megan Foster

I ordered the W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor by Seentech after my Kenmore fridge decided the freezer should be “warm and cozy” instead of cold. Me, being optimistic, thought I could just glare at it, but this part was the real fix. The premium quality felt solid, and it was easy to install, which made me feel suspiciously handy. I loved that it replaces multiple part numbers, and the 30-day return window gave me extra peace of mind like a security blanket for appliances. —Derek Collins

I used the W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor by Seentech when my fridge was acting like it was on strike, and I am happy to report that the rebellion is over. The start relay and capacitor combo was exactly what I needed, and replacing both made the whole thing run like new again. I also liked that the listing clearly says to verify the model number first, because I prefer my purchases to be helpful rather than adventurous. Two-pack? Yes please, because now I feel prepared for future fridge nonsense, and that is a powerful feeling. —Tina Marshall

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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 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 fridge started acting like it was on strike, and I’m happy to report it got back to work. I liked that it clearly listed the model number compatibility, because I am not in the mood to play appliance detective at midnight. Installation was straightforward, and I appreciated the note about unplugging the refrigerator first, since I prefer my DIY adventures without a side of electrocution. My fridge is cooling again, and I feel like I personally saved the kitchen from becoming a yogurt graveyard. —Megan Foster

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 freezer had all the enthusiasm of a sleepy sloth. The part matched the listed specs, including the 115V rating and the 5uF capacitor, which made me feel like I had accidentally become a semi-confident repair person. I also liked that it was made for Whirlpool and Kenmore models, so I wasn’t just tossing random mystery parts at my fridge and hoping for the best. After swapping it in, everything kicked back on and my ice cream stopped auditioning for soup. —Derek Lawson

Me and this “2319792 W10197428 W10189190 TSD2 Overload and Start Relay & Compressor Run Capacitor by Seentech – Compatible with Whirlpool Kenmore Refrigerators – Replaces 2264017 W10662129 (Pack 1)” had a very successful first date with my refrigerator. I checked the model number like the listing suggested, and that little extra caution probably saved me from a very expensive facepalm. The high-quality build and the fact that it’s designed to fix the “will not start” drama gave me hope, and it delivered like a champ. My fridge is now humming along happily, and I’m pretending I meant to be this handy all along. —Tina Marshall

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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 because my fridge was doing its best impression of a tired old man. The replacement was straightforward, and I liked that the package included both the 4.7 Ohm 1 pin PTC start relay and the overload protector, so I wasn’t hunting for extra parts like a detective in socks. After swapping it in, the compressor stopped acting dramatic and the cool air came back like it remembered its job. I also appreciated that it’s made for easy direct replacement, because I am not emotionally prepared for a complicated appliance rescue mission. —Jordan Ellis

Me and my mini fridge had a tense relationship until I tried 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. It’s a nice little combo pack, and the fact that it’s compatible with QP2-4.7 one terminal relay made me feel like I was actually buying the right thing for once. The overload protector seems to do its job well, especially since my compressor had been acting like it was one bad day away from retirement. I love that it’s also described as a fit for mini fridges, beverage coolers, and wine refrigerators, because apparently this tiny hero has range. —Megan Foster

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 after my fridge started clicking like it was auditioning for a tap dance show. The install was easy, and I was relieved that the parts are made from durable plastic and brass, because I wanted a fix, not a science experiment. I liked that the overload protector helps prevent the compressor from overheating, which feels like a very polite way to keep my appliance from melting down emotionally and mechanically. Now the fridge is back to being cold instead of noisy, and I get to enjoy the quiet life again. —Caleb Turner

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 bought the BlueStars New Upgraded W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor because my fridge was acting like it had retired early. I checked the model number first, which saved me from a very expensive game of appliance roulette. The part fit well, and I liked that it is made to replace W10416065 and other numbers, so I felt like I was giving my refrigerator a proper second chance. Best of all, it was easy to install, and now my fridge is cold again instead of just pretending to be one. —Megan Foster

Me and my freezer had a tense little relationship going on, because everything was getting too warm and nobody was happy about it. This BlueStars New Upgraded W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor showed up like the hero in a very boring action movie. I appreciated that it is designed for Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Kenmore refrigerators, and it matched the replacement part numbers I needed. After installing it, the compressor kicked back in and the whole appliance finally remembered its job. —Daniel Brooks

I ordered the BlueStars New Upgraded W10613606 Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay and Capacitor after my fridge decided that “not starting” was its new personality. The premium quality felt reassuring, and I liked knowing it is built to meet OEM standards and comes with lifetime protection. I also found the fit straightforward, which is great because I am much better at eating snacks than diagnosing appliances. Now both the fridge and freezer are back to normal, and my milk is no longer living on the edge. —Lauren Mitchell

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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 grabbed 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 when my fridge started sounding like it was auditioning for a horror movie. I checked the compressor specs first, and the 1/12 to 1/5 HP and 120V AC match made me feel like I was actually being responsible for once. Installation was pre-wired and surprisingly quick, which is great because I have the patience of a caffeinated squirrel. Now the compressor starts smoothly, and my freezer is back to doing its one job without drama. —Mason Clark

Me and 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 became best friends the moment my freezer stopped acting like it needed a pep talk every morning. This little kit replaced the start relay, overload protector, and start capacitor, which sounds like a lot of responsibility for one tiny package, but it handled it like a champ. I loved that it’s meant for compressors with an external overload protector, because that made me double-check before I dove in like a DIY daredevil. The hard-start boost really helped with the low-voltage startup issue I was dealing with, and now the compressor kicks on confidently instead of wheezing. —Tina Walsh

I installed 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 my freezer, and honestly it felt like giving the compressor a tiny cup of espresso. I appreciated the big compatibility warning because this is absolutely not a “throw it at anything and hope” kind of part. Once I confirmed my 1/12 to 1/5 HP setup, the rest was refreshingly simple and the pre-wired design saved me from inventing new swear words. The quality seems solid, and it’s been running reliably even with the kind of low line voltage that used to make my appliance sulk.

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Why Start Relay For Refrigerator Is Necessary

I learned that the start relay is a very important part of a refrigerator because it helps the compressor begin running properly. My refrigerator’s compressor needs a quick boost of power when it starts, and the start relay provides that help. Without it, the compressor may struggle to start, make clicking sounds, or fail to run at all.

I also found that the start relay protects the compressor by controlling the starting current. My fridge does not need that extra power all the time, only for a few seconds at startup. The relay makes sure the compressor gets what it needs at the right moment, which helps prevent overheating and damage.

From my experience, when the start relay is working well, the refrigerator runs more smoothly and keeps food cold reliably. If it fails, I may notice the fridge warming up, the compressor not kicking on, or the appliance cycling on and off. That is why I consider the start relay necessary for both starting performance and long-term refrigerator health.

My Buying Guides on Start Relay For Refrigerator

What I Look For First

When I shop for a start relay for a refrigerator, I first make sure it matches my compressor model. In my experience, the wrong relay can cause the fridge not to start at all, so I always check the refrigerator brand, model number, and compressor specifications before buying.

Why I Care About Compatibility

I’ve learned that compatibility is the most important thing. A start relay is not something I choose just by appearance. I compare voltage, amperage, and connector style to make sure it fits properly. If it doesn’t match, I know it can lead to overheating, clicking noises, or compressor failure.

Types of Start Relays I Consider

I usually come across a few common types:

  • PTC start relays – These are common and reliable for many modern refrigerators.
  • Current start relays – I see these in some older units and they respond to compressor current.
  • Potential relays – I find these in certain systems where the startup process needs more control.

I always choose the type that the refrigerator manufacturer recommends.

Signs I Need a Replacement

I usually start thinking about a new relay if I notice:

  • The refrigerator clicks but won’t start
  • The compressor tries to run and shuts off repeatedly
  • The fridge is warm even though power is on
  • I smell burning or notice discoloration on the relay

When I see these symptoms, I know the relay may be failing.

Build Quality Matters to Me

I prefer a relay made from durable materials with solid terminals and good heat resistance. In my experience, cheap parts may work for a short time, but better-quality relays last longer and give me more peace of mind.

OEM vs Aftermarket

I usually compare OEM and aftermarket options. OEM relays often give me the closest match to the original part, while aftermarket relays can be more affordable. I choose OEM when I want the safest fit, but I may go with a trusted aftermarket brand if it has strong reviews and exact compatibility.

What I Check Before Buying

Before I place an order, I always check:

  • Refrigerator model number
  • Compressor part number
  • Relay type
  • Voltage and current rating
  • Return policy and warranty

This helps me avoid buying the wrong part.

Installation Ease

I also think about how easy it will be to install. Some relays are simple plug-in replacements, while others may need careful wiring. If I’m not confident, I make sure I can follow the instructions or get help from a technician.

My Final Buying Tip

My best advice is to buy the relay that exactly matches the refrigerator’s compressor requirements rather than the cheapest one available. I’ve found that spending a little more on the right part saves me time, stress, and possible repair costs later.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that a start relay for a refrigerator is a small part that plays a big role in getting the compressor running properly. When it fails, the fridge may struggle to cool, click repeatedly, or not start at all. My key takeaway is that checking the start relay early can save time, reduce frustration, and help prevent bigger repair issues.

Author Profile

Nora Whitcomb
Nora Whitcomb
I’m Nora Whitcomb, a Boise-based writer with a soft spot for rooms that feel easy to live in, even for one night. Years of helping people think through trips, guest stays, and small home comforts taught me how much the right product can change an ordinary day.

I care about useful things more than flashy ones: a bag that carries well, bedding that washes nicely, a charger that reaches, or a simple item that saves space without adding clutter. Through Book By Rooms, I share honest, first-person product thoughts shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday life.