Fridge clicking but not starting? What the click is telling you

You hear a click from the back of the fridge. A few minutes later, another click. The fridge never settles into its usual hum and the food slowly warms up. This is one of the most common calls we get, and the good news is that the click is a useful clue. It tells us that power is reaching the fridge and the control circuit is working. The problem is somewhere in the starting circuit of the compressor.

What the click is

A compressor needs a burst of extra current to start turning. On most domestic fridges this is handled by two small parts that sit in a plastic box on the side of the compressor: a start relay (or PTC starter) and an overload protector. When you hear a click, the overload protector is usually switching off because the compressor drew too much current and failed to start. A few minutes later it cools down, resets with another click and tries again.

The usual suspects

1. A worn start relay

The relay is a small, cheap component that takes a lot of punishment. Over years its contacts burn and it stops delivering the start current. This is the most common cause and the least expensive to fix. The fridge is otherwise perfectly healthy.

2. A weak overload protector

The overload is a thermal switch that protects the compressor from overheating. When it gets old, it trips too easily, even when the compressor is fine. It is cheap and usually replaced together with the relay.

3. A start capacitor that has failed

Some fridges use a capacitor to help the compressor start. If it dries out, the compressor hums and clicks but cannot turn. Again, it is an inexpensive part.

4. A compressor that has seized or is struggling

If the starting parts are good and the fridge still clicks, the problem may be the compressor itself. A compressor with worn windings or a mechanical seizure cannot turn however much current you give it. This is the expensive result, and a technician can confirm it by measuring the winding resistance and current.

5. Power problems

A low voltage supply, a loose plug or a failing extension lead can make the compressor struggle to start. After a power cut, a surge or load shedding, a voltage drop can also stall a start attempt. Plug the fridge directly into a good wall socket for a test.

6. High head pressure

If pressure on the high side has not equalised after a power cut, the compressor may not be able to start right away. Waiting about five to ten minutes after switching off lets the pressure drop. This is why quick on and off switching often makes things worse.

What you can safely try

• Check that the plug is firmly in and try a different socket.
• Switch the fridge off at the wall and leave it for 10 minutes, then switch it back on once.
• Check that the temperature dial is not at the off position.
• Vacuum dust off the condenser coil and make sure the fridge has airflow around it.
• Move food that matters to a cooler with ice if the fridge is warm.

What not to do

• Do not keep switching the fridge on and off. Each attempt stresses the compressor and the starting parts.
• Do not tap or hit the compressor. It can damage the internals.
• Do not open the electrical box on the compressor yourself unless you know how to isolate and test it. It is mains voltage.
• Do not leave the fridge clicking for days with food inside.

Does a clicking fridge need replacing?

Usually not. In most cases the fault is a starting part costing a fraction of a new fridge, and the technician can fix it in a single visit. Only when the compressor itself has failed does the repair-or-replace decision come up, and then it depends on the age and quality of the fridge.

If your fridge is clicking and not starting, switch it off, keep the doors closed and call us. We diagnose and repair household fridges on-site across Durban and the surrounding suburbs, and we carry the common starting parts on the van.