Emerson model#CR519B. The unit just stopped working. If plugged in a motor runs for about 8 seconds and clicks off; about a minute later it repeats. Help
I had the same problem with a small wine cooler. It happened to me twice in 6 years. Both times I had to replace the starter relay.
I couldn't find any repair facilities willing to work on these small wine coolers or refrigerators, probably because the bill would be more than the used fridge is worth. If you feel confident around a volt/ohm meter and electricity, you could learn how to test this and maybe fix it yourself.
You shouldn't do any of this if you aren't familiar with using a Volt/Ohm meter and can safely and confidently work around electricity.:
Unplug the fridge
I first tested the compressor with an Ohm Meter (see how with youtube video below or by reading how at Davesrepair.com). It was good, but it kept starting and stopping within a few seconds.
Basically my starter capacitor/relay wasn't working. It supplies temporary starting voltage to the starter relay in the compressor, then cuts off to allow the motor to run.
I bought a Supco 3-in-1 on Amazon for less than $13 and hooked it up according to the supplied instructions. It lasted about 3 years.
Of course, the factory recommended repair is to buy the original replacement relay, but it will be more costly and harder to find.
I bought a Supco 3 in 1 Hard Start relay sized for the HP on my compressor. Mine was the Supco RCO810 (see link below).
NOTE: Before I replaced the starter relay and overload protection with a Supco 3 in 1, I learned how to test the compressor with a Volt/Ohm meter. If you don't have a meter, you can buy them online or inexpensive to free with a coupon at Harbor Freight.
Here's a typical youtube video to learn how to test a compressor: HVAC Ohming Compressor Windings
Also, How to Test Refrigerator and Freezer Compressors by davesrepair.com is a good resource. He also has instructions on his website on how to build a tester to start a compressor without a relay to see if the compressor starts/runs.
Where I bought my relay: Supco RCO810 3 1 START Hard Start Kit
Good youtube on how to install a Supco: How to Install Universal Relay 3 1 Starter on your Compressor
Answers & Comments
I had the same problem with a small wine cooler. It happened to me twice in 6 years. Both times I had to replace the starter relay.
- Unplug the fridge
- I first tested the compressor with an Ohm Meter (see how with youtube video below or by reading how at Davesrepair.com). It was good, but it kept starting and stopping within a few seconds.
- Basically my starter capacitor/relay wasn't working. It supplies temporary starting voltage to the starter relay in the compressor, then cuts off to allow the motor to run.
- I bought a Supco 3-in-1 on Amazon for less than $13 and hooked it up according to the supplied instructions. It lasted about 3 years.
Of course, the factory recommended repair is to buy the original replacement relay, but it will be more costly and harder to find.
- Here's a typical youtube video to learn how to test a compressor: HVAC Ohming Compressor Windings
- Also, How to Test Refrigerator and Freezer Compressors by davesrepair.com is a good resource. He also has instructions on his website on how to build a tester to start a compressor without a relay to see if the compressor starts/runs.
- Where I bought my relay: Supco RCO810 3 1 START Hard Start Kit
- Good youtube on how to install a Supco: How to Install Universal Relay 3 1 Starter on your Compressor
I couldn't find any repair facilities willing to work on these small wine coolers or refrigerators, probably because the bill would be more than the used fridge is worth. If you feel confident around a volt/ohm meter and electricity, you could learn how to test this and maybe fix it yourself.
You shouldn't do any of this if you aren't familiar with using a Volt/Ohm meter and can safely and confidently work around electricity.:
I bought a Supco 3 in 1 Hard Start relay sized for the HP on my compressor. Mine was the Supco RCO810 (see link below).
NOTE: Before I replaced the starter relay and overload protection with a Supco 3 in 1, I learned how to test the compressor with a Volt/Ohm meter. If you don't have a meter, you can buy them online or inexpensive to free with a coupon at Harbor Freight.