Customer Questions and Answers for Compressor Start Relay (Ptc) by Whirlpool

This PTC start relay mounts on the compressor and momentarily powers the start winding to get the motor running, then disengages for normal operation. Replacing a weak relay can stop repeated clicking and help restore cooling.

• Provides initial boost to the compressor's start winding for reliable startup
• Automatically drops out after startup so the compressor runs on the run winding
• Helps address symptoms like warm temperatures, compressor clicking or humming without starting, or frequent overload trips
• Failure may show as rattling, burn marks, or a melted relay housing

• Disconnect power and remove the rear access panel to reach the compressor
• Allow components to cool; note wire locations and take a reference photo
• Pull the old relay straight off the compressor pins; align and firmly seat the new relay in the same orientation, then reconnect wires
• If your unit uses a run capacitor and/or separate overload protector, reconnect per the wiring diagram before restoring power