Admiral Refrigerator RTCA176AAE Won't start or doesn't start

The Run Capacitor is an OEM part for Whirlpool refrigerators. It is responsible for helping the compressor motor start and run efficiently by providing an extra electrical boost. This component ensures that the refrigerator operates smoothly and maintains the correct temperature by stabilizing the compressor's performance.

Causes of a bad run capacitor can include electrical surges, age-related wear, or overheating. When the capacitor fails, the compressor may struggle to start or run continuously, leading to inefficient cooling or a non-functional refrigerator.

Symptoms of a bad run capacitor include:

• The refrigerator not cooling properly
• The compressor not starting or running intermittently
• Unusual clicking noises from the refrigerator

This OEM part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

This PTC start relay plugs onto the compressor to momentarily power the start winding and help the compressor spin up smoothly. Replacing a failed relay can stop repetitive clicking and help restore stable cooling performance. What it does:

• Momentarily energizes the compressor's start winding at startup; the PTC element then increases resistance to take the start winding out of the circuit.
• Helps protect against repeated hard-start attempts that cause clicking and no-cool conditions.
• Common failure signs include repeated clicking, the compressor not starting, warm temperatures, burn marks/melted housing, or a relay that rattles when shaken.
• Mounts directly on the compressor terminals and interfaces with the model-specific overload and cover.

• 1 PTC start relay

• Disconnect power and allow components to cool before servicing.
• Access the compressor compartment; remove any cover/retainer to reach the start device.
• Note wiring and orientation; pull the old relay straight off the compressor pins and push the new relay fully onto the pins. Reconnect wires and reinstall the cover.
• Use only the start device specified for your exact model/compressor. If the old relay shows heat damage, inspect the matching overload and wiring for issues.

This PTC start relay mounts on the compressor and briefly powers its start winding to get it running, then drops out. Replacing a weak relay can restore reliable starts and resolve clicking/humming with no cooling.

• Provides the initial boost to the compressor via a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) element, then opens as it heats
• Takes the start winding out of the circuit once the compressor is running
• Typical failure symptoms: compressor won't start, repeated clicking/humming, no cooling, visible heat damage at the relay or connector
• Direct replacement for the original PTC start device used on applicable models

• Disconnect power before servicing; allow hot components to cool
• Access the compressor compartment, remove the cover, and note the relay's orientation; pull the old relay straight off the compressor pins
• Inspect wiring terminals for heat damage; do not reuse burnt connectors
• Firmly seat the new relay on the compressor terminals, reinstall the cover, restore power, and verify compressor start