Samsung Older French Door Refrigerator Thermal Overload Protector Testing and Replacement

Written By: Bill Gilbert
  • Comments: 0
Samsung Older French Door Refrigerator Thermal Overload Protector Testing and Replacement

Difficulty

Moderate

Steps

11

Time Required

45 - 55 minutes

Introduction

Use this guide to replace the thermal overload protector on your Samsung refrigerator's compressor.

The thermal overload protector is located on the side of the compressor in a small box. On some compressors there will also be a start relay in the box as a combination unit.

It serves to disconnect the compressor if it overheats and allows it to cool down. Generally the thermal overload protector will reset if allowed to cool down.

The unit may be tripped by a number of situations. Overcharge or undercharge of refrigerant or a worn out compressor can result in this.

This guide requires a multimeter—if you’re new to using one, check out our video tutorial on multimeters. You might also want to take a look at this guide on using a multimeter, as well.

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    • Unplug your refrigerator before you begin your repair.

    • If you are testing or repairing the following items, you may also need to shut off and disconnect the water supply:

    • Condenser fan motor

    • Compressor motor and thermal overload device

    • Water supply valve assembly

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    • Use a #2 Phillips driver to remove the screws securing the rear panel to the refrigerator.

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    • Lift the rear panel upward and outward to free the panel the from the tabs at the lower edge.

    • Remove the panel.

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    • This is the location of the thermal overload device.

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    • Squeeze the locking tab on the connector to free it from the socket.

    • Pull the connector straight down to disconnect it.

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    • Location of removal slot

    • Insert a flat blade screwdriver into the slot as shown in the diagram.

    • Enlarging the second photo will help you to see the diagram more clearly.

    • Free the cover by prying as shown in the diagram.

    • This can take considerable force, and you need to make sure the screwdriver is fully inserted in the slot or you can break the slot piece off.

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    • Pull off the cover.

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    • Use a spudger (or a flat blade screwdriver) to loosen the thermal protector from the compressor connection pins.

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    • Grasp the thermal overload protector and pull it sideways away from the compressor.

    • If the connections are stiff, you may find it helpful to wiggle the protector from side to side while pulling to loosen it.

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    • Disconnect the brown and blue leads.

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    • Use a multimeter to test the resistance of the thermal overload protector.

    • If the thermal overload protector shows a resistance greater than 1Ω, replace it.

Conclusion

To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order.

Take your e-waste to an R2 or e-Stewards certified recycler.

Repair didn’t go as planned? Ask our Answers Community for help.

Author

Bill Gilbert

Member since: 30/06/22

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