Residential HVAC tech has question

[timebuilder]

Can never go wrong with oem.

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I would say that when a resi fridge has a broken PTCR, the one thing you DON'T want to do is install another PTCR.

[Phase8]

I would say that when a resi fridge has a broken PTCR, the one thing you DON'T want to do is install another PTCR.

Why?

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[timebuilder]

Why?

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Simply put, a PTCR in this kind of application is a manufacturer compromise to save money, when a proven, better method, used for years, is readily available.

[Phase8]

Simply put, a PTCR in this kind of application is a manufacturer compromise to save money, when a proven, better method, used for years, is readily available.

What is the best way?

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[timebuilder]

What is the best way?

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A potential relay gives better performance and repeatability than a PTCR, and a 3-in-1 is a great choice in that situation.

[ar_hvac_man]

A potential relay gives better performance and repeatability than a PTCR, and a 3-in-1 is a great choice in that situation.

yep. most oem start relays go out due to very short power outages. The power flickers, there is no delay on fridges that dont have the microprocessor board, so the unit tries to start back up...over and over and over. Sometimes it takes 10 minutes for the pressures to equalize in a domestic fridge and the whole time the unit is trying to start up under pressure. It eventually overheats and breaks the little disc inside the oem relay.

[Phase8]

Okay, I have definitely learned something. Thank you.

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[MicahWes]

A couple of things: A 3 in 1 (like a Supco) IS a PTC start device. Also, the "klixon" used with standard starting components is an overload, not a relay. It intentionally overheats when there is a high amp draw across it and opens the circuit until it cools down. It does not provide any measurable thermal protection for the compressor itself. Thermally protected devices have switches mounted within the motor windings.

There is nothing better than the OEM current or potential relay. I use 3 in 1's fairly often, but I will replace all starting components with OEM in most circumstances.

[MicahWes]

Also, I have never heard of an "induction start, induction run" motor.

[Bobbycold]

"My question is it normal for ref tech to use a hard start instead of OEM relay to take out start winding."

The company that I work for has that for a policy. Personally, I would only use it for the last ditch troubleshoot before condemning the compressor, but, I work for a company with that policy, and it is a viable option as it includes thermal overload, relay and start cap.

[timebuilder]

A couple of things: A 3 in 1 (like a Supco) IS a PTC start device. Also, the "klixon" used with standard starting components is an overload, not a relay. It intentionally overheats when there is a high amp draw across it and opens the circuit until it cools down. It does not provide any measurable thermal protection for the compressor itself. Thermally protected devices have switches mounted within the motor windings.

There is nothing better than the OEM current or potential relay. I use 3 in 1's fairly often, but I will replace all starting components with OEM in most circumstances.

I'm not able to find a sheet that reveals this information. My supply house said it's a relay.

Can you give me a link to something?

[ar_hvac_man]

The white piece that goes on common is an overload. It will say klixon. The other piece, with the disc in it, is the relay. It is usually black or brown, sometimes white on certain models.

http://www.partselect.com/PS2004058-...-Relay-Kit.htm

[timebuilder]

The white piece that goes on common is an overload. It will say klixon. The other piece, with the disc in it, is the relay. It is usually black or brown, sometimes white on certain models.

http://www.partselect.com/PS2004058-...-Relay-Kit.htm

I'm talking about the Supco type unit, the 3-in-1 or one of their similar units..

The PTCR is usually a tablet-sized chunk of semiconductor material. I usually see them fall out in pieces when I take to cover off of the side of the compressor.