Whirlpool Refrigerator Compressor Kicks On Then Off

ByJim Boslice Home & Kitchen

If your unit is short-cycling, the most common culprits are a faulty start relay, a dirty condenser coil, or a failing compressor overload protector.

Unplug the appliance immediately and inspect the start relay component near the compressor for signs of rattling, burning, or electrical failure.

There is nothing more frustrating than coming home to a warm kitchen appliance, especially when you can hear the faint click of a motor trying to start but failing. You aren’t alone; many homeowners face the exact same issue where a whirlpool refrigerator compressor kicks on then off, signaling that something is interrupting the cooling cycle.

I know you want to get your food cold again without waiting weeks for a service technician or dropping a fortune on a new unit. By following a few logical, safety-first steps, you can often pinpoint the hardware failure yourself and get your workshop or kitchen back in order.

In this guide, we are going to pull back the curtain on your cooling system. We will explore the electrical and mechanical components that typically cause this rapid cycling, giving you the confidence to troubleshoot like a pro.

Understanding why your whirlpool refrigerator compressor kicks on then off

When you hear that distinct click followed by silence, your refrigerator is likely attempting to enter a “start” phase but hitting an electrical wall. This is a protective mechanism designed to prevent the compressor from overheating.

Most of the time, the issue isn’t that the compressor itself is dead. Instead, the start relay or the overload protector is doing its job by cutting power to prevent a motor burnout.

This cycle happens when the system draws too much current, or the internal thermal switch trips prematurely. Before you assume the worst, we need to examine the components responsible for the initial “kick” of power.

Safety first: Essential workshop precautions

Before you touch any internal components, you must prioritize your safety. A refrigerator capacitor can hold a lethal electrical charge even after you pull the plug.

Always wear insulated gloves and ensure your workspace is dry. If you are working in a garage or workshop, clear enough floor space to pull the unit away from the wall safely.

Never bypass a safety switch or overload protector to “force” the compressor to run. Doing so can cause permanent damage to the motor windings or start a fire.

Inspecting the start relay and capacitor

The start relay is a small, plastic device attached directly to the side of the compressor. It is the most common point of failure when a whirlpool refrigerator compressor kicks on then off.

To inspect it, pull the unit away from the wall and remove the access panel on the back. You will see a small box clipped to the compressor housing.

The shake test

Once you remove the relay, give it a gentle shake near your ear. If it sounds like a box of loose marbles or broken glass, the internal contacts have likely fused or shattered.

A failed relay cannot provide the secondary “boost” of power needed to spin the compressor motor. If you hear rattling, replace the part with an exact OEM match—do not try to repair the internal switch.

Checking for burn marks

Look closely at the electrical terminals on the relay and the compressor pins. If you see signs of charring, melting, or a strong “burnt ozone” smell, the connection has been overheating.

Use a fine-grit sanding sponge or a small wire brush to clean the compressor pins if they have slight oxidation. However, if the plastic housing is melted, the relay must be replaced.

Cleaning the condenser coils

Sometimes, the system isn’t failing due to a broken part, but rather a lack of airflow. If the condenser coils are packed with pet hair, dust, or shop debris, the heat cannot dissipate.

When the heat builds up, the compressor gets dangerously hot and the overload protector cuts the power to save the motor. This creates the illusion that the unit is failing to start.

Use a stiff-bristle brush and a vacuum with a crevice tool to clear the coils. Ensuring proper airflow is one of the easiest ways to extend the life of your appliance.

Testing the compressor overload protector

The overload protector is a small disc-shaped component often integrated into the relay assembly. Its job is to sense heat and current.

If the compressor is drawing too much amperage, the protector snaps open to kill the circuit. If you have a multimeter, you can check for continuity across the terminals.

If the device shows no continuity when cool, it is internally broken and needs replacement. This is an inexpensive part that is well worth swapping before considering a new refrigerator.

Troubleshooting the whirlpool refrigerator compressor kicks on then off

If you have replaced the relay and cleaned the coils, but the issue persists, you might be dealing with a “seized” compressor. This is the worst-case scenario.

A seized compressor will attempt to start, draw massive current, and then click off immediately because the motor is physically locked. In this case, you will likely need a professional technician with specialized tools to recover the refrigerant and replace the pump.

Don’t feel defeated if you reach this point. You have already saved yourself the cost of a service call just by confirming the problem is mechanical rather than electrical.

Frequently Asked Questions About Refrigerator Cycling

Can I use a universal start relay for my repair?

While universal relays exist, I strongly recommend using the specific OEM part number for your model. Whirlpool units have precise electrical requirements, and a “close enough” relay can cause the compressor to run inefficiently or fail prematurely.

How do I know if the compressor is actually dead?

If you have replaced the start relay and the unit still clicks off immediately, place your hand on the compressor housing. If it is extremely hot to the touch and the motor is silent despite the relay clicking, the compressor is likely seized or experiencing an internal short.

Is it worth fixing a refrigerator that is over 10 years old?

It depends on the repair cost. If the fix is a $40 relay and a good cleaning, it is absolutely worth it. If the compressor itself is dead, the cost of labor and refrigerant usually outweighs the value of an older machine.

Why does my fridge make a clicking sound?

That click is the sound of the overload protector snapping open. It is a safety feature designed to prevent the compressor from burning out due to excessive heat or a failed start attempt.

Wrapping up your repair

Fixing a refrigerator that cycles on and off is a great way to build your DIY skills. By systematically checking the start relay, cleaning the coils, and inspecting the overload protector, you have tackled the most likely causes of the problem.

Remember, every time you repair an appliance instead of replacing it, you are keeping waste out of the landfill and sharpening your own technical intuition. Keep your tools organized, stay safe, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a pro if the diagnostic steps lead to a sealed-system failure. Your workshop knowledge is a growing asset—keep at it!

Jim Boslice
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