How to Replace 61005518 Compressor Relay and Overload on Whirlpool Refrigerator — Step-by-Step

Your Whirlpool refrigerator is running warm, and you hear clicking sounds every few minutes but the compressor never kicks on. This is the classic failure pattern of a bad compressor relay and overload — two small components mounted on the side of your compressor that control startup and protect against overheating. When either fails, your fridge won't cool properly even though everything else seems fine.

The 61005518 relay and overload kit is the direct replacement for Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore, Amana, and Magic Chef refrigerators. It replaces older part numbers 12002782, AP4009659, and PS2004057. This repair takes about 20 minutes and doesn't require any specialized tools — just a screwdriver and work gloves.

What You Need Before Starting

• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver
• Work gloves (compressor gets hot)
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Towel or cardboard to protect floor

Repair Time: 20-30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy — No electrical expertise required

Safety First

Unplug your refrigerator completely before starting this repair. The compressor can be extremely hot if it's been running recently — let it cool for at least 30 minutes. Wear work gloves when handling the relay and overload because these parts get scorching hot during normal operation. Never bypass the overload protector or attempt to "test" the relay while the fridge is plugged in.

Step 1: Access the Compressor Compartment

Pull your refrigerator away from the wall so you can access the back panel. On most Whirlpool and Kenmore models, you'll find a metal or cardboard cover at the bottom rear held by two to four screws. Remove these screws and slide the panel off. The compressor looks like a black cylindrical tank — about the size of a football — and it's the noisiest component back there. The relay and overload are attached to the side.

Step 2: Remove the Old Relay and Overload

The relay is the small plastic box plugged directly into the compressor terminals. Grab it firmly and pull straight off — it may be tight, so wiggle it gently side to side while pulling. The overload sits on top of or next to the relay and usually slides off once you remove the metal retaining clip. On models like the Amana ATB1935HRQ or Magic Chef CTB1722GRQ, the overload clips onto the relay itself, so they come off together as one assembly.

Step 3: Inspect the Compressor Terminals

With the old relay removed, check the three metal pins sticking out of the compressor. They should be clean and free of corrosion. If you see black carbon buildup or rust, wipe them down with a dry cloth. Don't use any cleaners or liquids. Damaged or corroded terminals mean your compressor itself might be failing, but clean terminals are a good sign that the relay was your only problem.

Step 4: Install the New 61005518 Relay Kit

Line up the new relay with the compressor terminals — there's only one way it'll fit correctly. Push it on firmly until it's fully seated. You should feel it click into place. Then attach the overload protector to the relay according to the orientation shown on the part itself. Most units have a small arrow or diagram molded into the plastic. Make sure the overload's metal clip snaps securely onto the relay housing.

Step 5: Reassemble and Test

Replace the rear access panel and push your refrigerator back into position, leaving a few inches of clearance for airflow. Plug it back in and listen carefully. You should hear the compressor start within 30-60 seconds — it'll make a low humming sound. If you still hear clicking without the compressor running, double-check that the relay is fully seated on the terminals. The fridge should start cooling within 15 minutes.

Testing After Installation

Let your refrigerator run for two hours, then check the temperature inside. The fresh food compartment should be dropping toward 37°F and the freezer toward 0°F. If it's cooling properly, the repair is complete. The compressor should cycle on and off naturally every 20-40 minutes depending on your settings. If it runs constantly without clicking off, or if it still won't start at all, you may have a compressor issue that goes beyond the relay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my relay or overload is bad?

The main symptom is a refrigerator that won't cool but makes clicking sounds. You'll hear the click every few minutes as the relay tries to start the compressor, but the compressor never actually runs. Another sign is a compressor that runs for 10-15 seconds then shuts off repeatedly. That's the overload tripping because it detects a problem. If your fridge is completely silent and nothing happens when you plug it in, check the outlet and power cord first.

Will this part work on my Kenmore refrigerator?

The 61005518 relay fits dozens of Kenmore models that use Whirlpool compressors, including the 106 series. Check your model number against the compatibility list on the product page. Kenmore refrigerators made between 1995 and 2015 typically use this relay if they have a 1/5 HP or 1/4 HP compressor. The easiest way to confirm is to pull your old relay and match the part number printed on it — if it says 12002782 or PS2004057, this is your replacement.

Can I test the old relay to see if it's really bad?

You can do a basic shake test. Disconnect power and remove the relay, then shake it near your ear. A working relay has a small weight inside that should rattle freely. If you hear nothing or if something sounds broken inside, the relay is shot. You can also look for burn marks or a melted appearance on the plastic housing. But honestly, if your fridge has the symptoms and you've already got the part, just replace it — these relays are wear items that eventually fail on every refrigerator.