F01
Indesit Compressor Start Circuit Failure

Refrigerator not cooling, compressor does not start, display may show F01 or alarm beeping.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Faulty compressor start relay, Defective compressor PTC device, Failed main control board (PCB), Overheated or locked compressor

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator from the mains before removing any panels or touching wiring. Do not work on live circuits.

Step-by-step checks:

  • 1. Power reset: Unplug the appliance for 5–10 minutes, then plug back in. Sometimes the Indesit control board will clear a transient F01 fault after a full power cycle.
  • 2. Listen for compressor attempt: After power-on, listen at the back. You should hear a click from the start relay and a gentle hum from the compressor. If you hear repeated clicking and then silence, suspect the start relay/PTC.
  • 3. Inspect the compressor start relay: Remove the rear lower service panel. Locate the compressor and the plastic start relay/overload device clipped to its side. Remove it and check for burnt smell, melted plastic, or rattling pieces inside.
  • 4. Test or replace the relay/PTC: Using a multimeter (if qualified), check continuity across the relay terminals according to its rating. If in doubt, replace the relay/overload assembly with a compatible Indesit part number for your model.
  • 5. Check wiring to compressor: Inspect the harness from the main PCB to the compressor for loose connectors, heat damage, or broken wires. Reseat all plugs firmly.
  • 6. If compressor is very hot or hums then trips: Allow it to cool fully (30–60 minutes) and retry. If it repeatedly fails to start even with a new relay, the compressor itself may be seized or internally shorted.

When to call a technician: If the compressor draws high current, trips the overload, or does not start with a known-good relay, a sealed-system technician must test and possibly replace the compressor and evacuate/recharge the system.

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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Compressor Start Relay / PTC Device
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