This circuit waits 5 minutes before
re-applying the power to a refrigerator to prevent it from having to start up under
pressure after a brief power outage. This is highly stressful for the compressor and the
thermal cut-out switch built into the compressor. This device prevents frequent brief
power interruptions from shortening the life of the refrigerator’s compressor. Central air
conditioning systems already have such a timer built into them.
Note that once the relay is energized,
the timer is shorted out, isolating it from the power line and whatever surges and
stresses may be lurking there. |