How to test a PTC relay. Fridge compressor starting relay. This video shows how to check if the fridge compressor starting relay is broken. If your fridge cannot start this is often the part that has broken. I show three methods that can help you to determine if the relay is broken. Two of them require no tools, but are based on observations only. The third method requires a multimeter, but it is 100% sure. If you find out that the PTC relay is indeed broken you can order the part and replace it yourself.