It is essential to replace any overload protection relay that malfunctions, which does occur now and then. When it ceases to function, nothing will operate correctly. If you are not aware of the correct procedures and safety measures, it can be quite risky to attempt. When planning to do it yourself, it’s crucial that you exercise caution throughout the project.
Keep in mind that potentially dangerous electricity does travel along an overload relay circuit. They are intended to be part of the circuit that operates the motor. You must allow the current to circulate so that it can get through to other parts of the motor. If they detect a power surge, the connection is severed in order to prevent harm to the engine.
You just unplug the equipment as you change them. If the thermal overload switches are activated, there is the danger of being injured by an electrical shock. Once that is complete, there is no risk of injury. There is one way to prevent this horror from occuring. Flipping the switch on the breaker is insufficient to insure maximum safety. That should suffice, but you can be more sure that all is well when you unplug the whole thing from the wall. Unless there is an obstacle preventing you from doing this, unplugging is the best option for proper safety.