Electronic – arduino – Relay Sometimes Not Switching

arduinorelay

I have a question about relays used by an arduino.
I know how to wire them and they work fine for the most of the time.

But sometimes the relays doesn't correctly switch on or off.
I can clearly see that the LED on the relay is in the correct state.
I can also hear a faint "click" sound. But the relay is not really switching.

Even funnier, then I physically hit/punch the relay with i.e. screwdriver it starts to switch to the desired state…

Usually the problems start when the arduino is running for a few days.

I have also tried completely different relays and have the same issue with them.

Does anybody know what can cause such issues?

Edit:

  • I am using an SRD-05VDC-SL-C relay with an Arduino Nano.
  • I have also tried different arduino compatible relays. Same issue.
  • I use it to power a light which uses ~250W.
  • Usually powering off works fine. But powering on needs a "physical hit" on the box of the relay.

I will try to measure the output tomorrow 7 o'clock when the relay is supposed to switch on again (just before I hit the relay box to force it to switch on)

enter image description here

Thanks!

Best Answer

I think the problem is with the way the relay is being powered. The voltage regulator on Arduino is not sufficient enough to provide the needed amperage for switching the relay properly and thus even if the led lights up the relay contacts are not touching with enough force.

I would recommend you to use an external 5V source for powering the relay. Or if you are supplying your Arduino Nano with 5V then connect the relay's VCC to VIN of Arduino.

Also, do keep in mind that if the relay is not supplied with proper power, it can lead to internal sparking of switching contacts which can damage the relay.

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