The operation of domestic refrigeration equipment is often associated with the need for periodic maintenance, and the model Biryusa 10 is no exception to this rule. Owners of these units are often faced with a situation where access to the bottom of the freezer is required to clean or replace elements of the melt water drainage system. The question of how to remove the tray is especially relevant when ice accumulates in the freezer or an unpleasant odor emitted by stagnant moisture appears.
Incorrect actions when trying to remove this structural element can lead to damage to the fragile plastic or a violation of the tightness of the evaporator channel. Many users mistakenly believe that to access the tray it is enough to simply pull it out by force, but the design Biryusa refrigerator provides for certain nuances of fixation. Understanding the mechanics of the unit will allow you to avoid costly repairs and extend the life of household appliances.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions necessary for the safe dismantling of the pallet. We will look at the tools that may be needed and pay attention to typical mistakes made during self-service. In series 10 models, the tray is often integrated into the drip defrosting system and can be hidden behind a decorative panel. Following the sequence of steps ensures the safety of all components of your refrigeration equipment.
Design features water drainage systems
Before proceeding with mechanical intervention, it is necessary to clearly understand how the condensate collection system in the model is arranged. Biryusa 10. Unlike modern No Frost systems, it uses classic drip defrosting, where melt water flows by gravity through a gutter into a special receiver. This receiver, or tray, is located in the lower part of the freezer compartment, directly under the evaporator.
The material for the manufacture of this element is a special frost-resistant plastic, which at low temperatures becomes extremely fragile. Polymer compoundsused in production lose their elasticity if the unit has not been previously defrosted. That is why an attempt to remove a frozen tray without preparation is fraught with the formation of cracks, which will subsequently lead to water leaks onto the floor.
Attachment of the tray may vary depending on the year of manufacture of a particular modification. In some versions it is simply inserted into the grooves and held in place due to a tight fit, in others it is secured with additional latches or screws. Understanding which option you are faced with comes only after a visual inspection and a careful attempt to move the element lightly.
- 🧊 The plastic of the tray becomes brittle (fragile) at temperatures below -5 degrees Celsius.
- 💧 The water drainage system includes a gutter, a tube and a receiving tray, all of which must be clean.
- 🔩 In some modifications, the tray is fixed with self-tapping screws hidden under decorative plugs.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to break off the ice with a knife or sharp objects in the immediate vicinity of the tray. Damage to the surface of the plastic or, worse, the evaporator tube will lead to a refrigerant leak and failure of the refrigerator.
Necessary tools and workplace preparation
Quality preparation is half the success of any repair operation. In order to remove the tray in the refrigerator Biryusa 10, you do not need a complex professional tool, but you should have certain items at hand. Lack of the necessary equipment can force you to act roughly, which is unacceptable when working with delicate internal components.
First of all, ensure good lighting of the work area. The inside of the freezer is dark and the fastening parts may not be visible under a standard refrigerator light. Use an additional light source, such as a smartphone flashlight or a table lamp, directing the light inside the camera.
It is also important to prepare a container to collect water. Even if the refrigerator is completely defrosted, moisture may remain in the channels and the tray itself. The presence of a rag or sponge will allow you to quickly clean up spilled liquid and prevent it from getting on the floor or inside the equipment.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
The list of necessary tools includes:
- 🔦 A powerful flashlight for illuminating hard-to-reach places.
- 🧣 Hair dryer (optional) for gently warming up frozen areas of plastic.
- 🧽 Dry absorbent rags or paper towels.
- 🔧 A flat-head screwdriver with a wide blade (for prying up the latches, if any).
Pay special attention to safety. Since work is being done near electrical components and moisture, be sure to unplug the power cord well before starting work. This will eliminate the risk of a short circuit or electric shock in case of accidental damage to the wiring.
The process of defrosting and cleaning the chamber
The most critical step before removing the tray is the complete defrosting of the freezer. As already mentioned, plastic behaves like glass at low temperatures. If you try to remove a tray from freezerfilled with ice, the probability of it breaking is almost 100%.
Leave the refrigerator doors open for at least 10-12 hours, and preferably for a day. This time is necessary not only for the visible ice to melt, but also for the internal layers of insulation and plastic elements to warm up. Only when the temperature inside the chamber is equal to room temperature can we talk about safe access to the parts.
During the defrosting process, it is recommended to regularly wipe the internal surfaces with a dry cloth. This will help remove excess moisture and better examine the mounting structure of the pallet. Do not use hot water to speed up the process, as a sharp temperature change can deform the plastic walls of the chamber.
Can a hair dryer be used for defrosting?
Using a hair dryer is only permissible at a minimum temperature and from a distance of at least 30-40 cm from the plastic. It is strictly forbidden to direct a hot jet directly to the pan or evaporator tubes - this can lead to melting of thin-walled elements and disruption of the tightness of the cooling system.
After the ice has completely disappeared, carefully inspect the space under the bottom shelf. This is where the element you are looking for is usually located. Make sure that there are no pieces of ice or food debris left in the gutters that could block the movement of the tray when removing it.
Step-by-step instructions for dismantling the tray
Now that the chamber is empty, dry and warm, you can proceed directly to removing the tray. In the model Biryusa 10 this process usually does not require disassembling the back wall, but requires care. The algorithm of actions depends on the type of fastening, but the general logic is the same for most modifications.
First try to gently rock the pallet from side to side. If it is installed loosely, it should come out with a slight movement towards itself. If you feel resistance, do not use force. Feel the edges of the tray with your fingers - look for hidden fasteners or screws that may not have been noticeable upon first inspection.
In some cases, the tray is held in place by guides that may have become “sticky” over time due to dirt or oxidation. In such a situation, gentle rocking up and down with minimal amplitude will help. The main thing is not to overdo it, so as not to break the fastening ears.
- Stand in front of the open refrigerator and provide yourself with convenient access to the bottom of the freezer.
- Grip the front edge of the tray with both hands, trying to distribute the pressure evenly.
- Slightly lift the front of the tray (by 1-2 mm) to disengage it from the guides.
- Gently pull the element towards you, continuing to rock it slightly if movement is difficult.
If your modification contains fastening screws, they must be unscrewed in advance. They are usually located on the sides or front of the tray. Use a suitable screwdriver to avoid tearing off the fastener heads. After removing all the fasteners, the tray should be removed without effort.
Typical problems and methods for solving them
During operation, refrigerator owners Biryusa may encounter a number of difficulties when servicing the water drainage system. Most often, the problem lies in a clogged drainage hole or freezing of the pan to the evaporator body.
If the pan cannot be removed because it is frozen, do not use mechanical force under any circumstances. Return to the defrost step and let the unit sit open for a few more hours. You can also use a syringe with warm water to gently spray the junction of the pan and the body, breaking the ice plug.
Clogged drainage is another common problem. If the water does not go into the pan, but accumulates at the bottom of the chamber, then the tube is clogged. For cleaning, you can use a soft wire or a special brush, but you must act extremely carefully so as not to pierce the tube through.
| Problem | Probable cause | Solution method |
|---|---|---|
| The tray is not is removed | Freezing with ice | Additional defrosting, gentle heating |
| Water flows onto the floor | Crack in the pan | Replacing the element with a new one or sealing |
| Unpleasant odor | Water stagnation and bacteria | Washing the tray with a disinfectant |
| Ice on the bottom of the chamber | Drainage blockage holes | Cleaning the tube with a brush or wire |
An aggressive environment and low temperatures will quickly destroy the connection. In case of serious damage, it is better to order an original spare part.
Care and prevention of contamination
After successful dismantling of the pallet, the stage of cleaning it begins. Even if it seems visually clean, mucus from bacteria and mold can form at the bottom, which becomes a source of odor. Wash the tray with warm water and a mild detergent.
A solution of baking soda or a weak solution of acetic acid works well for disinfection. These products are safe for plastic and effectively destroy microorganisms. After washing, rinse the tray thoroughly and wipe it dry with a soft cloth before installing it back.
Regular prevention will help avoid difficult situations in the future. It is recommended to completely defrost and wash the refrigerator Biryusa 10 at least once a year. This will maintain the efficiency of the compressor and the hygiene of food storage.
⚠️ Attention: When washing the tray, do not use abrasive powders or hard brushes. Scratches on plastic will be an ideal place for bacteria to multiply and form plaque that is difficult to remove in the future.
When placing the tray in place, make sure that it lies flat and tight. It should not be loose or distorted, otherwise water will flow past it. Check that the drainage hole is free and water flows into the tray.
Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to operate a refrigerator without an installed pallet?
Strongly not recommended. Without a drip pan, melt water will accumulate at the bottom of the freezer, freeze and form an ice block. This will lead to increased load on the compressor, poor cooling and possible equipment failure. In addition, water can leak inside the housing and damage the electrics.
How to replace the pan if the original is not on sale?
Ideally, you need to look for an original spare part by catalog number. If this is not possible, you can try to make an analogue from food-grade plastic, cutting it to the size of the old tray. However, it is important to ensure tightness and correct geometry so that water does not overflow over the edges.
Why does the tray turn yellow over time?
Yellowing of plastic is a natural process of aging of the material under the influence of temperature changes, light and contact with food. This is a cosmetic defect that does not affect functionality, but it is almost impossible to wash it to its original whiteness. You can use special products to restore plastic, but the effect will be temporary.
How often should you remove and wash the tray?
The optimal frequency is once every 6-12 months, with each general defrosting of the refrigerator. If you notice the appearance of an unpleasant odor or visible dirt earlier, the procedure should be carried out unscheduled. Regular maintenance will eliminate the need to use aggressive chemicals later.