When the light goes out inside the refrigerator compartment, this is not just a minor inconvenience, but a signal about the need for technical intervention. The model Biryusa 151, like many classic units, uses a standard lighting scheme, which, with proper skill, can be serviced independently. However, before you grab the tools, you need to make sure that the procedure is safe and understand exactly what problem you are facing.
Often users mistakenly believe that the absence of light always means a burnt-out incandescent lamp, but in some cases it may be due to oxidized contacts or a malfunction of the lamp itself. In this article, we will analyze in detail the process of diagnosing and replacing the light source, paying special attention to the specific design of this particular refrigerator model.
You do not have to call a specialist for such a basic operation if you act carefully and follow safety precautions. The correct approach will extend the life of the electrical wiring and avoid damage to the plastic elements of the camera. Let's start with preparing for work.
Preparing to replace the light source
The first and most important step is to completely disconnect the device from the power supply. In the model Biryusa 151 access to the lamp is inside the chamber, but any manipulations with electrical components require the absence of voltage. Unplug the cord from the outlet and let the system be completely de-energized.
The second stage of preparation is to free up the workspace. You need to remove food from the top shelf of the refrigerator, as this is where the light is usually located. It is also recommended to temporarily remove the shelf itself if it interferes with access or may be accidentally touched during operation.
⚠️ Attention: Never replace the lamp while the refrigerator is plugged in. Even briefly touching the bare contacts while the power is on can result in electric shock or a short circuit in the wiring.
You will need a minimum set of tools to work. Usually a flathead screwdriver with a thin blade and perhaps pliers are enough if the lamp base is stuck. Prepare a new lamp in advance so as not to leave the refrigerator door open longer than necessary.
Removing the protective shade
In refrigerators of the brand Biryusa, including the 151st model, the shade can be attached differently depending on the year of manufacture and the specific modification. The most common option is where the light diffuser is held on by latches or pressed with a screw. Carefully inspect the plastic cap.
If you see a screw in the center or side of the shade, it must be unscrewed counterclockwise. Be careful: the plastic on older refrigerators becomes brittle, and excessive force may cause the fastener to break. If there are no screws, then the lampshade is held on by hidden latches.
To remove the lampshade on the latches, carefully pry up its edge with a thin flat-head screwdriver. Movements should be progressive and soft, without jerking. Usually it is enough to slightly bend one of the edges so that the latch disengages, after which the diffuser can be easily removed by hand.
☑️ Tools and preparation
Removing a burnt lamp
After removing the lampshade, a socket with a lamp base will open in front of you. In 90% of cases, refrigerators Biryusa 151 use incandescent lamps with a base E14 (minion) and a power of up to 15 W. If the lamp is intact, but does not light, try gently twisting it in the socket - sometimes the contact is broken.
If the lamp is clearly burnt out (the bulb has turned black or a broken thread is visible), it needs to be unscrewed. Do this counterclockwise. There are situations when the base sticks to the cartridge due to moisture or oxidation. In this case, do not use brute force so as not to break the glass flask.
If the flask breaks and the base remains in the socket, use pliers. Carefully grab the edges of the metal base and try to unscrew it. You can also use a piece of raw potato or a cork, placing them firmly on the remaining glass and twisting.
Choosing a suitable replacement
Not all lamps are equally useful for your refrigerator. For the model Biryusa 151 it is critical to comply with the power limit. Using a lamp that is too powerful will lead to heating of the plastic of the lampshade and deformation of the socket.
Specialized refrigeration lamps will be the best choice. They are resistant to temperature changes and vibrations. Regular household incandescent lamps are also suitable, but their service life in cold conditions may be shorter.
Let's consider the main characteristics that you should pay attention to when purchasing:
- 💡 Type base: strictly E14 (14 mm thread), standard E27 simply will not fit into the hole.
- ❄️ Temperature range: look for markings on operation at low temperatures (up to -20°C and below).
- 💡 Power: no more than 15 W, ideal - 10-15 W.
- 🌡️ Bulb type: Matte bulb scatters light better and does not blind your eyes when opening the door.
Lamp compatibility table
To make it easier for you to navigate the assortment of stores, we have compiled a comparative table of suitable light sources. The choice depends on your priorities: durability, price or quality of light.
| Lamp type | Power | Service life | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Incandescent | 15 W | ~1000 hours | Cheap, gets hot, afraid of vibration |
| Halogen | 10-15 W | ~2000 hours | Bright light, gets very hot |
| LED (LED) | 1-2 W | ~15000 hours | Does not heat up, economical, expensive |
| Special refrigeration | 15 W | ~2000 hours | Resistant to cold and humidity |
Please note that when installing an LED lamp, it may be necessary to remove the insulation from the contact group of the socket if the base of the LED lamp is shorter than the standard one. In such cases, carefully bend the antennae inside the socket up.
Installing a new lamp and assembly
The process of installing a new lamp in Biryusa 151 is a mirror image of dismantling. Screw the light source into the socket clockwise until it stops, but without fanaticism. Excessive force may split the base or damage the socket thread.
After screwing in the lamp, reinstall the lampshade. If it is secured with a screw, tighten it. If it has latches, press on the corners until you hear a characteristic click. Make sure that the diffuser fits tightly and does not loosen.
Now you can turn on the refrigerator and check the result. Open the door: the light should come on immediately. If there is no light, check the tightness of the lamp and the integrity of the contacts inside the socket.
Possible problems and their solutions
Sometimes replacing the lamp does not solve the problem of lack of light. In the model Biryusa 151 the limit switch (button) is responsible for turning on the lighting, which is located on the body of the refrigerator and is pressed by the door when closing.
If the new lamp is working, but does not light, this switch may be stuck or oxidized. Try pressing the button sharply with your hand several times. If the light appears, there is a problem in the mechanics of the button. It is also worth checking the wires going to the lampshade for kinks.
In rare cases, the cartridge itself may oxidize. If the contacts inside are blackened, they need to be carefully cleaned with a screwdriver (always with the refrigerator unplugged!). This will restore current conductivity.
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the lamp and checking the button the light does not appear, the wiring or electronic control module (in newer versions) may be faulty. It is better to entrust further repairs to a specialist.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to install an LED lamp in Biryusa 151?
Yes, you can. The main thing is that the base is E14, and the voltage matches the network (220V). LED lamps are even preferable, since they do not heat the plastic of the lampshade.
Why does a new lamp hum after installation?
The humming may occur due to poor assembly of the lamp itself or vibration of the refrigerator compressor, which is transmitted to the filament. Try replacing the lamp with another one.
What is the maximum watt you can use?
For the Biryusa 151 model, the manufacturer recommends not exceeding 15 W. Installing a more powerful lamp (for example, 25-40 W) will lead to melting of the plastic and a possible short circuit.
The lamp is constantly on, even when the door is closed. What to do?
This indicates a malfunction of the limit switch (button). It either stuck when pressed or broke. The button needs to be replaced, otherwise the refrigerator will work with overload, trying to compensate for the heat from the lamp.