Modern Candy refrigerators are complex climate control devices that require proper initial activation. Many users make the mistake of starting to operate the equipment immediately after unpacking, which can lead to serious damage to the compressor. Turning on the Candy refrigerator after transportation or purchase requires compliance with time intervals and the correct sequence of actions.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the stages of the first launch, from unpacking to configuration temperature conditions. You will learn why you cannot ignore the settling time, how to activate the No Frost system and what to do if an error appears on the display. A correct start is a guarantee of a long service life of your Candy.
Preparation for the first start after transportation
Before looking for the power button, it is necessary to ensure safe conditions for the operation of the unit. During transport, the refrigeration circuit is subject to vibrations and the oil in the compressor may move into the piping system. If you start the engine right away, it will run dry, which will lead to rapid wear or wedge of the piston group.
The second critical point is the temperature difference. If the refrigerator is brought in from outside into frosty conditions, the condensation inside the case may freeze. Turning on the device in this state will cause a short circuit in the electrical control circuit.
⚠️ Attention: If the Candy refrigerator was transported at a temperature below +5°C, leave it in a warm room for at least 4-6 hours before plugging it in. This is necessary to evaporate condensate and restore the properties of lubricants.
It is also important to check the integrity of the housing and remove all transport elements. Often, users forget to remove the fastening tapes or tape that hold shelves and drawers inside the chamber. This prevents the doors from closing tightly, which overloads the compressor at the first start.
Make sure that electrical outletwhere the device will be connected is grounded. Candy refrigerators, like any modern equipment, are sensitive to voltage surges. The use of extension cords or tees is not recommended, as they can cause poor contact and heating of the wiring.
Compliance with rest periods
The time that the refrigerator should sit before turning on directly depends on the method of its transportation. This is not just a recommendation from the manufacturer, but a physical necessity to restore the normal position of freon and oil.
If the unit was transported in a vertical position, the waiting time is minimal. However, even in this case, the oil could become agitated. For models with inverter compressors, this requirement is especially strict, since they are more sensitive to the quality of the lubricant.
- 🕒 Vertical transportation: 2-3 hours of rest in a vertical position are sufficient.
- 🚚 Horizontal transportation: at least 6-8 hours are required, and it is better to leave overnight.
- ❄️ Winter delivery: minimum 4-6 hours in a warm place after being brought into the room.
Ignoring these rules can lead to the refrigerator turning on, working for 10-15 minutes and turning off due to thermal protection, or it won't start at all. In the worst case, a hydraulic shock will occur in the compressor, which is a non-warranty case.
Why can’t you turn it on right away?
When transported on its side, oil from the compressor crankcase flows into the cooling circuit. If you turn on the engine immediately, it will try to compress the liquid (oil), which will lead to valve failure or shaft jamming. Time is needed for the oil to flow back into the crankcase under the influence of gravity.
Finding the power button and controlling models
The location of the controls depends on the series of your Candy refrigerator. In older mechanical-type models, there may not be a separate “On/Off” button - the device starts working immediately after connecting the cord to the outlet. In more modern series, control is carried out through an electronic panel.
Models with a display often use a touch control panel. Activation may require a long press or combination of buttons. For example, holding down the button Power for 3 seconds. In some cases, turning on occurs automatically when power is applied, and the user only has to select a mode.
Let's consider the main types of control:
- 🔘 Mechanical thermostat: there is a rotary knob inside the refrigerator compartment. Setting to position “1” or “Min” starts the compressor.
- 💻 Electronic panel (external): the power button is located on the facade, often combined with a power indicator.
- 📱 Smart control: some Candy models can be activated through the application hOn, although the initial launch is best done from the panel.
If, after connecting to the network and setting the regulator to maximum, the refrigerator is silent and does not make any sounds, check for voltage in the outlet. Also make sure the door is closed tightly, as in some models the open door indicator light may prevent the compressor from starting to save energy.
Setting the temperature mode and functions
After you have managed to turn on the Candy refrigerator, you need to correctly configure the temperature parameters. Factory settings are not always optimal for your operating conditions and the workload of the chambers.
For a refrigerator compartment, the recommended value is the range from +3°C to +5°C. Setting the temperature too low will cause food to freeze at the back wall, while setting it too high will cause bacteria to grow. In the freezer, the optimal mode is -18°C.
If your model has a function Super Freeze (Super Freeze), use it only when loading a large amount of fresh food. This mode forces the compressor to work without stopping, which is useful for quick freezing, but harmful for long-term use without load.
| Function | Description | When to turn on |
|---|---|---|
| Eco Mode | Economic mode | At low load chambers |
| Super Cool | Intensive cooling | After loading warm products |
| Holiday | Vacation mode (HK only) | If you are away from home for a long time |
| No Frost | Automatic defrosting | Always (automatically) |
It is important to distribute the products correctly after the first turn on. Don't overcrowd the cells on the first 24 hours. Allow air to circulate freely around the food so that the temperature sensors read the correct values.
Indication and error codes at start
Modern Candy refrigerators are equipped with a self-diagnosis system. If flashing indicators or alphanumeric codes appear on the display when turned on, this is a signal of a malfunction or a special condition of the device.
Often users get scared when, after turning on, temperature values begin to flash or a sound signal is heard. In most cases, this is not a breakdown, but an indication of an increase in temperature inside the chambers. The system reports that the current temperature is higher than the set temperature, which is normal for the first start of an empty refrigerator.
⚠️ Attention: If the indicator blinks for more than 24 hours after switching on, or the red alarm indicator is on (often indicated by an exclamation point or the letter A), check that the doors are closed tightly and the fan is working.
Common error codes that may appear:
- 🔥 E1 / F1: Faulty temperature sensor in the refrigerator compartment.
- ❄️ E2 / F2: Problem with the sensor in the freezer compartment.
- 💨 Fan Error: Faulty fan of the No Frost system.
To reset the error, try unplugging the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes and then turning it on again. If the error repeats, you will need to call a technician to replace the sensor or check the wiring.
Checking operation and the first cooling cycle
The first operating cycle of the refrigerator after turning on may last longer than usual. The compressor needs to cool the internal volume of the chambers from room temperature to the specified values. At this time, the side walls may noticeably heat up - this is a normal process of heat removal by the capacitor built into the sides of the case.
Pay attention to the noise level. New compressors may hum a little louder during the first hours of operation until the parts are ground in. However, there should be no extraneous knocking, grinding or loud clicks.
☑️ Check after the first turn on
Make sure that a “snow coat” does not form in the refrigerator compartment (if the model is No Frost) or ice crust (if drip system). The presence of ice in the wrong places indicates a loose door seal or defrost malfunction.
If you hear gurgling or liquid pouring, do not worry. This refrigerant (freon) circulates through a system of tubes. The sound can be quite loud, especially in the silence of the night, but it indicates that the circuit is working properly.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long can it take to load food into a new Candy refrigerator?
You can completely load the refrigerator with food 2-4 hours after turning it on, when the temperature is stabilizing. However, it is better to do this gradually so as not to create a sudden thermal load on the compressor. On the first day, do not put hot dishes.
Why does the Candy refrigerator hum immediately after turning it on?
The hum is the sound of a running compressor. If the hum is monotonous and is not accompanied by vibration of the cabinet or rattling of the shelves, this is normal. Make sure that the refrigerator is level and does not touch furniture or walls.
Do you need to wash the Candy refrigerator before first use?
Yes, definitely. Factory dust or plastic smell may remain inside. Wipe the internal surfaces with a soft cloth soaked in a weak soda solution and let the chambers dry before turning them on.
What to do if the refrigerator does not turn on after being idle?
Check for voltage in the outlet (connect another device there). Make sure the temperature control is not in the “0” or “Off” position. If everything is in order with the electrics, the thermal protection relay may have worked - wait another 30-40 minutes.