The spacer in the refrigerator is a small but critically important part, the existence of which many users do not even suspect until they encounter a breakdown. It plays a role stabilizing elementpreventing deformation of the housing during temperature changes or mechanical loads. Without a spacer, the refrigerator door may warp, the seal will lose its tightness, and the compressor will begin to work with overloads, which will inevitably lead to expensive repairs.
In this article we will look in detail at what a spacer is, what functions it performs in different models of refrigerators (from Soviet ones) data-i="50">i ZIL And Minsk to modern Samsung i Liebherr), how to properly install or replace it, as well as what signs indicate a malfunction. We will pay special attention to spacers in No Frost systems - their breakdown is often disguised as a malfunction of the fan or defrost timer.
What is a spacer and where is it located in the refrigerator
A spacer is a metal or plastic part that fixes the relative position of the internal panels of the refrigeratorprevents them from moving under the influence of vibrations, temperature changes or mechanical loads (for example, when opening a door). In most models, it is located:
- 🔹 In the upper part of the refrigerator compartment - between the inner panel and the outer case.
- 🔹 In the freezer area - next to the evaporator (in systems No Frost or Frost Free).
- 🔹 On the back wall - in models with a drip defrosting system.
- 🔹 Below, under the vegetable drawers - in some refrigerators Bosch i Indesit.
Externally, the spacer may look like like:
- 📌 Spring rod with rubber tips (in old models).
- 📌 Plastic strip with latches (in modern refrigerators LG or ATLANT).
- 📌 Metal corner with holes for fastening (in industrial or built-in models).
In systems No Frost the spacer is often combined with bracket. fan or the evaporator mount. Its failure can lead to icing of the rear wall or stopping the air circulation.
Basic functions spacers in the refrigerator
Many people mistakenly believe that the spacer is needed only for the “stiffness” of the case. In fact, its tasks are much broader:
| Function | Consequences of a malfunction | Typical models where this is critical |
|---|---|---|
| Stabilization of body geometry | Door distortion, seal leakage | ATLANT, Stinol, Biryusa |
| Preventing compressor vibrations | Increased noise, premature wear of the motor | Samsung (series RB), LG (series GA) |
| Fixation of the evaporator in systems No Frost | Icing of the rear wall, fan failure | Liebherr, Electrolux, Beko |
| Support of the thermal insulation layer | Loss cold, increased energy consumption | All models with thick polyurethane foam insulation |
In refrigerators with linear compressor (for example, Samsung Digital Inverter) the spacer also dampens microvibrations, which can be transmitted to the body and cause rattling of the shelves In models. with electronically controlled (for example, Liebherr Premium) a faulty spacer can lead to false errors in temperature sensors.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators No Frost The spacer is often attached to the plastic fan guides. If during defrosting you hear a grinding or crackling noise, this may be a sign of its breakdown, not a motor malfunction.
Types of spacers: materials and designs
Design spacers depends on the model of the refrigerator, its dimensions and cooling system. Let's consider the main types:
1. Metal spacers
Used in:
- 🔧 Soviet refrigerators ("ZIL-63", "Oka", "Minsk-15").
- 🔧 Industrial and commercial refrigerators.
- 🔧 Some modern premium models (Liebherr, Miele).
Advantages: high strength, long service life. Disadvantages: susceptible to corrosion, can be deformed under strong impacts.
2. Plastic spacers
The most common type in modern refrigerators (Samsung, LG, Indesit, ATLANT). There are:
- 🔹 Monolithic - a single piece with grooves for fastening.
- 🔹 Composite - with latches or screw connections.
- 🔹 Reinforced - with a metal core inside plastic (in models Bosch Serie 8).
3. Spring spacers
Found in:
- 🌀 Refrigerators with a drip defrosting system.
- 🌀 Models with a top freezer (Stinol 101, ATLANT MXM 1705).
Feature: compensate for thermal expansion of materials. If the spring breaks, the door may “sag” over time.
4. Combined spacers
Used in refrigerators Side-by-Side i Multi-Door (for example, Samsung Family Hub or LG InstaView) They combine a metal frame with plastic fasteners to reduce weight and improve thermal insulation.
Signs of a malfunction of the spacer
Failure of the spacer is rarely obvious, since it is hidden inside the case. However, there are a number of indirect signs that should alert you:
- 🚨 The refrigerator door is skewed - does not close tightly, requires force. pressed.
- 🚨 A backlash has appeared —when you open the door, you hear a knock or creaking.
- 🚨 The seal is moving away from the body —even after adjusting the hinge, the problem returns.
- 🚨 Increased noise —vibration is transmitted to the body, the rattling of the shelves is heard.
- 🚨 Icing of the back wall (in No Frost) - the spacer could displace the evaporator or pinch air duct.
- 🚨 Error code on the display (for example,
E1orOFin refrigerators Samsung) - may indicate a violation of air circulation.
In refrigerators with electronic control (for example, Liebherr CBNes 5155) a faulty spacer can cause sensor malfunctions. For example, the compressor will turn on more often than usual, since the thermostat records incorrect readings due to displacement of the internal panels.
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the seal the door still does not close tightly, check the spacer! In 30% of cases, the problem lies in it, and not in the hinges or rubber.
What happens if you ignore the breakdown spacers?
First, you will notice an increase in energy consumption (up to 15-20%) due to cold losses. Then uneven cooling will begin: in one corner of the chamber it will be too cold, in the other it will be warm. In No Frost systems, this will cause the fan to freeze and stop. In the worst case, the body will be deformed, and the refrigerator will have to be written off - repairs will cost more than buying a new one.
How to check the spacer for functionality
Diagnostics of the spacer requires partial disassembly of the refrigerator. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to contact a specialist. However, you can do some checks yourself:
Unplug the refrigerator
Empty the chambers of food
Remove shelves and drawers (according to the instructions for the model)
Prepare a flashlight and a screwdriver -->
Next follow the algorithm:
- Visual inspection. Open the door and shine a flashlight into the gap between the inner panel and the body. If a gap of more than 2-3 mm is visible, the spacer is broken or displaced.
- Checking the play. Gently press the top of the inner panel of the refrigerator compartment. If it “plays”, the spacer does not fulfill its function.
- Vibration test. Turn on the refrigerator and listen. If the housing rattles, but the compressor runs smoothly, the problem is in the spacer or fasteners.
- No Frost diagnostics. In models with this system, remove the back panel of the freezer (usually it is secured with latches). Check whether the evaporator is displaced and whether the air duct is pinched.
In refrigerators Samsung with a system Twin Cooling Plus the spacer can be combined with the mount for two evaporators. If one of them has moved, an error will appear on the display 22E or 25E.
For accurate diagnosis, you may need disassembling the internal panel. In this case, it is better to contact a service center, especially if the refrigerator is under warranty.
How to replace the spacer yourself
Replacing the spacer is a task of medium complexity. If you have experience repairing equipment, you can handle it in 1-2 hours. The main thing is to choose the right spare part and not damage the thermal insulation.
Step 1: Selecting a spare part
You can buy a spacer:
- 🛒 At the official service center of the brand (warranty on the part, but more expensive).
- 🛒 In online spare parts stores (for example, "Spare parts for refrigerators", «All-Zap»).
- 🛒 At disassembly (cheaper, but no guarantee).
When choosing, pay attention to:
- 📏 Length and shape (must match the original).
- 🔧 Material (plastic or metal).
- 🔩 Type of fastening (screws, latches, glue).
- 🆔 Article (indicated in the instructions or on the nameplate of the refrigerator).
Step 2: Removing the old spacer
The disassembly algorithm depends on the model The general procedure. steps:
- Unplug the refrigerator and defrost it.
- Remove the internal shelves and drawers.
- Unscrew or snap off the internal panel (usually it is attached to 4-6 screws or clips).
- Carefully disconnect the old spacer. In some models, it may be glued to the thermal insulation - use a hair dryer to heat the glue.
Step 3: Installing a new spacer
When installing a new part:
- ✅ Make sure that it fits tightly to the body.
- ✅ Do not overtighten the fasteners - this may deform the plastic.
- ✅ Check whether the spacer does not interfere with the operation of the fan (in No Frost).
- ✅ After assembly, turn on the refrigerator and check the door tightness with a sheet of paper.
In refrigerators ATLANT and Stinol the spacer is often attached to polyurethane foam insulation. When replacing it, avoid damaging the insulation layer - this will lead to cold losses.
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the spacer the refrigerator becomes make more noise - check if it touches the refrigerant pipes. Vibration can be transmitted to the compressor and increase the hum.
The cost of repairs and where to order spare parts
The price of the spacer and its replacement depends on the model of the refrigerator and the region. 2026:
| Refrigerator type | Spreader cost (rub.) | Cost of a craftsman (rub.) | Total cost of repair (rub.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soviet (ZIL, Minsk) | 300–800 | 1 000–1 500 | 1 300–2 300 |
| Budget (ATLANT, Indesit) | 500–1 200 | 1 200–2 000 | 1 700–3 200 |
| Middle class (Samsung, LG) | 1 000–2 500 | 1 500–2 500 | 2 500–5 000 |
| Premium (Liebherr, Miele) | 2 500–6 000 | 2 500–4 000 | 5 000–10 000 |
| No Frost (any brand) | 1 500–4 000 | 2 000–3 500 | 3 500–7 500 |
Where to buy spare parts:
- 🌍 Official websites of brands - original parts, but expensive.
- 🛒 Online stores ("220 Volt", "VseInstrumenty.ru", «All-Zap») - wide range, often there are analogues.
- 🔧 Service centers —can be ordered with delivery.
- ♻️ Disassembly —cheaper, but without warranty (suitable for old models).
When purchasing, please specify:
- 📋 Refrigerator model (on the nameplate on the back wall).
- 📋 Part number (can be found in the instructions or by VIN code).
- 📋 Year of manufacture —different revisions of the same model may use different spacers.
⚠️ Attention: Prices and availability of spare parts may vary depending on the region. In small cities, you have to wait 2-3 for original parts for rare models. weeks.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about spacers in the refrigerator
Is it possible to operate a refrigerator with a broken spacer?
Technically it is possible, but this will lead to:
- 🔸 Increase in energy consumption by 15–30%.
- 🔸 Rapid wear of the seal and hinges.
- 🔸 Risk of compressor breakdown due to overloads.
- 🔸 Icing fan in systems No Frost.
If the spacer is broken, but the refrigerator is still working, replace it within 1-2 months.
How to understand that the problem is in the spacer and not in the door hinges?
Differences:
| Symptom | Strut breakage | Hinge breakage |
|---|---|---|
| Door play | Yes, but uniform around the entire perimeter | Only in location of the hinge |
| Creak when opening | No (if it does not touch the body) | Yes, due to wear of the hinge |
| Distortion of the seal | All over length | Only in the corner of the hinge |
If in doubt, remove the inner panel and check the spacer visually.
Is it possible to make a spacer with your own hands?
A temporary option is possible if:
- 🔧 Use an aluminum or steel corner of a suitable size.
- 🔧 Secure it with epoxy glue (not superglue!).
- 🔧 Reinforce the structure with rubber gaskets to dampen vibrations.
However, this is a solution suitable only for old refrigerators. In modern models with No Frost a homemade spacer can disrupt air circulation.
What to do if the spacer is cracked but not completely broken?
Temporary measures:
- 🛠️ Strengthen crack with a metal plate on the screws.
- 🛠️ Fill with epoxy resin (for plastic spacers).
- 🛠️ Wrap with electrical tape (only as a temporary solution!).
But it is better to replace the part - the crack will progress due to vibrations.
Where in the refrigerator No Frost look for the spacer?
In 90% of cases it is located:
- 🔍 Behind the back panel of the freezer (attached to the evaporator).
- 🔍 Under the top cover of the refrigerator compartment (next to the air duct).
- 🔍 Below, under the drawers (in models Bosch and Siemens).
In refrigerators Samsung s Twin Cooling there may be two spacers - one for each cooling circuit.