Have you ever wondered why there are so many strange elements inside your kitchen appliances? Often we buy a device, use it for years, but never find out the true purpose of some of the components. Plastic plugs, strange holes or retractable strips may seem unnecessary until you understand their function. Ignoring these details sometimes leads to breakdowns or inefficient use of space.
In this article we will look at the most mysterious “things” that can be found in a storage room. Understanding how the No Frost system works or why you need a hole in the freezer will help you extend the life of the unit. Let's get rid of the myths and look at the technical side of the issue in simple language.
Many users do not even suspect that some elements are created for safety, while others are designed to save energy. Lack or improper use of the drainage channel can lead to water leaking onto the floor after several months of use. Therefore, it is important to study the design of your model thoroughly.
Mysterious holes and channels in the freezer
The most common question arises when you see a small round hole on the back wall of the freezer. Many try to cover it up with cotton wool or ignore it, considering it a manufacturing defect. In fact, this is the most important element of the system No Frost. Through this channel, melt water formed during defrosting cycles of the evaporator is removed.
If you notice that a coat of ice accumulates at the bottom of the chamber, most likely the problem lies here. The water does not go into the drainage tray above the compressor, but freezes right inside. In some models, next to the hole you can find a removable plug that regulates the air flow.
- ❄️ Drain hole - removes condensation during defrosting.
- 🌬️ Air duct - ensures the circulation of cold flow between the chambers.
- 🔧 Technological groove —place for installing temperature sensors.
It is important to understand that the moisture removal system works by gravity. This requires a certain position of the equipment. If the refrigerator is tilted, the water may not have time to escape through this channel. Regularly checking the cleanliness of this element is the key to the absence of ice jams.
Purpose of plastic strips and “tongues” on the shelves
Pay attention to the front of the glass shelves. There is often a plastic edging with a protruding “tongue” or bar. It's not just decor. This element performs the function protective side. It prevents bottles or bags of food from accidentally sliding off when opening the door or making a sudden movement.
In addition, these strips often serve as guides for installing additional accessories. For example, in some models Liebherr or Bosch egg holders or special baskets are attached to these protrusions. If you remove the shelf for washing, do not forget to return the limiter to its place, otherwise the risk of a broken bottle of milk increases sharply.
Sometimes users remove these plastic frames, believing that they interfere with cleaning the glass. You shouldn't do this. The design of the shelf is designed to bear the load when assembled. Without a plastic frame, the glass may burst under the weight of the pan, as the fulcrum shifts to the fragile edge.
Strange buttons and switches inside the chamber
In old and some modern models you can find mechanical switches or buttons located right inside the refrigerator compartment. They are often labeled "Super", "Eco" or simply have a snowflake icon. Pressing this button switches the unit into intensive freezing or, conversely, energy-saving mode.
The “Super Freeze” mode forces the compressor to work without stopping, ignoring the thermostat readings. This is necessary to quickly freeze a large amount of fresh food without defrosting existing supplies. However, you cannot keep the refrigerator in this mode all the time - this will lead to overheating of the motor.
| Designation | Function | Use time |
|---|---|---|
| Snowflake (I) | Normal mode | Continuous |
| Snowflake (II) | Intensive cooling | Up to 24 hours |
| Snowflake (III) | Super Freeze | No more than 48 hours |
| Light | Lights off | When leaving for a long time |
It is important not to confuse these switches with thermostat. If you accidentally move the lever to its extreme position, the temperature may drop to critical values. As a result, the food in the main chamber will freeze and the greens will turn into porridge. Always check the position of the regulator after general cleaning.
Vacation function and other hidden modes
The function often indicated by a palm tree or the sun deserves special attention. This is mode "Holiday". It is designed for situations when you are away for a long time, but do not want to defrost the refrigerator completely. In this mode, the main chamber turns off or switches to minimal consumption, and the freezer continues to work.
Why is this necessary? If you simply turn off the appliance and leave the doors closed, mold will grow inside and a musty smell will appear. The “Vacation” mode maintains a temperature of about +10...+15°C, which prevents the growth of bacteria, but saves electricity. In this case, it is better to leave the main chamber door slightly open, unless the instructions for your model Samsung or LG require otherwise.
What happens if you leave the “Vacation” mode for six months?
Nothing bad will happen if the main chamber is clean and dry. However, it is recommended to check the condition of the seals and the absence of insects once a month, since warm air attracts pests.
Some users mistakenly believe that in this mode the freezer also turns off. This is wrong. The freezer continues to maintain a low temperature, so your stock of meat or vegetables will remain safe. This is an ideal solution for summer residents or those who often go on business trips.
Why are holes needed in drawers for vegetables
Drawers at the bottom of the refrigerator compartment (freshness zone) often have small holes or flaps. Many people seal them with tape to prevent the wind from blowing and make a mistake. These holes are necessary for humidity adjustment. Air exchange occurs through them, which prevents vegetables from rotting from dampness or drying out from lack of moisture.
Depending on the type of product, the damper can be opened or closed. To store fruits that emit ethylene (apples, pears), air access should be maximum. Leafy greens, on the other hand, require high humidity, so air flow is limited. This allows you to prolong the freshness of products by 2-3 times.
- 🥦 Greens and salads —high humidity, minimal air flow.
- 🍎 Fruits —medium humidity, active ventilation.
- 🥩 Meat and fish (short-term) —low temperature, insulation from other odors.
If you notice that the lettuce turns yellow after two days, try changing the position of the damper on the box. Sometimes the problem lies not in the temperature, but in the incorrect microclimate inside the container. Correct setting of these “little things” works wonders.
☑️ Checking the freshness zone
Technical nuances and maintenance of parts
All the elements described above require periodic attention. Over time, plastic parts may lose their elasticity, and the channels may become clogged with crumbs. Regular preventive maintenance will help avoid situations when the “thing” stops working. This is especially true for water drainage systems and air dampers.
When washing the refrigerator, use only warm water and mild detergents. Aggressive chemistry can corrode plastic, making it brittle. Pay special attention to the seals around the technological holes - they should not be damaged, otherwise the seal of the chambers will be compromised.
⚠️ Attention: If you find a crack on a plastic element inside the chamber (especially on the back wall), do not try to seal it with regular tape or superglue. Materials may be toxic in contact with food or may not withstand low temperatures. It is better to order an original spare part.
In modern models with Smart functions some parts may have electronic sensors. Such elements need to be looked after especially carefully, wiping them with a dry soft cloth. Moisture on the contacts can damage the entire control unit.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to operate a refrigerator if the plastic plug is broken?
In most cases it is possible, but this will affect the efficiency of operation. If the plug blocks the access of cold air to the main chamber, it will become warmer there. If it is part of the No Frost system, ice may form. It is better to replace the part.
Why is water flowing in the freezer even though the holes have been cleaned?
The reason may be that the refrigerator is misaligned. Check the legs: the unit must stand strictly vertically or with a slight tilt back so that the water flows by gravity into the drainage. Also check if ice has frozen to the air duct damper.
Why do you need a mesh on the ceiling of the refrigerator?
Usually this is a protective screen for the No Frost system fan or a cold flow diffuser. It prevents direct contact of food with the fan blades and directs air evenly throughout the chamber. It is not recommended to remove it.
What to do if the defrost button is stuck?
Do not use force. Try gently rocking the button with your fingers. If it does not return to its original position, the mechanism may be jammed with ice or dirt. In this case, you need to defrost the refrigerator for 24 hours with the doors open.