Often owners of household appliances are faced with bewilderment when they discover an unknown plastic element in the freezer or refrigerator compartment. It could be a strange bow, a hollow cylinder, or a curved plate that doesn't seem to attach anywhere. Many people mistakenly mistake these parts for a manufacturing defect or protective packaging that they simply forgot to remove, and rush to throw them away, depriving the unit of important functionality.
In fact, engineering solutions modern climate control equipment is thought out to the smallest detail. Each piece of plastic performs a specific task: from collecting condensation to accurately measuring temperature. Ignoring the purpose of these elements can lead to a violation of the temperature regime, the appearance of puddles on the floor, or even breakdown of the compressor. In this article, we will take a detailed look at what these mysterious parts are.
Understanding your device of the refrigeration unit will help you operate it correctly and extend its service life. We will look at the different types of plastic components found in models from different brands, such as Indesit, Bosch or LG. It is important not only to know where everything is, but also to understand the physical processes that these parts regulate.
Drip eliminator and moisture removal system
The most common plastic element that raises questions is the so-called drip catcher or gutter located on the back wall of the refrigerator cameras. This curved plastic piece, often shaped like a funnel or channel, is a key component in automatic defrosting (No Frost or Drop) systems. Its main task is to collect condensate that forms on the rear wall during compressor operation.
When the compressor turns off, the ice on the evaporator melts. Water flows down along the ribbed surface of the back wall. If it weren't for this plastic gutter, water would simply accumulate at the bottom of the refrigerator, creating ideal conditions for bacteria to grow and mold to grow. The plastic directs the flow of liquid into a special drainage hole.
⚠️ Attention: If you notice that there is always water under the refrigerator or on the bottom shelf inside the chamber, first check the cleanliness of this plastic gutter. Often it becomes clogged with crumbs or mucus, blocking the drain.
The process of moisture removal is as follows:
- 💧 Condensation flows along the ribbed surface of the back wall.
- 📉 A plastic gutter collects water at the lowest point.
- 🌊 Water goes through the drainage hole into the container above the compressor, where it evaporates.
It cannot be removed for washing without damaging the fasteners. Cleaning is carried out carefully, using a soft cloth or a thin brush soaked in disinfectant solution. Using sharp objects to clean the hole in the gutter is strictly prohibited, as you can damage the evaporator tube, which will lead to refrigerant leakage.
Thermostat and plastic sensor casing
Another important “plastic thing” that can be found inside the cameras is this is a protective casing or insert in which it is built thermal sensor. In older models of mechanically controlled refrigerators, the thermostat often looks like a plastic knob with numbers, but inside the chamber there may also be a plastic capillary tube enclosed in a protective housing.
This element is directly related to temperature control system. The plastic here acts as an insulator, protecting the sensitive element from direct contact with food and condensation, but allowing it to correctly read the air temperature. If this casing is damaged or displaced, the refrigerator may not work correctly: either it freezes too much or does not gain the required cold.
In systems No Frost temperature sensors are often hidden in plastic plugs on the side walls or in the ceiling of the chamber. They look like small plastic washers or cylinders. Their function is critical for the operation of defrost fans and heating elements. Without the accurate readings that this unit transmits, the electronics will not be able to start the defrost cycle, which will lead to ice fouling on the evaporator and stopping air circulation.
Plugs and decorative elements of shelves
Many users are surprised to find strange plastic plugs included or inside the refrigerator that do not seem to fit anywhere. Often these are elements that cover technological holes for attaching shelves or drawers. In modern models with a system modular shelves (for example, Glass Line), these plugs play the role of limiters and clamps.
They prevent the glass shelf from accidentally falling out when the door is suddenly opened or the refrigerator is tilted. In addition, such plugs can cover the holes through which warm air from outside enters the chamber if the shelf is not installed on all the guides. This helps maintain energy efficiency a stable temperature.
Sometimes plastic “things” are part of the storage system:
- 🥛 Bottle holders in the door that can be rearranged.
- 🥚 Special lids for egg containers that prevent drying out.
- 🧊 Dividers in vegetable drawers that help zone the space.
You should not throw away these elements, even if you are not using them right now. When changing food storage configurations or purchasing taller bottles, these plastic parts may become indispensable. Store them in a separate bag, indicating which refrigerator model they are from.
Air ducts and circulation system (No Frost)
In refrigerators with a system No Frost it is impossible to do without a complex system of air ducts, which are often made of durable, frost-resistant plastic. These "things" may look like lattice panels on the back wall or plastic tunnels hidden behind the trim. However, some elements, for example, air flow control dampers, may be accessible to the user.
Plastic dampers (dampers) regulate the amount of cold air flowing from the freezer to the refrigerator. This is key element to maintain an accurate temperature. If the damper sticks in the closed position, the upper chamber will become warm and the food will spoil. If it’s open, everything will freeze.
The design of the air ducts should ensure:
- 🌬️ Uniform distribution of cold flows throughout the entire volume.
- 🔇 Minimum noise level during passage air.
- ❄️ No direct contact of a stream of air on the products (so that they do not freeze).
⚠️ Attention: Do not seal the holes in the plastic air duct grilles and do not tightly block them with products. Impaired air circulation is one of the most common causes of compressor failure due to constant wear and tear.
What happens if the plastic air duct damper is broken?
If the plastic damper (damper) is broken or jammed, the refrigerator will no longer maintain the temperature correctly. The refrigerator compartment will become too cold or, conversely, warm. The electronics will generate errors, and the compressor may work without interruption, trying to compensate for the lack of cold or its excess.
Table: Main types of plastic parts and their purpose
To systematize the information, we provide a table that will help you identify the found element. Different manufacturers may use different forms, but the functionality remains similar.
| Part name | Location | Main function | Consequences of absence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drip receptacle (gutter) | Bottom of the rear wall | Collection and removal of condensate | Puddles inside the chamber, mold |
| Sensor casing | Walls or ceiling | Thermostat protection | Incorrect temperature, failures |
| Shelf plug | Side walls | Fixation and aesthetics | Risk of shelf falling, loss of cold |
| Damper | Between chambers | Air flow adjustment | Temperature violation |
| Egg tray | Door | Storage and protection of eggs | Egg breaking, product drying |
As can be seen from tables, even the simplest-looking plastic elements play an important role. Their presence ensures durability techniques and product safety. In some models, for example, in refrigerators Samsung with a metal back wall, a special recess in the metal can serve as a drip catcher, but plastic guides are still present.
Care and maintenance of plastic elements
Plastic used in refrigerators must withstand low temperatures, humidity and contact with food acids. However, over time it may lose its properties, turn yellow or crack. Proper care of these parts will extend the life of the entire unit. For cleaning, use soft sponges and neutral detergents.
Aggressive chemicals, abrasive powders and hot water can deform thin plastic structures such as dampers or shelf fastenings. Particular care must be taken when handling parts in the freezer: in the cold, plastic becomes brittle, and careless movement can lead to its destruction destruction.
☑️ Rules for caring for plastic in the refrigerator
If you find a crack on an important element, for example, on a drip tray, it can be temporarily sealed with food grade silicone, but it is better to order original spare parts. Using the wrong glue can be toxic and hazardous to health, since glue vapors will circulate inside the chamber along with the air.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to operate a refrigerator without a plastic drip tray?
Technically, the refrigerator will work, but this will lead to constant accumulation of water at the bottom of the chamber. This creates the risk of short circuits, bacterial growth and food spoilage. It is better to replace the part.
How to wash the plastic parts inside the refrigerator so that they do not turn yellow?
Use a baking soda solution or a special product for cleaning refrigerators. Avoid chlorine-containing products and hot water, as they destroy the structure of the plastic and cause it to turn yellow.
Where to buy a plastic plug or holder if they are lost?
Original spare parts can be ordered from authorized service centers for the model of your refrigerator. Also, universal analogues are often sold in household appliance stores or on marketplaces.
Why is the plastic temperature sensor covered with frost?
This may indicate a malfunction of the defrost system or the door is not tightly closed. Normally, the sensor should be dry or have only a light coating of moisture, which quickly disappears.