Owners of modern refrigeration units are often faced with the question of the functionality of individual structural elements, and one of the most mysterious components for beginners is the lower plastic compartment. This element, often called containera drawer or tray, is located at the very bottom of the refrigerator compartment, directly above the vegetable shelf or in a special compartment. Many users perceive it as an ordinary food storage container without thinking about the complex engineering task it performs in the thermoregulation system.
In fact, this plastic module is a critical part of the humidity and temperature control system inside the chamber. It does not just occupy free space, but serves as a buffer zone that protects products from direct contact with the cold walls of the evaporator and collects condensation. Understanding the operating principle of this unit will help you extend the life of your equipment and preserve the freshness of products much longer than with chaotic use of the internal volume.
In this article we will analyze in detail the design features of this element, explain the physical processes occurring inside it, and give practical recommendations for care. You will learn why manufacturers use this particular type of plastic, how to position products correctly, and what mistakes can lead to compressor failure or ice formation.
The main purpose of the lower plastic compartment
The main function of the lower container in refrigerators with a defrosting system No Frost or drip system is to collect condensate and melt water. During operation of the refrigerator, moisture inevitably forms on the internal walls and evaporator. During automatic defrost cycles, this water flows down through special gutters. A plastic reservoir, often hidden behind a decorative panel or at the bottom of the chamber, receives this liquid, preventing it from leaking onto the kitchen floor.
In addition, this element serves as a unique element. heat insulator. Being in the coldest area of the refrigerator compartment (since cold air is heavier than warm air and sinks), it creates a barrier between the food and the metal bottom where the refrigerant pipes pass or the evaporator is located. This prevents packages from freezing to the walls and protects vegetables and fruits from “cold burn”, which destroys the cellular structure of products.
⚠️ Attention: Never use the bottom container to store heavy items that weigh more than 5-7 kg, if the instructions for your model Liebherr or Bosch does not indicate otherwise. The plastic may crack under load, breaking the tightness of the moisture collection system.
It is also important to note the role of this module in air circulation. In models with forced air circulation, the gap between the container and the rear wall ensures even distribution of cold flows. If this compartment is filled to capacity with products, circulation will be disruptedthis will lead to the formation of zones with different temperatures and increased load on the compressor.
Design features and materials
Manufacturers of household appliances, such as LG, Samsung and Indesituse special grades of food-grade plastic, most often polystyrene or polypropylene, to make these containers. These materials were not chosen by chance: they have high impact resistance at low temperatures and do not emit toxic substances when in contact with food. The wall thickness usually varies from 2 to 4 mm, which provides a balance between strength and thermal conductivity.
The design often includes special stiffeners on the bottom and side walls. These thickenings are necessary in order to withstand the weight of the products and not deform over time. In some models, the bottom of the container has a corrugated surface or a mesh structure, which facilitates access of cold air to the products standing on top and prevents the accumulation of water directly under the packages.
Let's compare the characteristics of materials used in different price segments of refrigeration equipment:
| Parameter | Budget models | Middle class | Premium segment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic type | Polystyrene (PS) | ABS plastic | Nano-coating, antibacterial plastic |
| Wall thickness | 1.5 - 2 mm | 2.5 - 3 mm | 3.5 - 5 mm |
| Scratch resistance | Low | Medium | High |
| Flexibility | Hard, brittle | Moderate flexibility | High elasticity |
It is important to understand that even durable plastic loses its properties over time under the influence of ultraviolet radiation (if the refrigerator is located near a window) and aggressive detergents. Therefore, the choice of chemistry for caring for this element is crucial for the durability of the structure.
Condensation problems and their solutions
One of the most common problems that users encounter is the accumulation of water or ice at the bottom of the refrigerator, often perceived as a malfunction of the container itself. In fact, in 80% of cases the problem lies in a clogged drain hole, which is located behind or under this plastic module. The water formed when the evaporator defrosts does not have time to evaporate in the tray above the compressor (in older models) or go into the drainage, and overflows over the edge of the container.
If you notice that there is a puddle under the plastic box or ice has formed, it is necessary to carry out diagnostics. First, check to see if the food has moved so that it is blocking the air outlets or drainage channels. Then inspect the container itself for cracks that could have formed as a result of mechanical stress or temperature changes.
To clear the drainage blockage, it is often necessary to remove the bottom panel and blow out the tube. However, before proceeding with disassembly, make sure that the device is unplugged. In some models Electrolux and Whirlpool access to the drainage is possible only after completely dismantling the bottom plastic box, which requires care not to break the plastic latches.
⚠️ Attention: If you find a crack in a plastic container, do not try to seal it with regular superglue or with tape. These materials cannot withstand low temperatures and can be toxic. Use only food-grade silicone sealants or contact the service to replace the part.
☑️ Diagnosis of leaks in the refrigerator
Rules for storing food in the lower zone
The lower part of the refrigerator compartment, where this plastic container or box is usually located, is the zone with the lowest temperature. This is an ideal place to store foods that require special cold, but are not intended to be frozen. It is advisable to place raw meat, fish, poultry and dairy products with a short shelf life here. Low temperatures slow down the growth of bacteria, prolonging freshness.
However, there is a nuance that is often forgotten. If your refrigerator is equipped with a No Frostsystem, then the flow of cold air can dry out food that is not sealed tightly. Therefore, meat and fish in this compartment must be kept in closed containers or under film. Vegetables and fruits, on the contrary, in a zone of extreme cold can lose their taste and freeze, so it is better to store them in special boxes with humidity control, if they are provided for in the design above.
It is strictly not recommended to place hot or warm dishes in the lower plastic container. A sharp temperature change can lead to deformation of the plastic, the appearance of microcracks and even destruction of the structure of the material. In addition, a warm object will force the refrigerator to work in increased mode, trying to compensate for a local increase in temperature, which leads to excessive energy consumption.
The myth of the “freshness zone”
Often users confuse the usual lower compartment with the zero chamber (freshness zone). The fresh zone maintains a temperature of approximately 0°C and separate humidity, which allows food to be stored for weeks. In a regular plastic container, the temperature ranges from +2 to +6°C, so the shelf life here is standard.
Care and cleaning of plastic elements
Regular cleaning of the refrigerator is the key to its long service and hygiene. Plastic surfaces, especially in the lower part, are prone to the accumulation of dirt, as all possible liquids and crumbs flow there. To wash the container, it must be removed from the chamber. This must be done carefully, especially if the plastic is cooled: in the cold it becomes more fragile and can burst from careless movement.
To clean, use warm water with the addition of a mild detergent or baking soda solution. Use abrasive powders, metal sponges and aggressive solvents (acetone, gasoline). They leave micro-scratches in which bacteria will subsequently multiply, and can also destroy the structure of the polymer, making it cloudy and brittle. strictly prohibited. They leave microscratches in which bacteria will subsequently multiply, and can also destroy the structure of the polymer, making it cloudy and brittle.
After washing, be sure to let the plastic element dry completely at room temperature before installing it back. Inserting a wet, cold element can cause excess condensation and ice to form. It is also recommended to periodically lubricate the guides (if the container is retractable) with food-grade mineral oil so that the mechanism moves smoothly and does not creak.
Typical malfunctions and methods for their elimination
The most common malfunction associated with the lower container is its mechanical damage. Cracks often appear in the corners or where the guides are attached. If the damage is not through and does not interfere with moisture collection, operation is possible, but requires supervision. Through cracks require replacement, as water will begin to get onto the floor or into the insulating layer of the housing, which threatens corrosion and damage to the thermal insulation.
The second type of problem is loss of tightness of joints or displacement of seals (if any). In this case, cold air may escape into the lower technical compartment, causing the external elements of the refrigerator to freeze. The third option is the appearance of a persistent unpleasant odor from the plastic. This happens if food was spilled into the container and was not removed in time. Plastic has a porous structure and absorbs odors.
To eliminate odors, you can use the following methods:
- 🍋 Wipe the surfaces with a solution of citric acid or fresh lemon juice.
- ☕ Use activated carbon: crush the tablets and leave in a closed container to steam days.
- 🍞 Place a piece of black bread or an open pack of soda inside to adsorb odors.
- 🌿 Use special odor absorbers for refrigerators, available in hardware stores.
If the plastic element is deformed and no longer fits into place correctly, straighten it, heating with a hairdryer to a temperature of 60-70 degrees (not higher, so as not to melt), and giving the desired shape under a load. However, this method does not work with all types of plastic and requires caution.
Can a plastic container be washed in the dishwasher?
Most manufacturers recommend washing the removable elements of the refrigerator by hand. The temperature in the dishwasher can reach 70°C, which is critical for some types of food-grade plastic (especially polystyrene). This may cause deformation, discoloration or release of harmful substances. Check the markings on the bottom of the part: if there is no dishwasher symbol, wash only by hand.
What to do if the container is frozen to the bottom of the refrigerator?
Under no circumstances try to tear it off by force! This is guaranteed to lead to breakage of the plastic or failure of the fasteners. Unplug the refrigerator, open the doors and let the ice melt naturally. To speed up the process, you can put a container of warm water in the chamber (not on the plastic) or use a hairdryer at a minimum temperature, directing the air flow to the joint, but without overheating the surface.
How to replace a broken plastic box if the original cannot be found?
The ideal option is to order an original spare part for the refrigerator model. If this is not possible, you can find a universal plastic container of the appropriate size at hardware stores. The main thing is that the material is food-grade and frost-resistant. Avoid using glass or metal containers as a substitute, as they may interfere with air circulation or break.