The VEKO refrigerator constantly works and does not turn off - reasons and solutions

If your refrigerator VEKO stops turning off and works around the clock, this is not just an annoying noise - a signal of a serious malfunction. Continuous operation of the compressor leads to increased wear of parts, increased energy consumption (up to 30-50% above normal) and the risk of breakdown. In 80% of cases, the problem can be solved without calling a technician, but it is important to correctly identify the source.

In this article we will analyze all possible reasons from a banal accumulation of dust to a refrigerant leak, and also give step-by-step instructions for diagnosis. We will pay special attention to models VEKO with system No Frost and drip defrosting, since their “symptoms” are often different. Let us warn you right away: ignoring the problem can result complete output of the compressor in failure - its replacement costs 40-60% of the cost of a new refrigerator.

Not hurry to call a repairman - first check 3 key points that are most often to blame for continuous operation:

1. Problems with the thermostat (thermostat)

The thermostat is the “brain” of the refrigerator, which monitors the temperature and commands the compressor to turn on/off. In models VEKO (for example, RCN-3101 or RCN-4202 NF), most often mechanical thermostat K59-L1438 or its electronic analogs fail. Signs of malfunction:

• 🔹 The compressor works without pauses, but the freezer freezes the food (ice forms on the walls).
• 🔹 When you turn the thermostat knob to position "0" (off), the motor does not turn off.
• 🔹 The relay clicks are heard, but the compressor does not respond to temperature changes.

How to check the thermostat yourself:

1. Unplug the refrigerator and remove all the food.
2. Remove the thermostat protective cover (usually located inside the refrigerator compartment, under the plastic panel).
3. Ring the contacts with a tester in resistance mode. At room temperature, between the terminals 3 and 4 should be 0 Ohm (closed), when cooled (for example, if you apply ice) - infinity (open).

If the test shows an open or permanent short circuit, the thermostat must be replaced. In VEKO refrigerators with electronic control (series Inverter), the thermostat is integrated into the board, and its replacement requires re-flashing module.

2. Freon leakage or clogged capillary tube

If the refrigerator VEKO works without stopping, but does not freeze, are more vulnerable. data-i="98">aluminum evaporator (or freezes weakly), The refrigerant is to blame. In 60% of cases, this is a freon leak through microcracks in the circuit, less often - a capillary tube is clogged due to moisture or oil. Models with aluminum evaporator (for example, VEKO RCN-3500), where corrosion develops faster.

Signs of a freon leak:

• 🔹 The compressor is hot, but there is no cold (or only in the freezer).
• 🔹 Visible on the back wall of the refrigerator oil stains (freon leaves along with the oil).
• 🔹 The condenser (grid at the back) remains at room temperature (normally it should heat up).

It is impossible to eliminate the leak yourself - required evacuating the system and refilling with freon. But you can check the blockage of the capillary tube:

1. Turn off the refrigerator and defrost it for 12 hours.
2. After turning on, put your hand on the condenser (the grille at the back) If it only partially heats up. the blockage is confirmed.

3. Malfunction of the compressor or start-up relay

Compressor in refrigerators VEKO (for example, models RCN-3101 or RCN-4202) is designed for cyclic operation (turning on/off every 20-30 minutes), the following are possible:

• 🔹 Interturn short circuit in the windings (the compressor hums, but does not create pressure).
• 🔹 Malfunction start-up protection relay (does not turn off the power after the temperature has risen).
• 🔹 Wear of the piston group (the compressor overheats, but there is little cold).

How to diagnose:

1. Turn off the refrigerator and touch the compressor (the black barrel at the back) If it is scalding hot this is a sign. interturn closure.
2. Listen to the sound of operation: knocking or rattling indicate wear on the pistons.
3. Remove start-protection relay (black box on the compressor) and check it with a tester. There should be resistance between the terminals S and M there must be resistance 20-40 Ohm.

If the compressor is faulty, replace it will cost 8 000–15 000 ₽ (depending on the model VEKO) In some cases it is cheaper to buy a new refrigerator - especially if your model is older than 10 years.

How to check the compressor without a tester?

Turn off the refrigerator, remove the start-up relay and turn it manually. compressor shaft (with a thin screwdriver through the hole in the bottom). If the shaft does not rotate or a grinding noise is heard, the compressor is jammed and must be replaced.

4. Problems with the No Frost system

Refrigerators VEKO with the system No Frost (for example, RCN-4202 NF or RCN-5001 NF) have additional components that can cause continuous operation:

• 🔹 Fault fan (the ice on the evaporator does not melt, the sensor “thinks” that the temperature is high).
• 🔹 Clogged drain hole (water accumulates, ice forms, blocking the air ducts).
• 🔹 Breakage defrost sensor (does not turn on heating element for defrosting). broken or blocked by ice.

How to check the No Frost system:

1. Unplug the refrigerator and defrost it for 24 hours.
2. After turning on, listen: if the fan does not make noise — it is broken or blocked by ice.
3. Check the drainage hole in the freezer (usually under the drawers). If it is clogged with ice, clean it warm water and wire.

If after defrosting the problem remains - the defrost sensor or heating element is at fault. Replacing them will cost $ 2 500–4 000 ₽.

Check the operation of the fan (it should make noise after switching on)

Inspect the evaporator for ice (open the back panel of the freezer)

Clean the drainage hole

Ring the defrost sensor (resistance 5-10 kOhm at 20°C)-->

5. Damage to the thermal insulation or door seal

If the refrigerator VEKO works without stopping, but freezes normally, check:

• 🔹 Sealing rubber band on the door. Over time, it becomes dull, cracks or moves away from the body.
• 🔹 Door skew (if the refrigerator is not level, the seal does not fit tightly).
• 🔹 Cracks in the body (for example, after transportation).

How to check the tightness:

1. Close the door and shine a flashlight along the seal. If light passes through, there are gaps.
2. Place a sheet of paper between the seal and the body. If it falls out or is easily pulled out the seal is broken.

Solutions:

• 🔧 If the seal is torn, replace it (cost for data-i="182">🔧 If the door is skewed, adjust the hinges (an allen key is needed). VEKO: 1 200–2 500 ₽).
• 🔧 If the door is skewed, adjust the hinges (you need a hex wrench).
• 🔧 Cracks in the body can be repaired with polyurethane foam, but this is a temporary solution.

6. Electronic faults (control boards)

In modern models VEKO (for example, RCN-5001 Inverter) is responsible for the operating cycle electronic control module. If it fails, the compressor may work continuously or, conversely, not turn on at all. Reasons:

• 🔹 Voltage surges (a common problem in rural areas).
• 🔹 Short. short circuit in the sensor circuit.
• 🔹 Failure of the triac that controls the compressor.

Symptoms of board malfunction:

• 🔹 The display flashes or shows error E1, E2, E3 (error codes for VEKO see table below).
• 🔹 The compressor turns on for 5-10 seconds and turns off (or works without pauses).
• 🔹 Does not respond to temperature changes from the control panel.

Independent repair of the board is possible only if you have a soldering iron and a circuit. In most cases, replacement of the module is required (5 000–8 000 ₽). Before doing this, check:

1. The voltage in the socket (should be 220-230 V).
2. State of the fuse on the board (call with a tester).

7. External factors: room temperature, loading of products. data-i="225">, the compressor does not have time to cool. Norm for

Sometimes the refrigerator works non-stop not because of a breakdown, but because improper use. Check:

• 🔹 Temperature in the room. If higher 30°C, the compressor does not have time to cool. Norm for VEKO: 16-32°C.
• 🔹 Overload with food. If the refrigerator is full, air circulation is disrupted.
• 🔹 Hot foods. soup? The compressor will work until it cools down.
• 🔹 Frequent opening of the door (especially in hot weather).

What to do:

1. Make sure the rear the wall of the refrigerator is separated from the wall by 5-10 cm (for ventilation).
2. Do not load food close to the back wall.
3. If the room is hot, reduce the temperature in the refrigerator by 1-2 degrees (for example, from +5°C to +6°C).

⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator VEKO works without stopping for more than 3 days, and the temperature is chambers does not fall below +10°C - immediately turn it off! Long-term operation in this mode leads to overheating of the compressor windings its failure.

⚠️ Attention: Parts and diagrams of refrigerators VEKO may vary depending on the year of manufacture. For example, models before 2018 were often equipped with mechanical thermostats, and after that - electronic ones. Check the exact modification on the nameplate on the back wall.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about continuous operation of the VEKO refrigerator

Is it possible to operate the refrigerator if it does not turn off, but freezes?

No. Continuous operation leads to:

• 🔹 Overheating of the compressor (risk of interturn short circuit).
• 🔹 Increased energy consumption (up to 1.5-2 kW/hour instead of the usual 0.5-0.8 kW).
• 🔹 Ice formation in the No Frost system (if applicable).

The maximum you can count on is 1-2 days before diagnosis. Then the risk of breakdown increases exponentially.

How much does it cost to repair if a VEKO refrigerator does not turn off?

Prices depend on the reason:

Breakage	Repair cost (₽)
Replacing the thermostat	1 500–3 000
Refilling freon + eliminating leaks	4 000–7 000
Replacing the compressor	8 000–15 000
Repair control board	3 000–6 000
Replacing the door seal	1 200–2 500

If the refrigerator is more than 10 years old, repairs may be unprofitable - compare the cost with the price of a new one VEKO of a similar model.

How to reset the error on the display of a VEKO refrigerator?

For models with electronic control:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains for 10 minutes.
2. Plug it back in and simultaneously press the buttons Super Cool and Super Freeze (if available) for 5 seconds.
3. If the error remains, diagnostics of the board is required.

For mechanical models, the error cannot be reset - you need to eliminate the cause (for example, replace the sensor).

Can a VEKO refrigerator not turn off due to power surges?

Yes. data-i="280">sensitive to: VEKO sensitive to:

• 🔹 Lower voltage 190 V (the compressor does not develop the required power and works without stopping).
• 🔹 Higher voltage 250 V (risk of burning the control board).

Solution: connect the refrigerator via voltage stabilizer (for example, Resanta ASN-1000).

What to do if the VEKO refrigerator does not turn off after defrosting?

Possible reasons:

• 🔹 Faulty defrost sensor (in No Frost models).
• 🔹 Blockage in capillary tube (needs cleaning or replacement).
• 🔹 Freon leakage through microcracks in the evaporator.

You can check only the fan and drainage yourself. For the rest, you need a technician with evacuation equipment.