When the refrigerator stops closing the door tightly, you immediately notice this by the characteristic whistle of the compressor or ice inside cameras. Sealing rubber is the first element that requires checking when such symptoms appear. Equipment owners Indesit often face the need to replace this part, since over time the elastic material loses its properties, cracks or deforms.
Finding a suitable spare part can turn into a real quest if you do not know the exact parameters of your unit. The model range of the Italian brand is extensive, and seals for different series they can differ significantly in geometry and method of fastening. An error in the choice will lead to the door not closing tightly, and the refrigerator will begin to consume more electricity.
In this article we will look in detail at how to correctly identify the necessary part, where to purchase it with a quality guarantee, and how to replace it yourself. You will learn what articles to pay attention to and why cheap universal analogues often turn out to be a waste of money.
How to determine the model of the refrigerator and the type of seal
The first step to a successful purchase is the accurate identification of your model of equipment. On refrigerators Indesit the information sticker is usually located inside the chamber, on the side wall or on the base panel below. It is there that the full serial number and model code is indicated, by which you can find the original spare part.
You should not rely only on the visual similarity of the old rubber band with the new one in the store. The geometry of the profile may be identical, but the places where the magnetic tape is attached or the method of fitting into the door groove will be different. Original seals For Indesit they often have specific corner connections that are difficult to reproduce in artisanal conditions.
⚠️ Attention: Never cut a new one elastic band according to the size of the old one, if you are not 100% sure of the compatibility of the profiles. This may break the tightness of the corner, and the cold will escape through this defect.
For accurate selection you will need the following data from the nameplate:
- 🏷️ Full alphanumeric designation of the model (for example, C 138 or B 20)
- 📏 Exact dimensions of the door opening (height and width of the internal perimeter)
- 🔍 Profile type (angular, with a magnet, with a groove for fastening)
- 📅 Year of manufacture of the device (to understand series compatibility)
Article number and dimensions: reference table of popular models
The most common problem when searching for spare parts is confusion in the article numbers. Equipment Indesit is characterized by the use of several codes for the same part in different delivery regions. Therefore, when searching in online stores, it is worth checking cross codes and compatibility.
The dimensions of the seal directly depend on the dimensions of the refrigerator and freezer compartments. In two-chamber models, the elastic bands of the upper and lower doors may differ not only in length, but also in Section profile. Below is a table with approximate data for popular series.
| Refrigerator model | Sealant article | Size (HxW), cm | Type fastenings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indesit C 138 | C00094776 | 138 x 54 | In the groove (corner) |
| Indesit BIA 18 | C00094803 | 178 x 54 | On screws/in the groove |
| Indesit DS 320 | C00094815 | 200 x 60 | In the groove (with magnet) |
| Indesit EF 20 | C00094822 | 190 x 58 | Corner connection |
⚠️ Attention: Article numbers may change by the manufacturer without prior notice. Always check the visual profile form with the photos in the seller’s catalog before paying for the order.
If your model is not on the list, do not rush to buy a universal option. It is better to measure the inner perimeter of the door and look for a part where the indicated dimensions coincide with yours to the nearest centimeter. Magnetic tape The rubber inside should be solid, without breaks.
Where to buy an original spare part: review of sources
Question "where to buy" has several answers, each with its own pros and cons. Official service centers Indesit (or authorized partners) offer a 100% guarantee of compliance, but the price there is often higher than the market price. This is the most reliable option if you need original kit.
Specialized online stores of spare parts for household appliances offer a wide range and more affordable prices. Here you can find both originals and high-quality analogues. When ordering online, carefully study reviews about the seller and look at real photographs of the product, not stock images.
Markets and construction hypermarkets are a lottery. They often sell universal seals that require complex adjustment. Chinese replicas they can smell like rubber and harden in the cold, so their purchase is justified only as a temporary solution.
Universal seals or the original: what to choose
On the spare parts market you can often find so-called universal rubber bands, which are sold by the meter or in the form of ready-made kits with the ability to trim corners. They are much cheaper than the originals, but require certain skills and tools from the master. Universal profile may not provide adequate tightness for the complex geometric shapes of Indesit doors.
The original spare part is made of material that is resistant to temperature changes and household chemicals. It has precisely calculated rigidity magnetic insert, which ensures a tight fit even with a slight misalignment of the door. Universal analogues are often either too soft or too hard.
⚠️ Attention: If you choose a universal seal, make sure that the section profile (cross-section shape) matches yours. Otherwise, the door may not close completely or, on the contrary, will move away.
The main differences between the original and the analogue:
- 🏭 Exact match of corner joints without the need for gluing
- ❄️ The material does not lose elasticity at low temperatures
- 🧲 Magnetic tape along the entire length without weakened areas
- 📏 Ideal geometry that does not require “smoothing” after installation
Instructions for replacing the sealing rubber
Replacing the seal is a procedure that You can do it yourself with a minimal set of tools. You will need a hair dryer (construction or powerful household), a flat-head screwdriver and, possibly, a screwdriver if your model Indesit the elastic band is screwed on. Before starting work, the refrigerator must be de-energized defrosted.
First remove the old rubber band. If it is inserted into the groove, carefully pull it out, starting from the corner. If the fastening is with screws, unscrew them while holding the door. Clean the door surface from any remaining adhesive, dirt and grease. The new sealing tape must lie on a clean and dry surface.
☑️ Preparation for replacing the rubber band
Start installing the new part from the top corner. If the elastic is hard, heat it with a hairdryer to make it softer and more elastic. Insert the profile into the groove evenly, without strong tension. In the corners, make sure that there are no folds or creases.
⚠️ Attention: When installing the elastic into the groove, do not use sharp objects (knives, screwdrivers) to push it in - you can damage the new material or cut through it. Use a plastic spatula or a blunt object.
What to do if the elastic does not fit into the groove?
If the profile does not fit into the groove, try heating this area again with a hairdryer. Also make sure that you do not confuse the top and bottom or the inside and outside of the profile. Sometimes it helps to lubricate the groove with a soap solution for better sliding, but after drying the tightness will be restored.
Checking the tightness and adjusting the door
After installing the new rubber band, you need to check the quality of work. The easiest way is to test with a sheet of paper. Clamp the sheet with the refrigerator door in different places around the perimeter. If the paper is removed easily and without resistance, it means that in this place the seal is broken..
If leaks are detected, try adjusting the position of the door. Often the problem lies not in the elastic, but in the skew of the loops. Loosen the hinges, level the door and tighten the bolts again. Also check if anything is preventing the tight closure (shelves, products).
Frequently asked questions after replacement:
How long will it take for the refrigerator to start working is it normal?
After replacing the seal, the compressor can operate in enhanced mode for the first 4-6 hours until the temperature inside the chambers is restored. This is normal.
Why does new rubber smell?
The smell of new rubber is natural. It will disappear within 2-3 days. To speed up the process, you can wipe the seal with a weak solution of vinegar or citric acid.
Do you need to lubricate the rubber with silicone?
Silicone grease prolongs the life of the seal and improves the fit, but it must be used carefully so as not to stain the food. It is better to apply it to the inside of the profile that is not in contact with food.
Is it possible to glue a torn rubber band?
Gluing is a temporary measure. The glue breaks the elasticity of the material, and the cold will still escape at the gluing site. For long-term results, it is better to buy a new part.