The situation when the door of a refrigeration unit stops closing tightly is familiar to many owners of household appliances. If you notice that it has become warmer inside, and condensation or ice has appeared on the walls, then the first thing you should do is check the condition sealing collar. It is this element that is responsible for sealing the chamber and maintaining cold. Owners of Ariston equipment are often faced with the need to replace this part, since over time the rubber material loses its elasticity, cracks or deforms.
Finding a suitable spare part can turn into a real quest, because the brand’s model range is extensive, and there are practically no universal solutions here. You will need to accurately determine the modification of your device in order to find a compatible elastic band for the Ariston refrigerator. An error in choosing the part number will lead to the fact that the new gasket will not fit into place or will leak air, negating all repair efforts. In this article, we will look at where to look for original components, how to distinguish them from cheap analogues, and whether it is possible to perform the replacement yourself.
Timely replacement of the seal is not only a matter of comfort, but also saving energy. The cold escapes through a loosely fitting door, forcing the compressor to work in increased mode. Damage to the seal is the cause of 30% of all compressor breakdowns due to continuous operation. Therefore, having discovered a defect, you should not put off buying a new part for a long time. Next, we will look at the main sales channels and nuances of choice.
Official service centers and authorized partners
The most reliable, although not always the fastest way to find a quality part is to contact in official service centers (ASC). Ariston, like many large manufacturers of household appliances, has an established supply chain of original spare parts. The advantage of this approach is the guarantee of compatibility: you will receive exactly the model of seal that was developed by engineers for your specific refrigerator.
However, it is worth considering that the assortment in ASC warehouses may be limited to popular models. If your refrigerator was manufactured several years ago or belongs to a rare series, the part may be delivered to order. This will take time, from several days to several weeks. But you will be confident in the quality of the material: the original rubber has a special impregnation that prevents the growth of bacteria and mold.
⚠️ Attention: When ordering through an official service, be sure to request a receipt and a warranty card for the spare part. In case of a manufacturing defect (for example, if the rubber turns out to be too hard in the cold), you will be able to exchange the product.
To contact the service, you will need the exact model of the device. It is indicated on technical nameplatewhich is usually located inside the refrigerator compartment on the side wall or on the rear panel of the case. Write down all the letters and numbers listed in the "Model" or "Mod." line. This is key information to search for.
Specialized online stores of spare parts
The second and often more efficient option is specialized online stores selling components for household appliances. Here the choice is seals usually wider than in local service centers. Such stores work with various suppliers, including manufacturing plants of rubber products that produce products under license or compatible high-quality analogues.
When searching on such sites, use filters by brand and model. It is important to pay attention to the description of the product: some sellers indicate “original”, others indicate “analogue” or “replacement”. Analogs they may cost less, but their geometric dimensions sometimes differ by millimeters, which is critical for tightness. Before paying, it is recommended to contact the store manager and dictate the refrigerator model for double-checking.
Many large stores offer a selection service based on photos. You send an image of the old rubber band and nameplate, and specialists confirm compatibility. This reduces the risk of error. It is also worth checking the availability of goods in the warehouse: if it says “to order”, check the actual delivery times, as they may be delayed.
Marketplaces and bulletin boards
The modern market dictates its own rules, and large marketplaces have become a popular place for buying household goods, including spare parts. Here you can find offers from both large suppliers and individuals. A plus is the ability to quickly compare prices, read reviews from other buyers and see real photos of the product.
However, when purchasing on marketplaces and message boards (such as Avito or Yula), the risks of running into poor quality product higher. Private sellers may pass off universal Chinese seals as original ones. Such rubber bands often have an unpleasant chemical smell, are too hard and do not stretch well, which is why the corners of the door remain open.
If you still decide to use this purchase channel, carefully study the seller’s rating and comments. Look for phrases in reviews like “fit like original” or “size matches.” Be prepared for the fact that returning a product of good quality (if you just don’t like it) in the case of spare parts may be difficult if the packaging is opened.
⚠️ Attention: Used rubber bands are often found on message boards. It is not recommended to buy them, since the rubber resource is limited. The old cuff already has residual deformation and will not be able to provide the required tightness, even if it looks intact on the outside.
For a successful purchase on the marketplace, use the exact part number if you know it. A search for the name “elastic band for Ariston” will return hundreds of different results, among which it is easy to get confused. The article guarantees that you are looking at a specific part.
How to determine the correct article number of the seal
The search begins not from the store, but from studying the documentation or labeling of the refrigerator itself. Seals for different models Ariston may look similar, but have different side lengths, corner configurations, or mounting methods. The main identifier is part number (catalog number) of the part.
Where can I find it? Ideally, in the operating instructions, in the "Spare parts" section. If the instructions are lost, the number can be found on the oldest rubber band. Often, a code is embossed on the inside of the cuff, closer to the corner. The number may also be indicated on a sticker inside the refrigerator compartment, next to the basic information about the model.
What to do if the number on the elastic band has been erased?
If the marking is not readable, you will have to measure the refrigerator manually. Take a tape measure and measure the length and width of the doorway (the internal dimensions where the elastic is inserted). Also measure the height and width of the rubber band itself in cross-section. This data will help the consultant select an analogue.
There are also compatibility catalogs. Knowing the exact model of the refrigerator (for example, Ariston MBAA 185 V), you can find a list of all compatible spare parts on the websites of component manufacturers. Often the same seal is suitable for a whole series of models, which simplifies the search.
Comparison of original spare parts and analogues
When choosing between the original and the substitute, it is important to understand the difference in characteristics. The original rubber undergoes strict quality control, it is frost-resistant, elastic and safe for contact with products. Analogues can be made from cheaper raw materials.
The table below shows a comparison of the main characteristics, which will help you make an informed decision when purchasing:
| Characteristics | Original spare part | Quality analogue | Cheap analogue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Special rubber with antibacterial impregnation | Rubber of similar composition | Technical rubber with odor |
| Elasticity | High, restores shape | Average | Low, tans quickly |
| Service life | 5-7 years or more | 3-4 years | 1-2 year |
| Geometry | Perfect match | Minimal deviations are possible | Often requires adjustment |
If you plan to use the refrigerator intensively and want to forget about the problem for a long time time, it is better to overpay for original or a certified analogue from a well-known brand (for example, Indesit, since brands often belong to the same corporation and have common components). Cheap options are suitable as a temporary solution.
Instructions for replacing the seal yourself
Replacing the rubber band on an Ariston refrigerator is a procedure that can be performed independently, without the help of a specialist. This will save you money on calling a specialist. The process does not require complex tools, but requires accuracy and attentiveness.
Before starting work, the refrigerator must be defrost unplugged from the network. New tires must be at room temperature to become flexible. Leave it indoors for a few hours before installing. Also prepare a hairdryer (construction or household), a flat screwdriver and a soap solution.
☑️ Preparing to replace the seal
The process of removing the old cuff depends on the type fastenings Modern Ariston models use a profile that is simply inserted into a groove on the door. It needs to be carefully pryed off with a screwdriver and pulled out around the perimeter. In older models, the elastic can be glued or screwed with screws hidden under the plastic.
Installation of the new part begins from the corners. Insert the corners of the profile into the groove, then gradually, in sections of 10-15 cm, press the rubber around the perimeter. Move from the center of the sides to the corners or vice versa, the main thing is uniformity. If the rubber does not shrink well, use a hair dryer: heat the problem area with hot air (without overheating until it melts), stretch it and insert it into the groove. After cooling, it will take the desired shape.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use glue to fix the seal if the design does not require it. The glue will make future replacement impossible and may damage the plastic of the door. If the profile is weakly held, it is better to check the integrity of the groove itself or use double-sided tape inside the profile, but not outside.
After installation, check the tightness of the fit. The door should close with a characteristic bang, but without excessive force. If there are gaps between the door and the body, warm up these places with a hairdryer and straighten them with your hand, pressing the door until it cools down.
Frequently asked questions and answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to restore an old rubber band instead of buying a new one?
Temporary restoration is possible if the rubber is not torn, but just deformed. You can try soaking it in hot water or heating it with a hairdryer, straightening out the creases. However, this is a temporary measure: after 1-2 months the elasticity will disappear again, and you will have to buy a new part.
Is a universal rubber band suitable for an Ariston refrigerator?
Universal seals exist, but their installation is difficult. They often have a long length that needs to be cut and may not provide a perfect seal in corners. For constant use, it is better to look for model rubber tailored to a specific door profile.
How often do you need to change the seal on a refrigerator?
The average service life of a high-quality seal is 5-7 years. However, its condition should be checked annually. If you notice that the paper jammed by the door can be easily removed, or you see cracks, you should replace it immediately, without waiting for the expiration date.
Why does the new rubber smell?
A slight smell of rubber in the first days of use is normal for a new part. It should wear off within a week. If the smell is sharp, chemical and does not go away for a long time, perhaps you purchased a product from low-quality raw materials.