Have you noticed that the refrigerator is unstable: it either freezes the food or does not cool it enough? The reason may lie in a faulty temperature sensor -small but critical element of the system. This sensor transmits data about the current temperature in the chambers to the control board, and if it fails, the equipment begins to “glitch.” However, before you run to the service center, you should check its condition yourself. The main question: where exactly to look for this sensor in your model?
The location of the temperature sensor depends on the type of refrigerator (NoFrost, drip, two-chamber), brand (Samsung, LG, Indesit) and even the year of manufacture. In some models, the sensor is hidden behind the back wall, in others it is in plain sight, but disguised as plastic elements. We have collected current diagrams for 10+ popular brands, added photos of real sensors and explained how to check them without special equipment. If you have never disassembled equipment, don’t worry: in 80% of cases, a screwdriver and 10 minutes of time are enough to access the sensor.
Types of temperature sensors in refrigerators: which one do you have?
Before looking for a sensor, you need to understand what type is installed in your model. Not only its location, but also the diagnostic method depends on this. All sensors are divided into three categories:
- 🔹 Thermistors —the most common. Change resistance depending on temperature. Used in 90% of household refrigerators (Atlant, Beko, Whirlpool).
- 🔹 Thermocouple - generate a weak electric current when heated. Found in industrial models and some Liebert or Sanyo.
- 🔹 Digital sensors (DS18B20 and analogues) - transmit data in digital form. Installed in “smart” refrigerators (Samsung Family Hub, LG InstaView).
How to determine the type without disassembling? Look at the technical data sheet or find the refrigerator model on the manufacturer’s website. In the characteristics, look for lines like Temperature Sensor Type or Thermal sensor type. If there is no documentation, focus on the age of the equipment:
| Year of manufacture | Probable sensor type | Examples of models |
|---|---|---|
| Before 2010 | Thermistor (analog) | Indesit BIAA 13, Atlant MXM 1705 |
| 2010–2018 | Thermistor or thermocouple | Samsung RL-34ECMS, LG GA-B419 SLQZ |
| After 2018 | Digital or hybrid | Bosch KAN92VI30R, Haier C2F636CWG |
In refrigerators with the NoFrost system, TWO sensors are often installed: one controls the temperature in the chamber, the second - in the evaporator (behind the back wall). If your model is equipped with a display that accurately displays the temperature (for example, Samsung RB37J5240SS), most likely there is a digital sensor there.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Side-by-Side (with vertical division of chambers) sensors can be duplicated for each zone separately. Before replacing, check the number of sensors in the circuit of your model!
Where is the temperature sensor in NoFrost refrigerators?
The system NoFrost assumes forced air circulation, so the sensors here are located differently than in drip models. Main installation locations:
- 🔍 Behind the back wall of the freezer. chambers —the most common option is the sensor is attached to the evaporator or air duct.
- 🔍 In the upper part of the refrigerator compartment —next to the fan (for example, in LG GA-B489 YDQZ).
- 🔍 Inside the air duct —requires disassembling the rear panel (typical for Samsung and Bosch).
To get to the sensor in the NoFrostrefrigerator:
- Disconnect the appliance from the mains and defrost (if there is ice).
- Remove the back panel of the freezer - it is usually attached to 4-6 screws.
- Look for a small plastic box (the size of an AAA battery) with two wires going to the control board.
Location of the sensor in drip refrigerators: atlas for 5 popular brands
In drip models, the sensor is usually located in more accessible places, since the system does not involve forced airflow. We have collected typical diagrams for popular brands:
| Brand | Model range | Sensor location | Photo/diagram |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlant | MHM, XM | On the back wall of the refrigerator compartment, under the plastic cover | 📷 (sensor in the form of a cylinder with wires) |
| Indesit | BIAA, BIA | In the upper corner freezer, behind the decorative panel | 📷 (white plastic box 2x3 cm) |
| Beko | CN, CSA | On the evaporator (requires removal of the back panel) | 📷 (sensor glued to the tube) |
To access the sensor in Atlant or Indesit often it is enough to remove the plastic plug on the back wall of the camera. In models Beko and Whirlpool it may be necessary to dismantle the internal panel - a Phillips screwdriver and a plastic pick will be useful here. (so as not to scratch the surface).
How to remove the back panel without damaging it?
Use a plastic spatula or credit card to pry up the clips. Start from the top corner - there are usually fewer latches there. If the panel does not give way, check if there are any unnoticed screws under the rubber seal.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Stinol i Ardo the sensor can be integrated into the control unit. If you do not find it in the chamber, do not disassemble the board yourself, contact the service!
Two-chamber refrigerators: where to look for sensors in each. zone?
In two-chamber models, sensors are installed separately for the refrigerator and freezer compartments. Typical schemes:
- 🧊 Freezer compartment:
- 🔹 On the evaporator (for NoFrost)
- 🔹 Behind the rear panel in the upper corner (for drip)
- ❄️ Refrigerator compartment:
- 🔹 On the top shelf (hidden under a plastic cap)
- 🔹 In the air duct (if there is a system Multi Air Flow)
Example for LG GA-B429 SLQZ:
- Freezer: the sensor is glued to the evaporator (access after removing the back panel).
- Refrigerator: the sensor is built into the top shelf, closed with a round cap with a diameter of 3 cm.
Check the top shelf of the refrigerator|Inspect the back wall of the freezer|Look for wires leading to the control board|Compare with the photo from the instructions-->
Signs of a sensor malfunction: when is it time to check it?
Before disassembling the refrigerator, make sure that the problem is in the sensor. The following symptoms indicate its malfunction:
- ❄️ Constant operation of the compressor no shutdowns (or, conversely, too frequent). pauses).
- 🌡️ Temperature mismatch on the display and in reality (check with a thermometer!).
- ⚠️ Errors on the panel:
E1,H1,F2(the explanation is in the manual). - 🍧 Uneven freezing: in one corner there is ice, in the other - +10°C.
The simplest test: put an outdoor thermometer in the refrigerator for 2 hours If its readings diverge from the display by more than 2 hours. 3°C - the sensor is faulty. For accurate diagnosis, you will need a multimeter:
- Disconnect the sensor connector from the board.
- Measure the resistance at room temperature (should be ~5–10 kOhm for thermistors).
- Immerse the sensor in a glass of cold water - the resistance should increase.
How to replace the temperature sensor yourself: step-by-step instructions
If the diagnostics have confirmed the malfunction, you can proceed with the replacement. You will need:
- 🔧 Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- 🔌 New sensor (buy according to the part number from the instructions!)
- 📸 Phone for photographing connections
- 🧲 Magnetic holder for screws (optional, but convenient)
Replacement algorithm:
- Unplug the refrigerator and defrost.
- Remove the panel behind which the sensor is hidden (the method depends on the model, see sections above).
- Disconnect the sensor connector from the board controls. Take a photo of the connection!
- Carefully remove the old sensor. In some models, it is secured with a clip or glue.
- Install a new sensor, connect the connector.
- Assemble the refrigerator in the reverse order.
Important: After replacing the sensor in models with electronic control (Samsung, LG), you may need to reset the settings. To do this:
1. Turn off the refrigerator for 5 minutes.2. Turn on and immediately press the button
Super Cool(orPower Freeze) for 10 seconds.
3. Wait for the sound signal.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Liebert and some Haier sensors are calibrated automatically the first time they are turned on. Do not interrupt the process for 24 hours!
Common mistakes when searching and replacing a sensor
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to repeated breakdowns. Avoid these pitfalls:
- 🚫 Ignoring the second sensor. In NoFrostmodels there are often two of them: one for the chamber, the other for the evaporator. If you replace only one, the problem will remain.
- 🚫 Confusion with connectors. Connect the new sensor strictly according to the photo! Mixed-up contacts can burn the board.
- 🚫 Use of non-original spare parts. Sensors from other models may have a different resistance, which will lead to incorrect operation.
- 🚫 Forget about sealing. After replacing, check whether the panel is tightly closed - the cracks will lead to freezing.
What to do if after replacing the sensor the refrigerator does not turn on?
1. Check whether the connector is connected correctly (sometimes the contacts are “hidden” behind a plastic retainer).
2. Make sure the new sensor is compatible with your model (compare part numbers).
3. Turn off the refrigerator for 10 minutes - the board protection may have worked.
If the problem persists, contact service: the control board could be damaged.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about temperature sensors
Is it possible to clean the sensor instead of replacing it?
Yes, if the problem is contamination (for example, grease or dust). Gently wipe the sensor with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Do not use abrasives! If the sensor is damaged by corrosion or has mechanical defects, only replace it.
How to find out the sensor number to order?
The part number is indicated on the sensor itself (for example, 67006139 for some Indesit) or in the spare parts diagram for your model. If there is no marking, take a photo of the sensor and show it to the spare parts store.
How much does it cost to replace the sensor in the service?
The cost depends on the model and region. On average:
- Diagnostics: 500–1000 ₽
- Sensor replacement: 1500–3000 ₽ (excluding spare parts)
- Sensor: 300–1500 ₽ (original more expensive)
For NoFrostmodels the price may be higher due to the complexity of disassembly.
Can a refrigerator work without a sensor?
Technically yes, but this will lead to:
- Continuous operation compressor (overheating and wear).
- Uncontrolled freezing or defrosting.
- Failure of the control board due to lack of feedback.
How to check the sensor without multimeter?
Alternative method:
- Turn off the refrigerator and remove the sensor.
- Place it in a glass of warm water (40–50°C) for 5 minutes.
- Quickly plug it back in and turn it on refrigerator.
- If the compressor does not start or works without stopping, the sensor is faulty.