Buying a new refrigerator Ariston is always a joyful event, marking the renewal of household appliances in the kitchen. However, the installation process often baffles users, especially when it comes to removing the clamps that hold the compressor in place during transport. Many owners, not finding obvious screws on the back wall, begin to panic, believing that their model is an exception or that the screws are hidden inside the case. This is a common misconception that can lead to serious errors during the first start.
In modern models of Ariston refrigerators, the transport protection system may look different than in the old Soviet units to which we are accustomed. Shipping bolts here they are often replaced with special brackets, strips, or even integrated into the compressor mounting structure in such a way that they do not need to be removed manually in the usual sense. Understanding exactly how the motor is secured in your particular model is critical to preventing vibration, noise, and broken tubes when you first turn it on.
In this article, we will look in detail at where to look for fasteners, how to properly dismantle them, and what to do if you accidentally turned on the refrigerator without removing the fasteners. We will consider the design features of various series Hotpoint-Ariston and give clear recommendations for safe installation. Ignoring these rules can lead to the fact that the new unit will fail long before the end of the warranty period.
Design features of fastening the compressor in Ariston refrigerators
Brand refrigerators Ariston, produced at different factories (in Russia, Poland or Turkey), may have differences in the engine fixation system. In most classic models, the compressor is attached to the frame on four rubber shock absorbers. During transportation, these shock absorbers are not able to absorb strong shocks, so the engine is rigidly fixed with metal bolts or brackets. Transport fasteners prevents the displacement of heavy parts and the breakage of copper tubes that fit the motor.
Unlike washing machines, where the bolts are always present from behind and can be seen with the naked eye, in refrigerators the situation is more complicated. Often the bolts are located in hard-to-reach places, covered with plastic plugs, or require removal of the bottom panel. Some modern models use a system Soft Landing or similar technologies, where instead of bolts, special transport clips made of foam or plastic are used, which you simply need to pull out.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to find bolts by disassembling the top of the refrigerator or removing the inner lining of the chamber. All fixing elements are located in the lower part of the unit, in the area of the compressor compartment.
If you are the owner of a model with the system No Frost, the likelihood of having complex fasteners is higher, since the vibration of the compressor here should be minimal for stable operation of the fans. In such cases, manufacturers often use combined fixation methods: metal bolts plus plastic spacers. It is important to understand that mount design depends on the year of manufacture and the specific series of the device.
Where to look for bolts: step-by-step instructions for localization
The search for transportation elements should begin with a visual inspection of the bottom of the rear wall of the refrigerator. You will need to move the unit away from the wall to provide access to the compressor. Be careful: the floor may be slippery and the refrigerator itself may be heavy. It is better to carry out these manipulations with an assistant. In 90% of cases, shipping bolts are located exactly where the motor is attached to the metal base frame.
Carefully inspect the area around the black cylindrical or pear-shaped compressor. Look for metal studs running through the rubber shock feet or horizontal brackets bolted to the frame. In some models Ariston these bolts may be covered with decorative black plastic covers, which must be carefully pryed off with a flat screwdriver. Also, the fasteners may be hidden under a removable metal or plastic panel at the very bottom of the rear wall.
If you do not see bolts in plain sight, check the following places:
- 🔍 Under the removable rear cover at the bottom of the unit (you need to unscrew a few screws).
- 🔍 At the bottom of the side walls, if access to the compressor is blocked.
- 🔍 In the form of plastic wedges inserted between the compressor and the frame (you just need to remove them by hand).
- 🔍 On some models, the bolts may not be tightened completely and are fixed with paint or a seal.
It is important to distinguish between the transport ones bolts and fasteners that are part of the structure. If the bolt looks rusty, covered in dust, or has traces of factory paint on the threads, it is most likely a stock fastener that Cannot be removed. Shipping items usually look new, clean, and often have bright markings (yellow or red stickers) with an image of a crossed out cart or key.
Instructions for the safe dismantling of transport elements
After you have accurately determined the location of the latches, you can begin to remove them. For this operation you will need a minimum set of tools: a Phillips screwdriver, a wrench (usually 10 or 13 mm) and possibly pliers. Before starting work, be sure unplug the refrigerator from the power supply, if it has already been turned on for testing, or just make sure that the cord is not connected.
The dismantling process depends on the type of fastener. If these are bolts that go through the rubber shock absorbers, they need to be unscrewed counterclockwise. Don't try too hard; if the bolt does not budge, you may be trying to unscrew the standard fasteners. In the case of brackets screwed to the frame, it is enough to unscrew the screws holding the bracket. Plastic clips and spacers can be removed by simply pulling them out; sometimes you need to slightly rock the compressor (very carefully!) to release the clamp.
Checklist for correct dismantling:
After removing all the elements, carefully inspect the compressor. It should “float” freely on rubber shock absorbers, without touching the metal frame or body walls. If you hear a metallic clang when the unit is slightly rocked, this is a good sign, which means that rigid fixation has been removed. Be sure to save all removed bolts, washers and brackets. You will need them if you ever have to transport the refrigerator to another location or have it repaired.
⚠️ Attention: Do not throw away the shipping bolts! They are a mandatory attribute of packaging for any future transportation. Without them, the compressor may be broken during transportation, and the service center will refuse warranty repairs.
Table: Location of bolts in popular Ariston models
Since the brand's model range is extensive, we have systematized the data for the most common series. Please note that within the same series there may be modifications with different types of fastening, so visual inspection always takes precedence over tabular data.
| Series / Model | Fastener location | Tool type | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ariston QS 09 / QZ 09 | Rear, 4 bolts on the frame | 10 mm wrench | The bolts go through the rubber feet |
| Ariston MBA 1185 | Under the lower rear panel | Philipps screwdriver + wrench | Requires removal of the metal cover |
| Hotpoint-Ariston MB 0185 | Plastic clips | No tools | You need to pull out the blue/red clips |
| Ariston BD 2422 | Side and rear of the compressor | Key 13 mm | Two brackets screwed to the base |
As can be seen from the table, in some cases, for example, in the series MB 0185, there may be no bolts as such at all. Instead, plastic clips are used, which easily break if handled carelessly. If you find such clips, proceed with extreme caution. In models with metal brackets, such as BD 2422, it is important not to lose the screws that secure these brackets, as they have a specific thread.
If your model is not on the list, follow the general rule: look for any metal or plastic elements that connect the moving part (compressor) to the stationary part (frame) and show signs of temporary installation (stickers, lack of paint on the threads). Depreciation system must be free.
Risks of turning on the refrigerator with installed bolts
Many users ask the question: what will happen if you forget to remove the shipping bolts? The consequences can be serious. A refrigerator compressor is a complex mechanism that creates vibration when operating. Rubber shock absorbers are designed to dampen these vibrations. If the engine is rigidly fixed with bolts, the vibration is transmitted directly to the housing, tubes and internal components.
The main risks of operating with a fixed compressor:
- 💥 Breakage of tubes: copper pipes suitable for the motor may not withstand the constant vibration load and burst, which will lead to leakage freon.
- 🔊 Strong noise and hum: the refrigerator will operate much louder than usual, making rattling sounds.
- 🌡️ Compressor overheating: lack of normal shock absorption can disrupt the thermal operation of the engine.
- 🔨 Destruction of fastenings: with strong vibration, the mounting ears may break off or the frame itself may become deformed.
Is it possible to turn on a refrigerator with bolts for 5 minutes to check?
Short-term activation (for 1-2 minutes) to check the operation of the light or the presence of current is usually safe. However, starting a full cooling cycle with a load on the compressor with the bolts tightened is extremely undesirable. If you turn on the refrigerator and hear an unusually loud hum, turn it off immediately.
If you find that the refrigerator has been working with bolts for several hours, do not panic, but do not ignore the situation. Turn off the unit, let it stand for 3-4 hours (so that the oil flows into the crankcase if it gets into the circuit due to shaking), remove the bolts and only then turn it on again. In most cases, if there is no mechanical rupture of the tubes, the device will continue to operate without problems.
Frequent errors during installation and dismantling
Even attentive users often make mistakes when trying to prepare the refrigerator Ariston for operation. One of the most common is attempting to remove the bolts without unplugging the appliance or providing sufficient lighting. Another mistake is the loss of small parts. As already mentioned, shipping fasteners you need to take care.
Often users confuse the adjusting supports (legs) on the front of the refrigerator with the shipping bolts. The legs are needed to level the unit, and they can and should be rotated. The transport elements are always located at the back or below and serve only to secure the compressor. Another mistake is using excessive force. If the bolt does not go, you may be turning it in the wrong direction.
⚠️ Attention: The design of refrigerators may vary depending on the year of manufacture and the manufacturing plant. If you are not sure of your actions, check the official instructions for your specific model or contact an authorized service center.
Do not forget about safety. The refrigerator is heavy and has sharp metal edges on the bottom. Wear gloves. Also avoid tilting the refrigerator more than 40 degrees before leaving it in an upright position for at least 2-3 hours (preferably 24 hours) if it was transported lying down. This is necessary for the oil to drain into the compressor.
Questions and answers (FAQ)
What should I do if I have lost the shipping bolts, but am planning to move?
If you have lost the original bolts, do not transport the refrigerator with an unsecured compressor. You need to fix the motor yourself. You can use wooden blocks that fit tightly between the compressor and the frame, or buy universal shipping fasteners from a hardware store. The main thing is to exclude any mobility of the motor.
Is it necessary to remove the bolts if the refrigerator was transported only in an elevator (vertically)?
Yes, definitely. Even if the refrigerator was not tilted, vibration from the operation of the elevator and movement around the apartment is transferred to the compressor. If turned on without removing the bolts, the engine will operate under extreme conditions. Removing the fasteners is a mandatory procedure for any new installation.
Can you tell by the noise whether the bolts have been removed?
Yes, this is one of the signs. If, after turning on, the refrigerator makes a loud metallic rattling noise, hum, or knocking noise that should not occur in a new quiet model, the compressor is most likely jammed. The housing may also vibrate strongly if touched by hand. In this case, the unit must be turned off immediately and the fastenings checked.
Where to find the instructions if the paper version is lost?
Electronic versions of the instructions for all models Ariston and Hotpoint-Ariston are available on the manufacturer's official website. You will need the exact model found on a sticker inside the refrigerator compartment (usually on the left wall or ceiling). Enter this code in the search on the site, and you will get access to a complete user manual with diagrams.