Is it possible to make a freezer out of a two-chamber refrigerator - a complete guide with diagrams

Converting a standard two-compartment refrigerator into a full-fledged freezer is a task that worries many equipment owners. It is especially relevant for summer residents, owners of small shops or those who are faced with a lack of space for freezing. At first glance, the idea seems simple: just turn off the refrigerator and make the freezer work more intensely. However, in practice, everything is more complicated - you need to understand the principles of operation thermostat, compressor and refrigerant, and also take into account the risks for equipment.

In this article we will analyze 3 working methods transformations (with varying degrees of complexity), dwell in detail on the nuances for popular models (Biryusa, LG, Bosch), and also warn against typical mistakes that lead to compressor failure or freon leakage. You will learn what tools you will need, how to modify the electrical circuit and what to do if the camera does not freeze after modification.

⚠️ Important: Any interventions in the design of the refrigerator will void the manufacturer's warranty. If the equipment is under warranty, it is better to consider purchasing a separate freezer or contact a service center.

1. Why can't you just turn off the refrigerator compartment and leave the freezer?

Many users think that it is enough to turn off the power to the refrigerator compartment (for example, by removing the thermostat or turning off the refrigerant supply), and the freezer will begin to work more efficiently. This dangerous misconception is why:

• 🔄 Imbalance of freon: In two-chamber models, the refrigerant circulates through a single circuit. If you block the flow into the refrigeration compartment, the pressure in the system will increase, which will lead to an overload of the compressor.
• ⚡ Overheating of the compressor: Without cooling in the main chamber, the motor will wear out, as heat transfer will be disrupted. This reduces the service life of the equipment by 2-3 times.
• ❄️ Uneven freezing: The freezer is not designed to work independently - the temperature will jump from -8°C to -24°C, which will spoil the products.

Moreover, in modern refrigerators (for example, Samsung RB30J3000 or LG GA-B409), electronics block the start of the compressor if sensors detect abnormal conditions. Simply “disabling” one compartment will lead to an error on the display or a complete stop of the system.

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator is equipped with a system No Frost, the alteration becomes more complicated - you will need to reconfigure the defrost timer, otherwise the evaporator will become covered with ice in 2-3 days.

2. Conversion methods: from simple to complex

There are three main methods for converting a refrigerator into a freezer. Their choice depends on your skills, equipment model and budget:

Let's consider each method in more detail.

3. Method 1: Software setting (for refrigerators with electronic control)

If your refrigerator is equipped. display and control buttons (for example Samsung RL-34 or LG GB-B399), try activating the “freezer mode” through the service menu. This method does not require disassembling the equipment and is reversible.

Instructions:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply for 10 minutes, then turn on.
2. Press and hold the buttons Freezer + Fridge (or Temp + Power Cool for Samsung) for 5-7 seconds until the service menu appears.
3. In the menu, find the parameter Mode or Function and select Freezer Only (in some models - F0).
4. Save the settings and reboot the refrigerator.

⚠️ Attention: Not all models support this mode. If after rebooting the refrigerator displays an error E1 or FF, return the settings to their original state.

Which models support this mode?

• 🔹 Samsung series RB, RL (2018 and newer)
• 🔹 LG with system Smart Inverter (for example, GA-B429)
• 🔹 Bosch series KAN9 (requires activation via Service Mode)

How to enter the service menu on Bosch refrigerators?

On models Bosch KAN9 and KAD9 hold the button Super for 10 seconds, then press + and — select F1 → F3 → 1 to activate the freezer mode.

4. Method 2: Mechanical blocking of the refrigerator compartment (for older models)

This method is suitable for refrigerators with with one compressor i drip defrosting system (for example, Atlant XM-4021 or Turk 10).The point is to physically shut off the supply of refrigerant to the refrigeration compartment, forcing all the cold to go into the freezer.

What you will need:

• 🔧 Screwdriver (Phillips/flat)
• 🔨 Pliers
• 🛠️ Heat-shrink tube (diameter 6–8 mm)
• 🧊 Silicone sealant (frost-resistant)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Unplug the refrigerator and defrost it (minimum 12 hours).
2. Remove the back cover (usually attached to 4-6 screws).
3. Find the one going from the compressor to the evaporator of the refrigeration chamber. It is thinner than the others and is usually wrapped in thermal insulation. capillary tube, going from the compressor to the evaporator of the refrigeration chamber. It is thinner than the others and is usually wrapped in insulation.
4. Carefully pinch the tube with pliers (not completely, so as not to damage it!) and wrap the pinch with a heat-shrink tube, heating it with a hairdryer. This will prevent refrigerant leakage.
5. Cover the evaporator of the refrigerator compartment with foam plastic or plastic. foil insulation so that the cold does not escape there.
6. Assemble the refrigerator in the reverse order.

⚠️ Attention: After such a modification, the compressor will operate 30–40% louder, and its service life will be reduced. We recommend installing an additional fan to cool the motor (you can use a 12V computer cooler).

Defrost the refrigerator for 12+ hours

Check the model for compatibility (only 1 compressor!)

Buy heat-shrink tube and sealant

Prepare a place for disassembly (clean, spacious)-->

5. Method 3: Installing a solenoid valve (for advanced)

The most reliable, but also the most difficult method is to solder into the system solenoid valvewhich will redirect all the freon to the freezer. This method is used in service centers and requires skills in soldering copper pipes.

Required materials:

• 🔧 Solenoid valve (for example, Danfoss 07H or Parker H41)
• 🔥 Gas torch + solder (silver, for copper tubes)
• 🛠️ Pressure gauge for checking pressure
• 🧪 Vacuum pump (for refilling freon)

Order work:

1. Pump out the freon from the system (this must be done by a licensed specialist!).
2. Cut the capillary tube going to the refrigeration chamber and solder the solenoid valve into the gap.
3. Connect the valve to power (you can take the voltage from the control board or install a separate unit supply at 12V).
4. Fill the system with freon (the type of refrigerant is indicated on the compressor nameplate, usually R134a or R600a).
5. Check the tightness with a soap solution (there should be no bubbles!).

💡 Useful advice: If you are not sure of your soldering skills, contact a specialist. An error when filling freon can lead to an explosion of the compressor!

How much does it cost?

6. Typical mistakes and how to make them. avoid

Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes when remaking refrigerators. Here are the most common ones:

• ❌ Pressing the capillary tube without heat shrink: Leads to microcracks and freon leakage after 1-2 months. Solution: Always use a heat-shrinkable tube and check the tightness with soap. solution.
• ❌ Ignoring compressor ventilation: After blocking the refrigerator compartment, the motor overheats. Solution: Install an additional fan or increase the gap between the refrigerator and the wall to 10 see
• ❌ Refilling the wrong freon: For example, R134a instead R600a leads to increased pressure and compressor breakdown. Solution: The type of refrigerant is indicated on the compressor sticker - check it!
• ❌ No defrosting before work: Ice in the evaporator can damage the tubes during disassembly. Solution: Defrost the refrigerator for at least 12 hours.

⚠️ Attention: If after the modification the freezer works, but a thick layer of ice forms on its walls (more than 5 mm per day), then circulation is impaired Check whether the fan is blocked (in models with No Frost) or whether the drainage hole is frozen.

7. Alternative solutions: when rework is unjustified

Before undertaking rework, Evaluate whether it’s easier to consider alternatives:

• 🏪 Purchase of a used freezer cameras: On Avito or in thrift stores you can find working freezers (Stinol, Atlant) for 3,000–8,000 rubles.
• ❄️ Chest freezer rental: Relevant for summer residents - many services rent out GEL for the summer for 1,500–2,500 rubles/month.
• 🔄 Exchange program Trade-in: Some stores (for example, M.Video, Eldorado) accept old refrigerators in exchange for the purchase of new freezers.

When does modification definitely not make sense?

• 🔹 Refrigerator over 15 years old - the risk of compressor failure after modification is above 70%.
• 🔹 Model with system No Frost i electronic control (too difficult to reconfigure).
• 🔹 If the freezer is already working at the limit (for example, it does not drop below -12°C).

💡 Advice: Before making a decision, calculate the costs. If the rework will cost more than 5,000 rubles, it is more profitable to buy a separate freezer.

8. Frequently asked questions

Is it possible to convert a refrigerator with two compressors?

Yes, but this is pointless. In such models (LG GR-B207, Bosch KGN39), the freezer already has a separate compressor and circuit. It is enough to turn off the refrigeration compartment (pull out the plug or unscrew the thermostat), and the freezer will work autonomously without risk to equipment.

How to understand that the alteration has been completed successful?

Check three parameters:

1. The temperature in the freezer remains stably at -18°C (measure with a thermometer).
2. The compressor turns off at regular intervals (does not work all the time).
3. No on the walls ice thicker than 3–5 mm is formed.

If at least one point is not met, it means there is an error in the settings or tightness of the system.

What to do if after the modification the refrigerator does not turn on?

Probable reasons:

• 🔌 Short circuit during soldering - check the fuse on the compressor.
• ❄️ The start relay is frozen - warm it up with a hairdryer (no higher than 60°C!).
• 🔧 Error when refilling freon - repeated pumping and refilling is required.

If you are not sure, contact a specialist. Self-repair without experience can aggravate the breakdown.

How often should you defrost a converted freezer?

The frequency depends on the remodeling method:

• 🔹 After software setup - once every 3-4 months (like a regular freezer).
• 🔹 After mechanical blocking - once every 1-2 months (due to impaired air circulation).
• 🔹 After installing the valve - once every 6 months (if the system is sealed).

Is it possible to return the refrigerator to initial state?

Yes, but with reservations:

• 🔄 Software settings are reset through the service menu.
• 🔧 Mechanical blockage of the tube can be eliminated, but if freon is already charged to the new mode, refilling will be required.
• ⚠️ If the tubes were damaged when soldering the valve, restoration may not be possible.