Modern two-chamber refrigerators Biryusa are distinguished by their reliability and energy efficiency, however, correct setting of the temperature regime often raises questions among users. Not only the safety of products, but also the service life of the compressor depends on the accuracy of adjustment. Incorrectly set parameters can lead to the formation of an ice crust or, conversely, to spoilage of perishable products.
In most models, such as the popular series 108 or 133, control is carried out by a mechanical thermostat located inside the refrigerator compartment. Understanding the operating principle of this unit will allow you to avoid common mistakes and adjust the climate inside the unit to suit your needs. It is important to consider that the cooling process takes time, so you should not expect an instant result immediately after turning the knob.
In this article we will analyze in detail the setting algorithms for various modifications, discuss the influence of external factors and provide a table of mode correspondence. Accurate calibration is the key to saving energy and the absence of foreign odors in the chamber.
The principle of operation of the Biryusa thermostat
The mechanical thermostat in refrigerators Biryusa is a device that responds to changes in temperature in the evaporator or chamber air. When the handle is turned, the user changes the spring tension, which shifts the contact threshold. The numbers on a scale from 1 to 7 (or up to 5 in older models) do not indicate degrees Celsius, but the intensity of the compressor.
The higher the number, the lower the temperature must drop for the thermostat to break the circuit and stop the engine. At the maximum value, the compressor can operate almost without interruption, which is only permissible in extremely hot conditions or when fully loaded with warm products. For everyday use the optimal position is considered between 3 and 4.
Why does the thermostat click?
When the set temperature is reached, the contacts inside the thermostat open, emitting a characteristic click. This is a normal operating sound, indicating that the automation is working properly. If the clicks are too loud or frequent, the unit may need to be replaced.
It is worth noting that in two-chamber models with one compressor, the cold is distributed unevenly. The main cold is generated in the freezer compartment, and it enters the refrigerator compartment through channels or due to convection. Therefore, adjustments are always made with an eye to the condition of the products in the main chamber, since this is where most perishable goods are stored.
Deciphering the temperature scale
Users often mistakenly believe that the number on the regulator corresponds to the number of degrees. In fact, the scale Biryusa graded by conventional units of cooling power. For ease of understanding, below is a table showing the approximate correspondence between the position of the handle and the temperature conditions inside the chamber during normal loading.
| Handle position | Operating mode | Temperature in the refrigerator compartment (approximately) | Recommendation for use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 (Min) | Minimum cooling | +8...+10 °C | For storing vegetables, drinks, small loads |
| 3 | Medium (Normal) | +4...+5 °C | Daily use, standard set products |
| 5 | Maximum cooling | +1...+2 °C | Loading a large amount of warm food, heat |
| 6-7 (Max) | Continuous operation | 0...+1 °C | Only for quick freezing (no more than 6 hours) |
Using the mode maximum cooling (6-7) on an ongoing basis is categorically not recommended. This leads to excessive energy consumption and accelerated wear of the compressor, since it does not receive the necessary rest breaks. In addition, food in the refrigerator compartment may begin to freeze at the back wall.
If you notice that a “coat” of frost is forming on the walls, and the products in the main chamber are freezing, you need to reduce the value on the regulator. Conversely, if the milk quickly sours and the meat loses color, you should add power by turning the knob clockwise.
Step-by-step instructions for initial setup
After purchase or long-term defrosting, the refrigerator Biryusa requires proper startup. You cannot immediately load the chamber with products and set the maximum power. First, the unit must enter operating mode empty. This will allow the system to stabilize without unnecessary load.
Plug in the refrigerator and set the regulator to the middle position (usually number 3). Leave the device to work for 2-3 hours without booting. During this time, the compressor should turn off on its own when the specified temperature threshold is reached. If this does not happen within 5-6 hours, the thermostat may be faulty or the seal is broken.
☑️ Initial startup of the refrigerator
After the refrigerator has turned off for the first time, you can add food. This should be done evenly, without tightly clogging the air channels between the shelves and the back wall. Air circulation is critical for two-chamber models so that the cold is distributed evenly throughout the entire volume.
If after a day of operation the products in the main chamber look normal (not frozen or lost freshness), the setup can be considered complete. In the future, correction may be required only when the season changes or a sharp change in the quantity of products.
Seasonal adjustment and external factors
The ambient temperature directly affects the operation of the refrigeration circuit. In summer, when the kitchen is hot, the heat exchange of the condenser (the grille at the back) worsens. The compressor takes longer to cool the freon. During this period, it may be necessary to set the regulator to a value of 4 or even 4.5 to compensate for heat gain.
In winter, the situation changes. If the refrigerator is in an unheated room or next to a window where the temperature is below +16°C, the compressor may not turn on at all at standard settings. The oil in the compressor thickens, and the system “thinks” that the cold has already been reached. In such cases mechanical thermostat may require increasing the power to 5-6, although this is not always effective.
⚠️ Attention: Operating the refrigerator Biryusa at ambient temperatures below +10°C is not recommended by the manufacturer. This can lead to compressor failure due to oil solidification and disruption of freon circulation.
It is also worth considering the location of the unit. If it stands close to a wall or in a niche, the efficiency (heat transfer) decreases. In such conditions, even in summer, it may be necessary to reduce the cooling power in order to avoid overheating of the motor, paradoxically, since the system will work non-stop, trying to achieve the impossible due to poor heat transfer.
Features of setting the freezer compartment
In two-chamber refrigerators Biryusa with one compressor there is usually no separate temperature control for the freezer. It depends on the general operating mode. However, many models have a “Super Freeze” function or a maximum cold mode. When the knob is moved to the extreme right position (or a separate button is turned on if the model is electronic), the compressor operates continuously.
This mode should only be used for quick freezing of fresh foods (meat, berries, mushrooms). Rapid freezing preserves cell structure and vitamins. You cannot keep the refrigerator in this mode for longer than 6-8 hours - this will lead to freezing of the evaporator and overloading the engine.
- ❄️ Load food into the freezer in small portions.
- ⏱️ Turn on the maximum mode 2-3 hours before loading or immediately after.
- 🔌 Return the regulator to normal position (3-4) after 6 hours.
If you notice that too much ice is forming in the freezer, and the food is covered with frost, this may indicate a loose door seal or a faulty seal. In this case, changing the thermostat settings will not help - repair or replacement of the sealing rubber is required.
Typical problems and their solutions
Even with correct settings, users may encounter anomalies. For example, the refrigerator Biryusa does not turn off for a long time. This may be caused by a freon leak (the compressor is running empty), a clogged capillary tube, or loss of elasticity of the door seal. Check the fit of the door with a simple test with a sheet of paper: if it falls out when the door is closed, the seal needs to be changed.
The other extreme is frequent switching on and off. This may indicate stuck thermostat contacts or the temperature setting is too high. Also, the reason may be the installation of hot products, which sharply increase the temperature inside the chamber, causing the automation to work jerkily.
⚠️ Attention: If you hear gurgling or hissing after turning off the compressor, this is normal. Refrigerant flows into the system. But if the noise is accompanied by vibration of the body, check the adjustment of the legs of the refrigerator.
In models with the No Frost system (less common in classic Biryusa, more often in new series), temperature problems are often solved by defrosting. Ice can clog the air supply channels, and cold will stop flowing into the refrigerator compartment, although there will be a minus in the freezer. It is enough to turn off the unit for a day with the doors open.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
What temperature should I set in the Biryusa refrigerator in the summer?
In the summer, when the room temperature exceeds +25°C, it is recommended to set the regulator to 4 or 4.5. This will ensure that the food is sufficiently cooled to compensate for the heat. However, make sure that the compressor has time to take breaks in operation.
Why does ice freeze on the back wall in the Biryusa refrigerator?
The formation of a “fur coat” or ice crust on the back wall (crying evaporator) indicates that the temperature is too low. Try decreasing the value on the thermostat by 1 notch. Also check if the food is pressed tightly against the back wall - this interferes with the circulation of heat.
What does the blinking indicator mean (in models with electronics)?
If your model Biryusa is equipped with an electronic control and the temperature indicator is blinking, this is an alarm. Most often, it means that the temperature inside the chamber has risen above a safe temperature (for example, after defrosting or opening the door for a long time). Give the refrigerator time (up to 24 hours) to stabilize the mode.
Can the Biryusa refrigerator be stored at sub-zero temperatures?
It is strictly not recommended to turn on the refrigerator at temperatures below +5°C. The oil in the compressor thickens and the engine may burn out when starting. If storage in an unheated garage is necessary, make sure that the unit is turned off, the doors are slightly open, and the temperature does not fall below -15°C (limit for plastic and rubber).