Refrigeration equipment of the series Paracelsus Posis is deservedly considered a classic of domestic engineering, known for its reliability and maintainability. However, like any equipment, these units require correct initial setup to ensure long service life of the products. Unlike modern electronic panels, it uses a mechanical or electromechanical control system, which has its own operating characteristics.
Correct temperature adjustment directly affects the energy consumption and safety of the contents of the chambers. Many users mistakenly believe that it is enough to simply plug in the device, but ignoring the nuances of the thermostat’s operation can lead to excessive energy consumption or food spoilage. In this article, we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions to achieve optimal storage conditions.
The principle of operation of the thermostat in Pozis models
The main element of climate control inside the chamber is the thermostat, which is most often located inside the refrigerator compartment. Depending on the year of manufacture of the model Position, this may be a rotary knob with a scale from 1 to 5 (or up to 7) or a more complex electronic unit in modern modifications. The mechanical regulator opens and closes the electrical circuit depending on the temperature of the sensing element.
When you turn the knob to a higher value, you do not increase the temperature, but, on the contrary, require the compressor to work longer to cool the chamber to lower values. Thermoregulator fixes the moment when the sensor reaches a given threshold, and turns off the motor. Understanding this logic is the key to successful setup.
It is important to note that the scale on the handle does not correspond to degrees Celsius. The numbers indicate conventional levels of cooling intensity. Position "3" on the thermostat scale is a standard factory setting that provides a balance between cold and energy efficiency. Shifting the regulator to extreme positions (minimum or maximum) is only permissible for a short time or under special operating conditions.
⚠️ Attention: A sudden movement of the thermostat knob from the "0" (off) position immediately to the maximum position may cause a peak load on the compressor during the first start.
For stable operation of the system, it is important that the capillary tube of the sensor is not damaged and is in close contact with the evaporator. In older models, this sensor is often covered with a plastic cover on the back wall.
Preparing for adjustment and checking for tightness
Before proceeding with the active adjustment phase, you need to make sure that the refrigerator is correctly installed and ready for use. Cooling efficiency directly depends on heat exchange, which is disrupted if the unit is located too close to a wall or heating devices. The air gap should be at least 5-10 centimeters on all sides.
Check the door sealing rubber bands. If they do not fit tightly, the cold will escape and the compressor will work continuously, trying to compensate for the losses. This will render any thermostat adjustments pointless. Wipe the seal with a soft cloth soaked in soapy water to remove grease and dust.
Fill the refrigerator with food at least 30-40%. It is more difficult to cool an empty chamber due to the small thermal mass, and the temperature in it will jump every time the door is opened. However, do not overcrowd the chamber at once - the air should circulate freely between the shelves.
☑️ Initial preparation of the refrigerator
Make sure there are no heat sources in the chamber, such as hot pots or just cooked food. Their placement inside will disrupt the operation of the automation and lead to incorrect readings of the sensors.
Step-by-step instructions: setting the optimal mode
The process of setting the temperature in Position requires consistency and patience, since the system's response to changes does not occur instantly. First, find the thermostat knob. In most models, it is located on the upper right wall inside the main chamber or above the door.
Set the handle to the middle position, usually this is a number 3 or 4 on the scale. If your unit has a scale from 1 to 5, then “3” is the middle. If the scale is up to 7, then the optimal start will be “4”. Let the refrigerator operate in this mode for 5-6 hours without frequently opening the door.
After the stabilization period, check the food. If the vegetables begin to freeze in the main chamber, and a “fur coat” (ice) appears on the walls, then the temperature is too low. Turn the knob one division downwards (toward number 1). If the food spoils quickly or the milk turns sour within a day, add power by turning the knob to higher numbers.
⚠️ Attention: The interval between changes in the position of the knob should be at least 2-3 hours. The thermostat needs time to warm up or cool down and respond correctly to the new setpoint.
For the freezer (if it is double-circuit), the rules are similar, but the temperature range is wider. For long-term storage of meat and fish, a mode corresponding to -18°C and below is required, which is usually achieved by setting the regulator to maximum in winter or to 2/3 of the scale in summer.
Seasonal features and temperature compensation
External ambient temperature significantly affects the operation of refrigeration equipment. In the summer, when the kitchen is hot, the heat output of the condenser deteriorates and the compressor takes longer to cool the refrigerant. In winter, on the contrary, in an unheated room, the refrigerator may not turn on at all unless a special function is activated.
Some models Posis equipped with a "Winter/Summer" switch or a temperature compensation button (often indicated as Winter or snowflake). This switch turns on an additional heating element next to the thermostat, causing the compressor to turn on more often when the room is cold.
If your model does not have an explicit switch, but the refrigerator stops freezing in the winter in a cool kitchen, this may indicate a design issue with the thermostat. In such cases, it may be necessary to install an external heater for the thermostat zone, but this is already an intervention in the design.
What to do if the refrigerator is located near a window?
If the refrigerator is located in an area of direct sunlight, the thermostat will receive false heating signals. This will cause the motor to run continuously. In this case, it is necessary to move the unit or shade the window with thick curtains.
In the summer, try not to set the regulator to maximum unless absolutely necessary. This will lead to the formation of a thick ice crust on the evaporator, which will have to be defrosted, and increased wear on the compressor.
Diagnostics of cooling problems
Even with correct settings, situations may arise when the temperature does not hold. Often this is not due to a broken thermostat, but to other factors. For example, if the compressor hums but does not start, or turns on and immediately turns off, the problem may be in the start relay or the compressor itself.
If the motor runs continuously without turning off for hours, and the temperature in the chamber barely reaches +10...+12°C, there may be a freon leak or a clogged capillary tube. In this case, twisting the thermostat knob will not produce results.
Pay attention to the nature of the unit’s operation. The normal work cycle includes periods of rest and work. If the refrigerator is silent for too long and the food spoils, check whether the defrost button (if there is one) is stuck or whether the thermostat rod has moved.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Products freeze at the back wall | Thermostat is set to maximum | Reduce the value by 1-2 notches |
| Temperature above +8°C at max. setup | Refrigerant leak or compressor breakdown | Call a technician for diagnostics |
| The refrigerator does not turn on in winter | Low room temperature | Check the mode "Winter" or insulate the area |
| Frequent switching on/off | Thermostat malfunction or loss of tightness | Check the seals and replace the thermostat |
Continuous operation of the compressor without interruptions is a critical signal. If it is warm in the chamber, further operation will lead to combustion of the motor windings.
Care of the cooling system for a stable temperature
In order for the set temperature to remain stable, it is necessary to defrost regularly. Despite the presence of drip defrosting systems in many models Posis, a full defrosting cycle every 6-12 months is required. The ice coat on the evaporator works as a heat insulator, preventing cold from penetrating into the chamber.
During defrosting, thoroughly clean the drainage hole, if provided by the design. A blockage in the drainage will cause water to accumulate at the bottom and freeze, which will also disrupt the temperature regime and can damage the sensors.
Do not forget to wipe the back wall inside the camera from dust and dirt. The accumulation of dust on heat exchangers (if they are open) or simply on the walls impairs heat transfer. Use soft rags and neutral detergents.
⚠️ Attention: Never use a knife or sharp objects to chip ice. Damage to the evaporator tubes will lead to immediate release of freon and costly repairs.
Regular checking of the tightness of the doors also applies to maintenance. Over time, the hinges may weaken and the door will begin to warp. Tighten the mounting bolts if you notice any gaps.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why does the Paracelsus refrigerator click loudly after shutdown?
This is normal for mechanical thermostats. A clicking sound is produced by the bimetallic strip inside the relay or the thermostat itself when the temperature changes. If the clicks are not accompanied by a refusal to start, there is nothing to worry about.
Is it possible to replace a mechanical thermostat with an electronic one?
Theoretically, this is possible, but it requires a deep modification of the electrical circuit and housing. For older models Posis it is easier and more reliable to find an original or analog mechanical thermostat (for example, TAM-133), which will fit into its standard place.
What temperature is considered normal for storing vegetables?
Optimal range for vegetable compartment is from +4°C to +6°C. If you have a separate freshness zone in your refrigerator, the temperature there can be about 0...+2°C, but ordinary vegetables can freeze there.
What to do if the thermostat knob scrolls endlessly?
This is a sign of a breakdown in the internal mechanism of the thermostat. Most likely, the axle burst or the connection with the shaft was broken. It is necessary to replace the entire assembly; it usually cannot be repaired.