Double-chamber refrigerators Biryusa are popular due to their reliability and affordable price, but sometimes it becomes necessary to temporarily or permanently turn off the freezer. The reasons may be different: saving energy, compressor breakdown, seasonal use or kitchen remodeling. However, improper shutdown can lead to damage to the products in the main chamber, overload of the compressor, or even failure of the equipment.
In this article you will find step-by-step instructions for models with mechanical i electronic control, learn about the nuances of the system No Frost and receive security recommendations. We will also look at what to do if the freezer does not turn off, and how to check the functionality of the thermostat.
Before you begin any manipulations, make sure that your model supports separate shutdown of the cameras. In some budget modifications Biryusa (for example, series 101 or 103), the freezer and refrigerator compartments operate from the same compressor, and completely turning off the freezer can stop the cooling of the entire unit. In this case, an alternative would be to set the thermostat to the minimum temperature.
1. How to determine the type of control in your model
The algorithm for turning off the freezer depends on the control method. In refrigerators Biryusa there are three options:
- Mechanical control —temperature adjustment is carried out using rotary knobs (for example, models Biryusa 130, Biryusa 140).
- Electronic control —on the front panel there are buttons or a touch display (series Biryusa 22, Biryusa 5000).
- Combined control — the freezer is controlled mechanically, and the refrigerator compartment is controlled electronically (rarely, but found in older models).
To accurately identify the type, inspect the inside of the top door or the back wall of the refrigerator - there should be a sticker with the model. Also pay attention to the panels:
- 🔘 If you see digital display with buttons
+/–orMode—you have electronic control. - 🔄 If adjustment is carried out rotary knobs with division from 1 to 7 - mechanical.
- ⚠️ If there is one knob, but there are two scales on it (for the refrigerator and freezer compartments) - this is combined system, and you cannot turn off the freezer separately it will work out.
In models with a system No Frost (for example, Biryusa 22K), turning off the freezer can lead to icing of the evaporator. If you plan to be idle for a long time, it is recommended to defrost the chamber before turning it off.
2. Turning off the freezer in models with mechanical control
In refrigerators with rotary controls. (for example, Biryusa 130, Biryusa 145) the freezer is turned off by setting the thermostat to position 0 or OFF. Follow the algorithm:
Step 1. Find the freezer temperature control knob - it is usually located inside the chamber on the top panel or outside on the front side (to the right of the door).
Step 2. Smoothly turn the knob counterclockwise until it stops OFF marked in red or with an inscription.
Step 3. Wait for the compressor to stop (usually takes 5-10 minutes). If the refrigerator continues to hum, check if the refrigerator handle is touched - sometimes they are too close.
Make sure that the handle is in position 0 or OFF
Check that the refrigerator compartment continues to operate (the compressor turns on periodically)
Inspect the rubber seals - if left idle for a long time, they may dry
Remove food from the freezer if it will not be used-->
⚠️ Attention: In models with with one compressor (for example Biryusa 101), completely turning off the freezer can lead to warming in the refrigerator compartment. In this case, set the handle to. minimum value (1) - this will reduce the load, but will not stop cooling completely.
3. freezers in models with electronic control
Electronic control panels (series Biryusa 22, Biryusa 5000) allow you to turn off the freezer through the menu. The interface may differ, but the general principle is the same:
Step 1. Press the button Mode (or Set) and hold it for 3-5 seconds until the freezer indicator lights up.
Step 2. Using buttons +/– set the temperature to 0°C or select the option Off (if available).
Step 3. Confirm the selection with the button OK or Set. The freezer indicator should go off on the display.
In some models (for example, Biryusa 22K-3) to turn off the freezer you need:
- Press
Super Freeze(if active). - Go to
Settings → Modes → Freezer. - Select
Off.
⚠️ Attention: If, after switching off, the refrigerator starts making uncharacteristic noise (knocking, grinding), the compressor protection has probably activated. In this case, return the settings to their original state and contact the service center.
What to do if the buttons do not respond?
If the electronic panel does not respond to presses, the reason may be:
- Control module frozen — try unplugging the plug from the socket for 10 minutes, then turn on again.
- Moisture ingress — dry the panel with a hairdryer (cold air!) or contact a workshop.
- Fault sensor —diagnostics required.
4. Features of shutdown in refrigerators with No Frost
The system No Frost (present in models Biryusa 22K, Biryusa 5000) automatically defrosts the evaporator, but when the freezer is turned off, a number of problems may arise:
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Icing evaporator | When turned off, the fan stops working, moisture condenses | Defrost the chamber before turning off, leave the door ajar |
| High humidity in the refrigerator compartment | The air exchange between chambers | Set the minimum temperature (+4°C) in the main chamber |
| Fan noise | Ice interferes with the blades | Defrost the refrigerator for 12–24 hours |
If your model is equipped Full No Frost system (cooling both chambers with one evaporator), turning off the freezer can lead to complete cooling stop. In this case, the only way out is to physically disconnect the power supply to the freezer, but this requires disassembling the rear panel and must be performed by a specialist.
For temporary shutdown (for example, during vacation) it is recommended:
- 🧊 Defrost the freezer and dry it.
- 🔌 Set the temperature to
+8°C(if there is such a mode). - 🚪 Leave the door ajar to avoid mold.
5. What to do if the freezer does not turn off
If after all the manipulations the freezer continues to work, the reasons may be the following:
1. Thermostat malfunction. In mechanical models, the thermostat may “stick” in the on position. You can check it with a multimeter (the resistance between the contacts should change when you turn the knob). In electronic models, the fault is determined only by diagnostics.
2. Failure of the electronic module. If the display shows an error (for example, E1, E2), flashing or replacing the board is required.
3. The capillary tube is clogged. Leads to constant operation of the compressor. Solved by flushing the system (requires a master).
4. Incorrect connection. In some models Biryusa the freezer and refrigerator compartments have general cooling circuit. It is impossible to disable them individually - check the documentation.
⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator is after the freezer is turned off does not turn on at all, do not try to disassemble it yourself. The start relay or compressor is likely broken - this requires professional repair.
6. Safety and operating recommendations
Disconnecting the freezer is a responsible process. Follow these tips to avoid breakdowns and preserve food:
✅ Before turning off:
- 📦 Transfer all products from the freezer to the refrigerator compartment or thermal bag.
- ❄️ Defrost the chamber if there is ice on the walls (especially important for No Frost).
- 🔌 Make sure that the refrigerator is not connected through an extension cord - this can cause an overload when turning on/off.
⚠️ During downtime:
- 🚫 Do not leave the freezer door closed for a long time - this provokes mold.
- 💧 Wipe the rubber seals with a weak solution of soda (1 tablespoon per 1 liter of water).
- 🌡️ Control the temperature in the refrigerator - it should not rise higher
+5°C.
⚡ After repeated switching on:
- 🕒 Wait 2-3 hours before loading food - the compressor needs time to reach mode.
- 🔍 Check for ice on the evaporator (relevant for No Frost).
If you turn off the freezer for a long period (more than 1 month), It is recommended completely disconnect the refrigeratorto first defrost both chambers and dry them. This will prevent corrosion of parts and the safety of seals.
7. Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Many users make the same mistakes when turning off the freezer. Here are the most common ones. of them and how to prevent them:
Error 1: Turning off the power to the entire refrigerator.
If you simply remove the plug from the socket, the refrigerator will also stop working and the food will spoil. Always turn off the freezer through the control panel or thermostat.
Error 2: Closed. door when idle.
A tightly closed freezer without cooling turns into an incubator for bacteria and mold. Leave the door ajar or install a moisture absorber inside (for example, silica gel).
Error 3: Ignoring error signals.
If after shutdown, an error code appears on the display (for example, E3 in models Biryusa 5000), do not ignore this. Check the instructions or call a specialist.
Error 4: Abrupt switching on after long periods of inactivity.
If the freezer has been turned off for more than a week, before restarting, let the refrigerator stand for 1-2 hours at room temperature. This will prevent the compressor from overloading.
Error 5: Self-repair of electronic components.
Attempts to solder the board or replacing sensors without experience often leads to a short circuit. To repair electronic modules, always contact a service center.
FAQ: Answers. for frequently asked questions
Is it possible to turn off the freezer in the refrigerator Biryusa 101?
In the model Biryusa 101 the freezer and refrigerator compartments operate from the same compressor, so you cannot completely turn off the freezer Maximum - set. the thermostat to the minimum value (1), but cooling will continue.
Why, after turning off the freezer, did the refrigerator compartment cool worse?
In some models Biryusa the freezer is the “driving force” for cooling the refrigerator (through the air ducts). If the freezer is turned off, the circulation of cold air may be disrupted. The solution is to set the minimum temperature in the freezer (–6°C), and not turn it off completely.
How to turn off the freezer if the thermostat knob is broken?
If the mechanical knob is broken, you can carefully turn the thermostat shaft with pliers (after turning off the power to the refrigerator!). In electronic models, if the buttons break, you need to replace the control panel.
How much electricity can be saved by turning it off? freezer?
Savings depend on the model and operating mode. On average, the freezer consumes up to 30–40% of the energy of the refrigerator. For example, if your Biryusa uses 35 kWh per month, turning off the freezer can save up to 10–14 kWh.
Is it possible to turn off the freezer if the refrigerator is under warranty?
Disconnecting the freezer yourself is not a violation of the warranty terms if it was done through standard means (thermostat or control panel), however, if you disassembled the refrigerator or disconnected the wires, the warranty will be valid. lost.
If your question is not covered in the article, specify the model of the refrigerator and describe the problem in more detail - this will help you find an exact solution. Remember that some manipulations (for example, disassembling the back panel) should only be performed by qualified craftsmen.