Owners of two-chamber refrigerators brands Biryusa often face a situation when it becomes necessary to change the standard operating mode of the unit. This may be due to a long trip, a desire to save energy, or the need to increase the space in the refrigerator compartment. However, the design of most modern and Soviet models implies the joint operation of the compressor for both circuits.
It is important to understand that completely turn off the freezerleaving the refrigeration compartment operating at full capacity in classic models with one compressor is technically impossible without intervention in the design. However, there are standard ways to minimize power consumption and change the temperature regime, which is often equated by users to “turning off”. In this article, we will analyze in detail the available options, features of the “Vacation” mode and the nuances of operating equipment in non-standard conditions.
Before you start manipulating the regulators, you need to accurately determine the model of your device. Series Biryusa 133, 101, 134 or newer inverter versions may have different thermostat control logic. Incorrect settings can lead not only to damage to food, but also to failure of the compressor itself due to abnormal operation.
Design features of Biryusa refrigerators
Refrigerators Biryusamanufactured Krasnoyarsk plant, traditionally belong to the class of two-chamber units with one compressor. This means that the refrigerant circulates through a single circuit, passing first through the evaporator of the freezer and then through the refrigerator. That is why independent adjustment there is no temperature in the classical sense here: you cannot turn off the freezer while leaving the refrigerator on.
The temperature regime is controlled by a thermostat that responds to the heating of the air in refrigeration compartment. When it becomes warmer than a predetermined threshold, the compressor starts and cools both compartments. In models with a No Frost or “Crying” wall system, the operating logic may differ, but the principle of a single circuit is retained in 90% of household modifications.
Some modern models are equipped with electronic control, where sensor readings are displayed on the display. In such devices, for example, series Biryusa 6 or Biryusa 8, the operating algorithm can be more flexible, but physically disconnecting one of the evaporators without losing the functionality of the second is still impossible.
⚠️ Attention: Attempts to mechanically compress the capillary tube or disconnect the freezer temperature sensor will lead to irreversible damage to the compressor and void the warranty.
Understanding this feature is critically important. If your goal is to convert a two-compartment refrigerator into a single-compartment refrigerator, you will have to accept that the freezer will always run when the compressor is on. The only option for complete shutdown is to turn off the entire device from the network.
Vacation mode: a standard solution for saving
The closest analogue of “turning off the freezer” in the everyday sense is a function often called the “Vacation” or “Eco” mode. It is present in many models Biryusa with electronic control or a special position of the thermostat knob. The essence of the mode is to maintain the temperature in the refrigerator compartment at a level sufficient to prevent the appearance of mold and odor, but not sufficient for storing perishable products.
When this mode is activated, the compressor turns on extremely rarely. The temperature in the main compartment rises to +10..+15°C. The freezer may partially thaw at this time if the temperature in it rises above -6..-10°C, but the food there will not defrost completely quickly, thanks to thermal insulation. This is an ideal option for long-term absence of owners.
To activate the “Vacation” mode on models with mechanical control, you often need to set the thermostat knob to the minimum position (usually indicated by the number 1 or a dot). In electronic models, you need to press the corresponding button on the control panel.
It is worth noting that in the “Vacation” mode energy consumption it is reduced to a minimum. However, if your goal is to use the main compartment as a storage cabinet and leave the freezer working, this mode will not work, since it, on the contrary, “warms” the refrigerator.
Minimizing the operation of the freezer
If the goal is to minimize the intensity of the freezer operation, do not By turning off the refrigerator completely, you can use the thermostat adjustment. On models Biryusa with a mechanical handle (for example, TAM-133), turning the regulator to the minimum cold position (number 1) causes the compressor to turn on less often.
B In this case, the temperature in the freezer will rise to -6..-8°C. Products in such a “soft” mode will not be stored for a long time, but the ice will not melt instantly. This is a compromise solution that allows a little save electricitybut requires careful attention to the contents.
The thermostat in such models is often located in the refrigerator compartment, and it “does not see” what is happening in the freezer.
Completely turning off the freezer compartment
The question of how to turn off the freezer compartment while leaving the refrigerator running often arises among users who need more space for vegetables and drinks at room temperature. Alas, the design Biryusy does not allow you to do this programmatically. The only way is physical intervention, which we categorically do not recommend doing yourself.
Theoretically, craftsmen can solder the capillary tube going to the evaporator of the freezer and convert the system to a single-chamber mode. However, after such a procedure restore the factory configuration it will be almost impossible without replacing the evaporator and overcooking the circuit.
Moreover, the volume of the fridge compartment in two-chamber models is often smaller than in full-fledged single-chamber “tablets”, due to the thickness of the insulation and the design of the doors. Therefore, the economic sense of such a modification is questionable.
If it is vital for you to use the unit only as a refrigerator, it would be better to defrost the freezer, wipe it dry and leave the door ajar to avoid the appearance of a musty smell. In this case, the compressor will operate in normal mode, cooling the main compartment.
Comparison of thermostat operating modes
For clarity, let’s look at how the position of the temperature regulator affects the operation of the system in different scenarios. This will help you choose the optimal setting option for your needs.
| Control position | Temperature in cold storage (°C) | Temperature in medical center (°C) | Operating mode |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum (1) | +8..+10 | -6..-8 | Economy / Vacation |
| Average (3) | +3..+5 | -18..-20 | Normal |
| Maximum (5-7) | 0..+2 | -24 and below | Intensive freezing |
| Disabled (0) | Room | Room | Disabled |
As can be seen from the table, shifting the regulator towards the minimum does not turn off the freezer completely, but only raises the temperature in it to deep cooling values, but not deep freezing. Zero position completely breaks the electrical circuit of the compressor.
⚠️ Attention: Prolonged operation of the compressor at maximum settings (number 6-7) in the summer can lead to overload and tripping of the thermal protection relay.
Frequent errors during operation
Users, trying to configure the refrigerator to suit their needs, often make mistakes that shorten the service life of equipment Biryusa. One of the most common is setting the thermostat to low in hot weather with the hope that the refrigerator will “rest.” In fact, this can lead to the compressor turning on too often for short periods of time, which is more harmful to it than long-term operation.
Another mistake is storing uncovered liquids in the refrigerator compartment when operating in the “Vacation” mode. At elevated temperatures (+10°C and above), bacteria multiply faster, and food can turn sour in a matter of hours.
Also, you should not try to “deceive” the thermostat by gluing additional heating elements or cold sources to it. This disrupts the calibration and leads to incorrect operation of the entire system.
☑️ Check before changing settings
Maintenance when changing modes
If you switch the refrigerator to minimum consumption mode or, conversely, intensive freezing, it is important to carry out preventive maintenance. Make sure sealing rubber bands the doors fit snugly to the body. When operating in non-standard modes, even a gap can lead to the formation of a “fur coat” or, conversely, to overheating.
Pay special attention to the rear grille of the condenser. During prolonged operation in modes not provided for in the instructions (for example, constant maximum), dust on the radiator can cause the compressor to overheat. It is recommended to clean the condenser with a vacuum cleaner or soft brush at least once every six months.
Why does the refrigerator hum louder at minimum settings?
Sometimes, when turned on infrequently, the compressor works longer to reach the temperature, which can create the illusion of louder operation. The effect of “gurgling” of the refrigerant is also possible when the operating mode is changed.
Possible problems and their solutions
When operating the refrigerator Biryusa in non-standard modes, specific problems may arise. For example, in the minimum temperature mode, water in the drip condensate removal system may freeze, forming an ice plug. As a result, moisture will begin to accumulate at the bottom of the refrigerator compartment.
The solution would be to periodically (once a month) defrost the refrigerator by completely unplugging it for 12-24 hours. This will also help eliminate unpleasant odors that can occur when food is stored at elevated temperatures.
If you notice that when you set the temperature to the lowest setting, food in the refrigerator compartment is still freezing, the thermostat or sensor may be faulty. In this case, replacement of the control element is required.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to turn off the freezer in Biryusa 133 separately?
No, in the Biryusa 133 model with one compressor you cannot turn off the freezer separately. Both compartments operate from the same cooling circuit. You can only minimize the cold by setting the regulator to “1”, but the freezer will continue to work.
What happens if you keep the refrigerator at minimum constantly?
When constantly operating at the minimum setting (number 1), the temperature in the freezer will rise to -6..-10°C. Meat and fish will not be stored in such conditions; they will begin to deteriorate. This is a mode for short-term saving or storing ice cream (not for long), but not for stocking up on food.
Why is it warm in the refrigerator after turning on the “Vacation” mode?
The “Vacation” mode (or minimum setting) is specially designed to maintain a temperature of about +10..+15°C, so that mold does not form in an empty refrigerator and there is no smell. This mode is not suitable for storing fresh food.
How to turn a two-chamber Biryusa into a single-chamber one?
Technically, this is only possible through a complex modification of the refrigeration circuit by a master (soldering the freezer tube). You cannot do this on your own. It is easier and cheaper to use the freezer as an additional insulated space, leaving it turned off (when the refrigerator is turned off) or running in the background.
Is frequent changing of settings harmful to the compressor?
Changing the position of the thermostat knob itself does not harm the compressor. Sudden temperature changes and operation in borderline modes, when the compressor is forced to turn on too often, are harmful. You can change the settings, but it is advisable to let the system stabilize during the day.