Malfunction of the temperature control system is one of the most common reasons for contacting service centers, but in many cases this problem can be solved independently. Thermoregulator is a key element that is responsible for turning the compressor on and off depending on the temperature inside the chambers. If your refrigerator Biryusa stopped freezing or, conversely, began to turn food into ice, most likely the reason lies in this unit. Replacing a part requires care, but it is quite possible for a home craftsman with a minimal set of tools.
Before starting disassembly, you need to make sure the diagnosis is correct. Often the symptoms of a thermostat failure are confused with a freon leak or a faulty start relay. A characteristic sign of a regulator failure is the absence of a click when turning the knob or the compressor running endlessly without stopping. In this article we will examine in detail how connect the TAM-133 thermostat or similarto restore the normal operation of your refrigeration equipment.
Diagnostics and signs of thermostat malfunction
The first step before replacement should always be thorough diagnosis. If the refrigerator compressor Biryusa hums continuously and does not turn off, creating a freezing “fur coat” on the back wall, this is a sure sign that the contacts inside the thermostat are stuck in the “closed” position. In this case, the refrigerator does not receive a signal that the set temperature has been reached and wears out.
There is also the opposite situation, when the unit is silent and does not start. To check this, you can close the contacts directly, but this must be done carefully. If the compressor starts working after the short circuit, then the problem is definitely in the regulator. It is also worth paying attention to external signs: if the adjustment knob turns too easily or, on the contrary, is jammed, the internal mechanics are most likely destroyed.
For an accurate check, technicians often use a multimeter in dial mode. At room temperature, the contacts should ring, and when the sensor is cooled (for example, in a freezer), they should open. If the chain does not break even with strong cooling, the part must be replaced. It is important to understand that capillary tubeextending from the thermostat housing is very sensitive to damage.
⚠️ Attention: If the capillary tube of the thermostat is damaged or deformed, the new sensor may not work correctly. When installing a new element, avoid bending the tube at an acute angle.
Preparation for replacement: tools and safety
Any work with electrical appliances requires compliance with safety rules. The very first and most important action is to disconnect the refrigerator Biryusa from the electrical network. You should not rely only on the switch in the socket; it is better to unplug the plug from the socket to completely eliminate the risk of electric shock when manipulating the wiring.
For a successful replacement, you will need a minimum set of tools. In most cases, a flathead and Phillips screwdriver, as well as side cutters or pliers, will be sufficient. If you have a model with hidden wiring or a complex mounting system, you may need a ratchet wrench. Prepare a work area with good lighting in advance, since the insides of the refrigerator are often hidden in the shadows.
It is also recommended to have electrical tape or heat shrink tubing on hand to insulate connections. Although modern thermostats often come with ready-made connectors, sometimes you have to adapt the seat or extend the wires. Do not forget to prepare a container for defrosting if there is ice left in the chamber, which may interfere with access to the unit.
☑️ Preparing to replace the thermostat
Removing the old thermostat
The process of removing the old regulator depends on the specific model of the refrigerator Biryusa. In classic models, the thermostat is located inside the refrigerator compartment, often hidden behind a plastic cover or directly in the niche where the lighting lamp is installed. First, you need to carefully remove the decorative panels to gain access to the fastening screws.
After removing the fasteners, you will see the thermostat block itself with a long length extending from it capillary tube. This tube is secured with special clamps to the evaporator. Your task is to snap these clips off as carefully as possible. Sudden movements can lead to rupture of the tube, which will make the part unsuitable for use even as a donor.
The next step is to disconnect the electrical wires. Before cutting or disconnecting them, it is highly recommended that you take a photo of the wiring diagram or mark the wires with a marker. Color markings may vary between versions, and assembly errors may result in a short circuit. After disconnecting the wires, the old thermostat can be removed from the housing.
Nuances of removing the capillary tube
The capillary tube is very thin and fragile. If it is stuck to the evaporator, do not pull it by force. Carefully pry up the mounting location with a flat-head screwdriver, being careful not to damage the tube itself and the evaporator fins. Sometimes lightly lubricating the mounting area with WD-40 helps, but make sure that the chemical does not get on the plastic of the camera.
Connection diagram and installation of a new element
Installation of a new thermostat is carried out in the reverse order of dismantling. The key point here is the correct wiring. In refrigerators Biryusa thermostats of the TAM or K-50 series are most often used. The connection diagram is usually simple: one wire goes to the compressor, the other to the network, and the third (if any) can be responsible for the indication or fan.
If you are installing a universal thermostat that does not have an exact analogue in terms of mounting dimensions, you may have to be smart. The main thing is that the length of the capillary tube matches the original or is slightly longer. The excess length of the tube is carefully laid with a snake in a specially designated place, avoiding creases.
When connecting wires, use high-quality twists, which are best soldered or clamped into terminal blocks. A simple twist can oxidize over time and begin to heat up, which is dangerous. After connecting all the contacts, check the reliability of the fixation by lightly pulling the wires.
For clarity, we provide a table of contact correspondence for popular models thermostats installed in equipment of this brand:
| Thermostat model | Contact 1 (Input) | Contact 2 (Output to compressor) | Contact 3 (Indication/Ground) |
|---|---|---|---|
| TAM-133 | 3 (L) | 4 | 6 |
| K-50 L1950 | 3 (L) | 4 | 6 |
| K-59 L1139 | 3 (L) | 4 | 6 |
| T-110 | 3 (L) | 4 | 6 |
Configuring and testing operation
Once the new one is thermostat installed and all panels are returned to their places, you can begin testing. Plug in the refrigerator. In the first minutes, the compressor may not start immediately - this is normal for some models with restart protection. Wait 3-5 minutes.
If the startup was successful, listen to the operation of the unit. The compressor should operate smoothly, without any extraneous knocks or vibrations. After some time, when the temperature in the chamber reaches the set value, a characteristic click should be heard and the motor will turn off. This indicates that the new regulator is working correctly.
It is important to let the refrigerator run idle for at least 4-6 hours before loading food. This will ensure the stability of the temperature regime and the absence of cyclic failures. If the refrigerator begins to “cry” or, conversely, freeze too much, you may need to fine-tune the screw on the thermostat housing, but this should be done by a specialist.
⚠️ Attention: Technical characteristics and location of elements may vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture of your model Biryusa. Always check the markings of the part with the documentation or catalog number on the manufacturer’s official website.
Common mistakes when replacing yourself
Independent repair is always a risk of making a mistake, which can cost more than the services of a specialist. One of the most common mistakes is incorrect installation of the capillary tube. If the sensor does not fit tightly to the evaporator or is attached too far, the refrigerator will not work correctly, turning on too rarely or too often.
Another common problem is poor contact in the electrical circuit. It is not enough to simply twist the wires; Over time, the junction oxidizes, the resistance increases, and the contact begins to heat up, which can lead to melting of the insulation and a fire. Always use reliable connection methods.
Also, beginners often ignore the need for defrosting before starting work. An attempt to remove the thermostat from an iced-up evaporator can damage the plastic fasteners, which become as fragile as glass in the cold. Allow the refrigerator to thaw and dry completely.
Questions and answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to install a thermostat from another manufacturer?
Yes, this is possible if the overall dimensions and the length of the capillary tube are the same and electrical parameters. Most often, analogues of TAM or Danfoss (K-series) are installed. The main thing is that the thread and the seat match. Biryusu they install analogues of TAM or Danfoss (K-series). The main thing is that the thread and the seat match.
Why does the refrigerator turn on and off too often?
Frequent turning on may indicate an incorrect setting of the thermostat, loss of sealing of the chamber, or a malfunction of the thermostat itself, which does not maintain the temperature threshold. Also, the cause may be a clogged refrigerant capillary tube.
Is it necessary to recharge freon after replacing the thermostat?
No, the refrigerant system (freon circuit) is not opened when replacing the thermostat, so recharging is not required. You are only changing the electrical control element.
What to do if the capillary tube of the new thermostat is longer?
If the tube is longer than the original, its excess can be carefully rolled into a ring and placed in the free space behind the rear panel or in a niche, observing the minimum bending radius specified in the instructions. You cannot cut the tube.
How to understand that the thermostat is set correctly?
The correct setting ensures the temperature in the main chamber is about +4...+5°C, and in the freezer -18°C. The compressor should work approximately 30-40% of the total time (work coefficient), taking rest breaks.