The sudden loss of light inside the refrigerator compartment often takes you by surprise, especially when you need to quickly find a product. For owners of the model Biryusa 151 this situation can be solved quite simply if you know the design features of the lampshade. Most often, the reason lies in a burnt-out incandescent lamp, less often in oxidation of the contacts or a malfunction of the switch.
Independent replacement of the light source does not require calling a technician and special tools. All you need to do is have a new light bulb on hand and a basic understanding of how electrical appliances work. It is important to act carefully so as not to damage the plastic diffuser, which becomes brittle over time.
In this article we will examine in detail the process of dismantling the protective cap, removing the old lamp and installing a new one. We will also touch on the issues of choosing a suitable base and power in order to avoid repeated problems with lighting in the near future.
Diagnostics of the fault and preparation of tools
Before starting disassembly, you need to make sure that the problem really lies in the light bulb. Sometimes there may be no light due to the fact that the device is not plugged into the network or the circuit breaker in the control panel has tripped. Check whether the indicator on the front panel is lit, if it is provided for by the design of your modification.
If everything is in order with the power supply, take a closer look at the filament inside the bulb. Blackened plaque or a visible break in the tungsten filament is a sure sign that the lamp resource has been exhausted. In some cases, the lamp may be intact, but not work due to poor contact in the socket.
To carry out the work you will need a minimum set of tools. Usually a simple flathead or Phillips screwdriver is sufficient, depending on the type of mounting of the lampshade. Also prepare a dry cloth for wiping the internal surfaces and a new lamp.
Pay special attention to safety. Although the voltage in the 220 volt network is dangerous, in this case we are working with the device already turned off. However, wet hands can become a conductor of current if you accidentally touch exposed contacts, so it is better to use dry tools.
Choosing a suitable replacement lamp
Refrigerators Biryusa, including model 151, are most often equipped with standard incandescent lamps with base E14. This is the so-called “minion”, which has a smaller thread diameter compared to conventional household lamps. The power of the light source is usually from 15 to 25 W.
The use of lamps of higher power is strictly prohibited. The plastic of the lampshade and the wiring are designed for a certain thermal regime. Excess of power will lead to melting of the cartridge and can cause a short circuit or fire.
Today on the market you can find LED analogues that are also suitable for refrigerators. They heat less and consume less energy. However, when choosing an LED lamp, make sure that it is designed to work at low temperatures, since conventional LEDs may not start at +5°C.
Below is a table of characteristics that you should focus on when choosing purchase:
| Parameter | Standard value | Acceptable range |
|---|---|---|
| Socket type | E14 | E14 only |
| Power | 15 W | 10-25 W |
| Voltage | 220-230 V | 220-240 V |
| Bulb type | Transparent/Matte | Any |
Removing the lampshade and protective cap
The most important step is removing the plastic diffuser. In the model Biryusa 151 the lampshade is usually secured with latches or one screw. The design may vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture, so you need to act carefully.
Visually inspect the ceiling. If you see a screw, carefully unscrew it counterclockwise. If there are no screws, then the plastic casing is held on by latches. In this case, you need to carefully pry off the edge of the lampshade with a flat screwdriver wrapped in a cloth so as not to leave scratches on the plastic.
⚠️ Attention: The plastic in the refrigerator compartment becomes very fragile over time due to constant cold. Do not use excessive force when removing, otherwise the housing may crack.
Movements must be smooth. If the shade cannot be removed, try warming it slightly with your palm or a hairdryer (at the lowest temperature and from a distance) to increase the elasticity of the material. Sharp jerks often lead to breakage of the mounting ears.
After removing the diffuser, access to the socket and lamp will open. Once again, make sure that the refrigerator is unplugged before touching the metal parts of the socket.
☑️ Check before replacement
The process of replacing the light source
Removing the burnt out lamp is done by unscrewing it counterclockwise. If the bulb bursts and only the base remains in the cartridge, the situation becomes more complicated. In this case, it is necessary to turn off the power to the device and carefully unscrew the remaining base with pliers, being careful not to damage the contacts inside the socket.
Screw in the new lamp all the way, but without fanaticism. Excessive force can cause the base to “stick” to the cartridge, and the next replacement will be extremely difficult. It is enough to feel confident resistance at the end of the rotation.
If you are replacing a conventional incandescent lamp with an LED one, make sure that it has a similar base shape. Some LED lamps may have an increased body diameter, and they simply will not fit into a standard lampshade Turyusa.
After installing the lamp, it is recommended to immediately check its functionality by turning on the refrigerator, but not yet installing the lampshade in place. If the light comes on when the door is opened, then the procedure was successful.
What to do if the new lamp does not light?
If the new lamp does not light up, the problem may not be in it. Check the light switch, which is located next to the lamp. It may stick or have oxidized contacts. It is also worth checking the wiring with a multimeter for a break.
Design features and possible difficulties
In some modifications of refrigerators Biryusa the cartridge can be built directly into the camera body, rather than hanging on wires. This makes it easier because you don't have to worry about kinking the wires. However, in older models the cartridge may be movable.
A frequent problem is oxidation of the contacts inside the cartridge. If the new lamp does not light up or the light blinks, try carefully opening the socket antennae (after turning off the power!). Over time, the metal loses its elasticity, and contact with the lamp base is lost.
It is also worth paying attention to the condition of the wires going to the lampshade. If the insulation is cracked or bare areas are visible, the appliance cannot be continued to be used. In this case, replacement of the wiring or insulation with heat shrink is required.
⚠️ Attention: Never use metal objects to pick inside a live cartridge. This is a guaranteed electric shock.
Assembly and final check of the system
After successful testing, you can begin assembly. Reinstall the plastic diffuser. If it is attached with a screw, tighten it, but do not overtighten it, as you will not strip the threads in the soft plastic. If there are latches, press evenly along the edges until you hear a characteristic click.
Plug in the refrigerator and wait a few minutes. Make sure that when you close the door, the light goes out (this is important to save the life of the lamp and the compressor, which may react to heat from the working lamp). The switch mechanism must operate clearly.
Wipe the inner surface of the lampshade if there are fingerprints on it. Dirt on the plastic when heated by the lamp may begin to smell unpleasant or turn yellow over time.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to put an LED lamp in the Biryusa 151 refrigerator?
Yes, you can, if it has an E14 base and is designed to operate at low temperatures. Conventional indoor LEDs may not work or quickly fail due to cold.
Why does the lamp in the refrigerator often burn out?
Frequent burnout can be caused by voltage surges in the network, the use of a lamp with a higher power than intended, or poor contact in the socket, causing sparking.
How to remove the lampshade if it cannot be removed?
Do not use force. Inspect the perimeter for hidden screws under the decorative caps. If they are not there, try gently heating the plastic with a hairdryer so that it becomes softer, and pry the edge with a screwdriver.
Is the light on in the Biryusa 151 freezer?
In most Biryusa refrigerator models, including the 151 series, there is no separate lamp in the freezer. Lighting is usually only in the refrigerator compartment.