The sealing gum (or, as experts correctly call it, magnetic door seal) is that part of the refrigerator Aristonwhich is responsible for the tightness of the chamber and prevents cold leakage. Over time, rubber loses elasticity, cracks or deforms, which leads to increased energy consumption, ice formation and even compressor failure. If you notice that the door does not close tightly, and ice appears on the walls of the freezer, it’s time to think about replacing it.
Many owners are afraid to undertake this repair themselves, for fear of damaging the refrigerator or buying the wrong seal. In fact, the procedure for replacing the rubber band on the Ariston Hotpoint, Ariston MBF or Ariston SBS models is almost identical and does not require special skills. In this article, we will analyze the entire process from choosing a new rubber band to the final tightness check - with photos, saving tips and typical mistakes that should be avoided.
Signs that it is time to change the seal
Cracks or abrasions on the rubber band are not always visible to the naked eye. Sometimes the problem lies in the loss of magnetic properties or deformation of the material. Here are the key symptoms that indicate the need for replacement:
- 🔍 The door closes with a click, but then “moves away” - a sign that the magnetic tape has weakened and does not hold the sash.
- ❄️ Ice on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment (even if the mode
No Frostis disabled) - a signal about a constant influx of warm air. - 💡 The refrigerator works without stopping, and the temperature in the chamber is higher than the set one - the compressor is trying to compensate for the leakage of cold.
- 📏 Visible gaps between the elastic band and the body (you can check with a sheet of paper - if it is easy pulls out when the door is closed).
- 🧼 Mold or unpleasant odor in the folds of the seal are a sign of moisture accumulation and bacterial growth.
If you observe at least 2-3 of these signs, you should not postpone replacement. Ignoring the problem can lead to breakdown of the thermostat or compressor - repairs will cost 5-10 times more than a new seal.
⚠️ Attention: On models Ariston with the system Total No Frost (for example, Ariston NMRF 3201) a faulty seal can cause the fan to freeze and cause complete failure of the freezer. In this case, replacing the rubber band should be urgent.
How to choose a seal for an Ariston refrigerator
First rule: do not buy universal rubber bands. Seals for Ariston have a unique groove shape and a magnetic insert, which may not fit models of other brands (for example, Indesit or Beko). Here's how to find an exact analogue:
- Find the refrigerator model —it is indicated on a sticker inside the chamber or on the back wall (example: Ariston MBC 2251).
- Check the original article number of the seal —it can be found in the instructions or on the manufacturer's website (for Ariston often starts with
C00...or481...). - Compare visually - if it is not possible to order the original, take an elastic band with the same groove shape and number of magnets (usually 1 or 2 rows).
Where to buy:
- 🛒 Official service centers Ariston - guarantee of an original part, but the price is 30-50% higher.
- 🌍 Online spare parts stores (for example, All-ZIP, 220-Volt) - often there are photos and compatibility by model.
- 🔧 Refrigerator repair shops can sell used rubber bands in good condition (2-3 times cheaper).
| Refrigerator model | Sealant article number | Approximate price, rub. | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ariston MBC 1851 | C00345678 |
1 200–1 500 | One row of magnets, dovetail groove |
| Ariston Hotpoint HBM 1182 | 48123456 |
1 800–2 200 | Two rows of magnets, reinforced rubber |
| Ariston SBS 2321 | C00765432 |
2 500–3 000 | Seal with metal insert for Side-by-Side |
| Ariston NMRF 3201 | 48198765 |
2 000–2 500 | Special form for No Frost |
⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator was manufactured before 2010, the original seals may no longer be produced. In this case, select an analogue according to the size of the groove (measure with a caliper) or order a custom-made rubber band in the workshop.
Tools and materials for replacement
You don’t need professional equipment for the job - just a basic set of tools and a little patience. Here is the complete list:
- 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (for dismantling the door, if necessary).
- 🔨 Plastic spatula or blunt chisel - to carefully pry off the old rubber.
- 🧴 Silicone grease or Vaseline - to facilitate installation of the new seal.
- 🧲 Small magnet (optional) - to check the force of attraction of the new rubber band.
- 📏 Ruler or tape measure - for measuring the length of the seal.
- 🧼 Soap solution and sponge - for cleaning the groove from dirt.
- 🔥 Building hair dryer (optional) - if the elastic band “gets dull” and does not fit well.
If you plan to remove the refrigerator door (for example, for convenience on models Ariston Side-by-Side), also prepare:
- 👷 An assistant —the door is heavy, and it is inconvenient to hold it with one hand.
- 📦 Cardboard or towel —to avoid scratching the floor when laying the door.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the seal
The replacement process can be divided into 3 stages: dismantling the old rubber band, preparing the groove and installing a new one. Let's look at each one. in detail.
1. Removing the old seal
On most models Ariston the rubber band is attached to the groove of the plastic door without glue. To remove it:
- Unplug the refrigerator and wait until it defrosts (if any). ice).
- Carefully pull the seal towards you, starting from one of the corners. If it does not give in, pry it off with a plastic spatula.
- In some models (for example, Ariston HBM 1182), the elastic band is fixed with self-tapping screws - they need to be unscrewed with a screwdriver.
- After removal, clean the groove from crumbs and dirt with a soapy solution.
If the seal is glued (rare, but occurs on older models), use a hair dryer to soften the glue in sections so as not to damage the plastic of the door.
2. rubber bands
The new seal may be hard - especially if it was stored in a warehouse at low temperatures. To make installation easier:
- Immerse the rubber band in warm water (40-50°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Apply a thin layer to the door groove. silicone grease or petroleum jelly.
- If the seal is longer than necessary, cut it with scissors according to the mark (usually there is a factory mark).
⚠️ Attention: Do not use oils or solvents for lubrication - they can corrode the rubber!
3. Installing the seal
The most important step. Start from the top corner of the door:
- Insert the first corner of the elastic into the groove and fix it.
- Gradually press the seal around the entire perimeter, moving downwards. Use a spatula to tuck hard-to-reach areas.
- Do not pull the elastic in the corners - it should lie freely, without tension.
- If the seal is fixed with self-tapping screws, twist them diagonally (first the upper left, then the lower right, etc.) to avoid skew.
After installation, check that:
- The elastic band does not bristle or come out of the groove.
- The magnetic tape is evenly attracted to the body (check with a sheet of paper - it should hold when the door is closed).
☑️ Checklist before closing the door
Typical mistakes and how to avoid them
Even with the apparent simplicity of the process, many make mistakes that lead to repeated replacement or breakdown of the refrigerator. Here are the most common ones:
- 🔄 Uneven tension of the elastic - if you pull the seal during installation, it may tear or deform in a month. Solution: lay the elastic without tension, starting from the corners.
- 🧲 Ignoring the magnetic tape —if the new seal is weakly attracted, check the polarity of the magnets (they should “look” at the refrigerator body).
- 🔧 Use sharp tools —scratches on the plastic of the door can become sources of rust. Solution: work only with a plastic spatula.
- 🌡️ Replacement without defrosting —ice in the groove prevents a tight fit. Solution: wait for complete defrosting (at least 4–6 hours).
- 📏 Incorrect cutting - if you shorten the seal not according to the mark, the joint will be uneven. Solution: cut only according to the factory notches.
Another common problem is Door misalignment after replacement. This happens if the seal is installed unevenly or the screws are twisted crookedly. To avoid this, after installation, check the gaps around the entire perimeter using a sheet of paper.
What to do if the rubber does not stay in the groove?
If the seal falls out of the groove, the reason may be the wrong type of fastening. On some models Ariston (for example, Ariston MBC 2251) the herringbone system is used - a groove with an expansion inward. In this case you need:
1. Heat the elastic band with a hairdryer (not higher than 60°C).
2. Press it into the groove with force, starting from the center.
3. Secure with masking tape for 12–24 hours until the rubber “sits.”
If the problem remains, the seal does not fit the shape of the groove.
How to extend the life of a new seal
To make the rubber last longer than 5–7 years, follow simple rules care:
- 🧼 Clean the seal once a month soap solution (no abrasives!). Pay special attention to folds where dirt accumulates.
- 🧴 Lubricate with silicone 2 times a year - this prevents the rubber from drying out.
- 🚪 Do not slam the door - sharp impacts deform the magnetic tape.
- 🔄 Check the tightness every six months with a sheet of paper.
- 🌡️ Avoid overheating —do not place the refrigerator next to the stove or radiator.
If you notice that the elastic has begun to crack or has lost elasticity, do not wait until it is completely worn out. Timely replacement will cost less than repair compressor due to constant cold leakage.
When is it better to call a specialist
Although replacing the seal on the refrigerator Ariston is a task feasible for most users, in some cases it is better to trust a professional:
- 🔧 If the refrigerator door is skewed or sagging —you first need to adjust the hinges.
- ⚡ If after replacement seal the refrigerator does not turn on —there may be an error in connecting the sensors (on models with electronic control).
- 📉 If the temperature in the chamber does not stabilize even with a new rubber band, the problem may be in the thermostat or compressor.
- 🔄 If you not sure about the seal model the technician will select the part from the spare parts database.
Cost of replacement work rubber bands at the service center - from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles (excluding spare parts). If you are not ready to pay for the service, but are afraid of making a mistake, try searching video instructions for your model on YouTube - they often show nuances that are not in the text manual.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing the seal
Is it possible to repair an old rubber band without buying a new one?
If the seal has lost elasticity, but is not torn, try restore it:
- Remove the rubber band and soak in hot water (70–80°C) for 20 minutes.
- Apply glycerin or silicone grease to it glycerin or silicone grease.
- Install it back and secure with tape for a day.
This method works in 60% of cases, but is considered a temporary solution. After 3–6 months, the elastic band will begin to tan again.
How to understand that the seal is the right size?
Compare length and shape of the groove old and new elastic bands. The original seal must:
- Have same number of magnets (1 or 2 rows).
- Match on width and depth of the groove (measure with a caliper).
- Have similar “ears” for fastening in the corners.
If at least one parameter does not match - look for another option.
How long does it take to replace a seal?
On average - from 1 to 3 hours, depending on:
- Experience (for a beginner it will take more time for careful installation).
- Refrigerator models (longer due to the dimensions). Side-by-Side longer due to size).
- Mode of fastening (screws or herringbone groove).
Take your time - it’s better to spend an extra hour than redo the work.
What to do if after replacement the door closes tightly?
This is normal in the first days - the new rubber band is stiffer. To speed up the “getting used to”:
- Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to the seal a thin layer of Vaseline.
- Close the door with force for 2-3 days in a row.
- Check whether the door is warped (if necessary adjust the hinges).
If the problem has not disappeared after a week, the seal does not fit.
Can I use a seal from another brand?
Theoretically yes, but only if they match:
- Type of fastening (groove, screws, glue).
- Profile shape (for example, Ariston and Indesit it may differ).
- Number of magnetic tapes.
It’s better not to take risks - a non-original rubber band can last 2 times less.