The appearance of condensation on the inner walls of the chamber, ice freezing in unexpected places, or a characteristic whistle when trying to slam the door - all these are sure signs that the sealing rubber on your Ariston refrigerator has become unusable. Ignoring this problem can lead to increased energy consumption, since the compressor will be forced to work almost without interruption, trying to compensate for the constant flow of warm air from outside.
Fortunately, the procedure for replacing the seal does not require complex professional tools or deep knowledge in the field of refrigeration technology. In most cases, Ariston refrigerators are designed in such a way that the owner can cope with this task on his own if he acts carefully and consistently. It is only important to correctly determine the type of fastening and select a compatible part.
Before proceeding with dismantling, it is necessary to assess the scale of the problem. Sometimes sealing rubber does not require complete replacement, but only thorough cleaning or restoration of elasticity. However, if cracks, tears are visible on the surface, or the material has become hard and brittle, then installing a new set is the only right solution to preserve the freshness of products.
Diagnostics of the condition of the seal
The first step should always be a thorough visual and tactile check of the current condition cuffs Run your hand along the entire length sealpaying attention to any unevenness, stickiness or areas where the rubber has moved away from the body. Problems often arise in the corners of the door, where the material experiences the greatest mechanical stress when opening and closing.
There is a simple and effective method for checking the tightness, which is often called the “paper test”. Take a regular A4 sheet, open the door slightly and clamp the paper with a seal so that part of the sheet hangs out. Try to pull out the sheet: if it is removed with noticeable force and friction, then tightness it is preserved in this place.
If the paper falls out freely or is pulled out with virtually no resistance, then the fit is broken. Carry out this procedure along the entire perimeter of the door, especially in those places where gaps are visually visible. This will help you understand whether replacement along the entire length is required or whether local repair is sufficient.
⚠️ Attention: If you find that the leakage is observed in only one place, do not rush to buy a new kit. Sometimes it is enough to simply heat the deformed area with a hairdryer and press it firmly to return to its original shape.
It is also worth paying attention to the color of the material. If once white rubber turned yellow or became covered with dark spots of mold that cannot be washed off, this is a signal for replacement. The porous structure of old rubber becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, which is unsafe for stored products. Ariston refrigerator turned yellow or covered with dark spots of mold that cannot be washed off, this is a signal for replacement. The porous structure of old rubber becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, which is unsafe for stored products.
Selecting a suitable seal
Selecting the right spare part is a critically important stage, since there are no universal solutions for all models. Ariston refrigerators were produced in different series, and the geometry of their doors may differ significantly. On the market you can find both original spare parts and universal analogues that require trimming or heat treatment.
For an accurate selection, you need to find the technical data sheet of the device or a sticker with the serial number, which is usually located inside the chamber or on the back wall. Using this code, you can order an original seal, which will fit perfectly into place without additional manipulations.
If the original cannot be found, you can use a universal magnetic seal. Such products are sold by the meter or in sets of standard sizes. When choosing a universal option, it is important to consider not only the length of the perimeter, but also the cross-sectional profile, as well as the method of fastening to the door.
- 🔍 Original part number - the most reliable way to avoid errors when ordering, guarantees full compliance with the geometry.
- 📏 Profile measurements - if the number is unknown, you need to measure the width and height of the profile of the old rubber band with a caliper.
- 🧲 Magnetic tape —make sure that the magnetic insert in the universal kit is powerful enough to hold the door.
Where to look for the part number?
Number parts are often stamped directly onto the inside of the seal itself. To see it, carefully bend the edge of the elastic at the bottom corner of the door. There may be a manufacturer code or article number indicated, by which you can search for a replacement in spare parts catalogs.
Necessary tools and preparation
To successfully carry out the work, you do not need the entire arsenal of a professional locksmith. However, having the right tool will greatly simplify the process and reduce the risk of damage to the plastic elements of the door Ariston refrigerator. Prepare your work area in advance by providing good lighting.
The main tool will be a flat-head screwdriver, preferably with a thin and narrow blade. It will be needed to pry off the fasteners. You may also need a Phillips screwdriver if your model requires a screw fastening of the internal panel.
Don't forget to prepare a hair dryer. An ordinary household hair dryer is perfect for heating up the new rubber so that it becomes elastic and easier to straighten after installation. In addition, a soft rag and a soap solution will be useful for cleaning the surface.
☑️ Tools for replacing the rubber band
It is important to free up space in front of the refrigerator so that the doors open completely and nothing interferes with access to the ends. If you have an assistant who will hold the door or supply tools, the process will go faster and safer for the structure.
Removing the old seal
The process of removing the old rubber directly depends on the type of fastening used by the manufacturer. In modern models Ariston refrigerators most often, the seal is attached to a special groove on the plastic door profile. In this case, the rubber does not need to be unscrewed, it is simply removed from the groove.
Start dismantling from one of the corners of the door. Carefully bend the edge of the seal and find the place where it fits into the gutter. Use a flathead screwdriver or just your fingers to pry the rubber and pull it out. Move gradually around the perimeter, removing the seal from the groove 10-15 centimeters at a time.
If your model belongs to an older series, the seal can be screwed with self-tapping screws along the inner perimeter of the door. In this case, you must first remove the inner plastic panel (covering) of the door by unscrewing the fixing screws, and only then unscrew the rubber band itself.
⚠️ Attention: Be extremely careful when removing the inner door panel. The plastic on older refrigerators can be brittle, and a sudden movement can break the fastening latches or the panel itself.
After completely removing the old tape, be sure to thoroughly clean the gutter or door surface of any remaining adhesive, dirt, or grease. The use of aggressive chemicals is not recommended; warm water with the addition of dishwashing detergent is best. A clean surface will ensure a better fit of the new material.
Installing a new seal
Before installing the new one seal it is recommended to warm it up. Place it in warm water (about 50-60 degrees) for a few minutes or gently warm it with a hairdryer. This will make the rubber softer and more pliable, which is especially important if the part was folded in a warehouse.
Start installation from the top corner of the door. Insert the edge of the seal into the groove or attach it to the mounting location. If using a groove joint, press the rubber with your fingers, moving from the corner in both directions. Try to distribute the material evenly, avoiding stretching.
Move along the perimeter, sequentially tucking the sealant into the gutter. Pay special attention to the corners - these are the most difficult areas. Here the rubber must be laid carefully, forming an even bend without folds or creases.
In the case of a screw fastening, first secure the elastic in the corners, then in the center of the sides, and only after that secure the intermediate sections. This will help avoid distortions and the wave effect on the surface of the seal.
Final check and adjustment
After the new one seal is installed, do not immediately slam the door and consider the work completed. The rubber needs time to expand and take its final shape. It is better to leave the refrigerator door open for several hours, and ideally for a day.
If you installed a universal seal or the material was severely deformed during storage, additional heat treatment may be required. Gently heat the areas where unevenness is observed with a hairdryer and immediately press them with your fingers, giving the desired geometry.
Be sure to repeat the test with a sheet of paper described in the diagnostics section. Make sure that the sheet is clamped with the same force around the entire perimeter. If a weak clamp is found in any place, check whether the seal is inserted correctly into the groove.
Only after a successful leak test can you load the refrigerator with food. During the first day of operation, monitor the compressor switching cycles - they should become less frequent, and excessive condensation should not appear inside the chamber.
Table of common problems
Various difficulties may arise during the replacement process. Below is a table that will help you quickly identify the problem and find a way to fix it without calling the technician again.
| Problem | Probable cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The door does not close tightly | The seal is not fully inserted into the groove | Go around the perimeter and press the rubber deeper |
| A gap is visible in the corner | A crease or fold on the seal | Warm with a hairdryer and straighten, pressing with your fingers |
| The door opens by itself | The door is skewed or the magnet is weak | Check the adjustment of the refrigerator legs |
| Whistling when closing | The fit of the new one is too tight rubber | Lubricate with silicone grease, it will go away over time |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How often do you need to change the seal on an Ariston refrigerator?
The average service life of sealing rubber is 5-7 years under normal operating conditions. However, if the refrigerator is in a kitchen with high temperatures or is frequently exposed to direct sunlight, replacement may be required earlier - after 3-4 years.
Is it possible to glue an old seal?
Using glue to fix a loose seal is a temporary measure. The glue makes the rubber hard, which will ultimately only worsen the seal. If the rubber is intact, it is better to use the heating and spreading method. If it is torn, only replacement will help.
How to lubricate the seal after installation?
For lubrication, it is recommended to use a special silicone grease for refrigerators. It maintains the elasticity of the rubber and prevents it from drying out. The use of vegetable oil or petroleum jelly is undesirable, as they can oxidize over time and destroy the structure of the material.
Why does the new seal smell?
An unpleasant smell of new rubber is normal. This is the smell of manufacturing components. It will completely disappear within 2-3 days of using the refrigerator. To speed up the process, you can wipe the rubber with a solution of citric acid.