Replacing the thermostat in a Stinol two-chamber refrigerator: detailed instructions with photos

The thermostat (or thermostat) is a key element of the refrigerator Stinolthat answers for maintaining the set temperature. If it fails, the compressor stops turning on when commanded, the freezer defrosts, and the food spoils. In two-chamber models Stinol (for example, STN 167, STN 175, STN 185), the thermostat is usually located inside the refrigerator compartment, behind a plastic panel.

You can replace it yourself in 30–60 minutes if you strictly follow the instructions. But before you take up the tools, it is important to make sure that the problem is in the thermostat and not in the compressor, start relay or freon leak. This article contains a step-by-step analysis of the process, from diagnostics to installation of a new thermostat, taking into account the nuances of models Stinol with mechanical control.

⚠️ Critical warning: If your refrigerator Stinol is equipped with an electronic control unit (display, touch buttons), the algorithm for replacing the thermostat will be different! In such models, the thermostat is integrated into the board, and replacing it requires soldering or completely replacing the module. This instruction is relevant only for mechanical thermostats with a rotating knob.

Signs of a malfunctioning thermostat

The first signal of a thermostat failure - the refrigerator stops freezing, but the light inside is on. However, this symptom may indicate other problems. In order not to waste time and money in vain, check the characteristic “symptoms” of a faulty thermostat:

• 🔄 The compressor does not turn on at all or works without stopping (no on/off cycles).
• ❄️ The temperature in the freezer is higher than normal, despite the maximum position of the thermostat knob.
• 🔊 There are no relay clicks when turning the thermostat knob (normally, a slight click should be heard when switching).
• 🌡️ The refrigerator compartment is not cooling, but the freezer is working (or vice versa, if the thermostat is responsible for only one compartment).

Quick test: remove the plug refrigerator from the outlet, then plug it back in. If the compressor starts and turns off after 10-15 minutes, but the refrigerator does not freeze, the problem is definitely in the thermostat. If the compressor does not start at all, check start relay or capacitor.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Stinol with system No Frost thermostat malfunction may disguise itself as a clogged evaporator or broken fan. If after replacing the thermostat the problem remains, diagnostics of these components will be required.

Preparation: tools and choice of thermostat

To replace the thermostat in Stinol you will need:

• 🔧 Phillips and flat screwdrivers (for dismantling the panel and fastenings).
• 🔌 Multimeter (to check the old thermostat and circuit).
• 📦 New thermostat (the model must match the original!).
• 🧲 Magnet or tape (to fix the door in the open position).
• 📸 Phone (for photographing the wiring diagram).

The key point is choosing the right thermostat. In Stinol two-chamber refrigerators (for example, STN 167/175/185), thermostats of the K-59, TAM-133 or TAM-125series are most often installed. The exact model can be found: K-59 (take a photo of it before dismantling!).

1. On a sticker inside the refrigerator compartment (next to the lamp).
2. On the body of the old thermostat (take a photo before dismantling it!).
3. In the operating instructions (section "Technical Specifications").

Important: Thermostats for the freezer and refrigerator compartments are different! In two-chamber models Stinol there are usually two separate thermostats - do not confuse them when purchasing.

⚠️ Attention: If you If you are not sure about the model of the thermostat, remove the old one and take it to a spare parts store - the seller will select an analogue. Buying “by eye” is risky: an unsuitable thermostat will not turn on the compressor correctly.

Removing the old thermostat: step-by-step instructions

Before starting work unplug the refrigerator and defrost it (if the chambers are covered with ice). Allow the ice to melt naturally - do not use a hairdryer or sharp objects to avoid damaging the evaporator.

Next follow the algorithm:

1. Remove the thermostat knob. It is attached to a plastic clip - pull it towards you with light force. If it does not give in, pry it off from the side with a screwdriver.
2. Remove the plastic panel. It is held on by latches or screws (depending on the model). In Stinol STN 167/175 usually 2-3 screws under the handle and on the sides.
3. Disconnect the capillary tube. It is attached to the evaporator (a metal plate on the back wall of the chamber). Carefully bend the fastening and pull out the tube.
4. Take a photo of the wire connection diagram! The thermostat usually has 3-4 contacts. The colors of the wires may vary, but the standard pinout is:
   • 🟡 Yellow/green - grounding.
   • 🟤 Brown/black - phase (power).
   • 🔵 Blue - zero or signal wire from the compressor.
   • 🟢 Green/white - temperature sensor (if equipped).

⚠️ Attention: If during dismantling you find that the capillary tube is torn or pinched, the thermostat must be replaced - it cannot be repaired.

Checking the thermostat with a multimeter

Before installing a new thermostat, make sure that the old one is really faulty. To do this:

1. Switch the multimeter to resistance test mode (200 Ohm).
2. Connect the probes to the contacts 3 i 4 (usually these are terminals for measuring the resistance of the thermostat).
3. Turn the thermostat knob from the minimum to the maximum position:
   • 🔴 If the resistance does not change (always 0 or ∞) - the thermostat is broken.
   • 🟢 If the resistance changes smoothly from 0 to several Ohms - the thermostat is working (the problem is different node!).

Also check the circuit for open circuit:

1. Connect the probes to the contacts 1 i 2 (power).
2. When the knob is rotated, a click should be heard, and the multimeter should show short circuit (resistance ~0 Ohm) in the "On" position.
What to do if the thermostat is working, but the refrigerator is not working?
If the multimeter shows that the thermostat is working, check:
• 🔌 Compressor starting relay (a common reason for failure to start).
• 🧲 Capacitor (swelling or electrolyte leakage).
• 🔋 Power supply to the compressor (possibly a problem in the wiring or plug).
• ❄️ Freon leak (if the compressor works, but does not freeze).

In these cases, it is better to call a specialist - diagnostics require special equipment.