A sharp increase in temperature in the refrigerator compartment, a stoppage of the compressor, or, conversely, endless freezing of food are classic symptoms of thermostat failure. Owners of brand refrigerators Stinol often encounter similar problems after several years of active use. Thermostat is the main control element that is responsible for turning the motor on and off depending on the set temperature inside the chamber.
Independent replacement of this unit - a very real task for a home craftsman with a minimal set of tools and basic electrical skills. A correctly selected and installed part will allow you to return your equipment to working order without an expensive service call. However, it is worth considering that the process requires care, since incorrect connection can lead to failure of the compressor or start relay.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions, starting with diagnosing the malfunction and ending with the final setting of the temperature regime. You will learn how to remove the old sensor, what to look for when choosing an analogue and how to correctly install a new element in the control system Stinol refrigerator. Compliance with safety precautions and the sequence of operations guarantees a successful repair result.
Diagnostics of thermostat malfunction
Before you begin disassembling the unit, you need to make sure that the problem lies in the thermostat. Often the symptoms of a breakdown of this unit can be confused with a faulty start relay or a refrigerant leak. If the compressor hums but does not start, or works without interruption, creating an ice crust on the back wall, this is a reason to check thermostat. The first step should always be a visual assessment of the condition of the equipment and analysis of the operating mode of the motor.
For an initial check, you can use the exclusion method. Try to force the compressor to start by closing the contacts on the thermostat (after disconnecting the refrigerator from the network!). If after a short circuit the motor starts running and starts to cool, then the problem is most likely in the sensor. It is also worth paying attention to the regulator knob: if it scrolls too easily or, on the contrary, is jammed, this is a clear sign of mechanical destruction of the internal mechanism.
- 🔍 The compressor does not turn on, but the light bulb is on and the hum of the network can be heard.
- 🔍 The refrigerator works continuously, without turning off, and is very cold products.
- 🔍 The temperature control knob has play or does not respond to turns.
- 🔍 The refrigerator compartment is too warm, although the motor is working properly and rarely starts.
⚠️ Attention: Before carrying out any manipulations with electrical components, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Working under voltage is deadly and can lead to a short circuit.
Choosing the appropriate thermostat model
Refrigerators Stinol were equipped with various types of thermostats depending on the year of manufacture and the specific model. Most often in these units there are Italian-made sensors Ranco or Danfoss (now Secop). It is critically important to select an analogue with identical parameters, especially the length of the capillary tube and the temperature range of operation. Using an unsuitable part will lead to incorrect operation of the system.
When choosing a new part, pay attention to the markings on the body of the old device. The numbers and letters in the code indicate the type of contacts, tube length and temperature conditions. For example, for single-chamber models and two-chamber refrigerators with one compressor, completely different modifications can be used. Capillary tube - this is a thin copper conductor filled with a sensitive gas, and its length must correspond to the original so that the sensor correctly reads the evaporator temperature.
Marking correspondence table thermostats
Old Stinol models were often equipped with Ranco K59 or K50 sensors. The letter "L" at the end of the marking usually means a longer capillary tube, and the "P" means a standard one. For two-chamber models with one compressor, thermostats marked K59-L1102 or an analogue TAM-133 are most often used. It is important to consider that the tube cannot be shortened or lengthened, as this will disrupt the volume of the sensitive element and disrupt the calibration.
If it is not possible to find the exact original, installation of universal analogues is permissible, but only if the basic technical characteristics match. The table below shows common types of thermostats for various modifications Stinol:
| Refrigerator type | Original (Ranco/Danfoss) | Analogue (TAM) | Tube length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-chamber | Ranco K50-L1102 | TAM-112 | 0.73 m |
| Two-chamber (1 compressor) | Ranco K59-L1102 | TAM-133 | 0.73 m |
| Two-chamber (No Frost) | Ranco K59-P4636 | TAM-145 | 0.5 m |
| Freezer compartment | Ranco K57-L4423 | TAM-131 | 1.3 m |
Necessary tools and preparation
To successfully replace the thermostat, you will need a minimum set of tools that any man can find in his home. The main task is to carefully remove the plastic casing, get to the electrical part and replace the sensor without damaging the fragile elements of the system. Prepare your work area in advance: it should be well lit to distinguish wire colors and small markings.
You will need screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), side cutters or scissors for stripping wires, as well as insulating tape or heat shrink. A multimeter will not be amiss to check the continuity of the circuit, although experienced craftsmen often do without it, relying on the markings. Also prepare a container for defrosting if you need to bend the evaporator during the process.
☑️ Tools for replacing the thermostat
Be sure to defrost the refrigerator before starting work. Although replacing the thermostat does not require completely draining the freon, the presence of ice on the evaporator can make the capillary tube difficult to access and increase the risk of damage. Leave the unit turned off for at least 6-8 hours, and preferably overnight.
Removing the old thermostat
The process of removing the old sensor begins with dismantling the plastic control panel or casing that hides the electrical components. In refrigerators Stinol the thermostat is usually located inside the refrigerator compartment, under the lampshade or in a special recess on the top wall. Carefully remove the regulator handle by pulling it towards you and unscrew the mounting screws.
After removing the decorative trim, you will see the thermostat housing. Disconnect the electrical wires by first photographing or sketching the connection diagram. This is a critical point, as mixed-up contacts can cause a short circuit. Next, you need to carefully remove the capillary tube from the evaporator. It can be secured with a bracket or simply inserted into the process hole.
Proceed slowly so as not to damage the thin copper tube. If it is stuck to the ice, wait until it is completely defrosted. Pull the tube out smoothly, without jerking, being careful not to deform it. After removing the sensor from the chamber, remove the entire unit for easy replacement.
⚠️ Attention: The capillary tube of the thermostat is filled with gas under pressure. It is strictly forbidden to bite, bend at an acute angle or pierce the tube. This will lead to leakage of the sensitive element and the impossibility of further operation of the sensor.
Installing and connecting a new sensor
Installation of a new thermostat is carried out in the reverse order of dismantling. First, carefully insert the capillary tube into the evaporator hole at the same depth to which the old one was immersed. Usually the immersion depth is from 10 to 15 cm, but it is better to focus on signs of wear or bending on the old tube. Secure the tube with a standard bracket or adhesive aluminum tape, ensuring tight contact with the surface of the evaporator.
Then connect the electrical wires to the contacts of the new thermostat according to the diagram made earlier. For a reliable connection, use clamps or high-quality soldering, then carefully insulate the joints. In refrigerators Stinol the colors of the wires are usually standard: brown or black - phase, blue - zero, yellow-green - grounding, but always double check the markings on the case.
After connecting the electrics, install the thermostat housing in its original place and secure it with screws. Put the adjustment knob on and make sure it rotates freely and locks into position. Assemble the plastic casing and lamp shade. Only after complete assembly can you begin testing.
Configuring and testing operation
After replacing the thermostat, you need to check the correctness of its operation. Plug in the refrigerator and set the control knob to the middle position. After 10-15 minutes you should hear a characteristic click and the compressor starts. If the motor does not start, try turning the knob counterclockwise until it stops, and then smoothly turning it clockwise until it turns on.
The first cycle of operation may take longer than usual, as the system needs to get cold. Do not open the door frequently during the first hours of operation. Make sure that the compressor switches off after reaching the desired temperature. If the refrigerator turns off too early (without having time to get cold) or does not turn off at all, additional adjustment will be required.
On some models of thermostats Ranco or Danfoss there is a calibration screw under the adjustment knob or inside the case. Turning this screw allows you to shift the temperature response range. However, it is not recommended to make such adjustments without a special thermometer and experience. It is better to trust the factory settings, which in most cases are suitable for standard operating conditions.
Frequent errors during replacement
When making independent repairs, novice repairmen often make typical mistakes that nullify all efforts. One of the most common is incorrect immersion depth of the capillary tube. If it goes in too deep, the sensor will “think” that the chamber is colder than it actually is, and the refrigerator will work intermittently. If it is too shallow, the temperature will be higher than normal.
Another mistake is poor attachment of the tube to the evaporator. If there is a gap between the sensor and the cooling surface, heat transfer is disrupted and the thermostat responds late. They also often forget about the insulation of contacts, which in conditions of high humidity inside the chamber can lead to oxidation and loss of contact.
- ❌ Using a thermostat with an inappropriate temperature range (for example, for a freezer instead of a refrigerator).
- ❌ Bend the capillary tube at an angle of 90 degrees or more, which leads to its creases.
- ❌ Lack of reliable fixation of the tube, which causes it to fall out of its seat.
- ❌ Ignoring checking the start relay, which could burn out due to a malfunction of the old thermostat.
⚠️ Attention: Technical characteristics of refrigeration equipment may vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture and modifications. Always check the labeling of parts with the documentation for your specific model or consult with the official catalogs of spare parts manufacturers.
Questions and answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to use a thermostat from another manufacturer, for example, from Atlant or Indesit?
Yes, it is possible if the mounting dimensions, capillary tube length and temperature range match. Many refrigerators are assembled using the same components. The main thing is the correspondence of the markings and the type of contacts.
Why does the new thermostat click, but the compressor does not start?
This may indicate a malfunction of the start relay, the compressor itself, or a lack of voltage in the network. Also check that the wires are connected correctly to the thermostat contacts. Perhaps the circuit does not occur due to a defective new part.
How can you tell that the capillary tube is damaged?
If gas comes out of the tube with a hissing sound or traces of oil/dirt are visible at the damage site, it means that the tightness is broken. Such a thermostat will not work and must only be replaced.
Is it necessary to evacuate the system when replacing the thermostat?
No, replacing the thermostat does not require intervention in the freon circuit. The system is sealed, and you only change the electrical sensor, so evacuation and refrigerant charging are not required.
How long does a new thermostat last?
The average service life of a high-quality thermostat is from 5 to 10 years, depending on the intensity of use of the refrigerator and the stability of the voltage in the electrical network.