The situation when the refrigerator Ariston stops freezing properly often takes you by surprise. You may notice that the compressor works almost without interruption, ice appears on the walls of the chamber, and it becomes noticeably warmer inside. In 80% of such cases, the culprit is not a complex breakdown of the electronics or a freon leak, but a simply worn out sealing profile. The rubber edging that ensures the tightness of the door loses its elasticity over time, cracks or deforms. Warm air enters through the resulting cracks, causing the unit to wear out. If you notice that the paper sandwiched between the door and the body is easily pulled out, then it’s time to replace the seal on the Ariston refrigerator with your own hands. sealing profile.
The rubber edging that ensures the door is sealed loses its elasticity over time, cracks or becomes deformed. Warm air enters through the resulting cracks, causing the unit to wear out. If you notice that the paper sandwiched between the door and the body is easily pulled out, then it’s time to replace the seal on the Ariston refrigerator with your own hands.
This procedure does not require calling a technician or expensive equipment. Having a basic set of tools and understanding the principle of operation magnetic tapeyou can restore the seal of the chamber in one hour. It is only important to choose the right seal model and follow the sequence of actions so as not to damage the plastic of the door.
Diagnostics of the condition of the seal
Before buying a new part, you need to make sure that the problem lies in the rubber. Visual inspection is the first stage of diagnosis. Carefully examine the perimeter of the door: there should be no visible breaks in the rubber, deep cracks or areas where the material has begun to crumble. Often, deformation is noticeable in the corners or in the area of the handle, where mechanical stress occurs.
However, even visually intact rubber may not fulfill its function. The magnetic tape inside the profile may have become loose or misaligned. To check, use a regular sheet of paper. Open the door, attach the sheet to the body and slam the door. If the paper falls out or is pulled out without the slightest resistance, it means the seal is broken..
Carry out the test along the entire perimeter, moving the sheet of paper every 10-15 centimeters. Pay special attention to the bottom of the door and the hinge area, as this is where sagging most often occurs. If gaps are found locally, sometimes adjusting the hinges helps, but if the wear is uniform or the rubber is hard, replacing the seal on the refrigerator Ariston is inevitable.
⚠️ Attention: If you find that the door is skewed and does not snap into place even with strong pressure, first try adjusting the position refrigerator level or tighten the hinge mounting bolts. Replacing the rubber will not correct the mechanical distortion of the structure.
Choosing a suitable seal model
The spare parts market for household appliances offers many options, but for refrigerators Ariston (which are often analogues Indesit or produced in common factories) it is important to choose compatible profiles. Seals may differ in the type of fastening, the shape of the magnetic insert and dimensions. An incorrectly selected part will result in the door not closing or not fitting tightly.
The main attention should be paid to the installation method. There are two main types of fastenings: in a groove (the profile is inserted into a special groove on the door) and with self-tapping screws (rubber is screwed to the end of the door through a plastic strip). There are also combined options. You can determine the type by looking at the end of the old rubber band or by studying the technical documentation for your model.
When ordering, pay attention to the markings. Often original part numbers Ariston start with certain codes, for example, C00 or IND. If you haven’t found the original, you can use universal analogues, but as a rule, they have to be cut and adjusted in place, which requires certain skills.
| Mounting type | Compatibility | Installation complexity | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Into the groove (profile) | Most modern models | Low | Rubber is simply pressed into the channel, does not require glue |
| On self-tapping screws | Old models, Soviet analogs | Average | Requires careful drilling or use of old holes |
| Adhesive connection | Rare models, specific series | High | Special glue and degreaser are required |
Where can I find the exact part number?
The exact part number of the seal is often indicated on a sticker inside the refrigerator compartment or on the technical card. If the sticker has worn off, use the full model of the refrigerator (for example, Ariston MBAA 20) to search in spare parts catalogs.
Necessary tools and preparation
To successfully replace the seal, you do not need complex professional tools. The basic set can be found in any home craftsman's drawer. The main thing is to prepare the workplace, providing good access to the refrigerator from all sides, since the door may have to be removed.
You will need the following tools and materials:
- 🔧 A construction hair dryer (or a regular household one at maximum power) - necessary for heating the new rubber so that it becomes elastic and straightens.
- 🪛 Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead) - for removing the door and working with fasteners.
- ✂️ Sharp scissors or a stationery knife - for trimming excess material in the corners.
- 🧼 Degreaser (alcohol or acetone) - for cleaning mounting groove before installation.
- 🧤 Gloves - so as not to stain the light rubber and protect your hands.
Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Remove all food and shelves from the door to make the structure lighter. If the model allows, remove the door from its hinges - this will greatly simplify installation, since working with a door lying horizontally is much more convenient than with a vertical one.
⚠️ Attention: When using a hair dryer, be careful. Do not keep the stream of hot air on one area of the door plastic for too long, so as not to deform it. The optimal heating temperature for rubber is 60-70 degrees.
Removing the old seal
The process of removing the old rubber depends on the type of fastening. If the seal is installed in the groove, it must be carefully pulled out of the channel. Start at one of the corners by prying up the rubber with a flathead screwdriver. Act slowly so as not to damage the plastic door body, which could become fragile over time.
In models where the rubber is screwed on with self-tapping screws, you first need to remove the decorative strip (if any) covering the fasteners. Then remove all the screws around the perimeter. Often there is a metal or plastic insert under the rubber that also needs to be removed. Save all fasteners; they may be needed to install a new profile.
After removing the rubber, thoroughly clean the mounting groove or the end of the door from any remaining adhesive, dirt and grease. Use degreaser and rags. A clean surface is the key to ensuring that the new seal will lie flat and hold securely. If there are pieces of old rubber left in the groove, the new profile will come out like a wave.
☑️ Preparation for installation
Technology for installing a new seal
Installing a new seal on a refrigerator Ariston requires patience and accuracy. New tires often come rolled up and can be hard. Before installation, it is recommended to let it lie flat at room temperature for several hours, and immediately before installation, warm it with a hairdryer.
Start installation from the top corner of the door. Insert the edge of the profile into the groove or attach it to the end. Move gradually, pressing the rubber with your fingers or a blunt object (such as the handle of a screwdriver) around the entire perimeter. Do not stretch the rubber too much, especially at the corners, otherwise it may tear or then shrink, forming a gap.
Pay special attention to the corners. It is important to form the joint correctly here. If the profile is solid, carefully straighten the fold. If the model allows for docking, make sure that the ends fit snugly against each other. In some cases, the corner can be slightly cut from the inside so that the rubber fits easier into the turn.
After the entire contour is installed, check the fit again along the entire length. Walk around with your hand, feeling for an even fit. If a wave or swelling has formed somewhere, carefully remove the area and lay it again. An even profile is a guarantee of quiet operation and good cold.
Finishing and quality control
After installing the new seal, do not immediately close the refrigerator. The rubber should “rest” and take the shape of the door. However, to speed up the process of straightening and creases formed during transportation, use a hair dryer. Gently warm up problem areas while smoothing them with a gloved hand.
Now you need to check the quality of the work done. Test again with a piece of paper around the entire perimeter. The door should open with a characteristic vacuum pop, and the paper should be clamped tightly. Also visually inspect the door for distortions - it should close easily, without additional effort.
The first time you turn on the refrigerator, do it without food. Allow the unit to reach temperature for 2-4 hours. At this time, monitor the operation of the compressor: it should not hum continuously. If the operation cycle (turned on, worked, turned off), it means tightness has been restored and the heat does not escape.
⚠️ Attention: In the first day after replacing the seal, there may be a slight change in the sound of the door slamming. This is normal, as new tires are stiffer. Over time, it will develop and become softer.
Common mistakes when replacing
Even with instructions, beginners often make mistakes that nullify all efforts. One of the most common is trying to stretch the rubber if it seems short. This is strictly forbidden: the stretched seal shrinks over time, and cracks appear. If the profile does not fit, it means that the model was chosen incorrectly.
Another mistake is ignoring cleaning the groove. Installing a new rubber band on a dirty surface will cause it to quickly come off. Also, do not use glue to fix the profile in the groove if the design does not provide for this. The glue will make future replacement impossible and may damage the plastic.
Do not forget about the temperature regime. Installing a seal in a cold room (for example, in a garage in winter) can cause the rubber to “remember” its compressed state. It is better to carry out all work in a warm place, at a temperature not lower than +18 degrees.
What to do if there are gaps left?
If after installation you find small gaps, try warming these places with a hair dryer and pressing the door tightly for 10-15 minutes. Sometimes temporarily fixing the door in the closed position with belts or ropes at night helps.
Is it possible to use a universal seal instead of the original?
Yes, you can, but it will require more effort. Universal profiles are often sold by the meter and require cutting corners at 45 degrees. In addition, the shape of the magnetic insert may differ, which will affect the clamping force. The original seal Ariston guarantees ideal geometry and durability.
How often do you need to change the seal on the refrigerator?
The average service life of a high-quality seal is 7-10 years. However, if the refrigerator is in a kitchen with high humidity or is exposed to frequent temperature changes, the rubber may lose its properties sooner. Regular checks (every six months) will help you notice wear in time.
Why does a new seal smell like rubber?
The smell of new rubber is normal. It is determined by production technology and materials. Over time (usually within 1-2 weeks) the smell will disappear. You can speed up the process by washing the rubber with warm water and a mild detergent before installation.
Does the seal need to be lubricated after installation?
There is no need to lubricate the new seal. However, during operation (once every 3-4 months), it is recommended to wipe the rubber with a special silicone lubricant or glycerin. This will prevent drying out, maintain elasticity and extend the service life of the part.
What to do if the door becomes harder to open after replacement?
The new seal always creates a stronger vacuum seal, so the opening force increases. This is fine. If the door opens with difficulty even after “development” for a week, check the adjustment of the hinges - perhaps the door is pressed too tightly to the body.