The appearance of condensation on the inner walls, constant operation of the compressor, or a barely noticeable skew of the door are the first alarm signals indicating that the seal of the chamber is broken. Most often, the culprit of the problem is a worn-out one, which over time loses its elasticity, cracks or becomes deformed. In refrigerators seal, which over time loses elasticity, cracks or deforms. In refrigerators Ariston, as in any other equipment, this element plays the role of a barrier that does not let heat in from the outside and retains cold inside.
Timely replacement of the sealing gum allows you to avoid more serious breakdowns, such as failure of the compressor due to continuous operation or the formation of ice a fur coat that blocks the moisture removal system. If you notice that the door does not fit tightly, you should not immediately call a technician, since in most cases this procedure can be performed independently. It is only important to choose the right material and strictly follow the sequence of actions so as not to damage the plastic elements of the case.
In this article we will look in detail at how to determine the need for replacement, what type of seal to choose for your model Ariston and how to carry out installation so that the equipment works silently and efficiently for a long time years. Properly installed rubber is a guarantee of energy savings and product safety.
Diagnostics of the condition of the sealing rubber
The first sign of wear is often a visual change in the structure of the material: it becomes rigid, microcracks appear on the surface, and ruptures can form at bends. However, even if the rubber band looks intact on the outside, it may not perform its function due to loss of magnetic properties or profile deformation. Check if there is ice on the inside of the chamber in the corners where air should not penetrate.
There is a simple and reliable way to check the tightness that does not require special tools. Take a regular A4 sheet of paper, open the refrigerator door and clamp the sheet between the seal and the body. Close the door and try to pull out the sheet.
- 📄 If the paper is removed easily and without resistance, the seal is broken, it requires adjustment or replacement.
- 📄 If the sheet is held tightly around the entire perimeter, the seal is in OK, the problem may be different.
- 📄 If in some places the sheet is clamped tightly, and in others it falls out, there are doors or deformation of the profile. skew doors or profile deformation.
It is also worth paying attention to the color of the rubber: if it has turned yellow or become covered with sticky a coating that cannot be washed off, which means that the material has begun to degrade chemically. In such cases, even a thorough washing will not restore elasticity, and the only way out is to install a new set.
⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator is not on a level floor, testing with paper may give false results. Before diagnosing, make sure that the legs of the equipment are adjusted to the level.
Ignoring minor defects in the seal leads to the compressor working non-stop, trying to compensate for the leakage of cold. This significantly reduces the life of the motor and increases electricity bills.
Choosing a suitable seal for the Ariston model
Refrigerators Ariston were produced in various modifications, and the profile of their seals may differ. Using the wrong rubber band will result in the door simply not closing or opening by itself. The main difference lies in the method of fastening: the profile can be on a magnetic base, with a groove for an insert, or fastened with screws.
When ordering a new part, be sure to check the catalog number, which is often stamped on the inside of the old rubber band or indicated in the technical documentation. If you cannot find the number, measure the dimensions of the refrigerator and take a cross-sectional photo for the seller.
How to measure the profile of the seal?
For an accurate selection, cut off a small piece of old elastic (if it is removable) or take a clear photo of the end of the door with the door open. Measure the width and height of the profile with a caliper. Even a difference of 1-2 mm can make installation impossible.
Modern analogs can be universal, but it is better to look for original spare parts or certified substitutes designed specifically for Indesit-Ariston equipment. Indesit-Ariston. High-quality material should be soft, without a strong chemical odor and have a strong magnetic tape along the entire length.
| Type of fastening | Description | Difficulty of replacement | Where found |
|---|---|---|---|
| Groove (insert) | The rubber band is inserted into the groove on the door | Low | Old Ariston models |
| Screw | Attachment with self-tapping screws around the perimeter | Average | Mid segment |
| Clips | Special latches in the corners | High | Modern No Frost |
| Adhesive | Fixation with a special sealant | High | Rare models |
Do not buy too cheap seals from unknown brands, as they can quickly become stiff in the cold or lose their magnetic properties through a couple of months of operation.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
Before proceeding with dismantling, it is necessary to prepare the workplace and tools. Replacing the seal is a procedure that requires care, so it is best to do it in good lighting. Clear the space in front of the refrigerator in advance to have access to the doors from all sides.
You will need a minimum set of tools that can be found in every home. The main thing is not to use sharp objects that can damage the plastic or the new rubber itself during installation.
- 🛠️ Hair dryer (construction or household) - to soften the seal before installation.
- 🛠️ Screwdrivers (cross and flat) - for removing panels and unscrewing screws.
- 🛠️ Soap solution —to facilitate sliding when installing in the groove.
- 🛠️ Clean rags —to degrease the surface.
It is also recommended to warm up the new seal in advance. To do this, you can leave it in a warm room for several hours or gently warm it with a hairdryer at minimum power. Warm material becomes more elastic and easier to take the desired shape.
Be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply before starting work. Although the risk of electric shock is minimal, safety when working with electrical appliances should come first.
Removing the old seal
The process of removing the old rubber band depends on the type of fastening installed by the manufacturer. If the seal is inserted into the groove, you need to carefully pry it off with a flat screwdriver in one of the corners and, holding the door, pull it out around the entire perimeter. Movements must be smooth so as not to damage the plastic door profile.
In models with screw fastening, first remove the decorative strip (if any), which covers the fasteners. Then all visible screws are unscrewed, and the seal is removed together with the inner door panel or separately, depending on the design.
⚠️ Attention: When removing a seal with a screw fastening, remember or photograph the location of the screws. Their length in different corners may differ, and installing a long screw in a short hole can pierce the plastic.
After removing the rubber, you must thoroughly clean the groove or surface of the door from remnants of old glue, dirt and grease. Use a soap solution or a special glass cleaner, and then wipe the surface dry.
Inspect the metal part of the door for corrosion. If rust has already begun to appear under the seal, clean these places with fine sandpaper and treat with a rust converter, otherwise the process of metal destruction will continue under the new rubber.
Step-by-step instructions for installing a new seal
Installation of a new element begins from the corners. If the profile is inserted into a groove, start from the top corner, carefully tucking the rubber in. Move gradually, 10-15 centimeters at a time, without trying to push the whole side in at once. To facilitate the process, you can moisten the edge of the seal and the groove with soapy water.
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During installation, it is important to ensure that the magnetic tape lies flat, without creases or twists. If you are installing a seal on screws, first tighten all the screws, without tightening them all the way, to equalize the tension, and only then tighten them completely.
After complete installation, walk around the perimeter again, checking the tightness of the fit. The door should close with a characteristic pop, but without excessive force. If the door closes tightly, perhaps the seal has not yet “settled” or the magnet is too powerful - in this case, heating the already installed rubber band with a hairdryer will help.
It is recommended not to turn on the refrigerator immediately, but to give the seal 2-3 hours to straighten and finally take shape at room temperature.
Checking the quality of work and eliminating defects
After installation and initial heating of the equipment (within 4-6 hours) you need to re-test with a sheet of paper. Walk around the entire perimeter of the door, checking the seal. If the sheet falls out in some place, try slightly warming this area with a hairdryer and pressing the door with your hand until it cools down.
A common problem after replacement is a loose fit in the corners. This may be due to the fact that the rubber has not yet expanded. In this case, you can use the “weighting” method: place several bottles of water on the shelves to increase the pressure on the seal, and leave the refrigerator closed overnight.
- ❄️ Check for drafts by running your hand along the perimeter of the closed door.
- ❄️ Make sure that the door does not open on its own when the case is tilted back by 5-10 degrees.
- ❄️ Listen: when the compressor is operating, you should not hear the whistling of air being sucked inside.
If the defects persist for more than two days, the profile may be selected incorrectly or have a manufacturing defect. In rare cases, adjustment of the door hinges is required if the new rubber is thicker than the old one and prevents it from closing tightly.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use oils, petroleum jelly or petroleum-based silicone lubricants to soften the rubber. They can corrode the material. For care, use only special products or glycerin.
Regular care of the seal will extend its service life. Once a month, wipe it with a damp cloth, removing crumbs and dust, and every six months, lubricate it with glycerin to maintain elasticity.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to restore the old seal instead of replacing it?
It is possible to temporarily restore elasticity by heating it with a hairdryer or soaking it in hot water, but this will only give an effect for a short time (several weeks). If the rubber is cracked or lost its shape, restoration is impossible - a complete replacement is required replacement.
How often do you need to change the seal on an Ariston refrigerator?
The average service life of a high-quality seal is 5-7 years. However, with intensive use, frequent opening of the door, or the presence of pets that can damage the rubber with their teeth, replacement may be required earlier.
Why did the door begin to close too tightly after replacement?
The new seal always has greater resistance and a more powerful magnet. Over time (after 1-2 weeks) it will rub in and become softer. If only one corner closes tightly, it may be necessary to adjust the height of the refrigerator legs.
Where can I find the model number to order a spare part?
The technical sticker with the model and serial number is usually located inside the refrigerator compartment on the side wall or on the back wall of the refrigerator itself. Also, the model number may be indicated in the warranty card.
Does replacing the seal affect the warranty?
If the warranty period has not yet expired, independent intervention and replacement of parts may result in denial of warranty service. In this case, it is better to contact an authorized service center Ariston.