The sealing rubber band (or, as experts call it, magnetic seal) is the part of the refrigerator Aristonthat is responsible for the tightness of the chamber and prevents cold leakage. Over time, it wears out: it loses elasticity, becomes cracked, or moves away from the body. If you notice that the door no longer fits tightly, and condensation or ice has appeared on the walls, it’s time to think about replacing it. In this article we will look at how to change the seal on a refrigerator Ariston with your own hands, reinforce the theory video instructions and reveal the nuances that even experienced craftsmen are silent about.
Many users are afraid to undertake repairs for fear of damaging the equipment or choosing the wrong spare part. But in practice, replacing a seal is one of the simplest procedures that even a beginner can handle. The main thing is to choose the right rubber band according to the refrigerator model (for example, for Ariston Hotpoint or Ariston MBF they are different) and follow a clear algorithm. At the end of the article you will find answers to frequently asked questions and list of errorswhich 90% of users make during the first replacement.
Signs of seal wear: when is it time to change the rubber
How to understand that Does the rubber seal need to be replaced? There are several obvious symptoms that cannot be ignored:
- 🔍 The refrigerator door does not close tightly —a gap is visible between the rubber band and the body, or the door “bounces” after closing.
- ❄️ Ice freezing on the back wall —due to the constant flow of warm air, the compressor works non-stop, trying to compensate for losses cold.
- 💧 Condensation on shelves and products —moisture from the air settles inside the chamber, as the seal is broken.
- 📈 Increased energy consumption —the refrigerator begins to “wind” electricity, as the compressor turns on more often usual.
- 🧲 The magnetic field has weakened —if previously the door “stuck” itself, but now you need to press it with your hand, the seal has lost its properties.
If you observe at least two of these signs, check the rubber band for presence mechanical damage: cracks, ruptures or deformations. Pay special attention to the corners of the door - this is where the seal wears out the fastest. For the test you can use sheet of paper: close the door, holding the sheet between the rubber band and the body. If the paper is easily pulled out, the seal is broken.
⚠️ Attention: Do not confuse wear of the seal with by skewing the door. If the problem is in the hinges, replacing the rubber will not help - first you need to adjust the door position using hex key (instructions are in the refrigerator manual).
How to choose a seal for an Ariston refrigerator: models and analogues
The first step is to determine exact model your refrigerator. The name is usually written on a sticker inside the camera (on the side) or on the back panel. We Ariston have several popular series:
- 📌 Ariston Hotpoint (for example, Hotpoint-Ariston C 1801) - seals with markings
HPA. - 📌 Ariston MBF (models with a freezer compartment at the bottom) - rubber bands with a code
MBF-XX, where XX are numbers. - 📌 Ariston RM (built-in models) - seals with the designation
RM-XXX. - 📌 Universal elastic bands - suitable for older models, but require adjustment to size.
If the original seal could not be found, you can select one analog. Main criteria:
- Length and width —measure the perimeter of the door and the width of the groove where the elastic is inserted.
- Type of fastening:
- 🔹 In the groove (the most reliable option, used in most models Ariston).
- 🔹 On screws (found in old refrigerators).
- 🔹 On glue (less often, usually in budget models).
| Refrigerator model | Original seal art. | Analogues (brand) | Average price, ₽ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ariston Hotpoint C 1801 | HPA-4701 |
Samsung DA97-07486B, Indesit C00288036 | 1 200–1 800 |
| Ariston MBF 2099 | MBF-2099-01 |
Beko 2405000100, LG ADQ72916901 | 1 500–2 200 |
| Ariston RM 6201 | RM-6201-U |
Electrolux 5022257100, Bosch 00642336 | 1 800–2 500 |
| Universal (for old models) | — | Stinol 101.000, Atlant 35.010-01 | 800–1 500 |
Where to buy a seal?
- 🛒 Official service centers Ariston - guarantee of an original part, but the price is higher.
- 🛒 Online stores (for example, 220-Volt, All-Zapchasti) - a wide range of analogues.
- 🛒 Stores of spare parts for household appliances - you can touch the elastic band before purchasing.
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing, check that the seal is solid (without joints), if your model does not require a prefabricated structure. Joined rubber bands hold tightness worse.
Preparation for replacement: tools and dismantling the old one. rubber bands
Before changing the rubber seal on the refrigerator Ariston, prepare everything you need:
Phillips screwdriver (or flat, depending on the fastening)
A construction hair dryer (to soften the glue, if the seal is glued)
Plastic spatula (for careful dismantling)
New seal (check the package!)
Alcohol or solvent (for cleaning the surface)
Glue "Moment" (if fastening adhesive, but it is better to avoid this method)
Making tape (for fixing the elastic before installation)-->
Now we proceed to dismantling the old elastic. The algorithm depends on the type of fastening:
1. option)
Carefully pry the edge of the elastic plastic spatula and pull it towards you. Usually it comes out without effort. If the seal is “stuck”, warm the groove with a hairdryer (temperature no higher 60°Cso as not to damage the plastic).
2. Sealant on self-tapping screws
Unscrew all the screws with a screwdriver. Be careful - sometimes they are hidden under decorative plugs. Save the fasteners, as the new sealant may come without self-tapping screws.
3. Sealant on glue
This is the most difficult case. You will have to carefully cut off the gum with a stationery knifeand remove the remaining glue with a solvent. Never use acetone - it corrodes the plastic of the door! It is better to take white spirit or isopropyl alcohol.
After dismantling, thoroughly clean the groove or surface of the door from dirt and grease. If there are traces of old glue, remove them fine sandpaper (grainy P400 and above).
Step-by-step instructions: how to install a new rubber band
Now we move on to the most important stage - installing a new seal. We will consider universal methodwhich is suitable for most models Ariston (including Hotpoint i MBF). If your refrigerator has a specific fastening, refer to the video instructions at the end of the article.
Step 1: Checking the new seal
Unpack the rubber band and inspect it for defects. Make sure that:
- 🔹 There are no cracks or tears on it.
- 🔹 The magnetic insert is intact (check if it sticks to the metal).
- 🔹 The dimensions match the old seal (attach them to each other).
Step 2: Installation in the groove
Start with upper corner of the door —it’s easier to control the process. Carefully insert the seal into the groove, gradually moving around the perimeter. Do not pull the elastic band - it should lie down without tension. In the corners, you can warm it up a little with a hairdryer so that it fits better.
What to do if the seal does not fit into the groove?
If the elastic does not fit, check:
1. Have you identified the side correctly (on some models the seal is asymmetrical).
2. Is there any debris or remnants of old glue in the groove?
3. Is the door warped (if so, adjust the hinges first).
If the problem remains, try lightly squeezing the seal with pliers in the problem area, but do not overdo it!
Step 3: Fixing
After installation, close the door and check how elastic band is attached. If there are small gaps, heat the problem areas with a hairdryer and press the seal with your hand. For reliability, you can temporarily fix it with masking tape (remove after 12-24 hours).
Step 4: Checking the tightness
Take sheet of paper and repeat the test described at the beginning of the article. If the paper does not pull out, the seal is installed correctly. Also pay attention to:
- 🔹 Closing sound —there should be a dull click (which means the magnet has worked).
- 🔹 No gaps —shine the door with a flashlight from the inside: light should not leak out.
Video instructions: replacing the seal on an Ariston refrigerator
For for clarity, we selected best videos with step-by-step replacement of the rubber band on different models Ariston. Pay attention to the nuances that depend on the type of fastening:
- 🎥 For models with groove fastening (for example, Ariston Hotpoint C 1801):
Video 1: "Replacing the Ariston Hotpoint seal in 15 minutes" —the process of dismantling the old rubber band and installing a new one without glue is shown. The author focuses on the correct position of the magnetic inserts.
- 🎥 For models with adhesive fastening (found in old refrigerators):
Video 2: "How to glue a seal on Ariston MBF" —explained in detail which glue to use and how to avoid delamination.
- 🎥 For refrigerators with self-tapping screws (for example, Ariston RM 6201):
Video 3: "Replacing the rubber band on Ariston: fastening with screws" —shows how not to damage the door plastic when screwing self-tapping screws.
Links to the video (find by title on YouTube):
1. Replacing the Ariston Hotpoint seal in 15 minutes
2. How glue the seal on the Ariston MBF without errors
3. Ariston RM 6201: replacing the rubber band with self-tapping screws
⚠️ Attention: In some videos, the authors recommend using silicone sealant to fix the seal. We do not recommend doing this - the sealant peels off over time and can get into the products. It is better to use the original fastening (groove or self-tapping screws).
Common mistakes when replacing the seal and how to avoid them
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to repeated replacing the rubber band. Here are TOP-5 misses and ways to prevent them:
- Wrong choice of seal
They buy the rubber band “by eye” or on the advice of the seller, without checking the model of the refrigerator. Consequence: the seal does not stay in the groove or does not provide a tight seal.
Solution: Always check the art. data-i="228">Tension of the elastic during installation
- Elastic tension during installation
The seal is stretched so that it “fits” more tightly. Consequence: after a month, the elastic compresses and moves away from the body.
Solution: Lay seal no tension, in the corners you can warm it up slightly with a hairdryer.
- Ignoring cleaning the groove
Install a new rubber band on dirt or residue glue. Consequence: the seal does not hold tightly, gaps appear.
Solution: Clean the groove with alcohol and remove debris toothpick.
- Incorrect position of the magnetic insert
The seal is upside down or the magnetic tape is displaced. Consequence: the door does not close tightly.
Solution: Check that the magnetic side is outside (facing the body of the refrigerator).
- Using the wrong glue
Glue the gum with superglue or PVA. Consequence: the glue peels off or corrodes the plastic.
Solution: Use special glue for rubber (for example, Loctite 406) or avoid adhesive fastening altogether.
If after replacing the seal the refrigerator became make more noise or badly freeze, check:
- 🔹 Is the rubber band blocking
ventilation holes(relevant for No Frost). - 🔹 Is the door warped due to uneven tension of the seal.
- 🔹 Has glue got on
temperature sensor(may throw off the readings).
How much does it cost to replace a seal in the service vs. on your own
If you are not confident in your abilities, you can contact the service center. However, the difference in price is significant:
| Type of service | Cost, ₽ | Completion time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replacement at the service center | 2 500–4 000 | 1–3 days | Work guarantee, original spare parts | Expensive, you need to bring a refrigerator |
| Independent replacement | 800–2,200 (cost of seal) | 1–2 hours | Savings, not you need to go anywhere | Risk of installation errors |
| Call a technician at home | 3 000–5 000 | 2–4 hours | No need to transport the refrigerator | Highest price |
It is most profitable to replace the seal do it yourself, but if you have a model with electronic control (for example, Ariston 4D Cooling), it is better to trust professionals - incorrect installation can damage the sensors.
⚠️ Attention: Prices in the table do not include the cost of spare parts. Some services may impose "diagnostics" for 1 000–1 500 ₽ —check this point in advance.
FAQ: Answers for frequently asked questions
Is it possible to restore an old seal without buying a new one?
A temporary solution is to warm the elastic with a hairdryer (50–60°C) and soften it glycerin or silicone grease. This will restore elasticity for 1-2 months, but will not replace a full replacement. If the seal is cracked or torn, it cannot be restored.
What glue is best to use if the seal adhesive?
Optimal options:
- Loctite 406 —dries quickly, does not corrode rubber.
- Glue "Moment Rubber" —budgetary, but requires fixing with tape for 12 hours.
- 3M Super Weatherstrip Adhesive —professional adhesive for car seals.
Do not use superglue (for example, Second) - it makes the rubber fragile!
How long after replacing the seal will the refrigerator start working normally?
If the rubber band is installed correctly, you will notice improvements immediately:
- The door will close with a characteristic click.
- The compressor will turn on less often.
- Condensation on the walls will disappear.
Full stabilization temperature takes 6–12 hours. If the problems remain after a day, check the tightness again.
Is it possible to change the seal only on the freezer?
Yes, if the problem is only with the freezer (for example, on the model Ariston MBF 2099). The seals for the refrigerator and freezer compartments are usually different, so buy the rubber band separately. The main thing is not to confuse them during installation!
Why did the refrigerator become louder after replacing the seal?
Probable reasons:
- The rubber band overlaps
ventilation holes(relevant for No Frost). - The door is skewed due to uneven installation of the seal.
- The compressor operates in increased mode, compensating for temporary warming in the chamber.
Check whether the seal is touching the internal shelves when closing. If the noise does not disappear after a day, contact the service.