Refrigerators Hotpoint Ariston have proven themselves to be reliable and durable household appliances that can serve for decades. However, even the highest quality equipment is subject to natural wear and tear, and doors are often the first on the list of candidates for replacement. This elastic product is responsible for sealing the chamber, keeping the cold inside and keeping heat out, which is critical for the operation of the compressor. sealing rubber doors. This elastic product is responsible for sealing the chamber, keeping the cold inside and keeping the heat out, which is critical for the operation of the compressor.
If you notice that the door does not close tightly, ice has appeared in the corners of the chamber, or a puddle has formed on the floor under the refrigerator, most likely the problem lies precisely in the loss of elasticity seal. Replacing the seal is a procedure that is quite possible to perform independently, saving on calling a technician, if you approach the matter with due care and understanding of the design of your unit.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the stages of replacing the cuff on refrigerators Hotpoint Ariston, from choosing the right material to the final tightness check. You will learn how to prepare the tool, what design nuances can be found in different models and how to avoid typical mistakes that can lead to repeated failure of the seal.
Diagnostics of the condition of the seal and the causes of wear
Before you start purchasing new parts, it is necessary to conduct a thorough diagnosis of the current condition sealing rubber. Visual inspection often does not give the full picture, since microcracks or loss of elasticity may not be visible to the naked eye. Over time, the rubber becomes tanned, becomes covered with small cracks or deforms, no longer fitting tightly to the metal case refrigerator compartment.
There are several proven methods for checking tightness that are worth using before starting work. The simplest and most accessible method is to use a regular paper sheet or banknote. Clamp the sheet with the refrigerator door around the perimeter and try to pull it out: if the paper comes out easily and without resistance, it means that in this place the seal is broken.
⚠️ Attention: Do not ignore even small gaps. Through a gap of 1 millimeter, a refrigerator can lose up to 20% of its cooling capacity, which leads to the compressor constantly turning on and an increase in electricity bills.
It is also worth paying attention to the appearance of the rubber itself. If it becomes hard to the touch, has lost its original color or has visible tears, replacement is inevitable. Sometimes the cause of a poor fit is not the rubber itself, but a misalignment of the door or contamination of the seat, so the inspection must be comprehensive.
Choosing the right seal for the Hotpoint Ariston model
The spare parts market offers many options for seals, but for equipment Hotpoint Ariston it is critically important to choose a model that perfectly matches door geometry. Seals may differ in the method of fastening, cross-sectional profile and dimensions. Using the wrong part will result in the door closing with difficulty or, conversely, leaving a gap.
When choosing a new one sealing collar be sure to check the part number with the technical documentation of your refrigerator. Often visually identical refrigerators can be equipped with different doors depending on the year of manufacture. It is best to look for original spare parts or high-quality analogsspecially designed for specific series Ariston.
The table below shows the main parameters that you should pay attention to when selecting:
| Parameter | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Method of fastening | In a groove, on glue or combined | Critical |
| Section profile | Elastic cross-section shape | High |
| Material | Silicone, rubber, thermoplastic | Average |
| Presence of a magnet | Built-in magnetic tape | Critical |
You should not buy the cheapest options without quality certificates, as low-quality rubber can quickly crack or emit unpleasant odor. The original seal always has manufacturer's markings and packaging indicating compatible models. If you are in doubt about the choice, it is better to remove the old sample and compare its profile with a new one in the store.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
For successful replacement of the seal you do not need a complex professional tool, but the preparation must be thorough. The main requirement is cleanliness and good lighting, since small fastening parts may be invisible in the twilight. Clear the space in front of the refrigerator in advance to have access to the door from all sides.
You will need the following tools and materials:
- 🛠️ Screwdrivers (Phillips and flat) for dismantling the door elements.
- 🧼 Detergent and degreaser for cleaning the seat place.
- 🌡️ Construction or household hair dryer (to soften the new rubber band).
- 🔨 Plastic spatula or spatula (so as not to damage the plastic).
- 🧤 Gloves to protect hands from contamination.
It is important to prepare the new elastic band itself. If it has been stored folded or in the cold, it needs to be warmed up. You can use a hairdryer or simply leave the part at room temperature for a day. Hot water It also perfectly helps to give the rubber the necessary elasticity before installation.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use sharp metal objects (knives, chisels) to pick the door grooves, since you can damage the plastic profile or scratch the enamel of the case.
Ensure that the refrigerator is in a stable position. If possible, tilt it slightly back or remove the door, placing it on a soft surface - this will greatly facilitate the work and reduce the load on the hinges.
☑️ Preparing to replace the seal
Removing the old sealing rubber
The process of removing the old seal depends on the type of fastening used in your model Hotpoint Ariston. Most modern models use fastening of the seal in a special groove on the plastic door panel or directly on the metal body. In some cases, the rubber may be glued or secured with screws around the perimeter.
If you see screw heads along the inner perimeter of the door, carefully unscrew them, holding the rubber itself so that it does not fall sharply. If there are no screws, then the seal is inserted into the groove. Start pulling the rubber from one of the corners, gently pulling it away from the body. The movements should be confident, but smooth, so as not to tear the rubber ahead of time and damage the door.
After removing the main sheet, you must thoroughly clean the groove into which it was inserted. Dirt, remnants of old glue or oxides often accumulate there. Use a soft brush and a degreaser. Cleanliness of the seat is the key to ensuring that the new rubber will fit smoothly and work efficiently.
What to do if the old seal is glued?
If The seal is glued, gently heat it with a hairdryer to soften the adhesive layer. Then slowly pull off the rubber, helping yourself with a plastic spatula. Remove any remaining adhesive with a solvent suitable for plastic, for example, isopropyl alcohol, so as not to damage the door surface.
Technology for installing a new seal
Installing a new one sealing rubber is the most important stage. Before installation, it is recommended to immerse the new part in hot water (about 50-60 degrees) for several minutes. This will make the material soft and pliable, which will make it easier to fit into the grooves and straighten the corners.
Start installation from the top corner of the door. Insert the corner of the elastic into the groove and make sure it fits snugly. Then, moving along the side, gradually tuck the seal profile into the groove. Use a plastic spatula or just your fingers to push the rubber in. Move sequentially: top, side, bottom, second side.
Pay special attention to the corners. It is in these places that folds or gaps most often form. Straighten the rubber by pulling it to either side of the corner until it lies flat. If the design provides for fastening with screws, tighten them after the rubber is completely seated in the groove, but do not overtighten, so as not to deform the plastic.
After installation, check that there are no bulges or waves around the entire perimeter. The rubber should fit evenly. If you see obvious installation defects, it is better to immediately redo this area before the material “remembers” the irregular shape.
Checking the quality of installation and tightness
Once the new one is installed, you cannot immediately consider the work completed. A final check needs to be carried out. Close the refrigerator door and evaluate the force required to open it. It should be uniform over the entire area. sealing collar installed, the work cannot be immediately considered completed. A final check needs to be carried out. Close the refrigerator door and evaluate the force required to open it. It should be uniform over the entire area.
Repeat the test with the paper sheet that was used in the diagnosis. Walk around the entire perimeter of the door, pinching the sheet in different places. If the paper holds confidently, it means tightness restored. Also visually inspect the fit: there should be no gaps between the body and the rubber.
Turn on the refrigerator and leave it running for 2-3 hours without loading food. Periodically check the temperature inside the chamber and the operation of the compressor. If the refrigerator gets cold in normal mode and does not hum continuously, then the replacement was successful.
⚠️ Attention: On the first day after replacing the seal, the door may open a little harder than usual. This is normal since the new tire has not yet been developed. In a few days it will take the optimal shape.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How often do you need to change the rubber seal on refrigerator?
The service life of the seal depends on operating conditions and the quality of the material. On average, high-quality tires last 5-7 years. However, if you notice loss of elasticity, cracks or leakage earlier, replacement should be made immediately, regardless of service life.
Is it possible to restore an old elastic band instead of replacing it?
There are methods of temporary restoration, such as heating with a hairdryer or using silicone gel for elasticity. However, these measures provide only a short-term effect (from several days to weeks). For reliable operation of the refrigerator Hotpoint Ariston only complete replacement of the part is recommended.
Why does new rubber smell?
New rubber products often have a specific technical smell. This is fine. After installation, it is recommended to wipe the rubber several times with a damp cloth and a mild detergent and ventilate the room well. The smell should disappear within a few days.
Does the new seal need to be lubricated?
It is not recommended to lubricate rubber with oil or Vaseline, as petroleum products can destroy the structure of the rubber. If you need to improve glide during installation, use a soap solution. To extend the service life, there are special silicone lubricants for rubber, but they should be applied in a thin layer and only after complete installation.