Regular maintenance of refrigeration equipment is not just a matter of aesthetics, but a necessary condition for long-term operation of the equipment. Known for their reliability and functionality, refrigerators Aristonrequire periodic cleaning to remain energy efficient and hygienic. Bacteria, mold and foreign odors can accumulate inside the chamber, which negatively affect the quality of stored products.
Many owners are wondering how to wash an Ariston refrigerator without damaging the delicate coating or internal mechanisms. An incorrect approach to cleaning can lead to microcracks in plastic or corrosion of metal elements. In this article we will analyze in detail the stages of preparation, selection of safe means and the algorithm of actions for various models.
The process takes a little time, but requires careful attention to design details. Particular attention should be paid to the ventilation system if your model is equipped with technology No Frost, as well as rubber seals, which often become a breeding ground for microorganisms. Proper care will extend the life of the compressor and preserve the original appearance of the device.
Preparation for the washing process: disconnection and defrosting
The first and most important step before starting any water procedures is to completely disconnect the device from the power supply. Remove the plug from the outlet to reduce the risk of short circuit or electric shock. This is also necessary so that the equipment goes into defrosting mode naturally.
Empty the chambers of all products. If it’s winter outside, you can temporarily take perishable items out onto the balcony. During the warm season, use thermal bags or ice packs. It is critical to completely defrost the evaporatorif your model does not support an automatic drip system or No Frost, as water can damage the electronic components when trying to speed up the process with a hairdryer.
Remove all removable elements: shelves, drawers, trays eggs and door baskets. It is more convenient to wash plastic and glass parts separately in a bathtub or large basin. This will allow you to gain access to all corners of the inner chamber and efficiently clean hard-to-reach places.
☑️ Preparation checklist
Do not try to chip the ice with a knife or sharp objects, this may damage the evaporator tubes. Wait until the ice melts on its own, or use special sprays for quick defrosting, strictly following the manufacturer's instructions. After the ice has gone, wipe the insides with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture before applying cleaning products.
Choosing safe detergents for plastic and metal
The internal surfaces of refrigerators Ariston are made of impact-resistant plastic, which is sensitive to aggressive chemicals. The use of abrasive powders, chlorine-containing bleaches or solvents can lead to clouding of the plastic, cracks and destruction of the structure of the material. Safe chemistry is the key to maintaining the appearance of your equipment.
A warm soapy solution is ideal for daily care and easy cleaning. You can use regular laundry soap or mild dishwashing detergent. Rinse off the foam thoroughly, as chemical residues can be absorbed into the products and change their taste. For disinfection, a solution of baking soda or vinegar water has proven itself well.
- 🧼 Soap solution: mild dish soap and warm water are the base for removing grease.
- 🍋 Citric acid: excellently removes scale and freshens the air, safe for plastic.
- 🍞 Baking soda: a powerful odor absorbent and a mild abrasive for stains.
- 🌿 Specialized sprays: products for household appliances with an antibacterial effect.
If you use ready-made sprays from the store, make sure that they are intended specifically for food surfaces. Avoid products containing acetone, gasoline or strong alkalis. External metal surfaces, especially if it stainless steelrequire special polishes to avoid streaks and scratches.
What should you not wash your refrigerator with?
Never use bleach, acetone, gasoline, abrasive powders (Pemolux and analogues), hard metal sponges and hot water above 40 degrees. These substances destroy plastic and can cause deformation of parts.
Algorithm for washing internal chambers and shelves
Start washing the refrigerator from top to bottom. First treat the ceiling of the chamber, then the side walls and lastly the bottom. This sequence will prevent re-contamination of already cleaned areas by flowing dirty water. Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
Rinse removable shelves and drawers in warm water with the selected product. If the dirt is old, soak the parts for 15-20 minutes. For glass shelves, avoid sudden temperature changes: do not put cold glass under hot water, it may break. Allow the glass to warm to room temperature before washing.
Pay special attention to corners and joints where mold often accumulates. Use a soft brush or cotton swab to clean hard-to-reach areas. After washing, rinse all parts thoroughly with clean water and dry with a towel. You cannot place wet shelves - this will increase the humidity in the chamber.
After treating all surfaces, let them dry completely. Make sure there is no moisture left anywhere, especially where the shelves are attached. Only after complete drying can you install the drawers and shelves in their places. This will prevent the formation of ice in the future.
Care for the No Frost system and ventilation holes
Refrigerators Ariston with the system No Frost require a special approach to cleaning the ventilation ducts. Openings clogged with dust and lint interfere with air circulation, which forces the compressor to work under increased load. This leads to increased energy consumption and noise.
To clean the air ducts, use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a narrow attachment. Carefully walk along the ventilation grilles located on the back wall of the chamber. Do not use sharp objects to avoid damaging the fan blades if it is in an accessible area.
| System element | Cleaning frequency | Tools | Risk of contamination |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ventilation holes | 1 time every 6 months | Soft brush, vacuum cleaner | Impaired circulation, ice |
| Drainage hole | 1 time in 3 month | Cotton swab, brush | Water stagnation, smell |
| Back wall | At every wash | Damp cloth | Dust, bacteria |
| Evaporator (available) | once a year | Dry brush | Reduced cooling capacity |
If you find ice inside the No Frost chamber, this may indicate a malfunction or severe contamination of the channels. In this case, it is recommended to carry out a deeper cleaning with defrosting for 24 hours. This will help eliminate ice blockages in the condensate drainage system.
⚠️ Attention: When cleaning the ventilation system, do not use excessive force. Plastic air ducts in models Ariston may be fragile. Any mechanical damage can lead to a whistle or hum when the fan operates.
Cleaning the rubber seals and outer surface
The rubber seal around the perimeter of the door is a barrier that retains the cold. Over time, dirt, grease and mold accumulate in the folds of rubber, which breaks the seal. If the door does not fit tightly, the compressor runs continuously, trying to maintain the temperature.
Wipe the seal with a soft cloth soaked in a solution of vinegar or lemon juice. The acidic environment kills mold spores and restores rubber elasticity. After cleaning, you can lubricate the rubber with a special silicone grease or glycerin to prevent drying out and cracking.
Wash the outer surface depending on the material. For enameled surfaces, use soft sponges. If you have a model Ariston with coating Anti-Fingerprint (anti-fingers), avoid aggressive solvents that can wash off the protective layer. Wipe metal surfaces along the grain.
Don't forget to wipe the top of the refrigerator, where a layer of dust and grease from the kitchen often accumulates. A dirty rear heat exchanger (if open) will also reduce cooling efficiency. Vacuum the condenser grille from the back, if it is accessible.
Elimination of unpleasant odors and final drying
After thorough washing, a residual smell of detergents or old products may remain. To neutralize it, use natural absorbents. Activated carbon, ground coffee or soda, left in an open container inside the chamber for several hours, effectively absorbs odors.
Leave the refrigerator doors open for 2-3 hours to completely dry and ventilate. A draft will help remove moisture from the hidden cavities of the insulation layer. Make sure that the room is warm and dry to avoid condensation when turned on.
Plug in the device only after making sure that there is no moisture. An empty refrigerator needs to run for 1-2 hours to get up to temperature before you load it with food. This will reduce the initial load on the compressor.
⚠️ Attention: If after cleaning a specific burning or plastic smell appears, immediately turn off the device. There may be moisture on the electrical contacts or control board. Let the equipment dry longer or contact service.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to wash an Ariston refrigerator without defrosting it?
It is impossible to fully wash the refrigerator without defrosting if there is ice inside. However, if there is no ice (No Frost models), you can quickly sanitize by quickly transferring the food to another cold place. But for high-quality cleaning of drainage and corners, defrosting is necessary.
How often should you wash the refrigerator?
It is recommended to carry out a general wash with defrosting every 3-6 months. Wiping shelves and removing spilled liquids should be carried out as they become dirty, immediately after detection.
How to wash the yellow coating on the inside of plastic?
Yellowishness can be easily removed by a slurry of soda and water or a solution of hydrogen peroxide. Apply the product for 15-20 minutes, then rinse. For stubborn stains, you can use a melamine sponge, but without strong pressure.
What to do if the refrigerator makes a lot of noise after washing?
The noise can be caused by vibration of loose parts or water getting on the fan. Check that the refrigerator is level and give it time (up to 24 hours) for the internal mechanisms to dry completely.