Owning a modern using household appliances requires not only knowledge of functionality, but also proper care of the unit. Brand refrigerators Dexp are deservedly popular due to their affordable price and reliability, however, even the most advanced models require periodic maintenance. Many users mistakenly believe that modern cooling systems work forever without human intervention, but this is not entirely true. Timely defrosting is not just a tribute to tradition, but a necessary preventative measure that extends the life of the compressor and preserves food freshness.
The process of removing ice crusts often raises questions among owners who are faced with this task for the first time. Incorrect actions, such as using a knife to crush ice or a hair dryer to speed up the process, can lead to fatal damage to the evaporator. In this article, we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for models with drip system and units with technology No Frostso that you can safely carry out the procedure.
Ignoring the need for defrosting leads to an increase in energy consumption and a decrease in cooling efficiency. The ice coat on the walls of the chamber acts as a heat insulator, causing the motor to wear out. Understanding the physical processes occurring inside the chamber will help you develop the correct maintenance schedule and avoid unexpected breakdowns of expensive equipment.
Frequency of defrosting Dexp refrigerators
The frequency of the procedure directly depends on the type of cooling system installed and the intensity of use of the equipment. For models with manual defrosting or a drip system, where moisture flows down the back wall, intervals can range from one to three months. If you notice that the layer of frost on the back panel has exceeded 5 millimeters, this is a direct signal to action that cannot be ignored.
Device equipped with the system No Frosttheoretically do not require defrosting, as they are equipped with automatic defrosting cycles. However, manufacturers, including Dexprecommend carrying out complete preventive defrosting at least once a year. This is necessary to remove odor, disinfect and check the condition of hidden elements that are not visible during normal operation.
There are a number of factors that can reduce the recommended maintenance intervals. During the hot season or when doors are opened frequently, moisture penetrates more actively, accelerating the formation of ice. It is also worth considering the quality of the sealing rubber bands: if they do not fit tightly, warm air will constantly condense on cold surfaces.
- ❄️ The presence of a thick ice crust on food or walls.
- 🔊 Increased noise level during compressor operation.
- 💡 Lighting of the indicator emergency temperature on the control panel.
- 🌡️ Reduced freezing efficiency with standard settings.
It is important to understand that a visual inspection is not always an objective indicator. Sometimes ice can accumulate in hard-to-reach places, such as behind trim panels or in ductwork areas. Regular maintenance helps prevent situations when the unit stops freezing due to blockage of the air circulation channels with ice plugs.
Preparing the refrigerator for defrosting
Before starting the procedure, it is necessary to properly prepare the equipment and the surrounding space. The first step will be to completely empty the refrigerators and freezers of food. Take care in advance about where to transfer perishable goods, as the process can take from several hours to a day depending on the room temperature.
After removing the contents, you must disconnect the device from the power supply. Unplug the cord from the outlet, but do not pull on the cord itself to avoid damaging the contacts. If your model has a control panel lock feature, this should also be deactivated, although this usually happens automatically if there is no power. All removable shelves, drawers and racks must be removed for separate washing.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave the refrigerator plugged in with the doors open during defrosting, unless the instructions provide for a special service mode. This may lead to overheating of the compressor or failure of the electronics.
Prepare a place to collect melt water. Despite the fact that refrigerators Dexp have moisture removal systems, if a large volume of ice intensively melts, the tray may not be able to cope. Place old towels, rags on the floor around the unit, or place flat containers for water. This will save the floor covering, especially if you have laminate or parquet, from swelling.
☑️ Preparation checklist
Step-by-step instructions: natural defrosting
The safest method recommended by manufacturers is natural thawing. After you have turned off the device and opened the doors, the temperature equalization process begins. Depending on the room temperature, it may take 4 to 10 hours for the ice to completely melt. Do not try to speed up this process by mechanical action.
During the melting process, water will flow into the drainage hole located on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment. Make sure this hole is not clogged with crumbs or dirt. If there is water in the tray inside the chamber, carefully clean the channel using a special brush or soft straw, but do not use sharp metal objects.
While the process is in progress, thoroughly wash all internal surfaces. Use warm water with a mild detergent or baking soda solution. Aggressive chemicals, abrasive sponges and chlorine-containing substances are prohibited, as they can damage the plastic coating and leave a toxic odor, which is subsequently absorbed into the products.
| Stage | Action | Execution time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shutdown and extraction of products | 15-20 minutes |
| 2 | Natural melting of ice | 4-10 hours |
| 3 | Washing and disinfection | 30-40 minutes |
| 4 | Drying and assembly | 1-2 hours |
After washing, wipe all surfaces dry with a clean rag. Moisture should not remain anywhere, especially in corners and around seals. Let the refrigerator stand with the doors open for some more time so that the smell of the detergent disappears and the excess moisture disappears.
Why can’t you leave the refrigerator closed when defrosting?
If you leave the doors closed, the effect of a thermos will be created inside. Warm air will not circulate and the ice will melt extremely slowly. In addition, the resulting moisture will create an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria and the appearance of mold, which will then be difficult to get rid of.
What you ABSOLUTELY NOT DO
There are a number of common misconceptions about how to quickly defrost a refrigerator, which can lead to expensive repairs. The most common mistake is using sharp objects (knives, screwdrivers, spatulas) to chip ice. The thin-walled evaporator tubes in models Dexp are located very close to the inner surface, and it is easier to break through them than it seems.
⚠️ Attention: Damage to the evaporator circuit leads to refrigerant leakage. Restoring the tightness and refilling with freon is a complex repair, the cost of which is often up to 50% of the price of a new refrigerator.
The second common violation is the use of open flame sources or powerful heating devices. Placing pots of boiling water inside the chamber, directing a stream of hot air from a hair dryer, or using heaters is strictly prohibited. A sudden change in temperature can cause deformation of the plastic, cracks in the case and damage to electronic components.
It is also not recommended to use chemical defrosters sold in aerosol cans. Chemicals can react with the plastic, making it brittle or leaving toxic residue. Mechanical impact, such as hitting ice with a gloved hand, is also unacceptable - vibration can damage the compressor or tube mounts.
- 🔪 Use knives, forks and other sharp tools.
- 🔥 Use hair dryers, heaters or hot water to speed up.
- 🧴 Use aggressive household chemicals and solvents.
- 👊 Knock on the walls and ice to break it off.
Be careful with boiling water. Even if you simply place a bowl of boiling water at the bottom of the chamber, the plastic may not withstand the local heat and melt. It is better to be patient and wait for natural melting than to then look for rare spare parts to replace the internal plastic.
Features of defrosting the No Frost system
Owners of refrigerators Dexp with the system No Frost are often surprised to learn that their equipment also needs to be defrosted. Although the automation itself copes with moisture removal, ice plugs may form in the air circulation system over time, which the user cannot see. This occurs due to a clogged drainage channel or a malfunction of the defrost heating element.
For such models, the procedure looks different. After unplugging and removing food, you must leave the doors open for at least 24 hours. This time is needed for the ice to completely melt in the hidden air ducts and on the evaporator, which is usually covered with a plastic panel on the back wall of the freezer.
During preventive defrosting No Frost units, pay special attention to the drainage hole. This is where dirt and mold most often accumulate. Rinse the canal with warm water using a bulb or syringe without a needle. Make sure that water flows freely into the pan located above the compressor.
After a long drying period (at least a day), you can turn on the device. Let it work without food for 2-3 hours so that it reaches operating temperature. Only then load the products. This is especially important for models with electronic control, which need time to calibrate sensors.
Complete the procedure and first start
When all surfaces are washed and dry wiped, and the drying time is up, you can start assembling. Replace all shelves, containers and racks. Make sure they are in place and securely fastened. Check that nothing interferes with the free movement of air inside the chambers.
Plug in the refrigerator. Let it run idle. For the freezer, the operating time without loading should be at least 2-3 hours, and it is better to leave it for 5-6 hours. During this time, the unit will return to normal temperature conditions, and the compressor will complete the first stop cycle.
Now you can add food. Do this gradually, do not overload the chamber with a large amount of warm food at once. Distribute food so that it does not block the ventilation openings. Proper air circulation is the key to uniform cooling and long service life of your Dexp.
Regular maintenance and compliance with operating rules will allow your refrigerator to serve faithfully for many years. Cleanliness inside the chambers is not only aesthetics, but also a guarantee of food safety for your family.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to defrost a Dexp refrigerator without unplugging it?
Absolutely not. Defrosting is only possible when completely disconnected from the power supply. Operating the compressor with the doors open will lead to its overload and rapid failure, as it will try to catch up the temperature in conditions of a constant flow of warm air.
How long should you keep the refrigerator turned off after defrosting?
After you have washed and wiped the chambers, let the refrigerator stand turned off with the doors open for a while longer 1-2 hours for final drying and airing. After turning it on, let it run empty for 3-5 hours before loading it with food.
What to do if after defrosting the refrigerator does not freeze?
If after a full defrosting cycle and 6-8 hours of operation the compressor hums, but there is no cold, the system may have been damaged during cleaning or an electronics failure has occurred. Check that the doors are tightly closed. If the problem persists, contact the service center.
Do you need to lubricate the rubber seals after defrosting?
Yes, this is an excellent practice. Wipe the rubber seal with a soft cloth soaked in a special rubber compound or glycerin. This will maintain the elasticity of the material, prevent cracking and ensure a tight fit of the door.
Is the smell of plastic dangerous after the first defrosting of a new refrigerator?
A slight technical smell in a new refrigerator is normal. After the first thorough washing with soda and airing, it should disappear. If the smell is pungent and does not go away after several days of operation, this may indicate a malfunction or defective materials.