Modern two-chamber refrigerators Beko are famous for their reliability and energy efficiency, but even the most advanced models require regular maintenance. Many owners mistakenly believe that the presence of the system No Frost completely frees them from the need to defrost the unit, but this is not entirely true. Although automatic defrosting of the evaporator occurs regularly, manual defrosting cannot be completely eliminated, especially if you want to extend the life of the compressor and maintain ideal hygiene inside the chambers.
The process of preparing for defrosting requires an understanding of the operating principles of your device. Unlike old single-chamber models, where the ice coat grew quickly and required frequent intervention, double-chamber Beko with a lower freezer (or upper freezer) have a more complex air circulation system. Proper defrosting is not just waiting for the ice to melt, but a set of measures for cleaning drainage channels, checking seals and disinfecting internal surfaces.
Ignoring this procedure can lead to a decrease in cooling efficiency, the appearance of unpleasant odors and even damage to temperature sensors. In this article, we will analyze in detail how to prepare the equipment, what actions are strictly prohibited, and how to quickly return the refrigerator to work, preserving the freshness of your food. Understanding the nuances of operation refrigeration circuit will help you avoid common mistakes.
Features of the defrosting system in Beko refrigerators
Turkish brand refrigerators Beko are most often equipped systems Total No Frost or NeoFrost. In models with Total No Frost, cold air circulates through both compartments, preventing the formation of ice on the walls. However, in versions with a drip system (LowFrost), moisture can still condense in the refrigerator compartment and flow into the groove. It is important to understand that even in “no frost” systems, moisture from the products settles on the evaporator, which is hidden behind the rear panel.
Automatic defrosting occurs thanks to Heater (heating element), which is turned on by a timer or sensor signal. The ice melts, the water flows into the pan above the compressor and evaporates. The problem occurs when the drainage hole becomes clogged with crumbs or ice. In this case, the water does not have time to drain and may leak onto the floor or freeze inside the case, blocking the operation of the fan.
⚠️ Attention: If you notice water on the floor under the refrigerator or a puddle inside the lower part of the refrigerator, this is the first sign of a clogged drainage system, requiring immediate defrosting and cleaning.
The two-chamber design implies the presence of a separate of the freezer compartmentwhere the temperature drops to -18°C and below. This is where ice can build up on doors and food if the rubber seal doesn't fit tightly or if you open the door frequently, letting in moist air. Defrosting in such cases is mandatory, since a thick layer of frost acts as a heat insulator, causing the compressor to work hard.
Preparation for the procedure: what needs to be done before shutting down
Before you begin active defrosting actions, you need to properly prepare the workspace and the products themselves. This step is often overlooked, resulting in wasted food or damaged shelves. First, free up the space around the refrigerator: move it away from the wall, providing access to the back, where the compressor and condenser grille are located condenser grille.
Food should be removed from the chambers and sorted. Frozen meat, fish and vegetables are best placed in thermal bags or wrapped in several layers of newspapers and blankets so that they do not defrost during the procedure. Dairy products and ready meals from the refrigerator compartment must be removed to a cool place or refrigerants must also be used. Do not simply leave food on the table, especially in the hot season.
It is also important to prepare equipment for collecting water. You will need:
- 🧺 Several large basins or trays for installation under the freezer.
- 🧽 Soft sponges and microfiber to remove moisture.
- 🧴 Refrigerator cleaner or baking soda solution.
- 🔦 Flashlight for inspecting hard-to-reach corners.
Be sure to check if your model Beko has a special valve for draining water (found in some premium series). If it is not there, the water will drain by gravity, and your task is to direct it into a prepared container so as not to flood the floor. It is better to cover the floor in the work area with rags or towels.
☑️ Ready for defrosting
Step-by-step algorithm for defrosting a two-chamber refrigerator
The safest and most correct way to defrost a refrigerator Beko is natural thawing. This method takes longer (from 4 to 12 hours depending on the amount of ice), but guarantees the safety of plastic parts and integrity cooling circuit. Under no circumstances try to speed up the process mechanically.
First disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Remove all shelves, drawers and containers. Leave both chamber doors open. Place a deep bowl under the freezer compartment. If there is a lot of ice, you can carefully collect large pieces with your hand (with gloves on), but do not pick them out. The water will begin to drain as it melts, make sure the container is filled.
To speed up the process of natural defrosting, you can use the following techniques:
- 🌬️ Install a fan next to the open doors, directing the air flow inside the chambers.
- 🪣 Place bowls with hot water inside the chambers (but not boiling!) water, changing them as they cool.
- 🌡️ If the room is warm, simply opening the doors will do the job faster.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to use a hair dryer for drying hair or a hair dryer for defrosting! A sudden change in temperature can lead to cracks in the plastic and, worst of all, to depressurization of the evaporator tubes where the refrigerant is located.
After all the ice has melted, thoroughly wipe all surfaces. Pay special attention to the corners and places where the shelves are attached. Check the condition sealing rubber on the doors: it should be clean, elastic and fit snugly around the entire perimeter. If there are cracks or creases in the rubber, the refrigerator will let warm air through, and the ice will build up again very quickly.
What to do if the water does not flow out?
If water is in the tray inside the refrigerator, the drainage channel may have frozen. Take a soft syringe with warm water and carefully pour the water into the drainage hole (usually located on the back wall of the refrigerator). You can also use a special brush or flexible wire wrapped in a rag to clean the channel mechanically, but be very careful not to pierce the plastic.
Cleaning and care during defrosting
The defrosting period is the ideal time for general cleaning. While the chambers are empty, it is necessary to remove not only visible dirt, but also bacteria that may have multiplied on the walls. Use a mild detergent or baking soda solution (1 tablespoon per liter of water). Avoid using abrasive powders, which can scratch the glossy plastic or internal coating.
Requires special attention drainage system. As mentioned earlier, this is where slime and mold most often accumulate. Rinse the groove and drain hole with warm water. If you use special products for cleaning refrigerators, make sure that they do not contain aggressive solvents that can damage the plastic Beko.
After washing, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry. Moisture inside a closed refrigerator is a risk of mold and unpleasant odors. Allow the chambers to dry completely, leaving the doors open for another 15-20 minutes after wet cleaning. It is also recommended to wash and dry all removable elements: glass shelves, plastic containers and freezer baskets.
| Element | What to wash | What not to wash | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal walls | Soda solution, special. sprays | Abrasives, chlorine, hot water | At each defrost |
| Seals | Warm soapy water | Alcohol, acetone, oil | Once every 3-4 months |
| Glass shelves | Glass cleaner | Steep boiling water (risk of cracks) | At each defrost |
| Outer body | Wet microfiber | Hard brushes, solvents | Once a week |
Starting the refrigerator after defrosting
When cleaning is completed and all surfaces are dry, you can start starting. Reassemble the refrigerator in the reverse order: put the shelves, drawers and containers in their places. Make sure they are level and secured securely. Now you can connect the device to the network.
It is important to understand that compressor it takes time to gain the required pressure and cool the chambers to the specified temperatures. In modern two-chamber Beko this process can take from 2 to 6 hours. At this time, it is not recommended to load food, especially into the freezer, so as not to create unnecessary heat load.
Sequence of actions when starting:
- 🔌 Plug the power cord into the outlet (use a separate outlet with grounding).
- ⚙️ Set the required temperature (usually +4°C for the refrigerator and -18°C for the freezer).
- ⏳ Wait about 2 hours before loading food into the refrigerator compartment.
- ❄️ It may take up to 6-8 hours.
⚠️ Attention: If after turning on the refrigerator makes unusual sounds (loud gurgling, knocking) or does not freeze for 10-12 hours, there may be air in the system or a problem with the refrigerant. In this case, contact the service center.
Only after the refrigerator has returned to operating mode and the thermostat has turned off the compressor (you will hear a click and the hum will stop), you can load food. This will ensure proper storage and long life of your supplies.
Common mistakes and precautions
Many users make mistakes that negate the benefits of defrosting or even harm the equipment. One of the most common is the use of sharp objects (knives, forks, screwdrivers) to chip ice. The plastic in refrigerators Beko is quite durable, but a thin layer of the evaporator is located immediately behind it. One wrong blow and the refrigerator will fail, and repairs will be expensive.
Another mistake is ignoring the tilt of the body. After defrosting and moving the refrigerator into place, make sure that it is level. The doors should close on their own when opened slightly. If this does not happen, you need to tighten the front legs. Failure to close the doors tightly leads to constant freezing.
It is also worth mentioning chemicals. Do not use fragrances with a strong chemical smell inside the chambers. Plastic easily absorbs odors, and it will be very difficult to remove them later. It is better to use natural odor absorbers, such as activated carbon or pieces of black bread.
Is it possible to defrost a refrigerator without unplugging it?
Theoretically, in models with a full No Frost system, you can clean one of the compartments while the other is working, but this is risky. Water can get on the electrical contacts, and prolonged operation of one compressor with the doors of the other compartment open will lead to overload. It is better to completely de-energize the device.
How often do you need to defrost a Beko refrigerator
The frequency of defrosting directly depends on the model of your refrigerator and operating conditions. For models with the system Full No Frost the manufacturer recommends preventive defrosting and washing 1-2 times a year. This is enough to maintain hygiene and check the condition of the seals.
If you have a model with drip system (LowFrost) in the refrigerator compartment, the moisture leaves there automatically, but it is recommended to defrost the freezer compartment (even with No Frost) completely once every 6-8 months. If you notice that the layer of frost on food or the walls of the freezer exceeds 5-7 mm, defrosting should be done immediately, without waiting for the planned date.
It is worth increasing the frequency of maintenance if:
- 🏠 There is high air humidity in the room.
- 🚪 The refrigerator door often opens or remains open for a long time.
- 🥩 You load warm foods or foods with a high moisture content into the freezer.
Regular care of your Beko is the key to the fact that it will last the stated 10 years or more without serious damage. Monitor the condition of the equipment, and it will repay you with stable operation.
Is it possible to use boiling water to speed up defrosting?
It is not recommended to use boiling water, as a sharp temperature change can damage the plastic. It is better to use hot tap water (about 60-70 degrees) poured into bowls. It is safe and effective.
What to do if an unpleasant odor appears after defrosting?
Most likely, there is stagnant water or a piece of product left somewhere. Rinse everything again with a solution of vinegar or citric acid. Place an open pack of soda or activated carbon on the shelf - they absorb odors perfectly.
Do you need to lubricate the rubber seals?
Yes, but only with special silicone lubricants or glycerin. Oil (sunflower, olive) cannot be used - it destroys the rubber structure, making it sticky and brittle. You need to lubricate it with a clean, dry cloth, applying the product to it.
Why does the Beko refrigerator not turn on for a long time after defrosting?
This is normal. The thermostat needs time to register the temperature increase and start the compressor. If within 1-2 hours after plugging in the refrigerator does not start working (does not hum), check the socket and temperature settings.