The first switching on of refrigeration equipment Liebherr is a critical stage on which the durability of the compressor and the quality of food cooling in the future directly depend. German engineering requires adherence to strict installation protocols, which, if ignored, can lead to the failure of expensive equipment in the first months of operation.
Many users make the mistake of believing that it is enough to simply plug the cord into the outlet immediately after delivery. However, before this, it is necessary to perform a number of preparatory actions, such as stabilizing the temperature regime of the unit itself and removing the transport fastenings. Correct Start is a guarantee that the system NoFrost or Liebherr BioFresh will work at maximum efficiency.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions that will protect your new refrigerator from premature wear. You will learn why rushing in this matter is unacceptable and what parameters need to be set in the control menu immediately.
Exposure after transportation: why you can’t rush
The most common mistake during installation is trying to start the unit immediately after bringing it into the kitchen. If the refrigerator was transported in a horizontal position or simply tilted strongly, compressor oil could flow from the crankcase into the refrigerant circulation system. Oil starvation The piston at the first start will lead to jamming of the mechanism and expensive repairs.
The time required for oil draining back into the crankcase depends on the ambient temperature and the position in which the equipment was located during transportation. If you transported the refrigerator while standing, it is enough to wait 2-3 hours. In the case of horizontal transportation, this period increases to 8-12 hours, and in the cold season it may take more than a day.
⚠️ Attention: Turning on the compressor before the oil has completely drained can cause water hammer, which will irreversibly damage the valve group.
It is also important to take into account the temperature difference. If the equipment was brought in an unheated van in winter, condensation formed on the internal electronics must dry completely. A wet control board may cause a short circuit when voltage is applied.
Removing shipping fasteners and packaging
Before looking for the power button, you must free the device from all elements that secure the moving parts upon delivery. Liebherr models often use special transport bolts that secure the compressor, as well as gaskets between the doors and the housing. Leaving the fasteners creates vibration and noise, and also interferes with the proper operation of the shock absorbers. Liebherr often uses special transport bolts to secure the compressor, as well as gaskets between the doors and the housing. Leaving fasteners creates vibration and noise, and also interferes with the correct operation of shock absorbers.
Carefully inspect the base of the refrigerator and the back wall. There may be foam stops or cardboard clips that need to be removed. The doors can also be secured with tape or special tapes that prevent them from opening spontaneously.
- 📦 Remove all outer cardboard, tape and plastic film from the body.
- 🔩 Unscrew the shipping bolts on the compressor (if the model includes them).
- 🚪 Remove the fastening tapes from the door handles and check the freedom of movement of the doors.
- 🧱 Remove all shelves and drawers to check their integrity and the absence of internal fasteners.
After removing the packaging, let the refrigerator stand open for 30-60 minutes. This will allow the odors of new plastic to disappear and finally equalize the temperature of the internal components with room temperature.
Choice of installation location and preparation for work
The efficiency of the refrigerator Liebherr directly depends on the quality of ventilation. During operation, the compressor and condenser generate heat, which must be easily removed. If you install the unit in a niche without gaps or close to the wall, energy consumption will increase and the service life of the equipment will be reduced.
The instructions require maintaining minimum distances to surrounding surfaces. Built-in models have their own rules, but general rules apply for free-standing refrigerators. The floor under the device must be level and strong to avoid distortion and violation of the tightness of door seals.
| Installation parameter | Recommended distance | Consequences of violation |
|---|---|---|
| To the rear wall | Minimum 5-7 cm | Overheating of the condenser |
| Up to the side wall | Minimum 2-3 cm | Inability to open the door |
| Top (up to cabinet) | Minimum 10 cm | Impaired air circulation |
| To heat sources | Minimum 30 cm | Increasing load on the compressor |
Make sure that the outlet into which the device will be plugged in is grounded. The use of extension cords and tees is not recommended, since compressor starting currents can cause heating of the contacts and melting of the insulation.
Primary connection to the electrical network
When the acclimatization time has been met and all fasteners have been removed, you can begin the electrical connection. Insert the plug into the outlet. In modern models Liebherr with electronic control, a characteristic sound signal is heard and the display lights up. For mechanical models, the startup process is quieter - you will hear the click of the start relay and the hum of the running motor.
For the first minutes after turning on, the refrigerator will work in intensive mode, trying to reach the set temperature. This is fine. Don’t be alarmed if the side walls of the case are noticeably warm - this is the heat removal system built into the side panels of many modern models. At this moment, it is important to listen to the operation of the unit. Unusual knocking, clanging, or intermittent humming noises may indicate that the refrigerator is not level or touching other objects. Vibration should not be transmitted to furniture or the floor., built into the side panels of many modern models.
At this moment, it is important to listen to the operation of the unit. Unusual knocking, clanging, or intermittent humming noises may indicate that the refrigerator is not level or touching other objects. Vibration should not be transmitted to furniture or floors.
⚠️ Attention: If, after turning on, you hear a sharp metallic clang or smell burning wiring, immediately unplug the device and contact a service center.
Electronics may require several seconds to initialize the system. At this time, all segments on the display may alternately light up - this is a test of the serviceability of the indicators.
☑️ Check before loading
Setting temperature conditions
After power is applied, it is necessary to set the correct temperature parameters. Factory settings are often average, but for the first launch and subsequent operation it is better to optimize them. In the refrigerator compartment, the optimal temperature is +4°C, and in the freezer - -18°C.
Control in different models Liebherr may differ: in some places it is a touch display, in others it is a mechanical regulator, and in the top series it is controlled via a smartphone. For mechanical models, turning the knob clockwise usually increases the cooling power.
Do not immediately set the minimum possible temperature. A sudden change will load the compressor. It is better to set the average values and let the system stabilize for several hours. The function SuperCool or SuperFrost can be activated briefly to speed up the process, but in normal mode it is not needed.
What is SmartFrost and should it be turned on?
SmartFrost is a technology that reduces the formation of ice in the freezer due to the special design of the evaporator. There is no need to specifically enable it; it is a design feature that works constantly.
Pay attention to the door open and temperature alarm indicators. If after closing the door a couple of minutes later the red indicator lights up or a signal sounds, it means that the temperature inside has not yet dropped to normal, and the system warns of the risk of food spoilage.
First loading with food and operating modes
You can load the refrigerator with food only after it reaches operating mode. This usually takes from 4 to 12 hours depending on the volume of the chambers and the ambient temperature in the room. An empty refrigerator gains cold faster.
Do not immediately fill the chambers to capacity. A large volume of warm products will cause the compressor to operate for a long time without stopping, which is undesirable for new equipment. Arrange the products evenly without blocking the ventilation holes inside the chambers.
- 🥩 Immediately place meat and fish in the zone BioFresh or in the freezer.
- 🥛 It is better to place dairy products on the middle shelves, where the temperature is most stable.
- 🥦 Place vegetables and fruits in the lower drawers to avoid freezing.
This will not only disrupt the temperature regime, but will also create an extra load on the moisture removal system.
Diagnostics and frequently asked questions
If, after turning on, you notice that the refrigerator is not working as expected, do not panic. Many phenomena, such as refrigerant gurgling or occasional crackling noises, are completely normal in modern cooling systems. However, there are signs that require attention.
The table below shows the main states of the indicators and their meaning when first started.
| Indicator / Sound | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Flashing "Alarm" | Temperature is higher than normal | Wait for cooling, close the door |
| Humming | Compressor operation | Normal, if there is no vibration |
| Gurgling | Freon movement | Normal operating process |
| Clicks | Thermal expansion | Normal at heating/cooling |
Always check the official instructions for your specific model, as functionality may vary. Technical characteristics and control interfaces can be updated by the manufacturer.
How long does it take for a Liebherr refrigerator to reach temperature for the first time?
The first entry into mode can take from 6 to 12 hours. During this time, the compressor can operate almost non-stop. Complete temperature stabilization in all cells, especially in the BioFresh zone, occurs within the first 24 hours.
Why does the refrigerator hum loudly immediately after turning on?
When first started, the compressor works at maximum power to cool the warm internal volume. Also make sure that all shipping bolts have been removed and the refrigerator is level and not touching the walls.
Does it need to be washed before turning it on for the first time?
Yes, definitely. Production dust or the smell of new plastic may remain inside. Wipe the internal surfaces with a damp cloth with a mild detergent and let dry before connecting to the power supply.
What to do if the red temperature light comes on?
In the first hours after switching on, this is normal, since the temperature inside is still high. If the indicator lights up after 12 hours of operation, check the tightness of the doors and the number of loaded products.