Brand refrigeration equipment Biryusa has been one of the most popular in the post-Soviet space for many decades, and this is no coincidence. Simplicity of design, time-tested reliability and availability of spare parts make these units welcome in kitchens where practicality is valued. Understanding exactly how your device functions helps not only to operate it correctly, but also to independently diagnose simple malfunctions, saving on calling a technician.
The basis of the operation of any model, be it a classic two-chamber Biryusa 133 or a modern series with a system No Frost, there is a continuous cycle of refrigerant circulation. This process is physically impossible without the coordinated work of several key nodes, each of which performs its strictly defined function. If you know what each element is responsible for, it will be easier for you to understand the cause of noise, ice or lack of cold.
In this article we will analyze the internal structure in detail, look at the electrical circuit and answer questions that owners often have. You will find out why the freezer can become overgrown with a “fur coat”, and the refrigerator compartment, on the contrary, stops cooling. The cooling cycle in Biryusa models is built on the compression principle, where a change in refrigerant pressure causes a sharp change in its temperature.
Basics of the compression cooling cycle
Heart Every Biryusa refrigerator has a compressor, which is often called a motor. It is this unit that creates the necessary pressure in the system, forcing the refrigerant (freon) to move in a vicious circle. When you turn on the device, an electric current starts the compressor motor, which begins to compress the freon gas, turning it into a hot liquid under high pressure.
After compression, the heated refrigerant enters the condenser - this is the same grill that can be seen on the back wall of most models. Here, heat is released into the environment: passing through a long tube, the gas cools down and finally turns into a liquid state. It is important to understand that if you push the refrigerator too close to the wall, heat transfer will be disrupted and operating efficiency will drop sharply.
Next, the liquefied freon passes through a filter drier, where residual moisture is removed from it to prevent the formation of ice jams. After this, the flow enters a capillary tube - a very narrow channel, where the pressure drops sharply. It is at this moment that the refrigerant boils at low temperatures, turning into a cold mixture of vapor and liquid, ready to take heat from the chambers.
- ❄️ The compressor compresses the freon, increasing its temperature and pressure.
- 🌡️ In the condenser (grid at the back), the gas gives off heat and becomes liquid.
- 💧 The filter drier removes excess moisture from the system before the evaporator.
- 📉 In the capillary tube, the pressure drops and the refrigerant begins to actively boil.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to depressurize the system yourself or biting off tubes if you are not skilled in working with refrigeration equipment. The release of freon in a closed room can be dangerous, and moisture getting inside the system will require expensive repairs.
The design and role of the evaporator in the formation of cold
The evaporator is the very element that directly cools the air inside the chambers. In classic Biryusa models with a drip defrosting system, it is often hidden behind the rear plastic panel of the refrigerator compartment or is a metal shelf in the freezer. It is here, inside the evaporator tubes, that liquid freon boils, actively absorbing heat from the internal volume of the unit.
The process of boiling the refrigerant is accompanied by intense heat exchange. A fan (in forced circulation models) or natural convection (in older models) forces warm air from the chamber through the cold fins of the evaporator. Cooled air goes down, and heated air rises up, creating a circulation that ensures uniform temperature.
Particular attention should be paid to the system No Frost, which is equipped with many modern models. In such devices, the evaporator is located separately, usually in a hidden niche between the chambers or in the upper part of the freezer. The air is driven through it by a fan, and moisture settles on the evaporator in the form of frost, which is periodically removed by the heating element.
If you notice that a layer of ice forms on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment, this may indicate a malfunction of the evaporator or a leak in the door. In normal operation of the drip system, moisture should collect in the groove and evaporate, and not turn into an ice crust.
Electrical circuit and temperature control
The thermostat (thermostat) is responsible for maintaining the set temperature in Biryusa refrigerators. This mechanical or electronic sensor continuously reads the temperature inside the chamber. As soon as it rises above the set threshold, the thermostat closes the electrical circuit, starting the compressor. When the desired cold is reached, the circuit opens and the motor stops.
The start-protection relay also plays an important role in the electrical circuit. It is necessary to start the compressor engine and protect it from overloads. If you hear a clicking, humming sound from the motor and then turning off after a couple of seconds, this often indicates a problem with the start relay or the compressor itself.
Modern models can be equipped with an electronic control module that replaces the mechanical thermostat. This unit allows you to more accurately regulate the temperature, control the operation of fans and display errors on the display. Diagnostics of an electronic unit requires special knowledge and equipment.
It is important to note the difference between mechanical and electronic control systems. Mechanics are simpler and cheaper to repair, but less accurate. The electronics provide a stable climate, but are sensitive to power surges in the network.
The specifics of the No Frost system
The system No Frost (without frost) radically changes the principle of operation of the refrigerator compared to classic models. The main difference is that the evaporator here does not come into direct contact with the food, but only cools the air flow. This eliminates the need for manual defrosting and the formation of ice build-ups on food.
The key element here is the defrosting timer (or electronic controller) and heating element (heater). Periodically, after certain intervals of compressor operation, the system goes into defrost mode. At this moment, the motor and fan are turned off, and the heating element is turned on, which melts the frost on the evaporator.
The resulting water flows through the drainage channels into a special tray located above the compressor, where it safely evaporates. If you find water on the floor under the refrigerator or ice inside the chamber, the problem may lie in a clogged drainage hole or a malfunction of the defrost heating element.
| Component | Function | Fault symptom |
|---|---|---|
| Heating element defrost | Heats the evaporator to melt the ice | Ice build-up, lack of cold |
| Timer/Controller | Adjusts cooling and defrosting cycles | The refrigerator does not turn on or does not defrost |
| Fan | Cold air circulates | Noise, uneven cooling of chambers |
| Defrost sensor | Controls the temperature evaporator | The defrost does not turn on or works for too long |
⚠️ Attention: In models with No Frost, it is strictly forbidden to pick the ice with a knife or sharp objects. Damage to the plastic evaporator box or tubes will lead to freon leakage and difficult repairs.
Common faults and their symptoms
Despite the reliability, Biryusa equipment is not immune to breakdowns. One of the most common problems is thermostat failure. If the refrigerator stops turning on at all or, on the contrary, works non-stop, “driving” the cold, this is the element that is checked first. Replacing the thermostat is a relatively simple and inexpensive procedure.
Another common problem is a freon leak. This can happen due to corrosion of the evaporator tubes (especially in older models where foaming was performed poorly) or mechanical damage. Signs of a leak: slight cold, hot condenser (grid at the back) or completely cold, prolonged operation of the compressor.
Problems with the compressor also happen, especially if the equipment has been operating for a long time with power outages. Humming, clicking, vibration or complete failure to start indicate that the motor-compressor requires replacement. This is a complex and expensive repair that only professionals can do.
☑️ Diagnostics before calling a technician
Operation rules to extend service life
In order for your Biryusa refrigerator to serve for a long time and not require frequent repairs, it is important to follow the operating rules. First of all, this concerns the placement of the unit. Do not place it close to a wall, near a radiator, or in direct sunlight. The condenser needs a free flow of air for effective heat exchange.
Regular defrosting (for drip systems) is a mandatory procedure. Don't wait until the ice layer is as thick as your finger. It is optimal to defrost the refrigerator once every 4-6 months. For No Frost models, preventive shutdown and washing once a year is also recommended to clean the drainage channels.
Monitor the condition of the rubber seal on the door. If it is cracked or does not fit tightly, warm, moist air will enter the chamber. This will lead to the formation of excess condensation, ice and increased load on the compressor. The rubber band should be wiped with a soft damp cloth, without using aggressive chemicals.
Do not overload the shelves and do not place hot foods inside. A sharp increase in temperature inside the chamber forces the compressor to work hard, trying to quickly return the cold. This reduces the life of the engine and increases energy consumption.
Why does the Biryusa refrigerator hum loudly?
Humming can be caused by several reasons: uneven installation (check the legs), contact of the pipes with the body or cabinet wall, operation of the fan in No Frost models, or wear of the compressor bearings. If the humming appears suddenly and is accompanied by vibration, check whether there is something standing on the rear grille.
How often should Biryusa with a drip system be defrosted?
It is recommended to carry out complete defrosting every 4-6 months. The frequency depends on the humidity in the room and how often the doors are opened. If you notice that the ice is freezing faster, then it’s time to defrost more often or check the door seal.
What to do if the refrigerator compartment is too cold?
First of all, check the thermostat settings - it may be set to maximum. If adjustment does not help, the problem may be sticking thermostat contacts or a malfunction of the damper (in two-compressor models). Try to temporarily leave the door open for 10-15 minutes to equalize the temperature.
Is it possible to transport the Biryusa refrigerator lying down?
Transporting it lying down is highly undesirable, since oil from the compressor may leak into the freon circulation circuit. If transportation lying down cannot be avoided, the unit can only be laid on its side (opposite to the outlet of the tubes from the compressor) and after turning on, let it stand upright for at least 4-6 hours before starting.