Modern household appliances brand DEXP is deservedly popular due to its successful combination of functionality and affordable cost, however, even the most advanced units require regular maintenance. Many owners mistakenly believe that the presence of a system No Frost completely eliminates the need to carry out preventive maintenance, but this is not entirely true. Periodic defrosting is necessary to remove unpleasant odors, destroy bacteria and check the integrity of sealing rubber bands, which can dry out over time.
The process of disconnecting equipment from the network for hygiene procedures must be carried out strictly according to a certain algorithm in order to avoid damage to the compressor or electronic control boards. Complete thawing of the internal volume takes from 2 to 24 hours, depending on the type of cooling system and the thickness of the ice formed. Ignoring preparation rules can lead to leaks on the floor or, even worse, to the failure of expensive components when trying to start the unit ahead of time.
In this detailed guide we will analyze all the nuances of servicing refrigerators DEXP, paying special attention to the differences between drip system and complete No Frost. You will learn how to safely speed up the process, how to wash internal surfaces, and what mistakes should absolutely not be made. Following these simple rules will extend the life of your equipment and provide ideal conditions for storing food.
Determining the type of DEXP cooling system
The first and most important step before starting any manipulations is to accurately determine the type of cooling system of your device, since the frequency and method of defrosting directly depends on this. Models with a drip system, often called “crying” models, require manual intervention approximately every 4-6 months, as the moisture on the back wall periodically freezes and needs to be thawed. At the same time, units marked Total No Frost or Full No Frost theoretically do not need defrosting to remove ice, but they require sanitary treatment at least once a year.
You can visually distinguish systems by the presence or absence of frost on the back wall of the refrigeration chamber after several days of operation. If you see a frozen “coat” that the equipment cannot remove on its own, it means that you have a classic drip system or a combined version. In models DEXP with full No Frost the evaporator is hidden behind a plastic panel, and the user sees only dry cold air circulating inside the chambers.
Incorrect determination of the type of system can lead to improper care: attempts to chip ice in the system No Frost often end in breakdown of the cooling circuit, which is a non-warranty case. Therefore, carefully study the technical data sheet or inspect the internal structure of the chambers before starting work.
Preparatory stage before defrosting
High-quality preparation takes no less time than defrosting itself, and is the key to the safety of the process. You should start by emptying the refrigeration chambers of all products that need to be transferred in advance to a cool place, a thermal bag or a balcony (in winter) so that they do not spoil during the absence of cold. At the same time, you need to remove all removable elements: shelves, vegetable drawers, egg trays and door baskets, since it is more convenient to wash them separately under running water.
⚠️ Attention: Before unplugging the cord from the outlet, be sure to turn the temperature regulator to the “0” or “Off” position, if such a function is provided for by the design of the model. DEXP. This will help to avoid a power surge the next time you turn it on.
After removing the contents, you must disconnect the unit from the power supply and provide access to the rear of the case to check the condition of the drainage system. If the kitchen floor is slippery or susceptible to moisture, it is recommended to cover the area around the refrigerator with rags in advance or place flat containers to collect melting water, especially if the drainage hole is clogged. Don’t forget about the cleanliness of the instrument: prepare a soft sponge, microfiber towels and a detergent that does not contain abrasive particles.
It is important to check whether the power cord is twisted and whether there is any visible damage on it, since during defrosting the equipment will be immobilized and it will be more difficult to notice defects. It is also worth assessing the position of the refrigerator: if possible, move it slightly away from the wall to ensure air circulation and easy access to the back panel.
☑️ Preparation checklist
Step-by-step defrosting process
The defrosting process itself requires patience, since the use of aggressive acceleration methods may cause irreparable damage to plastic and seals. After unplugging appliances, simply leave the refrigerator and freezer doors open to allow natural air circulation. Depending on the temperature in the room and the thickness of the ice crust, the process can take from several hours to a day, and in winter, with an open window, it will go much faster.
It is strictly forbidden to use sharp objects, such as knives or screwdrivers, to chip ice, since one awkward movement can damage the evaporator, and the refrigerator will stop freezing forever. If the ice is holding very tightly, you can place containers of warm (not hot!) water inside the chambers, closing the doors for 10-15 minutes to speed up the melting, but make sure that the water does not splash on the shelves. For models DEXP with plastic internal panels, exposure to high temperatures is especially dangerous, which can deform the structure.
During the melting process, it is important to promptly remove the resulting water by blotting the bottom of the chambers with dry towels so that moisture does not get on the external elements of the housing or the compressor pan. If you notice that water is leaking outside the chamber onto the floor, immediately check the drainage hole: it may be clogged with crumbs or ice, and it needs to be carefully cleaned with a special brush or soft wire.
Can a hair dryer be used for defrosting?
Using a hair dryer is permissible only in extreme cases and only with cold air. The hot jet can melt plastic or cause cracks in seals due to sudden temperature changes. It is better to wait for natural thawing.
Cleaning and disinfection of internal chambers
Until the ice has completely melted and the surfaces have dried, it is time to thoroughly clean the internal space from dirt and bacteria. For washing plastic surfaces of refrigerators DEXP a solution of baking soda (one tablespoon per liter of warm water) or a weak solution of vinegar is ideal, which effectively removes grease and neutralizes unpleasant odors. It is not recommended to use aggressive chemicals, chlorine-containing products or abrasive powders, as they can leave micro-scratches in which microbes will subsequently multiply, or change the color of the plastic.
Particular attention should be paid to the rubber seal on the doors, in the folds of which mold and dirt often accumulate, invisible during a quick inspection. Wipe the seal with a cotton swab dipped in a disinfectant solution and check its elasticity: if the rubber has become hard or cracked, it may need to be replaced to maintain the seal. It is also worth rinsing the drainage hole in the refrigerator compartment, carefully pouring a little warm water into it to make sure that moisture flows freely.
After wet cleaning, all surfaces must be wiped dry with a clean, soft towel, without leaving streaks or drops of moisture. A humid environment promotes the rapid proliferation of bacteria, so dryness is the main criterion for readiness for the next stage. Removable shelves and drawers are also washed, dried and returned to their place only after complete drying.
| Cleaning agent | Efficiency | Safety for plastic | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soda solution | Medium | High | Monthly cleaning, odor removal |
| Vinegar water (1:3) | High | High | Disinfection, fat removal |
| Special. products for refrigerators | Very high | Average | Heavy contamination, antibacterial protection |
| Soap solution | Low | High | Basic dust removal |
Drying and assembling the unit
The final stage of defrosting is thorough drying of all elements, since even a small amount of moisture in hard-to-reach places can lead to the re-formation of an ice crust immediately after switching on. Leave the doors open for an additional 15 to 20 minutes after wiping to ensure that moisture has completely evaporated, especially in corners and around shelf brackets. Only after making sure that it is absolutely dry can you begin installing drawers, trays and glass shelves in their places.
When assembling, it is important not to use excessive force: all elements should fit into the grooves easily and without a characteristic crack. If the shelf does not stand up the first time, check that it is oriented correctly and that there are no foreign objects in the guides. Incorrectly installed boxes can disrupt air circulation, which is critical for models with the system No Frost.
After final assembly and checking the reliability of installation of all components, you can proceed to connecting the equipment to the electrical network. Make sure that the outlet is working, grounded and meets the power requirements specified in the instructions for your DEXP. In the first minutes of operation, listen to the sounds of the motor: it should work smoothly, without extraneous knocks or humming.
First start-up and temperature conditions
After turning on the refrigerator, do not rush to load products: the device takes time to reach the required temperature and stabilize operating processes. An empty refrigerator must run for at least 2-3 hours (up to 4 hours for some models) before you start filling it with food, otherwise the compressor will work overload trying to cool the warm load. This is especially important for equipment that has been turned off for a long time.
It is recommended to initially set the average temperature values, for example, +4°C for the refrigerator compartment and -18°C for the freezer, and let the equipment return to mode. If, after a few hours of operation, excessive frost appears on the back wall or products, and it is too cold or warm inside, the thermostat settings will need to be adjusted. Modern models DEXP may have electronic control, where the temperature is set with an accuracy of a degree.
⚠️ Attention: The design and location of the controls may vary in different series of refrigerators. Always check the official instructions included in the package, as interfaces may change.
On the first day after defrosting, it is advisable not to open the doors too often and not to load the chamber with a large amount of warm food, so as not to disturb the temperature balance. If you notice that the refrigerator is running non-stop or, conversely, turns on too rarely, check the settings and the tightness of the door.
Frequent errors during maintenance
Many users make typical mistakes that can shorten the life of the equipment DEXP or lead to breakdowns. One of the most common mistakes is trying to speed up defrosting by pouring boiling water directly onto the ice or using heaters directed into the chamber. A sharp temperature change causes deformation of the plastic and can lead to the appearance of microcracks in the evaporator.
Another mistake is ignoring the drainage hole. If you do not clean it regularly, water will begin to accumulate at the bottom of the refrigerator compartment and leak out, damaging the floor covering and creating the risk of a short circuit. Also, do not turn on the unit immediately after washing without making sure that the electrical contacts and internal surfaces are completely dry.
Excessive use of chemicals with a strong odor is also unacceptable, since plastic absorbs odors well, which are then transferred to the products. Use only proven, safe products or traditional methods, such as soda and vinegar, that do not leave toxic traces.
How often should you defrost a DEXP refrigerator?
The frequency of defrosting depends on the type of system. Models with a drip system require defrosting 1-2 times a year, and with active use - every 3-4 months. No Frost systems need sanitary defrosting (without ice) about once a year for hygiene.
What to do if after defrosting the refrigerator does not freeze?
Check whether the equipment is completely dry before turning it on. If more than 4-5 hours have passed and the cold is not coming, the system may have been damaged during cleaning or an electronics failure has occurred. In this case, you need to call a specialist.
Is it possible to wash a DEXP refrigerator with soap?
It is not recommended to use ordinary laundry or toilet soap, as it can leave a film and odor. It is better to use special products or a solution of soda/vinegar.
Is it necessary to defrost a No Frost freezer?
Technically, there is no need to remove ice, but once a year it is recommended to turn off the chamber for wet cleaning and disinfection in order to remove bacteria and odors that ventilation does not remove.