Owners of modern refrigeration units They often mistakenly believe that the system No Frost completely frees them from the need to carry out preventive maintenance.
Although the technology eliminates the formation of ice build-up in the main chamber, periodic defrosting is still required for hygienic cleaning and checking the operation of the evaporator.
In this article we will analyze the nuances of the procedure for the models. Hotpoint Ariston, we will explain why ice can still appear and provide a clear algorithm of actions.
Why does the No Frost system need defrosting
Technology No Frost (literally translated “no frost”) implies forced air circulation and automatic defrosting evaporator hidden behind the back wall.
However, this does not mean that the device never requires your intervention to completely shut down and warm up.
Over time, dust mixed with moisture may accumulate in the drainage channels, which leads to blockages and impaired condensate drainage.
Regular complete defrosting allows you to remove unpleasant odors that are absorbed into plastic elements and seals.
In addition, turning off the device is necessary to check the tightness of the circuit and the integrity of the sealing rubber bands.
Important to know: complete defrosting is required no more than once a year, unless you spilled a large amount of liquid inside chambers.
Ignoring preventive measures may result in the compressor working with increased load, trying to compensate for poor heat transfer.
In some cases, freezing of ice in a hidden area can block the operation of the fan, which will lead to the cessation of cooling food.
Preparing the refrigerator for defrosting
Before starting the procedure, it is necessary to properly prepare the equipment to avoid spoilage of products and damage to internal components.
First of all, you should empty the refrigerator and freezer compartments of the contents.
It is better to transfer the products into a thermal bag or take them out to the balcony, if the temperature outside the window allows.
After emptying the chambers, you need to turn off the unit from the mains.
To do this, remove the plug from the socket, and do not just switch the temperature regulator to the “0” or “Off” position.
Complete de-energization guarantees safety during further manipulations with water.
☑️ Preparation to defrost
Remove all removable elements: glass shelves, plastic containers, egg trays and bottle holders.
They should be washed separately in warm water and a mild detergent.
Leave the doors open to allow fresh air to flow during the process.
Step-by-step defrosting instructions
The process of natural thawing of ice in models Hotpoint Ariston takes a certain time, which depends on the thickness of the ice crust and the room temperature.
Under no circumstances try to speed up the process with a hair dryer, especially if it is directed inside the chambers.
Sharp temperature changes can lead to cracking of plastic panels or damage to the evaporator tubes.
If you see ice in the freezer, place a container under the door to collect melt water.
Put rags or towels on the floor in front of the refrigerator to prevent flooding in the kitchen.
Leave the device alone for at least 10-12 hours, it is best to carry out the procedure at night or when leaving for the weekend.
What to do if the ice does not melt?
If after 12 hours the ice crust remains, check if the drainage is clogged. In rare cases, it is necessary to call a technician to check the defrost heater.
After all the ice has melted, you must thoroughly wipe the internal surfaces with a dry soft cloth.
Make sure that there is no moisture left in the recesses and joints of the panels.
Pay special attention to the seal area - water often accumulates there, which may cause mold.
Cleaning and maintaining the drainage system
One of the main reasons why defrosting No Frost systems is required is a clogged drainage hole.
In models Hotpoint Ariston it is often located on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment or in a hidden niche of the freezer.
For cleaning, you can use a special flexible brush or soft wire with cotton wool wound.
Carefully insert the tool into the hole and make rotational movements, being careful not to damage the inner walls of the channel.
After mechanical cleaning, it is recommended to rinse the drainage with warm water from a syringe or syringe.
Water should flow freely into the pan located above the compressor at the back of the unit.
Check the condition of the condensate tray.
It is located at the bottom of the device, usually above the compressor motor.
It is accessed through the rear grille; remove it and remove the tray for washing.
A dirty tray is an ideal environment for the proliferation of microorganisms, so wash it regularly.
Typical mistakes when defrosting
Many users make mistakes that can lead to expensive equipment repairs.
The most common of them is the use of sharp objects to chip ice.
A knife, screwdriver or chisel can easily pierce the thin wall of the evaporator, which will lead to refrigerant leakage.
⚠️ Attention: If you hear hissing or smell gas after mechanical impact on ice, stop work immediately, open the windows and call a professional. Self-repair in this case is dangerous.
Another mistake is turning on the refrigerator immediately after the last piece of ice has melted.
Room temperature must be established inside the system, and all plastic elements must be completely dry.
Turning on a wet appliance can cause a short circuit in the electrical circuit or failure of the sensors.
Do not use aggressive chemicals, chlorine-containing products or abrasive powders to wash the cameras.
They can damage the coating of the internal walls and make the plastic brittle.
It is best to use specialized products for household appliances or regular soap solution.
Table: Defrosting time and operation
For ease of planning the procedure, check out the estimated time required for different stages of maintenance.
Data is relevant for standard operating conditions at room temperature.
| Procedure step | Approximate time | Required actions |
|---|---|---|
| Natural defrosting | 10–14 hours | Waiting, ventilation |
| Washing removable elements | 30–40 minutes | Using warm water |
| Cleaning drainage | 15–20 minutes | Washing and disinfection |
| Drying the chambers | 1–2 hours | Wipe with a dry rag |
After completing all cleaning and drying work, you can begin assembly.
Place the shelves and drawers in their places, making sure that they are securely fixed.
Plug in the refrigerator and let it run idle for about 2 hours before loading the products.
Frequently asked questions and answers (FAQ)
Why in Has ice formed in the Hotpoint Ariston No Frost freezer?
This may indicate that the door is not tightly closed, the seal is damaged, or the defrost sensor is faulty. Also, the cause may be a clogged drainage channel.
Is it possible to defrost a refrigerator without unplugging it from the outlet?
No, absolutely not. Defrosting requires a complete shutdown of the power supply for safety and proper operation of the system.
How often should you wash a refrigerator with a No Frost system?
It is recommended to completely defrost and wash it at least once a year. Hygienic cleaning without defrosting should be done once every 2-3 months.
What to do if the refrigerator does not freeze after defrosting?
Check whether the doors are tightly closed and let the appliance operate for several hours. If cold does not appear, the sensor may have been damaged during cleaning or there was a failure in the electronics.