Owners of premium equipment often wonder whether their devices need regular defrosting, especially if there is a proud inscription on the case NoFrost. Refrigerators Liebherr, including the popular series SBS with a side-mounted compressor, are indeed equipped with advanced moisture removal systems, but this does not mean a complete refusal of service. Understanding the physical processes inside the chamber helps to avoid the appearance of foreign odors and reduced cooling efficiency. Although the evaporator in the freezer area is protected from ice build-up, in the refrigerator compartment, especially in models with the system, condensation can accumulate on the back wall. Periodic
Although the evaporator in the freezer area is protected from ice build-up, in the refrigerator compartment, especially in models with BioCool or DuoCooling, condensation may accumulate on the rear wall. Periodic hygienic defrosting is necessary not so much for removing ice blocks, but for deep cleaning of drainage channels and eliminating bacteria. Ignoring this procedure can lead to clogging of the drain hole and the appearance of puddles under the vegetable boxes.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for safe defrosting, the nuances of working with two-compressor systems and the rules for caring for seals. You will learn why you can’t use a hairdryer to speed up the process and how to properly prepare equipment for a long-term disconnection from the network without risking the compressor.
Features of the Liebherr cooling system and the need for defrosting
The equipment Liebherr is based on the principle of separate air circulation. While the freezer compartment is completely free of ice thanks to technology NoFrost, the refrigerator compartment often operates using the drip principle or a combination type. In such cases, moisture settles on the back panel, freezes into a thin crust and periodically thaws, flowing into the drain. It is this drainage channel that requires your attention.
Models of the SBS (Side-by-Side) series often have an increased volume and a complex air duct system. If you notice that ice appears on the products and water appears on the shelves, this is a signal that the self-cleaning system cannot cope with the amount of moisture or the drainage is partially clogged. In this case, manual intervention becomes mandatory.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to break off the ice with a knife or sharp objects. Damage to the evaporator hidden behind the plastic panel will lead to freon leakage and expensive repairs that are not subject to warranty.
The frequency of the procedure depends on the humidity in the room and the frequency of door openings. On average, to maintain ideal hygiene and performance ventilation systems, it is recommended to carry out a complete defrost once every 12 months. However, if you store foods with a high moisture content in open containers, the interval should be reduced to 6 months.
Preparing the Liebherr refrigerator for defrosting
Before starting any maintenance work, you must properly prepare the device. This will not only simplify the cleaning process, but will also protect electronic components from power surges and moisture. The first step should always be to unplug the appliance.
Remove all food from the chambers. If you don't plan to consume them right away, place them in ice packs or an insulated bag to maintain temperature. Remove all removable elements: shelves, drawers VarioBox, egg trays and bottle holders. It is better to wash them separately with warm water and a mild detergent.
- 🧊 Empty the chambers of food and pack them to keep them cold.
- 🔌 Unplug the refrigerator and remove the plug from the socket.
- 🚪 Leave the doors completely open for access air.
- 🧹 Prepare absorbent rags and containers to collect water.
It is important to let the equipment stand turned off for about 10-15 minutes before starting active operations so that the pressure in the refrigerant system stabilizes. This is especially true for powerful compressors used in models Liebherr SBS.
☑️ Preparation checklist
Step-by-step instructions: how to defrost correctly
The safest and manufacturer-recommended method is natural defrosting. It takes longer, but eliminates the risk of thermal shock to plastic parts and seals. Just leave the doors open and wait until all the ice has melted.
Depending on the thickness of the ice and the temperature in the room, the process can take from 4 to 10 hours. To speed up thawing, you can place containers with warm (not hot!) water inside the chambers. The steam will help soften the ice formations faster. Do not forget to place towels at the bottom of the chambers, as water will flow down.
⚠️ Attention: The use of hair dryers, heat guns or heating pads is strictly prohibited. A sudden temperature change can deform the plastic housing of the evaporator or damage the adhesive connections of the tubes.
Pay special attention to the drainage hole area. It is usually located on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment. Make sure that melting water flows freely into it. If the water is standing in a puddle inside the chamber, the hole may be clogged with crumbs or mold.
What to do if the water does not go away?
If you see that the water is standing inside the chamber and does not go into the drain, take a soft syringe or syringe without a needle. Fill up with warm water and try to gently rinse the hole under pressure. You can use the special brush that comes with the kit, or a soft wire wrapped in a rag to push the blockage deeper into the tube.
Cleaning the drainage system and caring for the seals
While the ice is melting, it’s time to start hygienic treatment of hard-to-reach places. The drainage system is a weak point where bacteria and mold most often grow, causing an unpleasant odor. To clean, use a baking soda solution or special refrigerator cleaners that do not contain abrasives.
The rubber door seal requires careful handling. Wipe it with a soft sponge dipped in warm soapy water, thoroughly scrubbing out the creases. It is in these folds that dirt accumulates, which over time can lead to loss of tightness and a loose fit of the door.
| Element | What to clean | What to avoid | Frequency | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Internal walls | Soda solution (1 tbsp per 1 liter) | Abrasive powders, chlorine | At each defrost | |
| Seals | Warm water with mild soap | Oils, solvents, alcohol | Once every 3-4 months | |
| Drainage hole | Warm water, brush | Sharp metal objects | At each defrost | Once a year |
| Shelves and drawers | Running water, sponge | Boiling water (risk cracks) | At each defrost |
After cleaning all surfaces and drainage, wipe the interior dry with a clean rag. Do not turn on the refrigerator until it is completely dry. Residual moisture can turn back into ice immediately after starting the compressor.
Startup and adjustment after defrosting
When you are sure that the inside is dry and clean, you can return the shelves and drawers to their places. Install them correctly according to the guides to ensure even air circulation. Now the refrigerator can be connected to the network.
After turning on, let the appliance run idle (without food) for 2-4 hours. This is necessary in order temperature mode to stabilize and the compressor to return to its normal operating cycle. Only after reaching the set temperature can food be added.
Check the settings on the control panel. In models Liebherr with electronic control, the temperature settings or operating modes may have gone wrong (for example, SuperFrost or EcoMode). Make sure that the refrigerator compartment is set to around +5°C and the freezer compartment is set to -18°C.
Typical mistakes and precautions
Many users make mistakes by trying to speed up the process or using inappropriate means. For example, washing the internal chambers with aggressive chemicals can damage the antibacterial coating of the walls, if it is provided by the model.
Another common mistake is ignoring the back wall. This is where it is located evaporator, and mechanical impact on it is fatal. Also, do not leave the refrigerator turned off for a long time with the doors closed - this will lead to the appearance of a musty smell and mold.
⚠️ Attention: If you plan not to use the refrigerator for a long time (for example, you are leaving for the country for the winter), leave the doors slightly open. This will ensure ventilation and prevent the formation of mold inside.
Following these simple operating rules will extend the life of your Liebherr SBS number of years. Regular maintenance of the drainage and seals is more important than the frequency of complete defrosting.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible defrost a Liebherr refrigerator with a hair dryer?
No, the manufacturer categorically does not recommend using a hair dryer. Hot air can deform the thin plastic of the inner chamber and damage the evaporator tubes, resulting in a refrigerant leak.
How often should a model with NoFrost be defrosted?
Although the NoFrost system prevents ice from forming in the freezer, the refrigerator compartment (especially with the BioCool system) may require defrosting once a year for hygiene and cleaning the drainage.
Why does the refrigerator not turn on for a long time after defrosting?
This is the normal operation of the protective relay. After shutting down, the compressor needs time (from 10 to 30 minutes) for the pressure in the system to equalize before restarting.
How to wash the inside of the refrigerator to avoid odor?
It is best to use a solution of baking soda (1 tablespoon per liter of water) or special neutral products for household appliances. Vinegar also removes odors well, but its pungent aroma can take a long time to dissipate.