Modern models of the Danish brand Vestfrost are famous for their reliability and well-thought-out cooling system, but even the technology No Frost or Low Frost does not guarantee complete absence of need for maintenance. Periodic defrosting is required not so much to remove ice, but to carry out hygienic cleaning, eliminate unpleasant odors and check the operation of the drainage system, which may become clogged over time.
Many owners mistakenly believe that if there is no “coat” of frost in the freezer, then there is no need to defrost the unit. In fact, over a year of operation, a layer of fat, bacteria and mold accumulates on the internal surfaces, seals and in hard-to-reach places, which cannot be removed without completely disconnecting the device from the network and heating it to room temperature.
A properly carried out defrosting procedure for a two-chamber refrigerator Vestfrost extends the life of the compressor and maintains energy efficiency. In this article, we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions, the differences in servicing different cooling systems and answer the questions that users often have when faced with this task for the first time.
Preparation for the defrosting procedure
Before taking active steps, it is necessary to properly prepare the space and the unit itself. Find an open space in the kitchen where you can temporarily store food, or prepare cooler bags with ice if you have a lot of supplies. It is important to clear access to the back wall of the refrigerator to ensure air circulation and ease of operation.
The first step is always to completely disconnect the appliance from the power supply. Simply turning off the button on the case is not enough - you need to unplug the plug from the socket. This is a safety requirement and ensures that the electronics will not experience power surges while you are handling internal components and water.
⚠️ Warning: Do not try to speed up the defrosting process by placing a pot of boiling water inside or using a hair dryer. Sudden changes in temperature can cause plastic parts to deform and damage the evaporator.
After disconnecting, remove all shelves, drawers, egg trays and containers. It is better to wash glass shelves separately under running water, and soak plastic elements in warm water with a mild detergent. The freed-up volume of the chamber will allow warm air to quickly penetrate into all corners.
Features of the No Frost and Low Frost systems in Westfrost
Two-chamber refrigerators Vestfrost most often equipped with a system No Frost (in the freezer compartment) and static cooling or Low Frost (in the refrigerator compartment). Understanding the difference between them is critical for proper defrosting, since the physics of ice formation in them is different.
In the freezer compartment with No Frost ice does not freeze on food and walls due to the constant circulation of dry air. However, moisture from the food still condenses on the hidden evaporator. In a refrigerator compartment with a drip system or Low Frost moisture settles on the back wall, freezes and periodically thaws, flowing into the drainage hole.
Why does ice still appear?
Even in No Frost systems, ice can form if the door is not tightly closed, the seal is damaged or the drainage is clogged. In this case, the moisture does not have time to evaporate and turns into ice on the bottom of the chamber or on the door.
If you notice a significant amount of ice in the model with the declared No Frost, this is a signal of a malfunction, and not the need for scheduled defrosting. In normal mode, only a thin film is formed on the evaporator during the operating cycle, which quickly disappears when turned off.
Step-by-step instructions: how to defrost correctly
The process of natural thawing takes from 4 to 12 hours, depending on the temperature in the room and the thickness of the ice layer. There is no need to rush things through mechanical influence. Below is an algorithm that will ensure the safety and effectiveness of the procedure.
First, prepare the water collection area. Cover the floor around the refrigerator with absorbent rags or towels. In two-chamber models, water can accumulate not only at the bottom, but also flow out of the drainage channels. Place shallow baking sheets or wide basins under the freezer and refrigerator compartments.
☑️ Defrosting checklist
Leave the refrigerator and freezer doors wide open. This will provide a flow of warm air. If there are small children or animals in the house, make sure that they do not play with the doors or accidentally slam them while you are gone.
During the melting process, periodically check the trays and empty the water. When all visible ice has disappeared, begin cleaning the interior surfaces. Use a soft sponge and a solution of baking soda (1 tablespoon per liter of water) or a special product for refrigerators.
After washing, thoroughly wipe all surfaces dry with a clean rag. Pay special attention to the corners and places where the shelves are attached. Wet areas are an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria immediately after turning on the device.
Cleaning the drainage system and removing odors
One of the main reasons for the appearance of an unpleasant odor and the malfunction of the moisture removal system is a clogged drainage hole. In two-chamber refrigerators Vestfrost it is usually located on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment, closer to the bottom.
To clean, use a soft brush, a cotton swab or a special flexible wire with a soft tip. Carefully insert the tool into the hole and use a rotating motion to break through the plug of dirt or mold. Then pour some warm water into it to make sure that it flows freely into the tray above the compressor.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to use sharp metal objects (knives, knitting needles) to clean the drainage. You can puncture the tube or damage the cooling circuit, which will lead to a freon leak and costly repairs.
To eliminate persistent odors that cannot be removed by regular washing, you can use activated carbon. Crush 10-15 tablets, scatter into saucers and leave inside a closed refrigerator for a day. A solution of citric acid or fresh citrus zest also effectively absorbs odors.
Table: Comparison of defrosting time and methods
Time required for complete defrosting depends on several factors: room temperature, ice thickness and the chosen method. Below is a comparative table that will help you plan your time.
| Method | Process time | Safety for equipment | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural melting | 6–12 hours | Absolutely safe | Recommended method |
| Fan (blowing) | 3–5 hours | Safe | Acceleration is acceptable |
| Hot water (containers) | 2–4 hours | Risk for plastic | C caution |
| Hair dryer / Steam generator | 30–60 minutes | High risk | Not recommended |
As can be seen from the table, the natural method takes the most time, but it eliminates the risk of thermal shock for materials. Using a hairdryer can lead to local overheating of the plastic and its deformation, which in the future will cause the doors to not fit tightly.
If you have chosen the method with hot water containers, be sure to place wooden planks or thick towels under them to avoid damaging the refrigerator shelves with high temperature.
Starting the refrigerator after defrosting
After you have washed and wiped all the chambers dry, reassemble the refrigerator in the reverse order. Place shelves, drawers and containers in their proper places. Make sure all fasteners snap into place correctly.
Plug in the device. Modern models Vestfrost can emit a sound signal or flash a temperature indicator, indicating that it is warm inside. This is a normal electronic reaction. Let the refrigerator run idle (without food) for 2-4 hours.
During this time, check to see if water has appeared under the refrigerator or on the floor next to it. Also listen to the operation of the compressor: it should operate smoothly, without any extraneous knocking or humming. If everything is in order, you can gradually load the products.
Typical mistakes when defrosting
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that can shorten the life of the equipment. One of the most common is trying to break the ice with a knife. This action can lead to breakdown of the evaporator, after which the refrigerator will stop cooling, and repairs will be very expensive.
Another mistake is turning on the device without waiting for the internal surfaces to completely dry. Residual moisture will quickly turn into a new layer of ice or cause mold. It is also not recommended to turn on the light in the refrigerator using a standard lamp to speed up the melting - this can lead to the lamp burning out or the lampshade melting.
⚠️ Attention: Do not leave a defrosted refrigerator turned off for a long period of time (weeks or months) with the doors tightly closed. Mold and an unpleasant odor may appear inside, which will then be difficult to get rid of.
If you are planning a long shutdown, leave the doors ajar, securing them, for example, with a cardboard gasket to ensure ventilation.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it necessary to defrost a Vestfrost refrigerator with a No Frost system?
Yes, it is necessary. The system No Frost prevents the formation of ice on products, but does not eliminate the need for hygienic washing and checking drainage. It is recommended to do this 1-2 times a year.
How long should you not open the refrigerator after turning it on?
It is advisable not to open the doors for the first 2-3 hours after turning it on so that the unit reaches the required temperature. Complete stabilization of the temperature regime takes up to 24 hours.
What to do if after defrosting the refrigerator does not freeze?
Check whether the doors are tightly closed, whether the light is working inside, and whether there is any extraneous noise. If the temperature does not drop within 5-6 hours and the compressor is running, there may be a freon leak or an electronics failure - contact service.
Can a refrigerator be washed with a steam generator?
The use of a steam generator is only permissible for rubber seals and external surfaces. It is impossible to direct a stream of hot steam at plastic walls, shelves and especially at the back wall inside the chamber due to the risk of deformation.
How often should you defrost a two-chamber Westfrost?
The optimal frequency is once every 6-12 months. If you notice a decrease in cooling efficiency or the appearance of an odor, the procedure should be carried out outside the schedule.