Owners of domestic refrigeration equipment are often faced with the need to carry out scheduled maintenance, especially if the model is not equipped with an automatic moisture removal system. Defrosting the freezer The Biryusa refrigerator is a process that requires compliance with a clear algorithm of actions to maintain the functionality of the compressor and the integrity of the internal coating. Ignoring the formation of an ice crust leads to an increase in energy consumption and a decrease in the efficiency of freezing products.
Modern models, such as Biryusa 133 or newer series with markings Kmay have different design features of evaporators. While older units require manual intervention every few months, new modifications may have the function semi-automatic defrosting. Understanding the type of cooling system you have is the first step to proper care of the device.
When starting the procedure, it is important to realize that haste is unacceptable here. The use of sharp objects to chip ice is strictly prohibited, as this can damage refrigerant pipelinewhich will lead to costly repairs. In this material we will analyze in detail all the stages of preparation, the process itself and the start-up of the equipment after servicing.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any maintenance work, make sure that the refrigerator body is stable on the floor and does not have a slope, which may impede the flow of water into the drain pan.
Determining the type of cooling system in the Biryusa refrigerator
First of all, you need to understand what type of defrosting you are dealing with. Most of the classic models of the brand work according to the manual defrosting (Manual Defrost) principle. This means that moisture entering the chamber with food or from the air when the door is opened crystallizes on the walls of the evaporator, forming frost. The user must independently initiate the defrosting process when the ice layer reaches a thickness of 5-10 millimeters.
There are also models equipped with a system Low Frost or semi-automatic defrosting. In such devices, for example, in some modifications Biryusa 118, the moisture removal process is partially automated, but periodic manual cleaning may still be required, although much less frequently. You can determine the type of system by the technical sticker inside the chamber or in the product passport.
If you notice that the door began to close loosely due to ice, or the food in the freezer began to freeze worse, this is a sure sign that heat exchange is disrupted. In systems without No Frost, ignoring this signal leads to overload of the compressor, which tries to compensate for poor heat transfer by longer operation.
- 🧊 Manual defrosting - requires a complete shutdown of the device and waiting for the natural melting of the ice.
- ❄️ Semi-automatic - there is a button or lever to start the defrosting cycle, but water may require manual removal.
- 🌬️ No Frost - ventilation and heating elements eliminate the formation of ice, defrosting is not required (only sanitary cleaning).
⚠️ Attention: An attempt to apply the defrosting method from the No Frost system to a model with manual defrosting (for example, waiting for the ice to disappear on its own) will lead to equipment breakdown.
Preparatory stage before turning off the power
High-quality preparation takes up to 30% of the total procedure time and is a guarantee of the safety of your products and cleanliness in the kitchen. You should start by checking the contents of the freezer. All foods to be stored frozen must be removed. If you are planning long-term storage, put them in thermal containers or wrap them in several layers of newspapers and blankets - this will create the effect of a thermos.
Next, you need to empty the refrigerator compartment if the model involves defrosting the entire circuit at once, or make sure that the cold from the freezer will not affect the food in the main chamber. In most cases, when defrosting, the freezer main compartment can be left running if the design allows it, but for models with one compressor and a common circuit, complete defrosting will be required.
It is important to prepare a place for collecting melt water. In older Biryusa models, the drainage system may not be provided or may be clogged. Cover the floor around the refrigerator with absorbent rags or towels. Also prepare shallow containers (baking trays, basins) for installation under a stream of water if you plan to speed up the process.
Don't forget to disconnect the device from the power supply. Unplug the plug from the socket or move the toggle switch to the 0 (Off) position. This is a critical safety step, as heating elements (if you choose to use them) or water coming into contact with electrical contacts are not allowed.
Step-by-step instructions for defrosting your freezer
Once the power is turned off and the food has been removed, the main step begins. Open the freezer and refrigerator doors as wide as possible. If the design allows, remove the shelves and drawers - it is better to wash them separately in warm water and detergent. This will provide access to all surfaces of the evaporator.
Leave the refrigerator open for 10-12 hours for natural defrosting. This is the safest method for aluminum plates evaporator, which are often used in the Biryusa technique. Aluminum is a soft metal, and any mechanical impact on it in a frozen state can lead to the formation of microcracks.
To speed up the process, you can use safe methods. For example, place containers of hot (but not boiling) water inside the chambers. The steam will settle on the walls and speed up the melting of the ice. You can also use a fan directed into the open chamber to circulate warm air. The main thing is not to use hair dryers at maximum power so as not to damage the plastic.
☑️ Checklist for preparing for defrosting
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to use a knife, screwdriver or ice pick to chip ice. One careless movement can pierce the thin wall of the evaporator, which will lead to freon leakage.
During the melting process, make sure that the water does not overflow over the edge of the pan or rags. If the model is old and the drainage hole is located inconveniently, you may have to scoop out the water manually several times using a rubber bulb or syringe.
Cleaning the drainage system and internal surfaces
When all the ice has melted, it is time for a thorough cleaning. Often in Biryusa models, especially after several years of use, the drainage hole can become clogged with crumbs or mold. It needs to be cleaned. To do this, use a special brush or soft wire wrapped in rags.
Wash all internal surfaces with a weak solution of baking soda or a special refrigerator cleaner. Avoid using abrasive powders, which can scratch the plastic, making it susceptible to future odors. Pay special attention to sealing rubber bands doors - dirt often accumulates in their folds, which breaks the seal.
After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry with a clean soft cloth. Residual moisture can quickly turn into a new layer of frost immediately after switching on. Allow the chambers to dry completely open for 30-60 minutes.
What is the best way to wash the inside of the refrigerator?
A solution of 2 liters of water and 1 tablespoon of soda is ideal. It perfectly degreases and neutralizes odors. You can also use a vinegar solution in a 1:1 ratio, but after it you will need to carefully ventilate so that the food does not absorb the smell.
If you find an unpleasant odor that does not go away after washing, you can use activated carbon. Place several tablets on a saucer and leave in the chamber for a day. This absorbs residual aromas.
Technical nuances for different Biryusa models
Different series of Biryusa refrigerators have their own design features that affect the defrosting process. For example, in two-compressor models, such as Biryusa 135, the freezer and refrigerator compartments operate independently. This allows you to defrost only the freezer, leaving the main compartment working, which is very convenient for storing food.
In single-compressor models with a system Low Frost (often found in series Biryusa 6 or 118) the evaporator is hidden behind the back wall or located around the perimeter. Here it is important not to overdo it with heating, since the plastic back panel can be deformed from the high temperature of a hairdryer or hot water.
For models with drip system in the refrigerator compartment, it is important to check that the drainage chute on the back wall is clean. In the freezer compartment of such models, ice freezes on the evaporator, and its removal requires a complete defrosting cycle.
| Refrigerator model | Defrost type | Recommended frequency | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biryusa 133 | Manual / Low Frost | 1-2 times a year | Hidden evaporator, respect for plastic |
| Biryusa 118 | Manual | As ice builds up | Classic aluminum evaporator |
| Biryusa 355 | No Frost | Not required (washing only) | Automatic moisture removal system |
| Biryusa 6 (KSh-120) | Manual | once every 6 months | Compact size, quick freezing |
Starting the refrigerator after defrosting
After cleaning is completed and the chambers have dried, the startup stage begins. Place all shelves, drawers and containers in their proper places. Make sure they are securely fastened. Close the refrigerator doors.
Plug in the appliance. If there is a temperature regulator on the control panel, set it to the middle position (usually this 3 or 4). You should not immediately set the maximum cold, this will create an extra load on the newly started compressor. Let the equipment idle for 30-60 minutes.
Check the engine operation. It should start smoothly, without any loud knocking or humming noises. After an hour you can add food. It is recommended to do this gradually, in small portions, so that the temperature inside the chamber stabilizes evenly.
During the first hours of operation, periodically check the door seals and the absence of extraneous noise. If everything went smoothly, your Biryusa refrigerator is again ready for full operation and maintaining the freshness of your products.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long does it take on average to defrost a Biryusa refrigerator?
The time depends on the thickness of the ice and the temperature in the room. On average, the process takes from 4 to 12 hours. The use of additional heat sources (fan, basins with hot water) can reduce the time to 2-3 hours, but requires constant monitoring.
Is it possible to defrost the Biryusa refrigerator in winter on the balcony?
No, this is strictly prohibited. Taking equipment out into the cold or into an unheated room for defrosting can damage the oil in the compressor and deform the plastic elements due to a sharp temperature change.
What to do if the refrigerator does not freeze after defrosting?
If more than 2-3 hours have passed after turning it on and the cold does not appear, there may be a malfunction of the thermostat or a freon leak (if you accidentally damaged the system). In this case, you need to contact the service center.
Does the Biryusa refrigerator need to be washed every time it defrosts?
Yes, sanitization is recommended with each defrosting cycle. This prevents the growth of bacteria and the appearance of unpleasant odors that can be absorbed into the food.