Modern brand refrigerators Ariston are famous for their reliability and functionality, but even the highest quality equipment requires maintenance over time. Sometimes owners have to deal with the need to replace the seal, check the electrical system, or clean the condensate drainage system. Self-disassembly of the unit allows you to save significant money on calling a specialist, but requires strict adherence to the sequence of actions and safety precautions.
The process of dismantling external and internal structural elements depends on the specific model, be it a classic two-chamber system or a more complex version No Frost. In this guide, we will look at universal principles that apply to most models Ariston, and also point out key features that cannot be ignored. Important to understandthat violating the order of removing panels can lead to damage to the plastic fasteners or loss of sealing of the circuit.
Before starting any work, you must completely de-energize the device. Disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply and let it stand for a while so that the pressure in the system stabilizes and the heating elements cool down. Prepare the necessary tools: usually a Phillips screwdriver, a flat plastic spatula and a container to collect any possible water. Do not neglect preparing the workplace, as small parts tend to get lost at the most inopportune moment.
Preparation for dismantling and safety precautions
The first stage of work is organizing a safe space around the unit. Ariston refrigerator has an impressive weight, so to access the back wall or lower part it must be carefully moved away from the wall. Make sure the floor is level and clean to prevent the appliance from slipping or falling during operation. If the model is equipped with a system No Frost, ice may accumulate inside, so it is recommended to defrost the chamber in advance, if possible without compromising the integrity of the case.
Particular attention should be paid to the tools. You will need a set of screwdrivers with different slots, since the screws may be hidden under decorative plugs. A critical point is the absence of moisture on hands and tools when working with electrical components. Even residual voltage in capacitors or accidental contact with water can damage the electronics or cause injury to the technician.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to bend plastic latches with a knife or metal screwdriver without first heating or using a special puller. The plastic in older models becomes brittle and breaks at the slightest careless movement.
For convenience, put all the removed screws in separate containers and label them with a marker. The design of refrigerators Ariston often uses fasteners of different lengths for different components, and it is very easy to confuse them. Maintaining order will help you put the unit back together without unnecessary parts.
Removing the top cover and side panels
Access to the internal mechanisms often begins with dismantling the top cover of the case. In most models Ariston it is secured with several screws, which can be located at the back or hidden under decorative trims at the front. Carefully examine the perimeter of the cover for screws. If fasteners are not visually detected, check for the presence of plastic plugs that can be easily removed with a flat object.
After unscrewing all visible screws, the cover should not be pulled by force. It may be held in place by plastic latches or hooks that require careful sliding of the panel back or up. In models with a system Total No Frost under the top cover there is often a control unit or fan, so you need to act with extreme caution so as not to damage the suitable wires.
The side panels are removed less frequently, but may be required to replace thermal insulation or repair the circuit. They are fixed around the perimeter and often have additional fastenings at the bottom. Before removing, make sure that the top cover has already been removed, as it often fixes the sides at the highest point. Plastic guides require smooth action.
Dismantling the interior lining and shelves
Working inside the refrigerator compartment requires special delicacy. First of all, all removable elements are removed: shelves, vegetable drawers and bottle holders. Tempered glass shelves are usually simply removed from their grooves, but in some models Ariston they may have locking mechanisms that need to be unlocked before removal.
To access the evaporator or ventilation system in models No Frost you must remove the rear plastic panel inside the chamber. It is secured with screws, the heads of which are often covered with plastic caps. These caps can be easily removed with a sharp object. After unscrewing the fasteners, the panel is moved to the side. It is important here not to damage defrost heaterwhich may be located in close proximity.
If you need to remove the door, the process is as follows:
- 🔧 Loosen the top hinge and remove the decorative cover.
- 🚪 Lift the door to disengage the bottom hinge (an assistant may be required for this).
- 🔩 Unscrew the bottom hinge completely and set the door in a safe place.
- 🧹 Clean the seal and check the condition hinges.
The internal lining of the cameras is often made of thin plastic or metal. When removing it, be careful not to touch the capillary tube or temperature sensor wires. Any damage to the refrigerant circuit will require professional repair using welding and refilling with freon.
Access to the compressor and rear panel
The back of the refrigerator Ariston hides the “heart” of the unit - the compressor, as well as the condenser and start relay. To access them in most cases, it is enough to remove the metal or cardboard cover at the bottom of the rear wall. The mounting screws are usually located around the perimeter of this cover.
After removing the cover, you will have access to the motor-compressor. It is important to be careful here: the tubes may be hot if the device has recently been operated. Start relay and the thermostat is attached directly to the compressor housing or next to it. To replace them, complete disassembly is often not required, just carefully disconnect the connectors and remove the clips.
| Component | Location | Removal tool | Precautionary measures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compressor | Bottom, rear | Wrench, screwdriver | Do not bend the tubes |
| Condenser | Rear grille | Brush, vacuum cleaner | Caution with sharp edges |
| Start relay | On compressor | Pliers | Maintain polarity |
| Fan | Inside (No Frost) | Philipps screwdriver | Turn off power |
When working in the compressor area, avoid sudden movements. Copper tubes are very soft and easily deformed. If you plan to clean the condenser, use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner, but do not pour water on the electrical parts. Cooling fanif it is located in this area, also requires careful cleaning of the blades from dust.
Disassembling the No Frost system and defrosting
Refrigerators Ariston with system No Frost have a more complex internal structure. The main unit - the evaporator - is hidden behind the rear panel in the freezer. To access it, you need to completely disassemble the interior of the freezer, removing all the drawers and shelves, and then unscrew the fasteners of the back wall.
Often the screws are hidden under plastic plugs or located in the depths of the holes where ice could have accumulated. In this case, they must be carefully warmed up with a hairdryer (without overheating the plastic) or the refrigerator must be allowed to thaw completely. An attempt to unscrew the screw through the ice will lead to licking of the edges or breakage of the fastener. Defrost heating element located in the lower part of the evaporator and secured in special grooves.
☑️ Checking the No Frost system
When dismantling the fan that drives cold air, pay attention to the way it is attached. It can be screwed to the evaporator body or supported by rubber shock absorbers. Before removing, be sure to disconnect the power connector to avoid a short circuit when checking.
⚠️ Attention: If you find a thick layer of ice (“coat”) on the evaporator, this indicates a malfunction of the defrost system. Simply cleaning the ice will not solve the problem - you will need to replace the sensor, heating element or timer.
Removing and replacing door seals
Sealing rubber plays a key role in maintaining cold. Over time, it hardens, cracks, or moves away from the housing, which leads to the formation of ice and increased load on the compressor. In refrigerators Ariston the seal can be attached in two ways: in a groove or with screws.
If the rubber is inserted into the groove around the perimeter of the door, it can be removed by simply pulling it away from the body. It is better to start from one of the corners. Before installation, it is recommended to warm up the new seal with a hairdryer or soak it in warm water so that it becomes elastic and fits easily into the groove. Magnetic tape The inside of the seal should fit snugly against the metal of the case.
In models where the seal is pressed decorative strip or screws, the process looks different:
- 🔍 Carefully inspect the inner edge of the door around the entire perimeter.
- 🔩 Unscrew the screws holding the clamping strip (if any).
- 🧲 Carefully pull the old seal out of the groove, being careful not to damage the plastic of the door.
- ✅ Install a new seal, evenly distributing it in the corners.
How to check the tightness after replacement?
After installing the new seal, do a test with a sheet of paper. Clamp the sheet with the door in different places around the perimeter. If the sheet is removed with force, the seal is good. If the paper falls out freely or comes out too easily, the door needs to be adjusted or the seal re-installed.
After installing the new rubber, it is recommended to close the door and leave it alone for several hours so that the material takes the desired shape. If the door is skewed, you may need to adjust the hinges, which was discussed in the dismantling section.
Assembly and performance testing
The final stage is reassembly. It is done in the reverse order of disassembly. Make sure that all wires are laid in their proper places and are not pinched by plastic panels. Fixing screws Tighten without excessive force so as not to strip the threads in the plastic seats.
After complete assembly, do not rush to load the products. Plug in the refrigerator and let it run idle for 2-4 hours. This is necessary to stabilize the temperature and check the absence of extraneous noise or vibration. If you have repaired the system No Frost, make sure that water from the drainage is drained correctly and does not drip into the chamber or onto the floor.
Listen carefully to the operation of the compressor. The hum should be smooth, without sharp clicks or knocks. If you notice a burning smell or sparking, immediately unplug the device and check that the electrical connectors are connected correctly. A properly assembled refrigerator Ariston will serve for many years without complaints.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do you need to completely defrost the refrigerator before disassembling?
Yes, if you plan to remove the interior panel of the freezer or work with the system No Frost. Ice can hide fasteners, and its melting during operation will flood the electrics. For models with a drip system, defrosting is desirable, but not always necessary if the internal circuit is not affected.
Is it possible to remove the back metal wall without moving the refrigerator?
In most cases, no. The screws that secure the back cover are usually accessed from the rear. Trying to remove it from the side or front is impossible without damaging the housing or surrounding objects. Move the unit at least 0.5–1 meter for comfortable work.
What to do if the screw inside the chamber is frozen and does not spin?
Do not use force under any circumstances. Use a hair dryer to gently heat the area around the screw, or let the refrigerator sit until the ice has completely thawed. Trying to unscrew the screw through the ice will cause the plastic fastener to break.
Is it safe to touch copper tubes during disassembly?
You can touch them, but with caution. Copper is very soft and easily deformed. If you pinch or damage the tube, freon will leave the system and the refrigerator will stop cooling. Restoring the circuit requires calling a specialist with equipment for vacuuming and refilling.