Modern refrigerators of the German brand Liebherr
Independent disassembling the case is often required to replace the rubber seal, eliminate extraneous noise or diagnose problems with the water drainage system. Many owners are afraid of damaging complex mechanisms, but the design of these units is designed to provide access to key components without excessive effort.
Before you begin active actions, you must clearly understand that any manipulations with internal components require complete power outages. This is not just a recommendation, but a basic rule of electrical safety, ignoring which can lead to electric shock or short circuit.
Necessary tools and precautions
Quality diagnostics and repairs begin with proper preparation workplace. You will need a basic set of tools, which are usually in the home arsenal of any craftsman. The basis will be a set Phillips screwdrivers of various sizes, since fasteners in Liebherr refrigerators may differ in diameter and length.
Ideal for working with plastic latches and panels mediator or a special plastic spatula for disassembling electronics. The use of metal objects, such as a knife or flat-head screwdriver, is strictly not recommended, as there is a high risk of damaging the decorative coating or breaking fragile plastic clamps.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting work, be sure to turn off the water supply if your model is connected to a water supply, and wait until the liquid has completely drained from the system.
Also, do not forget to prepare a container to collect water that may remain in drainage system or the evaporator pan. Even after prolonged defrosting, moisture may remain in hard-to-reach places that can cause corrosion or a short circuit when turned on again.
- 🔧 Set of screwdrivers (phillips and slotted)
- 🛠️ Plastic spatula or mediator
- 💡 Flashlight for illuminating internal areas
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect hands
Preparation of the unit for dismantling
The first stage of any serious operation is freeing up internal space. All food, shelves, drawers and containers must be removed from the refrigerator and freezer compartments. This will not only free up space for maneuvers, but will also protect fragile glass shelves from accidental falls.
Particular attention should be paid to the system NoFrostif it is present in your model. Although modern Liebherr refrigerators are equipped with effective defrosting systems, it is recommended to leave the unit turned off for several hours before deep disassembly. This will allow the ice on the evaporator to completely melt, which will facilitate access to fans and heating elements.
☑️ Preparation for disassembly
After the insides are freed, the refrigerator must be carefully moved away from the wall, providing access to the back. Make sure the floor is level and clean so that the unit does not move during operation. If the model is built-in, you will need to first dismantle the front panels and remove the equipment from the niche.
Removing the rear panel and accessing the compressor
The rear wall of the refrigerator hides the “heart” of the unit - compressor, as well as the capacitor and start relay. On most Liebherr models, this panel is secured with several screws around the perimeter. By unscrewing them, you will get full access to the engine compartment.
Under the panel you will see a compressor enclosed in a metal casing, and located nearby fan (if the model is equipped with a forced cooling system). Be careful with copper tubes: they are very soft and easily deformed if touched carelessly, which can lead to leakage refrigerant.
If your goal is to replace the start relay or check the integrity of the windings, then access to them is opened after removing the plastic cup or cover on the actual compressor. Usually there are three contacts that need to be carefully disconnected after photographing the connection diagram.
How to check the serviceability of the compressor?
To check the compressor, use a multimeter in resistance measurement mode. Normal winding resistance varies between 10-30 ohms. If the device shows infinity or zero, the compressor requires replacement.
- 🔩 Unscrew the screws around the perimeter of the back cover
- ❄️ Check the condition of the tubes for creases
- 🔌 Take a photo of the wire connection diagram
Dismantling internal lining and control unit
Access to electronics and sensors often requires removal of the internal plastic lining. In Liebherr refrigerators it can be attached to hidden latches and screws located under decorative plugs. Start dismantling from the top part, where the control unit is usually located control unit.
To remove the panel, carefully pry it with a plastic spatula at the places where the latches are attached. Movements should be smooth, without jerking, so as not to break the plastic “ears”. Often the panel is also held in place by screws hidden under stickers or rubber seals.
⚠️ Attention: Electronic modules are sensitive to static electricity. Before touching the control board, it is recommended to touch a grounded metal object to remove the static charge.
After removing the panel, you will see electronic unit, to which cables from temperature sensors, fans and the display panel fit. If it is necessary to replace the module, carefully disconnect all connectors, fixing their position.
Disassembling the NoFrost system and replacing sensors
The NoFrost system in Liebherr refrigerators is based on the circulation of cold air, which is forced fan via the evaporator. Access to these components often requires removing the back wall inside the freezer or refrigerator compartment.
Inside you will find evaporator (radiator) and nearby temperature sensors (defroster). They are the ones that most often fail, causing the formation of a “fur coat” or the cessation of cooling. Replacing a sensor is a simple procedure, but it requires precision.
If it shows signs of corrosion or ruptures, it must be replaced. When assembling, make sure that all seals are in place, otherwise cold air will escape outside the chambers.
| Component | Location | Signs of malfunction | Difficulty of replacement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Defrost sensor | On the evaporator | Ice build-up | Low |
| Fan | Behind the rear wall | Noise, no cold | Average |
| Defrost heating element | At the bottom of the evaporator | Ice plug | High |
| Start relay | At the compressor | Clicks, does not start | Low |
Assembly and primary launch
The assembly process is carried out strictly reverse order. Reinstall all removed panels, making sure all latches click into place. Check that no wires are pinched by plastic elements.
After complete assembly, do not rush to load the products. Plug in the refrigerator and let it run idle for 2-4 hours. This time is necessary to stabilize the temperature regime and check the operation of thermostats and the defrost system.
Inspect carefully joints of pipes and drainage system for leaks. If no water appears on the floor during the control time, and the unit operates quietly and evenly, disassembly can be considered successfully completed.
Common mistakes when disassembling yourself
One of the most common mistakes is the use of excessive force. If the panel does not come off, it means that you probably did not find everything fastening screws or did not release the latches. Force is powerless here and only leads to breakage of the plastic.
Another mistake is ignoring the markings of the wires. When disconnecting connectors, many people forget to mark them, which turns into a complex puzzle when reassembling. Always use marking or take detailed photographs before each step of disassembly.
⚠️ Warning: Never attempt to bend copper tubing by hand or with a tool to gain access to other components. This can lead to depressurization of the freon circuit and expensive repairs.
Also, do not forget about cleanliness. Dust, hairs, or small debris that get into the fan's moving parts or drainage hole can ruin all repair efforts. Use a vacuum cleaner or soft brush to clean the internal cavities before final assembly.
Is it possible to disassemble a Liebherr refrigerator without violating the warranty?
Disassembling the case yourself, as a rule, does not violate the warranty, as long as you do not damage the seals on the compressor and do not make changes to the design. However, if during disassembly the plastic is broken or components are damaged, the service center may refuse free repairs.
Does it need to drain the freon before disassembling?
No, you do not need to drain the freon to replace sensors, fans, heating elements or seals. Interfering with the refrigerant circulation system (depressurization of the circuit) requires special equipment and a license, so such work must be performed by professionals.
Where can I find a disassembly diagram for my specific model?
The most accurate information (Exploded View) can be found in the official Liebherr service manuals by entering the full model number (starts with C, CN, CT, etc.) in a search on the manufacturer’s website or specialized resources for repairing household appliances.