Disassembling refrigeration equipment Liebherr is a complex technical process that requires not only accuracy, but also a deep understanding of the structure of a particular model. Unlike many budget analogues, German equipment often has hidden fasteners, complex air circulation systems and integrated electronics, errors in handling which can lead to expensive repairs. That is why, before starting active actions, it is necessary to clearly understand the final goal of dismantling: replacement compressor, repair of the NoFrost system or elimination of a malfunction in the control system.
It is important to understand that even partial disassembly of the housing may lead to a violation of the tightness of the circuit or damage to the thermal insulation, if you act thoughtlessly. Professional craftsmen always start with diagnostics to make sure that the problem really lies inside the unit, and not in a simple replacement of the seal or adjusting the legs. If you nevertheless decide to carry out the work yourself, be patient and have high-quality tools, since Liebherr it is famous for its reliable but tight assembly.
In this article we will look at the universal principles of dismantling the main components, which are applicable to most models of the brand, but do not forget about the individual features of each series. Removing the rear metal panel often requires first unscrewing not only external screws, but also hidden fasteners under decorative plugs. Following the sequence of actions will allow you to avoid breakage of plastic latches and damage to electronic boards.
Preparation of the workplace and the necessary tools
The first and most critical stage is complete decontamination electrical appliance. Before touching any part, you must unplug the power cord from the outlet. This simple safety rule is ignored too often, resulting in short circuits or electric shocks due to accidental contact with live parts. In addition, the refrigerator must stand unplugged for at least 2-3 hours so that the refrigerant flows into the condenser and the pressure in the system equalizes.
For high-quality disassembly, you will need a specialized set of tools, since a regular household screwdriver may not be able to handle Torx screws, which are often used by the manufacturer. It is recommended to prepare the following arsenal:
- 🛠️ A set of screwdrivers with Phillips and flat blades of different sizes.
- 🔧 Slotted and Phillips bits, including rare sizes for electronics.
- 🔨 Plastic spatulas (spudgers) for carefully opening the clips without scratches.
- 🧤 Dielectric gloves to protect your hands and prevent static electricity.
Organize the space around the refrigerator so that you have free access from all sides. Liebherr often has a large depth, so move the unit at least a meter away from the wall. This will ensure good ventilation and allow you to walk around the device without risking dropping the removed parts.
⚠️ Attention: Never use metal knives or sharp objects to pry up the plastic panels. A sharp angle is guaranteed to cut through soft plastic or leave a deep scratch on the paintwork, which will ruin the appearance of the equipment.
☑️ Preparation for disassembly
Dismantling the internal space and shelves
Work begins with the release of the inner chamber. This is necessary not only to facilitate the design, but also to prevent glass shelves from falling when the case is tilted while removing the side panels. In models with the system NoFrost first, all drawers and guides are removed.
Glass shelves in Liebherr often have special stoppers or fixing mechanisms. Do not pull the shelf with force if it does not come out - inspect the side walls for locking tabs. In some premium series, the shelves are equipped with a SoftSystemsystem that requires pressing certain points to unlock. Carefully place the removed elements in a safe place, covering the surface with a soft cloth.
Pay special attention to the air supply system. The freezer compartment often has a plastic panel covering the evaporator. It is secured with latches and screws under the plugs. When removing it, it is important not to damage the plastic air ducts, which become brittle at low temperatures. Any crack in the air duct will disrupt the circulation of cold air, which will lead to the formation of ice and incorrect operation of temperature sensors.
Removing external panels and doors
Access to the main components of the refrigerator, such as the compressor and condenser, is only possible after removing the rear panel. In most models Liebherr it is secured around the perimeter with many screws. Some of them may be hidden under rubber feet or decorative stickers. Use a magnifying glass or flashlight to carefully inspect the perimeter.
If your goal is to remove doors, for example, to replace a seal or hinges, then the process requires special care. The doors of German refrigerators are heavy and often equipped with a complex system of hinges with closers. Before removing the door, be sure to install stops under the lower end so that it does not fall on the master’s feet and does not damage the floor covering when unscrewing the top hinge.
The door removal process is as follows:
- 🚪 Remove the decorative plug from the top hinge.
- 🔩 Unscrew the fastening bolts of the upper hinge, holding the door.
- 📏 Carefully lift the door and remove it from the lower hinge.
- 🔌 Disconnect the wire cables if the door is equipped with a display or buttons.
When working with door electronics, remember that cables can be very thin and fragile. Connectors often have micro-latches that must be pryed off with a fingernail or a thin plastic spatula before the pin can be removed. A jerk in the wire can lead to a break in the tracks on the control board, which will require replacing the entire module.
| Mounting type | Location | Tool | Nuances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screws Torx | Back panel, hinges | Screwdriver T15, T20 | Often broken when using low quality bits |
| Plastic clips | Internal panels, air ducts | Plastic blade | Brittle at low temperatures, cannot be heated with a hair dryer |
| Hidden bolts | Under handles, plugs | Long cross screwdriver | Requires careful inspection of the case |
Access to the compressor group and electronics
The compressor group in refrigerators Liebherr is usually located in the lower rear part of the unit. To access it, as a rule, it is enough to remove a metal grill or panel secured with screws. However, in some built-in models, access may be blocked by the plinth or decorative strips of the kitchen unit.
The control unit can be located in different places: in the upper part of the refrigerator compartment (behind the decorative panel), in the plinth or directly next to the compressor. When removing the control board, be sure to take a photo of all wire connections before disconnecting them. Even one incorrectly connected connector can damage the new one control module when first turned on.
If the compressor needs to be replaced, remember that this is a task for professionals with a license to work with freon. Biting off copper pipes on your own will result in the release of refrigerant into the atmosphere and a violation of environmental standards. In addition, the entry of moisture or air into the system due to leaky soldering is guaranteed to damage the new compressor after several months of operation.
⚠️ Attention: The condenser tubes are located on the back wall of the refrigerator. They are made of thin copper or steel and are (very easily) deformed. An accidental impact or excessive force during disassembly can puncture the tube, which will lead to freon leakage.
What to do if the screws are rusty?
If the screws on the back panel are stuck or rusted, do not try to unscrew them by force - you will tear them off hat. Treat them with a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40) and leave for 15-20 minutes. If this does not help, carefully warm the area around the screw with a hair dryer, but do not overheat the adjacent plastic.
Features of disassembling the NoFrost system
Automatic defrosting system NoFrost is a complex assembly consisting of an evaporator, a fan, a defrosting heating element and sensors Accessing the evaporator in a freezer often requires removing the entire back wall inside the freezer. It can be mounted on screws that are covered with plastic plugs.
When removing the evaporator panel, be prepared for the fact that there may be ice there. If the refrigerator has previously worked intermittently, the ice mass may be significant. Allow the ice to melt completely or remove it carefully without using sharp objects to avoid damaging the aluminum fins of the evaporator. Damage to even one evaporator tube makes repairs economically unfeasible.
The NoFrost system fan is often mounted on rubber dampers to reduce noise. When installing it back, it is important to seat it correctly, otherwise vibration will be transmitted to the body, creating a hum. Also check the condition of the drainage hole that drains melt water. Its clogging is a common cause of water appearing at the bottom of the refrigerator.
Assembly and initial startup
The assembly process is performed in exactly the reverse order. Make sure that all wires are laid in the cable channels intended for them and are not pinched by the housing or moving parts. Pay special attention to door seals: when installing heavy doors Liebherr it is important not to distort the hinges, otherwise the door will not fit tightly, which will lead to ice freezing and increased load on the compressor.
After complete assembly, do not rush to plug in the refrigerator. Let it stand in an upright position for at least 2-4 hours (if it was transported lying down) or 1 hour (if it was standing upright). This is necessary to allow oil to drain into the compressor crankcase. Early start-up can lead to water hammer and damage to the compressor valves.
The first start-up is best done under control. Plug in the device and listen to the compressor. It should work smoothly, without loud knocks or metallic clanging. After 15-20 minutes, check the temperature inside the chambers - it should begin to drop. If after an hour of operation the cold does not appear, or extraneous sounds appear, the device must be immediately turned off and diagnostics repeated.
Is it possible to disassemble a Liebherr refrigerator without removing the door?
In most cases, to access the internal components (evaporator, sensors), you do not need to remove the doors. However, to dismantle the case itself, replace the seal or repair the hinges, removing the doors is a mandatory step, since they interfere with access to the side and top fastenings.
What tool is needed for the screws on the rear wall?
Most often, the manufacturer uses screws with a Torx head (asterisk). Standard sizes are T15 or T20. In rare cases, regular Phillips screws (PH2) may be found. It is better to have a universal set of bits on hand.
What to do if, after disassembling, the refrigerator stops freezing?
Most likely, the cooling circuit was damaged or the tightness of the system was broken due to careless handling of the evaporator tubes. It is also possible that the temperature sensors or fan are connected incorrectly. Professional diagnostics are required.
Do you need to drain the freon before disassembling?
If you do not plan to cut the pipes or change the compressor/evaporator, then you do not need to drain the freon. Dismantling of plastic panels, doors and removal of electronics is carried out without violating the tightness of the freon circuit.