Brand refrigerators Liebherr are deservedly considered the standard of reliability and ergonomics, however, even the highest quality equipment requires periodic maintenance or repair. Often, owners are faced with the need to remove the lower containers for deep cleaning, eliminating unpleasant odors, or replacing broken runners. An incorrect approach to this process can lead to breakage of plastic fasteners, which in models of the German brand are made with high precision and require specific handling.
Unlike budget analogues, where drawers are simply pulled out, complex systems of telescopic guides and locking mechanisms are often used. Understanding the design of a particular model - be it a series Liebherr refrigerators Complex systems of telescopic guides and locking mechanisms are often used. Understanding the design of a specific model - be it a series Comfort, Premium or a built-in ruler - is the key to successful dismantling. In this article, we will analyze in detail the algorithms of action for various types of fastenings so that you can safely carry out the necessary manipulations.
Before you begin physical impact on the elements of the internal space, you need to prepare the workplace and free up the space in front of the unit. Critical This simple rule will save you from buying expensive original ones components to replace those broken due to negligence.
Preparation for dismantling and safety precautions
The start of any technical procedure must be accompanied by competent preparation, which minimizes the risks of equipment damage and injury. To work with the internal components of a refrigerator, you will need a minimum set of tools, although in many cases you can do without them. The main attention should be paid to the condition of the hands and the absence of slipping, since plastic surfaces can be smooth and cold.
The first step is always to disconnect the device from the power supply. Although dismantling drawers does not involve working with live electrical components, compliance electrical safety is a mandatory standard when servicing any household appliance. In addition, defrosting the chamber if ice has accumulated in it will prevent heavy pieces of ice from falling to the floor or damaging the seals when the drawer is tilted.
⚠️ Attention: Never use force unless the drawer can be removed with a slight movement. Mechanisms Liebherr are designed to open effortlessly; resistance indicates a locking clip or an incorrect angle.
Prepare a soft surface near the refrigerator where you can place the removed parts. Dropping a plastic container onto tile or linoleum from a height can lead to the formation of cracks, which will grow over time due to the weight of the food. It is also recommended to prepare warm water and a soft cloth in advance to clean the slides immediately after removing the drawer, as old dirt will make reassembly difficult.
Design features of Liebherr drawers
Engineers Liebherr use several types of storage systems, and understanding their differences is critical for proper disassembly. Most modern models use VarioSpace or SmartSteelsystems, which require removable shelves above the drawers and special guides on the sides of the chamber. The design may vary depending on the year of manufacture and the price segment of the device.
Drawers are usually installed on telescopic skids or roller guides. In premium models, there is often a system SoftSystemthat ensures smooth closing. The mechanism of such a box is more complex, since inside the guides there may be springs or dampers that require careful handling during disassembly. An attempt to pull out such a box with a jerk is guaranteed to lead to breakage of the plastic stops.
- 🔹 Retractable system on skids: the box rests on side guides and has a travel limiter.
- 🔹 Roller system: the container moves on wheels along the bottom rail or directly on the glass shelves.
- 🔹 Safety latches: special latches that prevent the box from falling out during a sharp jerk.
It is also important to take into account the material of manufacture. While the containers themselves are made of impact-resistant plastic, the guides can be metal or plastic. Metal elements are more durable, but require precise alignment of the grooves during installation. Plastic guides are more forgiving (forgive mistakes), but break more easily under overload or mechanical shock.
Dismantling the upper shelves and freeing up space
Before you can remove the lower drawers for vegetables and fruits, it is often necessary to remove obstacles from above. In refrigerators Liebherr shelves above the drawers can be stationary or removable. If the shelf interferes with the full extension of the container, it must be removed. To do this, lift the front part of the shelf up and pull it towards you to remove the rear hooks from the grooves.
Glass shelves SafeGlass have significant weight, so it is better to perform this operation with an assistant or use extreme caution. Make sure there are no heavy objects on the shelf and grasp it by the edges, avoiding putting pressure on the central part of the glass. In some models, the shelves have a frame that can also be removed, which will facilitate access to the internal space.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling the drawer
After removing the shelf, you will have full access to the upper end of the drawer. This is where the main fixing elements are most often located. Take a close look at the sides of the chamber: you may see plastic stops or levers that block the movement of the box beyond a certain level. The presence of such elements depends on the specific refrigerator model. Step-by-step instructions: how to remove a vegetable box. The process of removing the box depends on the type of fastening, but the general algorithm for most models looks like this. First, pull out the drawer to its maximum length, until it stops. At this stage, do not try to pull it further, but carefully inspect the area where the drawer meets the guides. refrigerator models.
Step-by-step instructions: how to remove a vegetable drawer
The process of removing the box depends on the type of fastening, but the general algorithm is for most models Liebherr looks like this. First, pull out the drawer to its maximum length, until it stops. At this stage, do not try to pull it further, but carefully inspect the area where the drawer connects to the guides.
If you see plastic latches on the sides (often they are painted in the color of the drawer or have a contrasting color), they must be pressed or lifted at the same time on both sides. Some designs require the front of the box to be lifted slightly upward to disengage the rear wheels or skids from engaging the rail. The movement should be smooth, without jerking.
| Type of fastening | Action | Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Guide skids | Lift the front up and pull | Keep an eye on the rear wheels |
| Side locks | Press the levers on the sides | Requires simultaneous pressing |
| SoftSystem | Pull out until you hear a click, then pull | Do not use force until activated |
| Safety stops | Lift the drawer above the stop | Often found in older models |
After that Once the locking elements are unlocked, carefully remove the drawer, holding it by the front corners with both hands. Do not tilt it too much if there is heavy food left inside to avoid unbalancing and causing the contents to fall. If the drawer is stuck, check whether food packaging has gotten under the wheels or guides.
Replacing runners and repairing sliding mechanisms
One of A common reason for disassembling a drawer is the breakdown of the guide rails. Over time, the plastic wears out, cracks, or warps, causing the container to warp and become difficult to move. Refrigerators Liebherr use original components that can be ordered by catalog number.
To replace the runners, you must completely dismantle the box, as described above. Next, inspect the sides of the plastic container itself. The runners can be secured with latches or screws. If screws are used, you will need a Phillips screwdriver. When working with the latches, proceed carefully, bending them with a flat-head screwdriver wrapped in a cloth so as not to leave scratches.
⚠️ Attention: When installing new runners, make sure that they click into place. Incomplete fixation may cause the drawer to fall when loaded with products.
After installing the new guides, check for smooth movement. The box should move easily, without distortions or jams. If the problem persists, it may not be the runners that are causing the problem, but rather a deformation of the plastic body of the drawer itself or a bending of the metal guides inside the refrigerator compartment. In the latter case, a more complex repair may be required with dismantling the inner panel.
Where can I find the catalog number?
The catalog number (art.) is usually indicated on a sticker inside the box or on the side wall. If the sticker is erased, the number can be found in the instructions or on the official website for the refrigerator model.
Installing the drawer back and checking the operation
Assembly is done in the reverse order, but requires attention to detail. Slide the back of the drawer onto the runners, making sure the wheels or runners are seated in their slots. Slowly lower the front end, making sure the side locks lock into place. Do not slam the drawer suddenly - this may damage the finishing mechanism.
After installation, check the operation of the system. Pull the drawer out to its full length several times and push it back. The movement should be uniform, without squeaks or jerks. If you removed the top shelf, install it in place, making sure that it is securely locked in the rear grooves and lies flat on the front stops.
Plug in the refrigerator and let it reach temperature before loading the food. This is especially important if the disassembly procedure took a long time and the temperature inside the chamber has risen significantly. Temperature control can be carried out through the control panel or built-in thermometer.
Frequent errors during disassembly and how to avoid them
Inexperienced users often make typical mistakes that lead to breakdowns The most common of them is an attempt to remove the drawer without freeing up space on top. Pressure on the lid of the box in the presence of an obstacle from above can break both the container itself and the shelf above it. Always check the dimensions before applying force.
Another mistake is ignoring the temperature regime. As mentioned, cold plastic becomes brittle. If the refrigerator has just been defrosted or, on the contrary, is working at full capacity, let the plastic warm up to room temperature or at least to +10..+15 degrees Celsius before active actions.
- ❌ Ignoring the latches: attempt to pull out the drawer by force without noticing the hidden latches.
- ❌ Distortion during removal: pull at one corner, which leads to breaking of the guide.
- ❌ Use of sharp tools: using a knife or screwdriver without protection can pierce the cooling circuit or scratch the plastic.
Be attentive to details. If you feel that something is not going according to plan, stop, turn on the light and carefully examine the design again. There are many videos on the Internet on specific models Liebherrthat can clarify the nuances of the design of your device.
Can the drawers be washed in the dishwasher?
Most plastic drawers Liebherr are made of material that is resistant to washing, but manufacturers often do not recommend using dishwashers with a drying mode at high temperatures. Hot steam and aggressive chemicals can make the plastic cloudy or deform thin walls. It is better to wash them by hand with warm water and a mild detergent.
What to do if the plastic guide breaks?
If the guide is cracked, gluing, as a rule, does not give a long-term effect, since there is a constant load at the site of the break. It is recommended to order original spare parts. As a temporary solution, you can use reinforced tape, but this is only a measure until you buy a new part.
Why does a Liebherr refrigerator drawer move poorly?
There may be several reasons: contamination of the guides with a sticky coating, misalignment of the drawer itself due to overload on one side, or wear on the wheels. Also check if there is anything outside that is in the way, such as a protruding edge of a rug or a chair leg. Regular cleaning and lubrication with silicone solves 90% of problems with movement.
How to remove a glass shelf above a drawer if it does not rise?
In some models, the shelf is fixed with additional plastic stops on the sides. They need to be moved or pressed. If the shelf is on metal rails, make sure you lift it vertically without touching the back wall. Don't be afraid to apply moderate upward force if the design requires a tight fit.
Where can I find a disassembly diagram for my model?
Detailed diagrams (explosion diagrams) for each model Liebherr are available in the official service manuals. They can be found on the manufacturer’s website in the support section by entering the exact model number (indicated on the nameplate inside the camera). The article numbers of all replacement parts are also indicated there.