Refrigerators of the brand Indesit are deservedly popular due to their reliability and simplicity, but even the highest quality equipment requires maintenance over time. Sooner or later, every home cook is faced with the need to carry out general cleaning, remove an unpleasant odor, or replace a damaged element of the inner chamber. Often it becomes a place where bacteria and spilled liquids accumulate, which cannot be cleaned without removing the container itself. a plastic container becomes a place for bacteria and spilled liquids to accumulate, which cannot be cleaned without removing the container itself.
Many users mistakenly believe that for cleaning it is enough to simply pull out the drawer, but for high-quality washing it must be disconnected from the guides or removed along with the glass shelf. Incorrect actions can lead to breakage fastenings or chipping of the glass, so it is important to know the design features of your model. In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions that will allow you to safely dismantle the food storage container.
It is worth noting that the design of the freezer and refrigeration chambers may differ significantly. If in the upper compartment everything is usually held on simple runners, then in the lower part, where the system or simply deep freezing is located, the fixation mechanism can be more complex. Understanding the principle of operation NoFrost system or simply deep freezing, the fixation mechanism can be more complex. Understanding the working principle telescopic guides or simple stops will help you avoid unnecessary effort and maintain the integrity of the plastic.
Preparation for dismantling and safety precautions
Before taking active steps to remove internal elements, it is necessary to prepare the work space and ensure safety. The refrigerator must be stable and the floor underneath must be dry to prevent slipping. It is recommended to empty the drawer of food in advance, since a full one may be too heavy for one person to remove carefully. container may be too heavy for one person to remove carefully.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work on disassembling the internal elements, it is strongly recommended to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. This will eliminate the risk of a short circuit if moisture gets on electrical components while washing parts.
You will need a soft rag and a bowl of warm water where you can immediately place the removed parts. If you plan to wash the box with aggressive agents, make sure that they will not damage plastic the model. It is also worth removing all foreign objects from the top of the refrigerator so that they do not fall when you work with the door open. Indesit. It is also worth removing all foreign objects from the top of the refrigerator so that they do not fall while you are working with the door open.
☑️ Preparing to remove the drawer
It is important to visually inspect the condition of the plastic guides before dismantling begins. If you notice obvious cracks or chips, you need to act with extreme caution, since under load the plastic may burst completely. In such cases, it is better to hold the box with both hands, distributing the weight evenly.
Design features of Indesit boxes
Refrigerators Indesit are equipped with different types of boxes depending on the series and year of manufacture. Most often there are models where the container lies on a glass shelf, which, in turn, rests on side guides. More modern versions use telescopic skidswhich ensure a smooth ride even when fully loaded.
The main material is transparent or matte plastic, which is quite strong in compression, but fragile when hit or sharply bent. The fastening mechanism usually does not require a tool for disassembly; everything is fixed due to latches or the geometry of the form. Understanding what type of structure you have installed will save time and nerves.
- 🔹 Classic guides: the box is simply inserted into the grooves on the side walls of the chamber.
- 🔹 System with a glass shelf: the container stands on the glass that needs to be removed first.
- 🔹 Telescopic systems: require pressing a special latch for complete removal.
Why does plastic turn yellow over time?
Plastic in refrigerators can change color due to exposure to fatty vapors, ultraviolet radiation (if the refrigerator is located near a window) and oxidation of the surface layer. Regular washing with mild detergents helps slow down this process.
Some models are equipped with food dividers inside the drawer itself. These inserts also need to be removed before washing, as dirt often accumulates under them. Pay attention to side stops, they can be removable or integrated into the container body.
How to remove a box from the refrigerator compartment
The dismantling process in the main compartment, where the temperature is above zero, is usually the simplest. Here, drawers are most often containers that are inserted under a glass shelf. To get to them, you first need to remove the shelf itself.
Grip the front edge of the glass shelf and slightly lift its front part. Then gently pull towards you, moving the rear ends out of the grooves. Glass can be heavy, so proceed with caution. After the shelf is removed, you will have access to plastic container.
| Mounting type | Action | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Wall guides | Pull towards yourself | May require a little effort |
| Latch latches | Press the tongue and pull | Characteristic click when opening |
| Stops in depth | Raise the front part | Targeting must be avoided |
The box itself Indesit is removed by moving it towards you. If it is tight, check to see if the side projections of the camera are in the way. In some models, you need to slightly lift the spout of the container to bring it beyond the restrictive stiffening ribs on the walls of the refrigerator.
Removing the drawer in the freezer
In the freezer the situation may be more complicated due to the possible formation of ice. Even in systems NoFrost sometimes boxes freeze to the bottom or guides. If you feel resistance, do not pull sharply - the plastic becomes very fragile in the cold.
First, inspect the fastening mechanism. Freezers often use plastic slides that fit into slots on the door or sides. To remove it, you need to pull out the drawer all the way until it stops, then find the latches. They can be located on the sides or bottom.
⚠️ Attention: If the box is frozen, do not pry it out with a knife or screwdriver under any circumstances. You risk puncturing the cooling circuit or damaging the plastic. Allow the ice to melt naturally or use a hairdryer at the lowest temperature.
The removal process often requires simultaneously pressing two side latches. This prevents the mechanism from jamming. After clicking latches the container will freely come out of the guides. Make sure that there is no ice under the box that may prevent it from being completely removed.
After removal, check the condition of the runners. If they are warped, the drawer will get stuck when you put it back. In such cases, it may be necessary replacement damaged elements or the entire box.
Cleaning and maintenance of removed elements
After successful dismantling, the cleaning stage begins. Plastic Indesit tolerates washing well with warm water and a mild detergent. Avoid using abrasive sponges, which can leave micro-scratches, where bacteria will subsequently multiply bacteria.
Thoroughly rinse not only the inside, but also the outer walls, as well as the guide skids. Pay special attention to corners and joints where mold most often accumulates. For disinfection, you can use a solution of soda or a weak solution of vinegar.
- 🧼 Use a soft sponge and liquid dishwashing detergent.
- 🚫 Do not use hot water above 40°C to prevent the plastic from being deformed.
- 💨 Carefully dry all items before putting them back.
It is important to completely dry the box before returning it to the refrigerator. Residual moisture can quickly turn into an ice crust, which will again lead to freezing. Wipe the parts with a dry cloth and leave in the air for 15-20 minutes.
Assembling and installing the box back
Installation is done in the reverse order. Make sure the refrigerator compartment is clean and dry. Insert the guides into the corresponding slots until you hear a characteristic click. If you are using a system with a glass shelf, first install glasschecking the reliability of its fixation in the grooves.
Then carefully push in the plastic container. It should move smoothly, without jerking or creaking. If you feel resistance, remove the box and check that it is seated correctly on the rails. Misalignment can lead to breakage fasteners during operation.
After assembly, check the operation of the door. It should close tightly without touching the installed elements. If everything went well, you can connect the refrigerator to the network and load the products.
What to do if the box is cracked?
If the crack is small, you can try to carefully seal it with a special glue for plastic that is safe for contact with food. However, in case of serious damage, it is better to order a new part, since bacteria quickly grow in cracks.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can the drawers from the Indesit refrigerator be washed in the dishwasher?
The manufacturer usually does not recommend washing plastic parts in the dishwasher when high temperatures, as the plastic may become deformed. It is better to use a hand wash with warm water.
What to do if the drawer guide is broken?
If the guide is cracked or broken off, you should not operate a refrigerator with a defect - the drawer may fall. It is necessary to order an original spare part for the refrigerator model or contact a service center.
How to remove an unpleasant odor from a plastic box?
Wipe with a solution of baking soda, activated carbon left in the box for a day, or special odor absorbers. It is also important to check whether liquid has got under the sealing rubber bands.
Why does the drawer get stuck when opening?
The reasons may be different: misalignment during installation, the presence of ice on the guides, deformation of the plastic due to the weight of the products, or breakdown of the runner mechanism. Check the cleanliness and integrity of all elements.