The situation when Indesit refrigerator stops freezing, and the compressor is either silent or hums, but does not start, often requires a visual inspection of the electrical part engine. In most cases, the problem lies in a burnt-out start relay or damaged wiring, access to which is blocked by a protective casing. Correct and safe removal of this cover is the first and most important step in diagnostics, on which the success of all subsequent repairs depends.
Many owners are afraid to start repairs for fear of damaging the tubes or breaking the tightness of the system, but the design Indesit provides for relatively easy access to unit. Protective casing (or cap) is installed on the rear wall of the device and is attached to the compressor housing using simple clamps. The main thing here is to take your time and follow basic electrical safety rules to avoid electric shock or mechanical damage to components.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions required to dismantle the cover, and consider the nuances characteristic of various models of this Italian brand. You will learn what tools you will need, how to distinguish a working unit from a faulty one, and what to pay special attention to when you first look at motor-compressor. Understanding the design will allow you to save time and money by performing initial diagnostics yourself.
⚠️ Attention: Any work inside the refrigeration unit should be carried out only after the device is completely disconnected from the electrical network. Unplug the plug from the socket before picking up the tools.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
Before starting work, it is necessary to prepare the workspace and a minimum set of tools so that the process goes smoothly. Usually, to remove the casing on equipment Indesit no complex equipment is required; a basic kit for a home craftsman is sufficient. However, having the correct screwdrivers pliers will significantly speed up the process and reduce the risk of tools slipping.
Move the refrigerator away from the wall, giving yourself free access to the back wall from all sides. You will need good lighting as the compressor area is often dark and covered in dust. If the unit has not been moved for a long time, it is recommended to first vacuum the back part so that dirt does not get inside the electrical contacts when removing the cover.
To complete the task you will need:
- 🔧 A flat screwdriver (blade width 3-5 mm) for prying up the spring clips.
- 🔩 Phillips head a screwdriver (in case there are screw fasteners on older models).
- 🔦 A flashlight for illuminating hard-to-reach places under the casing.
- 🧤 Dielectric gloves for additional protection when working with electricity.
Make sure that the floor under your feet is dry and that you are standing steadily, as you will have to bend over. If you have a model with a bottom freezer, access may be slightly limited, so it is better to free up space around the appliance. Safety and comfort in operation directly affects the quality of the operation performed.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
Design features of Indesit casings
Compressors installed on refrigerators Indesitmost often belong to brands Aspera, Embraco or Danfoss, and their design has its own characteristics. The protective casing is a metal cup, painted black, which is placed on top of the cylindrical part of the engine. It performs a dual function: it protects electrical contacts from moisture and dust, and also serves as a forced cooling element, directing air flows.
The casing can be secured in two main ways, which depend on the year of manufacture and the specific series of the refrigerator. In older models, a screw connection is often found, where two bolts tighten the halves of the clamp or press the cover to the base. In modern units, the system prevails spring latches, which allows you to remove the cover with one movement of the hand or with a light screwdriver.
It is important to understand that inside the casing there are critical elements: a starting relay, a thermal protector and a capacitor (in some models). These parts fit tightly to the compressor terminals. Removing the cover should not be accompanied by jerking or tugging of the wires, since plastic relay housings can be fragile from time and high temperature.
Visually inspect the back of the unit. If you see a solid black "cup" with no visible screws, you most likely have a locking model. If the bolt heads are visible on the sides or top, you will need the appropriate tool. Knowing the type of fastening will help you choose the right dismantling tactics and not break the plastic ears.
Step-by-step algorithm for removing the cover
The process of dismantling the protective cup requires care, but is not very complicated. First, make sure that the refrigerator is unplugged and allow the compressor to cool down if it has just been running - the metal temperature may be high. Go to the back wall and find the place where the copper tubes enter the compressor housing; this is where the required cover is located.
If your model is equipped with a screw fastening, unscrew the bolts counterclockwise using a Phillips or flat-head screwdriver. Place the fasteners in a separate container so as not to lose them. Once the screws are removed, the cover should easily separate from the base. If it fits tightly, rock it slightly from side to side, but do not use excessive force.
For models with spring clamps, the algorithm is as follows:
- 👉 Find the junction of the upper and lower parts of the casing (or the place of attachment to the base).
- 👉 Insert the tip of a flat-head screwdriver into the gap between the casing halves or under the spring bracket.
- 👉 Gently press down or to the side with a screwdriver to release the spring, while holding the housing with your other hand.
- 👉 Remove the cover by pulling it up and slightly towards you, releasing the compressor leads.
Sometimes the lid can become stuck due to time and high temperature, so movements should be confident, but smooth. If the cover does not come off, check to see if it is caught on wires or adjacent tubes. In some cases, it is necessary to bend the copper tubes a little, but this must be done extremely carefully so as not to break the tightness of the circuit.
Diagnostics of elements under the cover
After successfully removing the cover, the electrical part of the compressor will open in front of you. The first thing that catches your eye is the plastic block placed over the three contacts protruding from the engine. This is the starting relay assembled with a thermal protector. Carefully inspect it for external damage: melting, blackening or cracks.
Pay attention to the condition of the wires going to the relay. The insulation must not be damaged and the contacts must not be oxidized. If you see traces of burning or smell burning plastic, this is a sure sign that starting relay has failed and requires replacement. Also inspect the compressor itself: there should be no oily stains on it, which may indicate freon leakage through the seals.
| Element | Location | Signs of malfunction | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start relay | At the compressor terminals | Cracks, carbon deposits, burning smell | Replacement with analogue |
| Thermal protector | Inside or on the relay | No click, open circuit | Check with a multimeter |
| Capacitor | Nearby (in old models) | Bloating, electrolyte drips | Replacement |
| Wiring | Under the casing | Melted insulation, oxides | Restoring contacts |
If no visual defects are found, you will need to test the elements with a multimeter. The relay must close the circuit at a certain position, and the thermal protector must conduct current when cold. Lack of conductivity where it should be indicates the need to replace the part. Remember that diagnostics are the key to proper repairs, and not just replacing parts at random.
Typical errors during dismantling and their consequences
Inexperienced craftsmen often make mistakes that can turn a simple repair into an expensive problem. One of the most common mistakes is trying to remove the lid without unplugging the refrigerator. This is not only life-threatening, but can also lead to a short circuit if you accidentally close the contacts with a screwdriver.
Another common mistake is using excessive force. If the cover does not come off, it means that you either did not find all the latches or are operating at the wrong angle. A jerk can break the plastic fasteners of the relay itself or, worse, damage the copper tubes. Copper is a soft metal, and even a small crack will lead to a refrigerant leak and the need to call professionals with refilling equipment.
Also, do not ignore the condition of the seals. When removing the cover, you may accidentally damage the rubber dampers on which the compressor sits. This will cause the refrigerator to vibrate and make noise during operation. Be attentive to the little things, as they are what ensure long and quiet operation of the equipment Indesit.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to bite or bend the copper tubes of the compressor. The bending radius must be large, otherwise the tube may burst under pressure.
Assembly and inspection after maintenance
After diagnosing or replacing faulty elements, it is necessary to correctly reassemble the unit. Make sure that the new start relay is pushed all the way onto the contacts and is secure. The orientation of the relay is important: there is usually a "UP" or "TOP" marking on the body that should face up. Incorrect installation will lead to instant combustion of the new part.
When returning the casing to its place, check that the wires are not pinched by metal and do not touch hot parts of the engine. Fasten the fasteners until you hear a characteristic click. If screws were used, tighten them evenly without distortion. The lid should fit tightly, without play, providing protection from dust.
The final stage is a test run. Plug in the refrigerator and listen. The compressor should start with a characteristic hum, which should become quieter after a while. If you hear clicks, the hum is interrupted, or the engine does not start, immediately turn off the device and recheck the connections.
Is it possible to remove the cover without turning off the refrigerator?
It is absolutely not possible. Inside the casing there is a voltage of 220 Volts. Even briefly touching live parts or shorting the contacts with a screwdriver will result in an electric shock or failure of the refrigerator electronics.
What to do if the lid latches are rusty and do not open?
Do not use force. Treat the joints with a penetrating lubricant (eg WD-40), wait 10-15 minutes, then carefully try to release the fasteners. If the rust is severe, you may need to replace the entire casing.
Is it necessary to change the rubber seal on the cover when removing it?
If the rubber is intact, elastic and has no breaks, replacement is not required. However, if it crumbles due to age or has lost its shape, it is better to replace it to ensure proper protection from moisture and dust.
Why did the refrigerator begin to work louder after assembly?
Perhaps the lid is loose and resonating, or you touched the tubes and they are now touching the body. The cause may also be compressor misalignment on the shock absorbers. Check the tightness of the casing and the position of the unit.
Where can you find the compressor markings to purchase spare parts?
The marking sticker is usually located on the metal body of the compressor itself, often it is visible immediately after removing the cover or from the side. The manufacturer (Aspera, Danfoss), power and type of refrigerant are indicated there.