Dismantling of external panels refrigeration equipment is the first and most important stage of any major repair, be it replacing a compressor, eliminating a freon leak, or replacing a thermostat. Owners of household appliances Biryusa often face the need to access technical components located under the top cover or in the compressor niche. Proper disassembly ensures that you do not damage the plastic latches, do not break the threads, and can assemble the unit back without unnecessary parts.
Before you start work, you need to clearly understand which cover you plan to dismantle, since the design of refrigerators Biryusa may vary depending on the year of manufacture and model. Most often we are talking about the top panel covering the condenser, or the compressor protective casing on the back. Safety is your main priority, so any manipulations begin only after completely disconnecting the device from the power supply.
In this article we We will analyze in detail the process of removing various types of covers, pay attention to the nuances of fastening and provide a list of necessary tools. Don't rush: plastic, especially on older models, can be fragile, and metal elements can have sharp edges. A competent approach will allow you to diagnose or replace components as efficiently as possible.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
High-quality preparation for repairs reduces the risk of injury and damage to the refrigerator body. You will need not only a set of tools, but also enough room to maneuver. A refrigerator Biryusa is a large appliance, and access to it from all sides is critical. Move the unit from the wall to a distance of at least one meter so that you can freely walk around it.
The basic set of tools should include a Phillips and flat-head screwdriver, as well as pliers with narrow jaws. Some models may require 8mm or 10mm socket wrenches or sockets. If the screws have become sour over time, a penetrating lubricant such as WD-40 will be useful, which should be applied 10-15 minutes before unscrewing.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
Be sure to prepare a container for folding fasteners. The screws may be different lengths, and if they are mixed up during assembly, the threads may be damaged or the required tightness may not be achieved. It is also recommended to cover the floor around the refrigerator with a soft cloth or cardboard so that fallen parts or tools do not scratch the floor covering and the body itself.
Removing the top cover of the refrigerator
The top cover of the refrigerator Biryusa most often hides the condenser radiator and refrigerant pipes. Access to it is required when removing blockages in the drainage system or repairing the defrost circuit. In most models, this panel is attached to the metal frame of the case with several screws, which can be hidden by decorative plugs.
Carefully inspect the perimeter of the top panel. Often the fasteners are located in recesses or covered with black or white plastic caps. Carefully pry off the plugs with a flathead screwdriver, being careful not to damage the paintwork. After removing all visible screws, the panel may still be held in place by the latches.
⚠️ Warning: The metal edges of the removed top cover may be sharp. When dismantling, use thick work gloves to avoid cuts.
To remove the panel, it must be slightly lifted and moved in the direction opposite to the door hinges, or simply pulled up if the design provides for this. On older models Biryusa the rubber seal around the perimeter of the lid may dry to the body. In this case, do not use sharp jerks - it is better to carefully walk with a flat object along the perimeter of the joint, breaking the adhesion.
After removing the cover, access to the capillary tube will open. Be careful: these elements are easily deformed. Any damage to the tubes will result in refrigerant leakage, requiring a costly system recharge. If you plan to clean the radiator from dust, use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner at low power. condenser and capillary tube. Be careful: these elements are easily deformed. Any damage to the tubes will result in refrigerant leakage, requiring a costly system recharge. If you plan to clean the radiator from dust, use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner on low power.
Removing the compressor protective casing
The rear lower part of the refrigerator Biryusa is protected by metal or plastic a casing that hides the motor-compressor, start relay and capacitor. This area requires regular inspection and cleaning, as the accumulation of dust and animal hair leads to overheating of the engine and increased energy consumption.
The process of removing the rear casing is usually simpler than the top cover. It is attached with 4-6 screws around the perimeter. Some modern models Biryusa use a quick access system where the casing is held on by plastic clips. However, in classic models you cannot do without screws. After unscrewing the fasteners, carefully move the casing to the side.
Inside you will see a black cylindrical tank - this is it compressor. Nearby there is a copper condenser grill and a tray for collecting condensate. Before working inside the casing, make sure the condenser is completely cool if the refrigerator has been in operation recently. The temperature of metal parts can reach 60-70 degrees.
| Element | Function | Service frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor | Refrigerant circulation | As needed (noise diagnostics) |
| Condenser (grid) | Freon cooling | Once every 6-12 months (cleaning) |
| Start relay | Starting the engine | If there are problems with turning on |
| Condensate tray | Water collection | Once a year (check for cleanliness) |
If the casing is made of thin metal, it may have sharp burrs on the edges. When reinstalling, be careful that these edges do not cut electrical wires or damage the insulation. Plastic casings are safer, but are prone to cracking if not handled carefully.
Features of disassembling models with No Frost
Refrigerators Biryusa with the system No Frost have a more complex design of the rear wall inside the freezer compartment. Here, the “lid” is often referred to as the plastic panel that covers the evaporator and fan. Access to it is required when replacing a defrosting heating element or repairing a fan.
To remove the inner rear panel, you must first empty the freezer of food and remove all shelves and drawers. The mounting screws may be hidden under plastic plugs or located deep in the holes. Fasteners with a hex head or a large Phillips screwdriver are often used.
Particular attention should be paid to temperature sensors that can be mounted on this panel. Do not jerk the panel sharply - you may break the sensor wires or damage their contacts. Carefully bend the panel, evaluate the length of the wires and, if necessary, disconnect the connectors.
⚠️ Attention: In No Frost systems, plastic becomes very fragile in the cold. If you have just defrosted the refrigerator, allow the plastic to warm up to room temperature before removing it, otherwise it may burst.
Under the panel you will find an evaporator covered with aluminum fins and a plastic trough for draining melt water. A common problem is the drain hole freezing. After removing the panel, it is easy to clean it with warm water or soft wire, restoring the normal outflow of moisture.
Nuances of working with plastic elements
Plastic used in refrigerators Biryusa, loses its elasticity over time. Under the influence of temperature changes and ultraviolet radiation (if the refrigerator is located near a window), it becomes brittle. This is especially true for decorative overlays and handles, which often have to be removed along with the main covers.
When working with plastic latches, use the lever principle, but without fanaticism. It is better to pry the element at several points around the perimeter than to apply force at one point. If the latch does not budge, check to see if there are any hidden screws left unscrewed. Often one forgotten screw blocks the removal of the entire panel.
- 🔧 Use plastic spatulas to open the latches so as not to leave marks on glossy surfaces.
- 🌡️ Heating with a hairdryer (at minimum temperature) helps soften the old plastic and remove it without cracks.
- 🧼 Clean plastic elements from grease and dirt before installing them back to ensure a tight fit.
If during the process of removing the cover you find that one of the mounting ears has broken off, do not rush to throw away the part. Plastic can be restored using epoxy glue or a special soldering iron for plastic by fusing a mesh into the crack. This will return rigidity to the panel and allow it to be securely fastened in place.
What to do if the plastic latch breaks?
If the plastic latch breaks off during dismantling, you can drill a through hole in the body and the mating part, and fasten them with a screw with a wide head and a nut. This will provide an even more reliable connection than standard plastic.
Frequent errors during dismantling and their consequences
Inexperienced craftsmen often make mistakes that lead to more complicated repairs. The most common of these is the use of excessive force where precision is required. The refrigerator Biryusa is a mechanism, and rough intervention can break the tightness of the system or damage electronic components.
Another mistake is ignoring the markings of the wires. When removing covers, especially in the compressor or evaporator area, it is often necessary to disconnect the connectors. If you don't mark them in advance, the assembly can turn into a puzzle. Use masking tape and a marker to number the contacts.
It is also dangerous to leave the refrigerator open for a long time without protection. Moisture, dust, or, worst of all, small objects that can cause a short circuit can get inside. All work must be carried out quickly and in an organized manner, with the immediate installation of protective screens after completion of operations.
⚠️ Attention: Never plug in the refrigerator if the protective covers are removed and there is access to live parts. This may result in electric shock.
Remember that breaking the factory seal of some components (for example, the compressor itself) will deprive you of the right to warranty service. If the warranty period has not yet expired, it is better to entrust any work on removing covers that hide seals to an authorized service center.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to remove the top cover without moving the refrigerator completely?
Technically, this is possible if you have access to the top of the refrigerator from above (for example, if it is low or stands in a niche with an open top). However, for safe operation and inspection of the condition of the condenser, it is better to move the unit to see the perimeter of the cover from all sides.
What tool is needed for the screws on the Biryusa compressor casing?
In most cases, a standard Phillips screwdriver (PH2) is used. However, on some models there may be screws with a hex head (usually 8 mm) or even a flat head screwdriver. It is recommended to have a universal set of bits on hand.
What to do if the screws on the cap are rusty and do not turn?
Do not use excessive force, so as not to tear off the cap. Apply penetrating lubricant (WD-40) to the joint and leave for 15-20 minutes. You can also try gently heating the screw head with a soldering iron (without touching the surrounding plastic) to expand the metal and break down the rust.
Do you need to drain the freon before removing the top cover?
No, removing the outer metal or plastic cover does not require evacuating the system. Freon is located inside sealed copper tubes. However, be extremely careful not to bend or damage these tubes when removing and installing the panel.
How often should you remove the rear cover for maintenance?
It is recommended to visually inspect and clean the compressor area (by removing the casing) once a year. This will allow you to remove dust from the radiator, check the integrity of the wires and make sure there are no traces of oil, which may indicate a micro-leak.