The operation of refrigeration equipment often requires intervention in its internal space, be it general cleaning, replacing a damaged part, or the need to place large utensils. Owners of equipment from a Russian brand Pozis often face the question of how to properly dismantle glass shelves so as not to damage the fragile material and break the plastic stops. Incorrect actions can lead to an unpleasant crunch and the need for expensive replacement of elements.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithms for removing various types of shelves that are found in models of Pozis different series. You will learn about the design features of the fasteners and get answers to questions that usually arise when servicing a refrigerator. Understanding the physics of the process will help you avoid common mistakes made by beginners during the first disassembly.
Before taking active steps, it is important to prepare the workplace and free up space in front of the refrigerator. This will not only allow you to work comfortably, but also protect yourself from accidental injuries or falling heavy objects. Let's look at the main stages of preparation and precautions that must be observed.
Preparation for dismantling: safety and space organization
The first step before starting any manipulations with the internal contents of the refrigerator should be to completely unload the compartments. Empty shelves they weigh significantly less, which reduces the risk of them falling and breaking during careless movement. In addition, the absence of products allows you to better see the fastening mechanism and the angle of inclination at which you need to remove the glass.
The second important aspect is the temperature regime. Although modern materials are quite stable, sudden temperature changes (thermal shock) can be dangerous for tempered glass. If you have just defrosted the unit or, conversely, it was running at full capacity, let the parts warm up to room temperature. This is especially true for models with No Frost systemwhere the plastic can become more brittle in the cold.
Be sure to prepare a soft surface for storing removed elements. A floor covered with a towel or a table covered with a blanket will be an ideal place for temporary storage of glass. It is not recommended to rest the removed shelves vertically against the wall without secure fixation, as they may slip.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to remove a glass shelf if there are heavy bottles or pots on it. The center of gravity will shift and the glass may break in your hands, even if it is tempered.
Make sure your hands are dry and clean. Oily stains or water-slick fingers may prevent you from getting a firm grip on the edge of the glass. In some cases, especially if the shelf is stuck, it makes sense to use thin rubber gloves, which will provide better grip on a smooth surface.
☑️ Preparing to remove the shelves
Design features of Pozis refrigerator shelves
Refrigerators Pozis equipped with several types of shelves, and the method of dismantling them directly depends on the design. The most common are classic glass shelves with edging, bottle racks and drawers, which also require a special approach. Understanding the type of fastening is the key to success.
The main material of the shelves is tempered glass, which is highly durable, but is resistant to pinpoint impacts at the end. The edging is usually made of durable plastic that prevents the edges from chipping. Some budget models may use metal grilles, which are the easiest to remove.
The shelves are secured in two main ways: either they simply lie on plastic stops (stops), or they have special grooves for fixing. In models with freshness zones shelves can be part of a complex module that requires sequential disassembly.
| Shelf type | Material | Mounting type | Difficulty of removal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Tempered glass | On stops | Low |
| Bottle holder | Plastic/Metal | On guides | Medium |
| Fresh zone | Glass + Plastic | Clips | High |
| Retractable | Glass in frame | Rails | Medium |
It is important to note that in different series of refrigerators, for example, Pozis RK-139 or Pozis RD-149, the geometry of the shelves may differ. Therefore, there is no universal “just pull it out” movement - you need to feel the resistance of the mechanism.
Algorithm for removing standard glass shelves
The most common type of shelves in refrigerators Pozis is rectangular glass lying on four plastic stops attached to the walls of the chamber. At first glance, it seems that it is enough to simply pull the shelf towards you, but this is not always the case.
If the shelf has a decorative border, it may be wider than the distance between the rear stops. In this case, the glass must first be lifted by the front edge. The elevation angle is usually around 10-15 degrees. After the rear edge is freed from the rear stops, the shelf can be smoothly pulled out.
In some models, the front stops are made in the form of curved plastic “ears”. They prevent the glass from accidentally sliding forward when closing the door. To remove such a shelf, you need to lift it strictly vertically so that the “ears” come out of the grooves, and only then pull it out.
Be careful with the weight. Glass with a thickness of 4-5 mm is quite heavy, and its area is large. Correct grip involves using both hands on the sides of the short sides or on the front and back edges, if the design allows.
How to remove the grid shelves and bottle holders
Metal or plastic grilles, as well as special shelves for bottles, often have a more complex fixation system than regular glass. They are designed to hold heavy objects and prevent them from falling, so they are mounted more securely.
Bottle holders in refrigerators Pozis are often installed on the door or on special rails in the main chamber. If we are talking about a door shelf, it is usually removed by moving upwards. You need to grab the structure with both hands, slightly lift it and pull it towards you. Sometimes it is necessary to overcome a small resistance of plastic clamps.
Internal sliding grid shelves may have an anti-splash mechanism or an exit limiter. To remove such a structure, you often need to pull it all the way out, find the locking tab (usually located in the center or on the sides of the guides), press it and at the same time pull the shelf up and out.
⚠️ Attention: Metal grilles may have sharp edges or burrs at welding points. Be careful when gripping to avoid injuring your fingers.
If the grid shelf is stuck, do not use excessive force. Plastic becomes soft (brittle) at low temperatures, and a sharp jerk can break the guides. Try to slightly rock the structure from side to side to find free movement.
Removing shelves in the freshness zone and zero chamber
Models Pozis with the "Zero Zone" function or an expanded freshness zone have a special design of the internal space. The shelves here are often part of a sealed or semi-closed module, which makes them difficult to remove.
In such refrigerators, the glass shelf can be inserted into a special plastic box or have side stops that do not allow it to be moved to the side. First you need to remove the box itself or the hinged covers of the freshness zone. Only after this is access to the fastening elements of the main shelf.
Sometimes shelves with humidity control are used in the freshness zone. They may have additional ventilation holes and more complex edging. You need to remove them especially carefully, making sure not to touch temperature sensors or the cooling system dampers, which may be located nearby.
What to do if the freshness zone shelf cannot be removed?
If standard methods do not help, it is possible that the shelf is blocked by ice (even in the No Frost system local freezing is possible) or the plastic is deformed. Try heating the plastic stops with a hairdryer (at minimum temperature) for 10-15 seconds. This will make the plastic more elastic. If the reason is ice, let the refrigerator stand unplugged for 2-3 hours.
Therefore, the plastic here is more rigid. All movements should be smooth, without jerking. If you feel that the shelf is tight, check to see if it is caught on the lighting elements or air ducts.
Cleaning and caring for removed elements
After successfully dismantling the shelves, the stage of cleaning them begins. Washing glass surfaces requires compliance with certain rules so as not to damage the structure of the material and not leave streaks. The use of aggressive chemicals can make the glass cloudy over time.
It is best to use warm water with the addition of a mild dishwashing detergent or a special glass spray. Abrasive sponges and powders are strictly prohibited, as they leave micro-scratches in which bacteria and odors will subsequently accumulate.
Pay special attention to the plastic edging. Moisture and food debris often accumulate in the joint between glass and plastic, which can lead to mold. You can clean this narrow gap using an old toothbrush or a cotton swab dipped in soapy water.
Before putting the shelves back into the refrigerator, they must be thoroughly wiped dry with a soft towel. The remaining drops of water can freeze, turning into ice build-ups, or create a favorable environment for the proliferation of microorganisms.
Frequent problems and ways to solve them
During operation, owners refrigerators Pozis may encounter a number of difficulties when removing shelves. The most common problem is jamming due to deformation of the plastic or foreign objects getting into the fastening mechanism.
If the shelf cannot be removed, do not use force. First, check to see if anything is in the way: crumbs, a piece of packaging, or frozen ice. In older refrigerators, the plastic could “shrink” or change geometry, causing the shelf to fit too tightly. In this case, gentle rocking from side to side helps.
Another problem is the breakage of the plastic stops during removal. This often happens if you pull the shelf at the wrong angle. If the stop is broken, you can temporarily replace it with a piece of thick plastic or order a new spare part from the manufacturer's catalog.
⚠️ Attention: If you find a crack in the glass, even a microscopic one, you cannot use such a shelf. Under load (especially from heavy products), it can burst at any time, scattering the contents of the refrigerator.
If the shelf breaks, do not try to glue it with superglue for subsequent use in the refrigerator. This is unsafe for health and will not restore the strength of the structure. Replace the damaged element with an original or high-quality analogue.
Where to buy a replacement if the shelf is broken?
Original spare parts for Pozis refrigerators can be ordered at the brand’s authorized service centers or specialized spare parts stores for household appliances. When ordering, be sure to indicate the exact model of your refrigerator (for example, Pozis RK-139), since the dimensions of the shelves in different series may differ by several millimeters, which will make installation impossible.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Can Pozis glass shelves be washed in the dishwasher?
Manufacturers usually do not recommend washing shelves with plastic edging in the dishwasher. High water temperatures and aggressive detergents can lead to clouding of the plastic, its deformation or delamination of the connection between the glass and the frame. It is better to wash it by hand with warm water.
What to do if the plastic stop breaks during removal?
If the stop itself (the bracket on the wall of the refrigerator) breaks, it can be replaced. They are sold in sets and are attached to ready-made holes. If a piece of the edging of the shelf itself breaks off, but the glass is intact, you can carefully sand the sharp edge with sandpaper so as not to get hurt, and continue to use the shelf, being careful.
How can you tell that the shelf is inserted correctly after installation?
A correctly installed shelf should lie horizontally, without distortions. It should not wobble or move when lightly pressed by hand. If the shelf rests on stops, it should be freely removed when lifted, but should not “walk” vertically.
Can Pozis shelves withstand hot dishes?
No, it is absolutely forbidden to place hot dishes on refrigerator shelves, even if they are made of tempered glass. A sudden change in temperature can cause thermal shock and glass destruction. In addition, this creates an extra load on the compressor, which is forced to work hard to cool the chamber.