Modern refrigerators Pozis have proven themselves to be reliable and durable equipment, however, even the highest quality equipment requires regular maintenance. Sooner or later, every home cook is faced with the need for general cleaning of the interior chamber, which is impossible without dismantling the removable elements. Many users mistakenly believe that glass shelves and plastic containers require brute force to remove, which often leads to breakage and cracks.
In fact, the design of refrigerators Position is thought out in such a way as to facilitate access to the internal space. Understanding the principles of fastening guides and clamps will allow you to safely remove all parts in a matter of minutes. This will not only simplify the washing process, but will also help prevent the formation of an unpleasant odor or mold in hard-to-reach places.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for various models, paying special attention to fragile elements and specific locks. You will learn how to properly prepare equipment for the procedure and what to do if the shelf is “stuck” or stuck. A competent approach to maintenance will significantly extend the service life of your unit.
Preparation for dismantling and safety precautions
Before taking active steps to remove internal elements, it is necessary to properly prepare the workspace and the equipment itself. The first and most important step is complete disconnection from the power supply. This is necessary not only for your safety, but also to protect the compressor from accidental power surges during manipulation.
Free the refrigerator from all food. If you're only planning on quickly cleaning one shelf, it's still a good idea to remove the contents to ensure nothing falls or breaks in the process. It is better to transfer heavy foods to a thermal bag or a nearby refrigerator so that they do not have time to spoil while the doors are open.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to remove a glass shelf if there are heavy pots or bottles on it. Even weight distribution is critical to the integrity of tempered glass.
Prepare a container of warm water and detergent in advance for subsequent cleaning of the removed parts. You may also need a soft towel or mat to place on the floor in front of the refrigerator. This will protect the glass from chipping if you accidentally drop the shelf while removing it.
Make sure there is enough light in the room. Often the internal mechanisms of the fasteners are difficult to see in dim lighting, and trying to feel the fasteners at random can lead to damage to the plastic. If necessary, use an additional light source, for example, a smartphone flashlight.
Removing glass main chamber shelves
Glass shelves in refrigerators Pozis most often made of tempered glass and supported by plastic or metal guides. In most models they are not rigidly fixed, but simply inserted into the grooves. However, to remove such a shelf, you need to know the correct angle of inclination.
Grip the front edge of the shelf with both hands. Smoothly lift the front part up a few centimeters. You should feel the back edge of the shelf release from the restraints. If the shelf sits tightly, do not pull it sharply - there may be food or condensation in the way, creating a suction effect.
- 🧊 Make sure that the shelf is completely empty and there are no sticky marks on it that could stick the glass to the body.
- 🧊 Move the shelf strictly horizontally after removing the back edge from engagement.
- 🧊 Avoid sudden temperature changes: do not put a cold shelf under hot water immediately.
In some models with the system No Frost glass surfaces may be part of a complex structure with air ducts. In such cases, the glass often has special cutouts or holes. When dismantling, it is important not to touch the plastic protrusions, which can be fragile at low temperatures.
After removal, carefully inspect the ends of the glass for chips. Even a microscopic defect due to thermal expansion can cause the shelf to burst the next time it is installed. If there are chips, it is better to replace such a part.
Removing plastic boxes and containers
Plastic boxes for vegetables and fruits, as well as containers on the door, are attached differently depending on the series of the refrigerator Pozis. Standard drawers usually simply slide out in an upward and forward motion. However, new models can use special stopperss that prevent the drawer from falling out when opened suddenly.
To remove a drawer with a stopper, you need to pull it out completely until it stops. Then look for special locking tabs on the inside wall of the drawer or on the guides. Pressing them or lifting the front of the drawer slightly will release the latches. After this, the container will easily come out of the body.
| Type of fastening | Action | Pozis models |
|---|---|---|
| Guide slides | Pull out all the way and pull up | Rowan, Mir |
| Side clamps | Press the tabs on the sides of the box | Fridgia, Smart |
| Upper stop | Lift the front edge of the container | Victoria |
| Plug-in type | Simple, effortless extension | Old models |
Particular attention should be paid to the drawer lids. In some cases they are removable, in others they are part of the structure. If the lid is removable, there are often small tabs on the ends that fit into the holes in the box body. To remove, you just need to pull the lid up, slightly shaking it from side to side.
☑️ Cleaning the drawers
Do not use abrasive sponges to wash plastic containers. Scratches on plastic become an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, which will then be very difficult to get rid of. It is better to use a mild detergent and warm water.
Features of disassembling the refrigerator door
The refrigerator door Pozis is a complex unit that also requires periodic cleaning. The shelves on the door are usually removable. Metal stops (sides) can often be removed by bending them or moving them to the side. Plastic bottle holders can be secured with latches.
To remove the plastic shelf from the door, find the latches on the sides. They may appear as small holes or protrusions. Gently press down on them with your fingers or a flat-head screwdriver wrapped in a cloth, and at the same time pull the shelf towards you. The movement should be confident, but not abrupt.
⚠️ Attention: The plastic on the door, especially in old refrigerators, can be dry and brittle. Before dismantling, slightly warm the fixing elements with a hair dryer at a minimum temperature to make them more elastic.
If your goal is to remove the entire door itself (for example, to replace the seal or change the opening side), the process will be more difficult. You will need to remove the decorative plugs from the hinges, unscrew the mounting bolts and carefully lift the door. The weight of the door is significant, so it is better to carry out this operation with an assistant.
When removing door shelves, pay attention to their design. Some models have adjustable height installations. Remember or take a photo of the level at which they stood so that after cleaning you can return everything to its place without unnecessary searches for a suitable height.
What to do if the latch on the door shelf breaks?
If the plastic retainer breaks off, do not rush to throw it away shelf. You can use a small piece of thick rubber or even rubber band, stretching it around the shelf to create additional friction and keep it in place.
Working with the No Frost system and evaporator
In refrigerators with the system No Frost the rear wall of the main chamber is often part of the air circulation system. It is not recommended to remove it unless absolutely necessary, as this may break the tightness of the circuit or damage the fragile evaporator. However, for deep cleaning, access to internal channels is sometimes required.
If the instructions for your model Pozis allow for removing the back panel, do this with extreme caution. The panel is held in place by plastic clips and possibly a few screws. Unscrew the visible fasteners, and then carefully walk around the perimeter, snapping the latches.
- ❄️ Before removing the panel, make sure that the refrigerator is defrosted and there is no ice in it.
- ❄️ Do not apply excessive force to the plastic clips - they break easily.
- ❄️ After cleaning, check that all air ducts are free of debris and lint.
Inside behind the panel there is an evaporator and a fan. They need to be cleaned with a soft brush, removing dust and dirt. Under no circumstances use sharp objects to chip ice from the evaporator - this is guaranteed to lead to a freon leak and costly repairs.
After completing all work on cleaning the insides, reassemble the structure in the reverse order. Make sure that all latches click into place. Do not turn on the refrigerator right away - let it stand unplugged for about 2-3 hours so that the coolant stabilizes, especially if you carried out work on the back panel.
Remedy: if the shelf cannot be removed
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where a shelf or drawer is tightly stuck. Most often this occurs due to freezing to ice or deformation of the plastic over time. First of all, check if there is frozen ice in the grooves. If there is, defrost the refrigerator completely, leaving the doors open overnight.
If there is no ice and the shelf does not move, it may be installed incorrectly or the guide may be misaligned. Try rocking the shelf slightly from side to side while pulling it towards you. Sometimes lubricating the guides with silicone spray helps, but this must be done carefully so that the chemical does not get on the products.
In cases where the plastic retainer is broken inside the groove, you will need to use a thin tool (for example, a nail file or a thin knife) to squeeze out the stuck tab. Proceed slowly, being careful not to scratch the inner surface of the chamber.
⚠️ Attention: Construction details and types of fastenings may vary depending on the year of manufacture and the specific modification of the refrigerator. Always check the official instructions for your model, if you still have one.
If you feel that you are applying too much force and there is a risk of breaking a part, stop. It is better to call a technician or contact a service center than to buy a new glass shelf, the cost of which can be significant.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can Pozis glass shelves be washed in the dishwasher?
Most glass shelves refrigerators Pozis are made of tempered glass, which theoretically can withstand high temperatures. However, sudden temperature changes or aggressive detergents can damage the special coating or lead to microcracks. It is recommended to wash them manually with warm water.
How often do you need to remove the shelves for cleaning?
General cleaning with complete dismantling of all elements is recommended once every 3-4 months. This will prevent the appearance of persistent odors and the growth of bacteria. If you spill something sticky or loose, you need to clean it immediately.
What to do if the shelf wobbles after installation?
Check whether you inserted the shelf into the guides correctly. Sometimes it is enough to simply turn it over or move it deeper. If the wobble remains, it is possible that the guides on the walls of the refrigerator themselves have become deformed - they can be carefully adjusted with your fingers or pliers through the fabric.
What is the best way to wipe the shelves inside the refrigerator?
A weak solution of baking soda or a special product for cleaning refrigerators is ideal. Avoid using vinegar in its pure form (it can damage plastic) and chlorine-containing products, which can change the taste of products.
Where to buy new shelves if the old ones are broken?
Original spare parts for Pozis can be ordered from the brand's authorized service centers or from large online spare parts stores for household appliances. When ordering, be sure to indicate the exact model of your refrigerator (it is indicated on the sticker inside the chamber).