Situation when access is required to the internal components of the upper part of the refrigeration unit, occurs quite often when operating brand equipment Nord. Typically, owners are faced with the need to replace a burnt-out lamp, repair wiring, install a new thermostat, or eliminate extraneous noise emanating from a compressor or condenser. Removing the top cover is the first and mandatory step for carrying out this work, however, the design of models can vary significantly depending on the year of manufacture and series.
Incorrect actions when removing plastic panels often lead to breakage of the fastening latches, cracks in the body or damage to the insulating materials. In this article, we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for various modifications, paying special attention to hidden screws and fragile fastening elements, which are often overlooked during the initial inspection.
Preparatory stage and safety precautions
Before starting any manipulations with the body of household appliances, it is necessary to completely de-energize the device. Unplug the power cord from the outlet and make sure that there are no signs of melting or damage to the insulation on the plug. Electrical safety —this is priority number one, since there may be capacitors inside the case that retain a residual charge even after disconnecting from the network.
⚠️ Warning: Do not proceed with disassembly if the floor around the refrigerator is wet or you are standing barefoot on a concrete base. Use a dielectric mat or a dry wooden stand to ensure complete isolation from the ground.
Prepare the working tool in advance so as not to be distracted while working. You will need a Phillips screwdriver (usually a PH1 or PH2 size), a flathead screwdriver for prying up the plugs, and a container for storing the fasteners. It would also be a good idea to have on hand insulating tape or masking tape to mark the removed screws if the design involves the use of fasteners of different lengths.
Free up space around the refrigerator. You need easy access not only to the top, but also the ability to walk around the unit from all sides. If the refrigerator is built into a kitchen unit, it will have to be pulled out, which requires caution so as not to damage the floor covering or side walls of the niche.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
Determining the type of construction of the top panel
Refrigerators Nord were produced in various designs, and the method for removing the cover directly depends on the layout of the upper part of the case. There are two main types of design: models with a protruding top decorative box and models with a flat top cover that is a continuation of the side walls.
In the first case, typical of older series and budget models, the top part is a separate plastic or metal panel, which often hides the capacitor and start-up relay. Here the fasteners are usually located around the perimeter or hidden under decorative plugs on the front. In the second case, more modern, the cover may be part of a monolithic casing, and access to the insides is through the rear wall or after removing the side panels.
Carefully inspect the top of your unit. Look for visible screws or holes. If they are not visible, then they are covered with plastic plugs, which are often painted in the color of the body and are almost invisible. Determining the type of structure will allow you to choose the right dismantling strategy and avoid damage to unnecessary elements.
| Type of structure | Location of fasteners | Features of dismantling | Risk of damage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protruding box | Front and rear top | Removal after unscrewing 2-4 screws | Middle (latches) |
| Flat cover | Rear or inside the chamber | Requires removal of the back wall | High (metal deformation) |
| Integrated panel | Hidden under the decor | It is necessary to pry off the plugs | Low (if careful) |
Removing the front decorative panel
If your model is equipped with a front decorative panel on the top (often there is a defrost button or indicators), you should start working with it. This part is secured either with snaps or with screws hidden under the end caps. Carefully inspect the ends of the panel for small indentations.
Use a thin flathead screwdriver or a special plastic electronics opening tool to pry out the plugs. Movements should be progressive, without jerking, so as not to scratch the glossy surface of the plastic. After removing the plugs, you will see self-tapping screws that need to be unscrewed counterclockwise.
⚠️ Attention: Plastic in old refrigerators Nord becomes brittle over time. Before unscrewing the screws, you can lightly heat the fastening areas with a hairdryer at a minimum temperature to reduce the risk of cracks, but do not overdo it with heat.
After removing all visible screws, the panel is not always removed immediately. It can be held on by hidden latches on the sides. Grasp the panel with both hands along the edges and smoothly pull it towards you, while simultaneously rocking it slightly from side to side. If you feel strong resistance, stop and check whether you forgot to unscrew any fasteners.
The detached panel should be immediately placed in a safe place, preferably on a soft cloth, face up, to avoid scratches on the visible part of the case.
Removing the main top cover
Main stage - this is the removal of the cover itself, which covers the technical components. In most models Nord it is attached to the body with screws located in the upper part of the rear wall or on the sides under the decorative elements. Find all the attachment points and unscrew them one by one.
The cover can be quite heavy, especially if there is a layer of thermal insulation attached to it or if it is a metal panel. Before finally removing it, make sure that no electrical wires are connected to it. In some modifications, a power cable or wires pass through the top to the refrigerator compartment lighting lamp.
If wiring is present, carefully disconnect the connectors. To do this, do not pull the wires themselves, but press the block lock and pull the connector body. Remember or photograph the location of the contacts so that during assembly you do not reverse the polarity, which can lead to a short circuit.
It is better to remove the cover with an assistant, especially if it is wide. One person holds the body of the refrigerator, the other carefully lifts and moves the lid to the side. Sudden movements can lead to deformation of the metal or damage to adjacent structural elements.
The nuances of working with thermal insulation and wiring
Under the top cover there is often a layer of polyurethane foam insulation or glass wool (in very old models). If handled carelessly, the insulation can crumble, getting into the respiratory tract or on the skin, causing irritation. Protective gloves and a respirator in this case will not be superfluous, but a necessary element of equipment.
If you find that the insulating material is damaged or has traces of moisture, it must be replaced or dry. The presence of moisture in the top layer of insulation may indicate a violation of the tightness of the circuit or problems with the condensate drainage system, which requires a more in-depth diagnosis.
The wiring in the upper part of the refrigerator is usually laid in corrugated tubes or secured with plastic clamps. When removing the cover, make sure that the wires do not stretch or touch sharp metal edges. Any damage to the wire insulation can lead to a voltage breakdown on the refrigerator body, which is life-threatening.
What to do if the wiring is melted?
If you find melted insulation or blackened contacts, do not plug in the refrigerator under any circumstances. This is a sign of overload or poor contact. It is necessary to strip the wires, replace the terminals and, possibly, the plug itself or a section of the cable. If you have no experience working with electricians, it is better to call a specialist.
Assembly and performance testing
After carrying out the necessary repair work (replacing the thermostat, repairing wiring, etc.), proceed with assembly in the reverse order. Replace the top cover, making sure that all wires are routed correctly and are not pinched by the edges of the metal. Tighten all mounting screws, but do not use excessive force to avoid stripping the threads in the plastic holes.
Install decorative panels and plugs. Check the tight fit of all elements: there should be no gaps or protruding parts anywhere. If the cover is crooked, remove it again and check that the guides are installed correctly.
Plug in the refrigerator and listen to the operation of the compressor. Make sure that the light comes on (if it has been removed) and that there are no extraneous sounds that could be caused by the vibration of a loose cover. Check the tightness of the door, since skewing the body if assembled incorrectly can disrupt the seal.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to remove the cover without moving the refrigerator from the wall?
In most cases, this is impossible or extremely inconvenient. Access to the screws is often from the rear or side, and maneuvering space is required to safely remove the heavy cover. Trying to do this flush against the wall may damage the wall or break off the screws.
What should you do if the screws on the cover are rusty and won't come off?
Do not use excessive force to avoid tearing off the screw head. Treat the joint with a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40) and leave for 10-15 minutes. After this, try to carefully remove the screw. If the cap comes off, use an extractor or try to grab the remains with pliers.
Is it necessary to drain the freon before removing the top cover?
No, removing the outer decorative or technical cover does not affect the refrigerant circuit. Freon is located in sealed tubes of the evaporator and condenser. Cream is only required when repairing the cooling system itself, which is a task for specialists with equipment.
Why did the refrigerator begin to make more noise after assembly?
Most likely, the cover is not in its place or you forgot to tighten one of the screws, which created a gap that causes vibration. Also check that the cap does not touch the condenser tubes or other moving parts. Re-assemble the assembly, paying attention to the tight fit of the elements.