Removing the internal elements of the refrigerator often becomes necessary when carrying out general cleaning, defrosting or replacing damaged parts. Owners of German brand equipment Liebherr appreciate it for the high quality of materials, but plastic and glass require careful handling. Incorrect actions can lead to breakage of fragile clamps or damage to the guide runners.
The design of refrigeration chambers may vary significantly between different models. In some cases metal telescopic guides are used, while in other cases the drawers simply rest on plastic runners. Understanding how the locking mechanism works is the key to successfully and safely removing containers without using brute force.
Before starting any manipulations, it is recommended to clear the space inside the chamber. This will not only allow you to get the job done faster, but also avoid accidentally dropping food or bottles. In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithms of action for various types of structures found in refrigerators from this manufacturer.
Preparation for dismantling internal elements
The first and most important stage is preparing the work area. You need to completely free drawer from food. Heavy containers with vegetables or frozen meat significantly increase the risk of falling and damaging the bottom of the refrigerator compartment if removed carelessly.
After emptying the contents, the temperature inside should be assessed. If you plan to wash the parts, it is better to wait until the plastic gets too cold, as it becomes more brittle in the cold. Plastic at subzero temperatures loses its elasticity and can crack with minimal mechanical stress.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to tear off a frozen box by force. If the container is stuck to the wall or guides by ice, let it thaw naturally or use a hairdryer at minimum temperature, keeping it at a safe distance.
For ease of work, it is recommended to prepare in advance a soft towel or mat on which you will place the removed parts. This will protect the floor from scratches, and it container from chips if it accidentally slips out of your hands. It is also worth having a dry rag on hand to wipe the guides.
☑️ Preparing to remove the drawers
Removing drawers in the refrigerator compartment
In the refrigerator compartment, systems with plastic runners or telescopic guides. To remove glass shelf or a container, you need to understand the type of fastening. In most modern models Liebherr it is enough to simply lift the front of the drawer up.
Raise the front edge of the container to an angle of about 10-15 degrees. At this point, the rear slide should disengage from the bottom groove. After this, gently pull the box towards you. If you feel resistance, do not pull sharply - the mechanism may have additional stoppers.
- 🔍 Carefully inspect the side walls of the chamber for the presence of locking buttons.
- 🔍 Check whether the drawer does not rest against the extension depth limiter.
- 🔍 Make sure that the glass the shelf above the drawer does not interfere with its lifting.
Some models are equipped with a system SoftSystemthat makes closing easier, but can create the illusion of rigid fixation. In such cases, it is important to find a balance between the traction force and the angle of inclination. If the drawer does not budge, try changing the angle or checking whether it is blocked by neighboring elements.
Removing containers from the freezer
The freezer requires a more delicate approach due to low temperatures and the specifics of food storage. Transparent plastic boxes are often used here, which are installed on top of each other or in special niches. Removal freezer drawers is usually done by fully extending.
Pull out the container until it stops. Many models Liebherr have a special stopper to prevent accidental falls. To overcome it, you need to slightly lift the front of the drawer or press on the hidden tab in the front of the guide.
⚠️ Attention: The plastic in the freezer is extremely fragile. If you've just defrosted your refrigerator, wait 10 to 15 minutes for the material to come to room temperature before removing parts.
In box-within-a-box designs (where one container is nested inside another to separate zones), remove the top portion first. The bottom part may have its own guides. Proceed sequentially, freeing each level separately so as not to upset the balance of the entire storage system.
Working with telescopic guides
Premium models of refrigerators are often equipped with metal telescopic guides. They provide a smooth ride and can withstand heavy loads. Removing a box from such a system requires precise targeting of certain fixation points. Usually at the ends of the guides there are special latches or levers.
To dismantle, fully extend the guide. Find the retaining element (often a black or gray plastic tab). Push it or pull it up while pulling the drawer out. The mechanism should unlock with a characteristic click.
If the guides are dirty, they must be cleaned before installing them back. Dirt and crumbs can damage the plain bearings. Wipe the metal with a soft cloth soaked in soapy water and wipe dry.
| System type | Removal method | Risk of breakage | Recommended care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic runners | Lift up + traction | Medium (plastic chips) | Washing with warm water |
| Telescopic | Latch pressure | Low (with correct stroke) | Silicone lubrication (rarely) |
| Glass shelves | Lift + tilt | High (broken glass) | Glass cleaner |
| Nested boxes | Sequential extraction | Medium (deformation) | Disinfection |
Features of removing glass shelves
Although the question concerned the drawers, often removing them requires preliminary dismantling of the glass shelves located above them. In refrigerators Liebherr shelves often have a system EasyFix or similar, allowing you to adjust the height or remove them for washing.
Grip the front edge of the glass with both hands. Lift it slightly to release the rear hooks from the grooves on the back wall. Then gently pull the shelf towards you. It is important not to warp the glass so that the side stops do not get stuck in the grooves.
Pay attention to the weight of the shelf. If it is made of tempered glass with a metal edge, it can be quite heavy. Tempered glass durable, but its edges are sensitive to impacts on the metal parts of the case.
What to do if the shelf is not removable?
Sometimes the shelf can be blocked by spilled and frozen liquid in the grooves. Try to carefully pry the fasteners with a flat plastic spatula, after defrosting the stuck ice.
Typical mistakes and precautions
The most common mistake is the use of excessive force. The design of the refrigerator is designed so that all elements can be easily removed. If you have to put in significant effort, it means you haven't found the right algorithm for your specific model.
Another mistake is ignoring temperature instructions. Trying to remove a plastic box immediately after defrosting while it is still icy is almost guaranteed to result in cracks. Give the parts time to warm up.
⚠️ Attention: The design of the guides and clamps may vary depending on the year of manufacture and series of the refrigerator. If the described methods do not work, check the official instructions for your model on the manufacturer's website.
Also, do not use sharp metal objects (knives, screwdrivers) to pry the latches. You can scratch the plastic or damage the seals, which in the future will lead to a loose fit of the box and loss of cold. Use only plastic spatulas or fingers.
Cleaning and caring for the removed parts
After you have managed to remove drawers, they need to be cleared properly. Use warm water and a mild detergent. Abrasive powders can leave micro-scratches on the plastic, in which bacteria and odors will accumulate.
Dry all parts thoroughly before putting them back. Moisture inside a closed drawer may cause mold to form or food to freeze the next time you turn it on. Pay special attention to the corners and joints of the plastic.
Installation is carried out in the reverse order. Insert the rear slide into the slots and lower the front until it clicks into place. Check for smooth running. If the drawer is difficult to move, check whether it fits smoothly into the guides and whether there is something inside the chamber preventing it.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can the drawers be washed in the dishwasher?
Most plastic containers Liebherr can be washed in the dishwasher at a temperature not exceeding 45°C. However, it is better to wash glass shelves with metal frames by hand to avoid corrosion of the metal and damage to the seals.
What to do if the drawer latch breaks?
If the plastic latch breaks off, the drawer may fall out when opened. In this case, you must order an original spare part according to the refrigerator model number. The use of temporary solutions (adhesive tape, glue) is not recommended due to hygiene and safety requirements.
Why did the drawer move out worse after cleaning?
You may not have fully inserted the guides into the grooves or there is a sticky film left on them from the detergent. Check for proper installation and wipe the skids clean. Also make sure that the box is not overloaded.
How to remove the box if it is frozen to the wall?
Do not pick it out with a knife under any circumstances. Unplug the refrigerator, leave the door open and wait until the ice melts. You can speed up the process by placing a bowl of warm water nearby, but do not pour boiling water directly onto the plastic.