Buying a new refrigerator Gorenje is always a pleasant event, marking the beginning of comfortable use of household appliances. However, the joy of the purchase can be overshadowed if you ignore the basic rules of transportation and initial installation. Correct installation of the Gorenje refrigerator is a critically important stage, on which the service life of the compressor and the quality of food cooling directly depend.
Many owners make the fatal mistake of turning on the device immediately after bringing it into the apartment. This is absolutely impossible to do. During transportation, especially in winter, the oil in the compressor thickens and flows into the system circuits. Sharp start without an acclimatization period will lead to the engine running “dry,” which inevitably causes its breakdown. It is necessary to give the equipment time to stabilize temperature conditions and spread technical fluids.
In addition, modern models require compliance with strict ventilation standards. Insufficient space around the housing will cause the capacitor to overheat and increase power consumption. In this article we will look in detail at how to prepare the room, level the unit and put it into operation in accordance with the technical regulations of the manufacturer.
⚠️ Attention: If delivery was carried out at a temperature below +5°C, the standing time before turning on should be at least 4-6 hours to completely warm up the oil.
Selecting a suitable location and preparation premises
The first stage of installation is choosing a location. The refrigerator Gorenje does not like direct sunlight and close proximity to heating devices. If you plan to place the appliance near a window, make sure that there is no direct light falling on the cabinet, as this will cause the thermostat to work harder. You should also avoid installation near a gas stove, oven or heating radiators.
The distance to (heat sources) should be significant. The minimum gap between the back wall of the refrigerator and the wall or furniture should be at least 5-7 centimeters. This is necessary for free circulation of air, which cools the condenser (black grille at the back). If you ignore this rule, heat transfer it will be broken, and the compressor will work almost non-stop.
The floor at the installation site must be smooth and hard. Linoleum or tile are ideal options, while soft carpeting can make it difficult for the underside to ventilate. It is also important to check that in the selected area there is no vibration from washing machines or other operating equipment, as this can increase the noise during operation of the unit.
Transportation and standing time before launch
The question of how long a refrigerator should sit after delivery is one of the most common. The answer depends on the conditions of transportation. If the unit was transported in an upright position, the minimum waiting time is 2-3 hours. This time is enough for the refrigerant and oil to return to their normal positions in the compressor crankcase.
The situation becomes more complicated if transportation was carried out lying down. In this case, the risk of oil entering the evaporator circuit is maximum. For such cases, the instructions Gorenje recommend waiting at least 8-12 hours. Only after the liquid has completely drained into the compressor can it be safe to connect the device to the mains. Violation of this rule is the most common reason for the failure of new equipment.
You should not rush things, wanting to cool the food faster. Compressor is the heart of the refrigerator, and its resource directly depends on the conditions of the first start-up. Even if visually it seems that everything is stable, microscopic drops of oil may still be in the tubes, and a sharp start will create a hydraulic shock.
What will happen if you turn on the refrigerator right away?
Oil that gets into the system will create a plug. The compressor will begin to pump only gas, which will lead to overheating of the windings and jamming of the piston group after several months of operation.
Unpacking and removing transport fasteners
After the Gorenye refrigerator has stood for the required time, you can begin unpacking. Remove the cardboard box, protective film and foam stoppers. Pay special attention to the inside: all shelves, drawers and containers on the doors must be secured with tape or inserts for transportation. They must be carefully removed and installed in their places.
The most important step is removing the transport fasteners. On some models, the compressor may be secured with special bolts or brackets to the base to avoid damage due to shaking. Although modern models Gorenje more often use a suspended shock absorption system, it is necessary to check the base for the presence of unnecessary parts. If you find bolts, they need to be unscrewed, otherwise vibration during operation will be transmitted to the entire body.
Also check that all protective stickers have been removed from the internal surfaces and seals. Leaving the tape on the rubber door seal can cause a loose seal and ice freezing. After removing the packaging, wipe the inner chambers with a damp cloth using a mild detergent.
☑️ Check after unpacking
Height adjustment and horizontal position
Smooth installation of the refrigerator is the key to silent operation and proper closing of the doors. If the housing is skewed, the door may not close completely on its own, which will lead to a leak. For leveling, adjustable support feet are used, located in the front lower part of the body.
>Rotate the feet clockwise or counterclockwise to achieve a stable position. You can check the horizontality using a building level, placing it on the lid of the refrigerator.
There is a nuance regarding the tilt of the body. The door should open freely, but when released in the half-open position (approximately 30-45 degrees), it should close itself under the influence of gravity. To do this, the front legs are twisted so that the front of the refrigerator is slightly higher than the back (1-2 cm). This slight tilt back ensures the self-closing mechanism operates correctly.
⚠️ Caution: Do not leave the refrigerator resting solely on the rear wheels or skids - it must be stable on all four adjustable feet to avoid vibration.
The following table shows the effect of the position of the feet on the operation of the device:
| Installation parameter | Symptom of incorrect setting | Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Distortion to one side | Door does not fit tightly | Tightness violation, ice |
| No tilt back | The door does not close itself | Loss of cold, food spoilage |
| Unstable legs | Strong vibration of the body | Noise, accelerated wear of the compressor |
| Too large gap at the back | Difficulty in access during cleaning | Dust accumulation behind the unit |
Maintaining clearances for ventilation
Efficient work refrigerator Gorenje is impossible without proper organization of heat removal. The heat extracted from the chambers must go somewhere. If the unit is built into a niche or stands close to the wall, it is necessary to strictly observe the minimum distances specified in the technical data sheet.
Usually the minimum gap at the back is from 5 to 10 cm, at the sides - about 2-5 cm, and at the top (if there is a cabinet) - at least 10 cm. These figures may vary depending on the specific model and type of cooling system (static or No Frost). Ignoring these standards leads to hot air circulating in a circle, heating the condenser.
Built-in technology requires a special approach. Ventilation holes in the base and the top of the furniture box are important here. The cross-sectional area of these holes should be sufficient to create natural traction. If you ordered a kitchen set, make sure that the craftsmen (left) the necessary technological gaps.
First turn on and setting of temperature modes
After completion of all preparatory work, the moment of truth comes - inclusion in the network. Plug the power cord into a separate grounded outlet. The use of extension cords and tees is not recommended, since refrigerators consume significant current when the compressor starts, which can lead to overheating of the contacts at the connection point.
When you turn it on for the first time, do not immediately load the refrigerator with food. Let it run idle for 2-3 hours. During this time, the unit will reach the required temperature, and the thermostat will turn off the compressor. Only after the first cooling cycle can you gradually fill the chambers with products, avoiding sudden heat load.
Adjust the temperature according to the recommendations. For the main chamber, the optimal value is +4°C, and for the freezer - -18°C. In models with electronic control (Smart Control), these parameters are set through a panel on the door. In models with a mechanical regulator, turn the thermostat knob to the position corresponding to the average values (usually this is the number 3 or 4 out of 5-7 possible).
If you notice that the refrigerator runs for too long or, conversely, turns on often, check the settings. It is also worth considering seasonality: in summer the load on the unit is higher and it can work more intensely. In winter, if the refrigerator is placed on an unheated loggia (which is not recommended for most models Gorenje), the oil may thicken again.
Is it possible to install a Gorenie refrigerator on a balcony?
Most models are designed for operation in the SN-T climate class (from +10°C to +43°C). Installation on an unheated balcony in winter will lead to oil freezing and compressor breakdown, and in summer in the sun it will lead to overheating. If the balcony is glazed and insulated, installation is possible provided the temperature conditions are observed.
Why does the refrigerator make gurgling sounds?
Sounds of liquid flowing (gurgling, hissing) during the first hours of operation are normal. The refrigerant circulates through the system, changing its state of aggregation. If the noise is not accompanied by vibration or knocking, there is nothing to worry about. After a couple of days of operation, the sounds will become quieter.
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before turning it on for the first time?
No, you do not need to defrost a new refrigerator. Factory preservation does not require defrosting. It is enough to wipe the internal surfaces with a damp cloth to remove dust and the smell of new plastic. The first defrosting will be needed only after 6-12 months of operation.
Compliance with all stages of installation ensures that your refrigerator Gorenje will last for many years without repairs. Don't neglect little things like adjusting the feet or standing time - they form the basis for the reliable operation of a complex refrigeration system. Proper installation is an investment in the safety of your products and peace of mind of your budget.