After purchasing and delivering new household appliances, owners are often faced with the question of the correct first start-up. Brand refrigeration equipment Beko requires compliance with certain time intervals before being connected to the network, especially if transportation was carried out in a horizontal position. Ignoring this stage can lead to serious mechanical damage to the compressor and failure of the unit long before the expiration of the warranty period.
The process of activating the device is not limited to simply inserting the plug into the socket. Modern models equipped with complex electronics and protection systems, which also require time to stabilize after temperature changes during transportation. In this article, we will analyze in detail all the stages of preparation, installation and adjustment of temperature conditions to ensure long and silent operation of your new kitchen assistant.
In addition, the correct placement and initial calibration of sensors directly affect energy consumption. Inverter compressors, which many are equipped with rulers Bekoare sensitive to overheating, so it is important to make sure there is sufficient clearance between the rear wall of the device and the wall of the room.
Settlement time before first start
The most critical parameter when first turned on is the time that The device must stand in an upright position without being connected to the power supply. During transportation, especially in winter, the oil in the compressor may thicken or leak into the cooling system circuits. If you turn on the motor right away, it will run dry, which will lead to rapid wear of the rubbing parts.
The duration of settling directly depends on the conditions in which the refrigerator was located before installation. Manufacturers recommend adhering to the following time frames to ensure that the oil drains back into the compressor crankcase:
- 🕒 Summer transportation: if the device was transported in the warm season at temperatures above +10°C, it is enough to let it stand for 2-3 hours.
- ❄️ Winter transportation: transportation in cold weather requires significantly more time, usually from 4 to 6 hours for the condensation to evaporate and the oil to restore its viscosity.
- 📦 Horizontal transportation: if the device was lying on its side, the minimum waiting time is 8-12 hours, regardless of the season.
⚠️ Attention: An attempt to start the compressor earlier than the recommended time may lead to water hammer in the cooling system, which is a non-warranty case of failure.
It is important to consider that the temperature difference when brought from the street into a warm room causes condensation to form inside the electronic boards. Humidity can cause a short circuit if turned on suddenly. Therefore, even if you transported the equipment in the summer, let it acclimatize at room temperature for at least a couple of hours.
Preparing for connection and checking the equipment
Before looking for an outlet, you need to conduct a visual inspection and prepare the internal space. Make sure that all shipping elements have been removed from the case: tape, foam inserts, fixing shelves and drawers. Particular attention should be paid to interior lighting and door handles - they are often additionally secured with adhesive tape.
After removing the packaging, wash the interior chambers with warm water and a mild detergent. This will help eliminate the smell of new plastic and remove production dust. Do not use abrasive sponges or aggressive chemicals, as they can damage the antibacterial coating Active Fresh Blue Light or other specific coatings of the cameras.
☑️ Preparation for launch
The key point is to install the device level. The legs of the refrigerator are adjustable in height, which allows you to compensate for uneven floors. Correct installation ensures a tight fit of the door and correct operation of the self-closing system.
Electrical connection diagram
Refrigerators Beko are energy-intensive devices that require stable voltage. The connection must be made directly into a separate grounded outlet. The use of various extension cords, tees or low-quality surge protectors is highly undesirable, as they can cause heating of the contacts and fire.
Make sure that the parameters of your electrical network meet the requirements specified in the technical documentation (usually 220-240 V at a frequency of 50 Hz). Voltage surges can damage the electronic control module. If your area has an unstable power supply, it is recommended to use a voltage stabilizer.
After connecting the plug to the outlet, the device may not work immediately. Many modern models have a built-in compressor start delay to protect against frequent on-off switching. In this case, the light in the chamber will light up, but the hum of the motor will not be heard for 5–15 minutes.
Primary setting of temperature modes
After the refrigerator has been idle for about 5–7 hours, you can begin adjusting the temperature. Control can be carried out by a mechanical regulator (wheel inside the chamber) or an electronic display on the door. Models with a display often require the control panel to be unlocked.
To activate the control panel, you typically need to press and hold a lock button or a special key combination for 3 seconds. After unlocking, you can set the optimal values. The recommended temperature for the main compartment is +4°C, and for the freezer - -18°C.
What is Eco Mode?
Eco Mode automatically regulates compressor operation to minimize energy consumption. In this mode, the temperature in the refrigerator compartment can be slightly increased to +5...+6°C, which is safe for most products, but saves electricity.
If your model has a zone Fresh Zone (zero chamber), its temperature should be close to 0°C. These are ideal conditions for storing fresh meat, fish and vegetables that are not planned to be frozen right now.
Table of recommended temperatures for different products
For effective storage, it is important to understand which foods feel best at what temperature. Below is a table that will help you set up storage zones depending on the current load of the refrigerator.
| Product type | Recommended zone | Temperature conditions | Shelf life (approximate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh meat and fish | Zero chamber / Fresh Zone | 0°C ... +2°C | 1–3 days |
| Dairy products | Middle shelf | +2°C ... +4°C | 3–7 days |
| Vegetables and fruits | Bottom drawers | +4°C ... +6°C | 5–10 days |
| Ready meals | Top shelf | +2°C ... +5°C | 2–4 days |
Do not overload the refrigerator with food immediately after turning it on. Allow the equipment to enter its operating cycle, cool the empty chambers, and only then begin filling. A sudden thermal load can force the compressor to work at its limit in the first hours.
Diagnostics of operation and possible problems
During the first day of operation, carefully monitor the behavior of the unit. Periodic switching on and off of the compressor, as well as a slight hiss of the refrigerant in the tubes, is considered acceptable. However, there are signs that should alert the owner.
If you hear a loud knock, vibration of the case, or feel strong heating of the side walls (more than 50–60°C), this may indicate a malfunction. It is also worth paying attention to the formation of a “snow coat” in models with the No Frost system - ice should not appear in them.
Pay special attention to the operation of the system No Frost. In the first hours, a plastic or technical aroma may appear, which is normal for a new product. It should disappear within 24 hours. If the smell persists longer or smells like burnt wiring, immediately turn off the appliance.
⚠️ Attention: If a puddle appears on the floor under the refrigerator, check whether the drainage hose is kinked (if the model has one) and whether the condensate tray is installed correctly.
Operation in winter
Using a refrigerator Beko in an unheated room or on a balcony in winter requires a special approach. Most models are designed for operation in climate class SN-T, which means a minimum ambient temperature of +10°C. At lower temperatures, the oil in the compressor thickens, and starting becomes dangerous.
Some modern models are equipped with a function to operate at low ambient temperatures. Check for such an option in the instructions. If you plan to keep the refrigerator in the country house in winter, it is better to leave it turned off, but open, to prevent mold from appearing.
During the cold season, it is also important to monitor the humidity in the room. Condensation that forms on the outer walls due to temperature changes can lead to corrosion of the metal parts of the housing. Regularly wipe the external surfaces with a dry cloth.
Frequently asked questions and answers (FAQ)
Why does the Beko refrigerator hum loudly after first turning it on?
During the first hours of operation, the compressor may work harder to cool the warm air inside the chambers. Also make sure that the refrigerator is level and not touching walls or furniture, which can increase vibration. If the noise does not subside after a day, contact the service.
Is it possible to turn on the Beko refrigerator immediately after defrosting?
Yes, if defrosting was carried out as planned and without moving the device. In this case, it is enough to wipe the chambers dry and you can turn on the device 15–20 minutes after finishing cleaning; there is no need to wait for several hours.
What to do if the power indicator does not light up?
Check the presence of voltage in the outlet by connecting another device there. Make sure the plug is inserted all the way. If everything is fine with the socket, the power cord or internal fuse may be faulty - diagnostics by a technician is required.
How to properly defrost a freezer with No Frost?
The No Frost system does not require manual defrosting, but it is recommended to carry out preventive cleaning once a year. To do this, turn off the appliance, take out all the food, let the ice melt (you cannot speed up the process with a hairdryer!) and wipe the chambers.