Buying a new refrigerator is always an exciting moment, especially when it comes to modern appliances with a system No Frost. Many owners immediately after delivery strive to load the products and start the device as soon as possible, but rushing to do this can lead to serious damage to the compressor. The correct sequence of actions when first turned on guarantees a long service life of the unit and its silent operation.
The equipment Gorenje is famous for its reliability and thoughtful ergonomics, but it, like any complex mechanism, requires compliance with certain rules of transportation and preparation for operation. Ignoring simple recommendations from the manufacturer may result in denial of warranty service. In this article we will analyze in detail all stages of preparation, from unpacking to setting the optimal temperature.
Particular attention should be paid to the time the equipment settles after transportation. This is a critical parameter that is often overlooked. Let's figure out why this is so important and exactly how you need to proceed so that your new refrigerator will delight you for years.
⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator was transported in a horizontal position, the time it should sit before turning it on should be at least 8-12 hours. This is necessary for the oil to drain into the compressor crankcase.
Why is it important to wait before the first start?
The question of how long it takes to turn on the refrigerator Gorenje after delivery is one of the most common among buyers. The fact is that during transportation, especially if the unit was tilted or transported lying down, compressor oil could flow into the cooling system circuits. If you start the compressor immediately, it will run dry, which will lead to rapid wear or jamming.
In addition, during the cold season, condensation formed inside electronic components due to temperature changes must completely evaporate. Humidity can cause a short circuit in the control board. Therefore acclimatization techniques in room conditions are a mandatory stage. Usually 2–4 hours are enough if the refrigerator was transported vertically, and up to 12 hours if it was lying down.
Do not rush to check the operation of the unit as soon as you have unscrewed the transport bolts. Allow the device to warm up to room temperature and allow the internal refrigerant to stabilize. This simple action will significantly extend the life of your compressor. How did you transport your Gorenje refrigerator? data-i="60">Only for short distances in the elevator compressor.
Preparing for the first turn on: unpacking and inspection
Before connecting the refrigerator Gorenje to the network, it is necessary to conduct a thorough visual inspection and remove all shipping elements. The factory packaging protects the case from scratches and dents, but there may be retaining elements inside that block the operation of moving parts.
First, remove all cardboard spacers, tape and foam. Pay special attention to the interior space: check the shelves, drawers and doors. Manufacturers often include instructions, a warranty card and additional accessories inside that need to be removed.
An important step is removing the transport locks. In some models compressor it can be secured with special bolts or brackets to prevent it from beating when shaking. If they are not removed, vibration during operation will be transmitted to the entire body, and the unit itself may fail.
☑️ Preparing the refrigerator for startup
⚠️ Attention: Do not use sharp objects or solvents to remove stickers and traces of adhesive from the body. This may damage the paintwork or plastic.
Correct installation and placement of the unit
The efficiency of its operation and noise level depend on where and how your refrigerator will be placed. The system No Frost requires good air circulation around the housing, since heat exchange occurs through the side walls and rear grille. Lack of space will lead to overheating and increased energy consumption.
Equipment should be installed away from heat sources: heating radiators, stoves, ovens and direct sunlight. The minimum distance from the wall to the rear grille should be at least 5–7 cm, and it is advisable to leave 2–3 cm of free space on the sides.
The floor under the refrigerator should be smooth and durable. If the floor is uneven, the unit will vibrate and make noise. Use the adjustable feet on the front bottom of the chassis to make adjustments. By rotating them, achieve a stable position in which the doors will close on their own from a slight push.
| Placement parameter | Recommended value | Consequences of violation |
|---|---|---|
| Distance to the wall | 5–10 cm | Compressor overheating |
| Distance to stove | Minimum 30 cm | Damage to seal |
| Tilt forward | 1–2 degrees | Doors not close tightly |
| Direct sunlight | Unacceptable | Fading and overheating |
Hygienic treatment before use
Although refrigerators Gorenje are factory treated and often have an antibacterial coating AntiBacteria, before using them for the first time wash. During the manufacturing, packaging and shipping processes, dust, small particles or odors may have entered inside.
For washing, use a soft cloth and a weak solution of baking soda or neutral detergent. It is not recommended to use abrasive powders, chlorine-containing products or aggressive chemicals, as they can damage plastic and rubber seals.
After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry with a clean cloth. Leave the doors open for 1-2 hours for complete ventilation and the disappearance of the “new plastic” smell. Only after this can you proceed to the electrical connection.
The process of turning on the first time and setting the temperature
When all the preparatory steps are completed, you can connect the refrigerator to the mains. Make sure the outlet is working, grounded, and meets the wattage requirements (usually a separate outlet that is not overloaded by other appliances). Insert the plug into the socket and press the power button, if provided by the design, or simply wait until it starts.
After switching on, the indication on the control panel will light up and you will hear the sound of the compressor running. In models with electronic control the first cooling cycle can last up to 10–12 hours until the set temperature values are reached. During this time, do not open the doors frequently and do not load food.
The temperature is adjusted through the control panel. For the refrigerator compartment, the optimal value is +4°C, and for the freezer -18°C. Some models Gorenje have an “Eco” or “Auto” mode, which automatically selects the optimal parameters depending on the load and ambient temperature.
What do the flashing indicators mean?
If the indicators on the control panel are flashing, this may indicate an increase in the temperature inside the chambers or a malfunction. In the first hours after switching on, flashing may be normal until the cold sets in. If the blinking does not stop for more than a day, contact service.
Loading food and operating modes
You can load the refrigerator with food only after it has been empty for at least 2-4 hours and has reached the required temperature. If you put warm food in a warm unit, the compressor will work overload, trying to cool a large volume of heat, which will shorten its life.
Distribute food evenly without blocking the ventilation holes inside the chambers. In the system No Frost cold air circulates forcibly, and if the channels are blocked, in some areas the temperature will be higher than normal, and in others, food may freeze.
Monitor the operation of the device during the first day. It should not make any extraneous knocks, whistles or loud clicks (only quiet sounds of refrigerant flow and rare clicks of the thermostat are acceptable). If all parameters are normal, the refrigerator is ready for normal operation.
Is it possible to turn on the Gorenje refrigerator immediately after delivery?
No, this is strictly not recommended. Even with vertical transportation, the oil in the compressor must drain into the crankcase, and the electronics must warm up to room temperature. The minimum waiting time is 2–4 hours, for horizontal transportation - up to 12 hours.
Why does the Gorenje refrigerator hum loudly when first turned on?
In the first hours of operation, the compressor may work more intensely and noisily, as the system is filled with refrigerant and enters operating mode. Also check that the transport bolts have been removed and that the unit is level. If the noise does not subside after a day, this is a reason to contact the service.
Is it necessary to defrost the Gorenje No Frost refrigerator?
The No Frost system automatically removes moisture, so regular defrosting is not required. However, once a year it is recommended to turn off the device, wash it and let it stand with the doors open to prevent the appearance of odors and check the operation of the system.
What temperature should be in the Gorenje freezer?
The optimal temperature for long-term storage of food in the freezer is -18°C. At this value, all the beneficial properties of the products are preserved and the proliferation of bacteria is stopped. For quick freezing, you can temporarily turn on the Super Freeze mode.