A modern refrigerator AEL is a complex household device that requires strict adherence to operating rules during the first launch. Many owners make the mistake of plugging in the equipment immediately after bringing it into the apartment, which can lead to serious damage to the compressor. The correct algorithm of actions guarantees a long service life of the unit and efficient cooling of products.
The activation process refrigeration equipment begins long before pressing the power button. A critically important step is adapting the equipment to the temperature conditions of the room and allowing the oil to settle in the system. Ignoring these simple but fundamental rules often becomes the cause of expensive repairs.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the stages of preparing and starting up your equipment, paying special attention to the nuances of working with thermostats and electronic control modules. You will learn why haste can be dangerous for compressor, and how to avoid typical mistakes during the first operation.
Adaptation of equipment after transportation
Transporting a refrigerator AEL is always stressful for internal mechanisms, especially for the compressor and refrigerant. During transportation, the unit may tilt, shake, or be subject to sudden temperature changes. Oil from the compressor could flow into the evaporator or condenser circuits, and the refrigerant could mix with the oil substance.
If you turn on the device immediately, the compressor will try to compress the mixture of gas and liquid, which will lead to water hammer. This is one of the most common reasons for failure pressure system in the first days of use. In addition, at low temperatures outside, the oil in the compressor thickens and it takes time to return to normal viscosity.
⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator was brought in from the cold (at a temperature below +5°C), its adaptation time in a warm room should be at least 8-12 hours. Turning on a cold unit can lead to cracking of the internal pipes due to thermal expansion.
The device must be left alone in a vertical position. Only after all the technical fluids have taken their normal places and the body temperature is equal to room temperature can you proceed to the next stages of preparation. This requirement is relevant for all models, regardless of the type refrigerant.
Can the refrigerator be transported lying down?
Transportation in a horizontal position is acceptable, but not advisable. If this happens, the settling time should be increased to 24 hours so that the oil completely flows back into the compressor crankcase.
Visual inspection and preparation for connection
Before connecting AEL to the electrical network, it is necessary to conduct a thorough visual inspection. Make sure there are no dents in the cabinet and that the doors are sealed tightly. Any defects in the sealing rubber can lead to loss of cold and increased load on the motor.
Remove all packaging, including cardboard, plastic film and transport locks. Pay special attention to the inside: check for plastic liners between shelves or inside drawers. Manufacturers often hide documents or warranty cards in freezer compartment.
- 🧹 Wipe the internal surfaces with a damp cloth and mild detergent to remove factory dust.
- 🚪 Check the tightness of the doors and the operation of the magnetic latches.
- 🔌 Inspect the power cord for damage to the insulation or creases.
After cleaning, allow the internal chambers to dry. Moisture inside may cause mold or an unpleasant odor to form when first turned on. Make sure that the device is installed level, without distortions, so that condensation properly flows into the drainage system.
Installation and selection of the correct location
Quality work AEL directly depends on the installation conditions. The refrigerator requires a constant supply of fresh air to cool the condenser. If you place the device close to the wall or in a niche without gaps, the efficiency of heat transfer will drop sharply.
The recommended distance to the back wall should be at least 5–7 cm, and on the sides - about 3 cm. This will ensure natural air circulation. It is also important to avoid installation near heat sources such as radiators, stoves or ovens.
⚠️ Attention: Do not install the refrigerator in places where it is exposed to direct sunlight. Ultraviolet radiation destroys plastic and rubber seals, and heating the housing causes the compressor to wear out.
Use a building level to check the horizontal installation. An uneven floor can lead to the doors not closing tightly and the system not functioning properly No Frostif it is provided by the model. Height adjustment is usually carried out using the front support legs.
Connecting to the electrical network and starting up
After completing all preparatory procedures, you can begin the electrical connection. For refrigerators AEL the presence of a grounded outlet with a voltage of 220–230 Volts is critical. The use of extension cords or tees is not recommended as they can cause poor contact and overheating.
Insert the plug into the outlet. Depending on the model, it may start automatically or require activation through the control panel. If the indicators on the panel light up and you hear a quiet hum, it means that The compressor the compressor has started working.
The first cycle of operation may last longer than usual. The system must reach the required temperature in all chambers. Do not load food during this period; let the refrigerator return to normal cooling mode. This will take from 2 to 6 hours depending on the volume of the chambers and the ambient temperature.
☑️ Check before loading products
Setting temperature modes
Correct temperature setting is the key to freshness of food and saving energy. In refrigerators AEL the control can be mechanical (rotary dial) or electronic (display). Mechanical controls usually have a scale from 1 to 5 or from Min to Max.
For mechanical control, the optimal starting value is the middle of the scale (for example, position 3). Electronic models allow you to set the exact temperature in degrees. Standard recommendations: +4°C for the refrigerator compartment and -18°C for freezer.
| Control type | Recommended setting | Adjustment range | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical | Position 2.5 – 3 | 1 – 5 (or Min-Max) | The number does not mean degrees, but cooling power |
| Electronic | +4°C / -18°C | 0°C to +10°C | Fine adjustment to the degree |
| Super Freeze | Turn on in 4-6 hours | Up to -24°C | For quick freezing of large volumes |
If you plan to load a large amount of warm food, you can temporarily activate the Super Cool or Super Freezemode. However, you should not keep these modes turned on constantly, as this leads to excessive energy consumption and freezing.
Initial loading and checking operation
You can load products into AEL only after it has reached operating temperature. A sharp increase in heat flow from a large amount of food can force the compressor to work continuously, which is undesirable for new equipment. Fill the chambers gradually, in several stages.
Distribute food evenly without blocking the ventilation holes inside the chambers. Air circulation is the key operating principle of systems No Frost. If you cover the air ducts with a pan or bag, the temperature in this area will be higher than normal, and the food may spoil.
On the first day of operation, listen to the sounds of the unit. Quiet gurgling of the refrigerant and periodic turning on and off of the motor are acceptable. A loud knock, clanging or high-pitched whistle indicates a malfunction or incorrect installation.
⚠️ Warning: Do not fill the freezer with warm food. This will cause a sharp jump in temperature and the formation of a large amount of ice on the evaporator, which will disrupt the operation of the moisture removal system.
Possible problems during the first start
Even if all instructions are followed, users may encounter unusual situations. Understanding the nature of these phenomena will help distinguish normal operation of equipment from a real defect. Often the alarm turns out to be false.
For example, heating the side walls is a normal process of heat removal by the capacitor, which is built into the sidewalls of modern models. AEL. A short-term smell of plastic is also possible, which disappears after airing.
- ❄️ The formation of condensation on the outer wall may indicate high humidity in the room or a loosely closed door.
- 🔊 Clicks during operation are a thermostat that regulates the temperature, or bypass valves.
- 💡 Flashing indicators often indicate defrosting or a power surge in the network.
If the refrigerator does not turn on at all, check for voltage in the outlet using another device. Sometimes the problem lies in a tripped circuit breaker or a defective socket, and not in the equipment itself. In case of persistent problems, contact the service center.
Why does the refrigerator hum louder at night?
During the day, extraneous noises mask the operation of the equipment. At night, in silence, the hum of the compressor becomes more noticeable. If the humming is smooth and not accompanied by vibration, this is normal.
How long can you not turn on the refrigerator after delivery?
The optimal settling time is from 4 to 8 hours, provided that the equipment was transported in an upright position. If the refrigerator was lying during transportation or brought in from frost, the time increases to 12–24 hours.
What to do if, after turning on, the refrigerator does not freeze?
In the first 2 hours of operation, the compressor can work continuously, gaining temperature. If the chamber is not cold after 4–6 hours, check the thermostat settings. If the settings are correct, there may be a freon leak or a compressor failure.
Is it possible to turn on an AEL refrigerator through an extension cord?
Manufacturers do not recommend using extension cords, as they increase resistance and the risk of poor contact. If the outlet is far away, it is better to use a surge protector with grounding and a wire of sufficient cross-section, but a permanent outlet is preferable.
Is it normal that the side walls of the refrigerator are hot?
Yes, this is absolutely normal. In modern models, the condenser (heat exchanger) is often built into the side walls of the case. During operation of the compressor, they heat up, releasing heat into the room.
How to understand that the thermostat is set correctly?
The ideal setting provides a temperature of +4...+5°C in the center of the refrigerator compartment and -18°C in the freezer. Use a household thermometer to check. If the food is freezing at the back wall, reduce the power; if it is warm, add it.