Searching for an answer to the question of what a Stinol refrigerator thermostat looks like most often arises when a household appliance suddenly breaks down. The owner opens the back panel of the freezer or the top lid of the refrigerator compartment and sees a small cylindrical device with three or four wires. It is this element, called thermostat or thermostat, that is responsible for maintaining the set temperature inside the chambers. If the refrigerator stops turning off, works without stopping, or, conversely, stops freezing, diagnostics usually begin with checking this unit.
Externally, thermostats for refrigerators Stinol may look almost identical, but their internal design and temperature characteristics differ significantly. Installing an unsuitable model will lead to incorrect operation of the compressor: either the food will defrost, or the “fur coat” will freeze, which will have to be defrosted manually. Understanding the visual differences, color codes and markings will help you purchase the right spare part the first time, avoiding unnecessary expenses and repeated disassembly of the unit.
In this article we will analyze in detail what the various modifications of thermostats used in Stinol refrigerators look like, learn how to read the markings and distinguish original products from analogues. You will learn what nuances to pay attention to during a visual inspection and why the color of the adjustment knob is critical for the proper operation of your equipment.
General design: what the thermostat consists of
Regardless of the manufacturer, a classic mechanical thermostat is a sealed system. The main element is metal housing cylindrical in shape, the diameter of which is usually about 20-25 millimeters, and the length varies from 30 to 40 millimeters. This housing protects the internal membrane and contacts from moisture and mechanical damage. At one end of the housing there is a control system, and on the opposite side there is a long capillary tube.
The capillary tube is a thin copper conductor, sealed in a sealed container (heat-sensitive flask), which is attached to evaporator inside the chamber. Inside the tube and cartridge is a gas or liquid that expands when heated and contracts when cooled, transferring pressure to a membrane inside the housing. It is this pressure that opens or closes electrical contacts, starting or stopping the compressor. The length of the tube may vary for different models, but for Stinol it is usually standardized.
⚠️ Attention: The capillary tube of the thermostat is extremely sensitive to deformation. If the copper tube is carelessly bent or broken, the tightness of the system is broken, the refrigerant evaporates, and the thermostat stops responding to temperature changes. Handle the tube with the same care as a glass one.
On the opposite end of the housing from the tube there is a switching mechanism. It may be equipped with a plastic handle with an adjustment scale (usually from 1 to 5 or 1 to 7) or simply have an adjustment screw for a screwdriver. In models for Stinol refrigerators, most often there are options with a handle, which allows the user to independently change the temperature setting. The contacts for connecting the wires are located on the same unit and are covered with an insulating cover.
Visual differences between the TAM (Tambov) series models
The most common thermostats installed on Stinol refrigerators are Russian-made devices under the brand name TAM (Tambov). They have proven themselves to be reliable and affordable analogues of more expensive Italian or German counterparts. Visually, they are easy to distinguish by the characteristic markings on the metal case and the color of the plastic adjustment knob.
The most popular model for single-compressor refrigerators Stinol is TAM-112 or TAM-125. They look like a compact cylinder with three contacts for connection. The numbers indicating the model are stamped on the case. The key visual difference lies in the color of the handle: for the refrigerator compartment a white or light gray handle is usually used, while for the freezer (if the thermostat is installed there) black or red markings may be used, although in Stinol white handles with black numbers are most often found.
The length of the capillary tube for TAM models for Stinol is usually 0.6, 0.8 or 1.0 meters, which depends on the specific modification of the refrigerator. At the end of the tube there is a sensitive element - a cylindrical brass cartridge. It is important to note that some TAM modifications may have a fourth contact on the housing, which is used to connect a lamp indicating the operation of the compressor. If your refrigerator does not have such a lamp, the fourth contact remains free.
TAM marking secrets
The type of application is encrypted in the first two digits of the marking (for example, TAM-112). The numbers 11 or 12 often indicate the response temperature range. The last digit may indicate the length of the capillary tube or the type of contact fastening.
Italian Ranco thermostats and their features
Stinol refrigerators, especially earlier years of production or top lines, were often equipped with original Italian brand thermostats Ranco. These devices are considered the standard of reliability and are still highly valued by repairmen. Visually, Ranco thermostats are distinguished by a more massive metal body and a specific contact fastening system. The marking on the case is clearly stamped and contains the model code, usually starting with a letter K (for example, K-59, K-50, K-57).
One of the most common models for the refrigerator compartment is Stinol Ranco K-59. This thermostat looks like a cylinder with three contacts and an adjustment knob. A characteristic feature is the presence of a special protrusion or “ear” for attaching the case to the wall of the refrigerator, which distinguishes it from some TAM models, which can be mounted differently. The color of the K-59 handle is usually white, with black marks and numbers.
For freezers or two-chamber models with separate adjustment, the model Ranco K-50can be used. Externally, it is very similar to the K-59, but has a different operating temperature range, which is critical for proper freezing. It is easy to confuse them, since the dimensions are identical, but the operation of a refrigerator with an incorrectly selected thermostat will be incorrect. Contacts in Italian models often have more massive terminals and are protected by a dense rubber or plastic cover.
Interpretation of markings and color code
To determine exactly what the thermostat you need looks like, it is not enough just to know the brand. You must be able to read the markings on the metal casing. Usually it is a set of letters and numbers embossed with a stamp. For Stinol refrigerators, the following designations are most important: TAM-112-3M, TAM-125, Ranco K-59-L1102. The letters indicate the series, and the numbers indicate the temperature range of the contacts.
Particular attention should be paid to the color coding of the adjustment knob if it is still on your old thermostat or you are buying a new set. In the marking system of thermostats, color often indicates the temperature range:
- 🔵 Blue or cyan label/knob: often indicates thermostats for low temperatures, suitable for freezers or single-chamber refrigerators.
- ⚪ White or gray handle: standard option for the refrigeration compartment of two-chamber Stinol refrigerators (models K-59, TAM-112).
- 🔴 Red mark or dot: may indicate special series with an extended range or emergency shutdown thermostats.
- 🟢 Green marking: sometimes found on models intended for work with certain types of refrigerants or in specific climate classes.
Also on the case you can find a temperature range designation, for example, -24...+3.2 or -6...-25. The first number is usually the start temperature (when the compressor starts) and the second number is the stop temperature (when the compressor stops). The Stinol refrigeration compartment is characterized by on-off values of about +3...+5°C and off values of about -14...-18°C (depending on the model and zone).
Comparative table of popular models
For ease of selection and identification, we provide a comparative description of the main models of thermostats used in Stinol refrigerators. This table will help you navigate the variety of spare parts and choose the right analogue if the original is out of production.
| Model | Manufacturer | Size | Tube length (standard) | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TAM-112 | Russia (Tambov) | 3 contacts | 0.6 - 0.8 m | Refrigerator compartment (main) |
| TAM-125 | Russia (Tambov) | 3 contacts | 0.8 - 1.0 m | Refrigerator compartment (analog) |
| Ranco K-59 | Italy | 3 contacts | 0.7 - 0.9 m | Refrigerator compartment (original) |
| Ranco K-50 | Italy | 3 contacts | 0.7 - 0.9 m | Freezer / Single chamber |
| TAM-133 | Russia (Tambov) | 3 contacts | 1.0 - 1.3 m | Freezers, chests |
When choosing a replacement, it is important to consider not only the model, but also the length of the capillary tube. If you buy a thermostat with a longer tube than required, the excess can be carefully rolled into a ring with a diameter of at least 40 mm and secured with a clamp in the free space behind the back wall. However, you cannot use a thermostat with a tube shorter than necessary - it simply will not reach the mounting location on the evaporator, and the sensor will show the wrong temperature.
It is also worth paying attention to the presence of a fourth contact. In some modifications of Stinol refrigerators (especially with the No Frost system or indication) this contact is used. If you are replacing a three-pin thermostat with a four-pin thermostat (or vice versa), you need to carefully study the electrical diagram of your unit. In most cases, the fourth contact can simply be isolated if it is not involved in the circuit, but it is better to double-check this in the instructions.
Replacement algorithm: checklist and important nuances
Replacing the thermostat in a Stinol refrigerator is a procedure that can be done with your own hands if you have basic skills in working with tools and follow safety precautions. The process requires care, especially when working with the capillary tube and electrical connections. Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply!
☑️ Preparing to replace the thermostat
Dismantling the old thermostat begins with removing the decorative temperature control knob. It is usually simply removed by hand or pryed off with a flat screwdriver if it has a fixing screw. Then the screw securing the thermostat housing itself to the wall of the refrigerator is unscrewed. After this, you need to gain access to the capillary tube. In the Stinol refrigeration compartment, it is often hidden behind a plastic box or decorative trim on the ceiling of the chamber.
Carefully disconnect the wires from the contacts of the old thermostat. It is critical to remember or photograph the order in which the wires are connected to the terminals, since incorrect switching can lead to a short circuit or failure of the compressor. Usually the wires are color-coded, but you shouldn’t rely on color alone—it’s better to take a photo. Then remove the sensing cartridge from the hole in the evaporator and pull out the tube.
⚠️ Attention: When installing a new thermostat, make sure that the capillary tube does not touch moving parts (if any) or sharp metal edges that could damage it during vibration refrigerator. The tube should lie freely, without tension.
Installing the new thermostat is done in the reverse order. Insert the can into the evaporator socket, carefully lay the tube, secure the housing and connect the wires according to the diagram made earlier. After assembly, turn on the refrigerator and check its operation. The compressor should start, and after a while (when the temperature reaches the set value) it should turn off. If the refrigerator runs non-stop or does not turn on at all, check that the regulator is connected and configured correctly.
What to do if the new thermostat clicks, but does not turn on the compressor?
If you hear a characteristic click of the relay when you turn the knob, but the compressor is silent, perhaps the problem is not in the thermostat, but in the compressor start relay or the motor itself. It is also worth checking the integrity of the wires going from the thermostat to the compressor.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to install a Ranco K-59 thermostat instead of TAM-112?
Yes, this is a common practice. The thermostat Ranco K-59 is a complete functional analogue TAM-112 and often even exceeds it in terms of service life. The only thing you need to pay attention to is the length of the capillary tube and the method of attaching the housing. If the Ranco tube is longer, it can be neatly coiled. The fastening may require a little adaptation, since the holes may not match, but functionally they are fully compatible.
Why does the refrigerator freeze too much after replacing the thermostat?
Most likely, a thermostat with an inappropriate temperature range was installed (for example, for the freezer instead refrigeration). Incorrect adjustment is also possible: if the handle has a slotted screw (inside the handle), turning it can change the switching temperature. Try turning the adjustment knob towards lower values (minimum) and wait a day. If the problem persists, check the model of the installed thermostat.
How to understand that it is the thermostat that is faulty and not the relay?
The easiest way is to short-circuit the wires going to the thermostat (bypassing it) on a running refrigerator. If, when it is closed, the compressor starts and the refrigerator starts to freeze, and when it opens, it turns off, then the circuit is OK, and the problem is most likely in the thermostat (it does not close the contacts). If, when shorted, the compressor hums, but does not start, or nothing happens, the problem may be in the start relay or the compressor.
Is it necessary to defrost the refrigerator before replacing the thermostat?
Yes, complete defrosting is required. Firstly, it is safe for electricians. Secondly, during the work you will have to remove plastic panels and boxes that would be frozen tightly to the ice. Thirdly, you will need to work next to the evaporator, and the presence of ice will make it difficult to access the capillary tube and its mounting location.
Where is the thermostat located in the Stinol refrigerator?
In most Stinol models (especially the 103, 105, 107 series), the refrigerator compartment thermostat is located behind the top plastic cover inside the refrigerator cameras (under the ceiling). You can get to it by removing this cover. The freezer thermostat (if it is separate) is usually located behind the back wall of the freezer or in the upper part, behind the decorative panel.