The question of how to properly turn off Hotpoint Ariston refrigeratoroften arises not only when moving, but also in situations where you need to go on vacation or if the device is temporarily not in use. Many owners mistakenly believe that it is enough to simply unplug the cord from the outlet, however, for equipment with a No Frost or combined cooling system, this approach can be fatal. Improper shutdown without prior defrosting leads to the accumulation of moisture, the appearance of mold and a persistent unpleasant odor, which is then extremely difficult to get rid of.
Modern models of the Italian brand are equipped with complex electronics and sensitive compressors that require a certain algorithm of actions before long periods of inactivity. Ignoring conservation rules can lead to oxidation of contacts, drying out of seals, and even failure of the control system the next time it is turned on. In this article we will analyze in detail all the stages, from setting the temperature regime to the correct packaging of the unit for storage.
It is also worth noting that the procedure may differ slightly depending on the specific series of your equipment, be it a compact Hotpoint Ariston MBF or a full-size model HF series. It is critically important to know that in models with a display on the door, before physically turning off the power, you must forcefully end all active compressor cycles through the settings menu, if such a function is provided by the software of your version. Let's look at the sequence of actions that guarantee the safety of your equipment.
Preparation for shutdown and defrosting systems
The first step before turning off Hotpoint Ariston refrigeratoris the complete preparation of the internal space. You cannot simply turn off an appliance full of food, as this will lead to their spoilage and the growth of bacteria, the smell of which will be absorbed into the plastic parts of the interior. Empty all shelves, drawers and door baskets of contents, checking expiration dates and removing excess.
After emptying the food, you must switch the thermostat to minimum cooling or off mode. For models with mechanical control, this is turning the knob to position 0 or OFF. In electronic models with a display, you must press and hold the power button or use the key combination specified in the instructions to put the device into standby mode. Only after this can you begin to physically disconnect from the power supply.
The next stage is defrosting. Even if your Hotpoint Ariston equipped with a No Frostsystem, condensation may remain in the evaporator, and moisture may remain in the drainage channels. Leave the refrigerator and freezer doors open for at least 12 to 24 hours. This will allow the ice to melt and the interior surfaces to dry naturally. It is strictly prohibited to speed up the process with heating devices, as this can deform the plastic elements.
⚠️ Attention: When defrosting, be sure to place absorbent rags on the floor in front of the refrigerator or install shallow trays, since melt water can flow out of the drainage hole faster than it can go down the drain, especially if the tube is clogged with residues food.
Cleaning and disinfection of internal chambers
While the refrigerator is turned off and defrosted, it’s time to do some general cleaning. Remaining moisture and food microparticles are an ideal environment for the development of microorganisms. Prepare a warm soapy solution or use a special cleaner for household appliances. Thoroughly wipe all shelves, guides and chamber walls, paying special attention to corners and joints where dirt often accumulates.
Particular attention should be paid sealing rubber bands to the doors. They are the ones that most often become the source of unpleasant odors when equipment is left idle for a long time. Wipe them with a soft sponge, removing any dirt, and check for cracks or damage. If the rubber band is damaged, the refrigerator will not operate efficiently the next time you turn it on, using more electricity.
- 🧼 Use a soft cloth and neutral detergents, avoiding abrasive powders.
- 💧 Rinse surfaces thoroughly with clean water to remove chemical residues.
- 🌬️ Be sure to wipe all elements dry before assembly.
- 🚫 Do not use chlorine-containing products that can damage the plastic.
After wet cleaning, leave the doors open for a few more hours for final drying. Make sure there are no wet spots left inside the cameras. Only after complete drying can you install the shelves and drawers in their places. If you plan to store the refrigerator turned off for a long time, leave the doors ajar, locking them in this position to ensure air circulation.
Proper disconnection from the power supply
The process of physically disconnecting Hotpoint Ariston refrigerator from the network also has its own nuances. Before unplugging the plug, make sure your hands are dry and the floor around the appliance is dry. Sudden pulling of the cord can damage the contacts of the plug or socket, which will lead to sparking and heating in the future.
If the socket is located in a hard-to-reach place, do not pull on the wire itself so as not to damage the insulation. Use an extension cord or carefully move the equipment if possible. For models connected through a surge protector, first turn off the button on the filter itself, and only then remove the plug. This will help avoid micro-voltage surges.
☑️ Check before disconnecting
It is important to check the condition of the network cable. If you notice abrasions, creases or melted insulation, operating such a cable is dangerous. In this case, before the next turn on, you must replace the power cord with an original or certified analogue with similar current and voltage characteristics.
⚠️ Attention: Never touch the metal parts of the plug with wet hands and do not allow water to enter the outlet when turning off the device, especially if there are water pipes nearby.
Preservation and preparation for storage
If you plan not to use Hotpoint Ariston refrigerator for a long time, it must be preserved. The main rule for storing switched off equipment is to ensure ventilation of the internal chambers. Tightly closed doors will lead to the appearance of a musty smell and mold in a matter of weeks.
Use a cardboard gasket or special securing tape (often included with purchase) to keep the doors slightly open. This will ensure a constant flow of fresh air and prevent the formation of condensation. If the equipment is stored in a garage or country house, where temperature changes are possible, this is especially true.
To protect against dust, you can cover the unit with a breathable fabric or an old sheet. Do not use plastic film as it creates a greenhouse effect and allows moisture to accumulate. It is also worth sealing open holes and pipes with masking tape to prevent insects or rodents from getting inside.
Transporting a switched-off unit
Often the refrigerator is turned off for transportation to a new place of residence. There are strict rules here, violation of which can damage the compressor. The main risk during transportation is oil leakage from the compressor into the cooling system circuit, which leads to clogging of the capillary tube.
It is recommended to transport it strictly in a vertical position. The unit can be tilted no more than 40 degrees, and then only for a short time. If you had to transport the equipment lying down, after installation in a new place it will need a long rest before turning on. Hotpoint Ariston refrigerator recommended strictly in a vertical position. The unit can be tilted no more than 40 degrees, and then only for a short time. If you had to transport the equipment lying down, after installing it in a new place, it will need a long rest before turning it on.
| Position during transportation | Settling time before turning on | Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical | 2-4 hours | Minimum |
| Tilt up to 40° | 6-8 hours | Medium (oil displacement possible) |
| Supine position | 12-24 hours | High (system clogged with oil) |
What to do if the refrigerator was transported lying down?
If you were forced to transport the refrigerator in a horizontal position, not in Do not turn it on immediately. Leave it in an upright position in a warm room for at least a day. This time is necessary for the compressor oil to flow back into the compressor crankcase. Turning on earlier than this period can lead to water hammer and failure of the compressor.
Before transportation, be sure to secure the moving parts: shelves, drawers and doors. It is better to secure the doors with tape or belts, but do not tighten them too much so as not to deform the handles or plastic. It is better to remove the glass shelves and transport them separately, wrapped in a soft cloth or bubble wrap.
First turn on after a long period of inactivity
After the refrigerator has been turned off for a long time or has been transported, turning it on for the first time requires caution. Make sure that the unit is on a level surface and that the necessary time interval has been maintained to stabilize the oil in the compressor. Plug in the device and let it run empty for 1-2 hours.
During this time, evaluate the operation of the compressor: it should turn on and off cyclically, without any extraneous knocking or humming. Check the cooling of the chambers - they should be evenly covered with cold. If everything is working properly, you can gradually load food, starting with small quantities.
Pay attention to the tightness of the door. After a long period of inactivity, the rubber band may have become slightly deformed. If you notice that the door does not fit tightly, try heating the seal with a hairdryer (at low temperature) or rubbing it with glycerin to restore elasticity.
⚠️ Attention: Do not fill the refrigerator with food immediately after turning it on. Allow the equipment to reach operating temperature conditions in an empty state, otherwise the compressor will work with overload, trying to cool warm products.
Common mistakes when turning off equipment
Owners often make mistakes that shorten the service life Hotpoint Ariston refrigerator. One of the most common is storing the device with the doors tightly closed. This is guaranteed to lead to the appearance of mold, which is very difficult to remove from porous interior materials.
Another mistake is ignoring defrosting before turning it off. The remaining water in the No Frost system, when freezing and thawing during the off-season, can damage the plastic elements of the evaporator or cause corrosion of metal parts. Always follow the instructions and let the equipment dry completely.
- ❌ Forget to check the condition of the electrical cord before storing.
- ❌ Leave food or open containers with liquid inside.
- ❌ Cover the unit with airtight materials.
- ❌ Turn on the device immediately after transportation without settling.
Proper care and compliance with operating rules is the key to the long service of your household appliances. Regular maintenance and proper shutdown will help avoid costly repairs and maintain operational efficiency Hotpoint Ariston refrigerator for many years.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long should you keep the refrigerator turned off before transporting?
It is recommended to defrost and dry the refrigerator with it turned off for 24 hours. This ensures complete melting of ice and evaporation of moisture from hard-to-reach places, which is critical for preventing mold and corrosion.
Is it possible to store a switched-off refrigerator on a balcony in winter?
Storing on an uninsulated balcony is not recommended. Sudden temperature changes, humidity and direct sunlight can damage seals, plastics and paintwork. In addition, condensation inside the unit can freeze and damage the system elements.
What to do if, after turning on, the refrigerator does not cool?
If after turning on there is no decrease in temperature within 2-3 hours, check if the compressor is working (if you can hear a hum). If the compressor is silent or hums but does not start, the start relay may be stuck or the compressor has failed. In this case, you need to call a specialist.
Do you need to lubricate the door hinges before long-term storage?
Special lubrication is not required if the hinges are in good condition. However, you can wipe them with a dry cloth to remove dust. If the hinges begin to creak after turning on, use a special silicone lubricant that is safe for household appliances.
Is it dangerous to leave the refrigerator turned off in the network?
It is possible to leave the refrigerator plugged in, but turned off with the button, but it is better to completely remove the plug from the socket. This will protect the device from power surges and lightning discharges, which can damage the electronic control module even when turned off.