Disconnecting the refrigerator Indesit is a task that every owner faces sooner or later. It would seem that it could be simpler: pull the plug out of the socket - and you're done. But in practice, incorrect shutdown is fraught with consequences: from food spoilage to serious damage to the compressor or electronics. This topic is especially relevant for models with a system No Frost, where erroneous actions can lead to icing of the evaporator or malfunction of the fans.
In this article we will examine not only shutdown mechanics (where the power button is located, how to correctly remove the plug), but also nuances that are not written about in standard instructions. For example, why refrigerators Indesit with electronic control cannot be turned off during the defrost cycle, how to prepare the unit for long periods of inactivity, and what to do if it does not cool after turning it on. You will also find a table of compatibility of actions for different series - from classic Indesit BIA 18 to modern Indesit EWD 8140.
We bet you didn’t know that even the way you remove the plug from the socket affects the durability of the start relay? Or that display models have a hidden “service shutdown” feature that minimizes the risk of power surges? These and other life hacks are below.
When you really need to turn off the refrigerator
Before you grab the plug, ask yourself the question: is it necessary to turn it off at all? Indesit, like other brands, designs refrigerators for round-the-clock operation. Unreasonable shutdowns reduce the service life of equipment. Here the only justified reasons for shutdown:
- 🔧 Repair or maintenance: replacing the lamp, cleaning the drainage system, compressor diagnostics.
- ❄️ Defrosting (for models without No Frost or in case of emergency icing).
- 🏠 Long moving or storage (more than 2 weeks).
- ⚡ Emergencies: burning smell, smoke, refrigerant leak.
- 🔌 Lack of electricity for >24 hours (to avoid a surge when the supply is restored).
If your goal is to save electricity, then turning off the refrigerator Indesit will not have a significant effect. Modern models consume only 20–50 W/hour in standby mode (with the door closed). But each on/off cycle creates a load on the starting relay, which eventually leads to its wear.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Indesit with a function Holiday (for example, Indesit ITF 118), turning off the power resets all settings, including temperature modes. After turning it on, you will have to set it up again.
Where is the on/off button
The location of the controls depends on Panel type your model Indesit. Here are the main options:
| Panel type | Models | Button location | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical | Indesit BIA 18, Indesit TS 11 | Temperature regulator (rotary dial) in position "0" or "OFF" | No separate button - shutdown only via plug or automatic |
| Electronic with display | Indesit EWD 8140, Indesit ITF 118 | Button Power or On/Off on the panel (usually on the right) |
Hold for 3 seconds to turn off completely |
| Touch | Indesit ITR 5200, Indesit ITD 5180 | Zone Touch with power icon |
Confirmation required (touch 2 times) |
| Hidden panel | Indesit ITF 16 (series TimeShift) | Behind the top freezer door | Opens by clicking on the brand logo |
In models with inverter compressor (for example, Indesit EWD 6140) the power button is often combined with the temperature regulator. To turn off such a refrigerator, you need to hold the button Temp 5-7 seconds until a sound signal appears.
What to do if the button does not respond?
If the button Power does not work, check:
1. Connection to the network (the power indicator should be on).
2. Child safety lock (in models with Child Lock press Lock 3 seconds).
3. Reset settings: unplug for 10 minutes, then turn it on again.
If the problem persists, the control board may have failed (diagnostics required).
Step-by-step instructions: how to turn off the Indesit refrigerator
Follow this algorithm to avoid mistakes:
- Preparing food:
- 🥦 Transfer perishable foods to a cooler bag or thermal container.
- 🧊 If you plan to defrost, use ice from the freezer to cool the containers.
- 🥛 Dairy products and meat are best consumed within 2-4 hours after turning off.
- Power off:
- 🔌 For models with a button: press
Power(or hold if required). - 🔌 For mechanical models: turn the temperature control to the "0" or "OFF" position.
- 🔌 If there is no button: carefully remove the plug from the socket, holding the plug body (not the cord!).
- 🔌 For models with a button: press
- 🧽 Remove all shelves and containers, rinse them with warm water and baking soda.
- 🧊 Place containers with hot water in the freezer to speed up defrosting (only for models without No Frost!).
- 🚪 Leave the doors open for 15–20 minutes for ventilation.
☑️ Checklist before disconnecting
Critical nuance for models with No Frost: never turn off the refrigerator while the fan is actively operating (air noise can be heard). This can lead to icing of the evaporator and subsequent breakdown of the defrost heating element. Wait for a pause in operation (the compressor has turned off, the fan is not making noise).
What to do after turning it off: care and preservation
If the refrigerator Indesit disconnected for a long time (for example, during vacation or repair), perform preservation conservation:
- 🧼 Washing internal surfaces: use a solution of vinegar (1:1 with water) or special products for refrigerators. Avoid abrasives!
- 🌿 Odor elimination: Place an open pack of baking soda or activated charcoal on the shelves. For persistent odors, use absorbents (e.g. Topperr).
- 🚪 Door position:
- For storage < 1 month: leave the door ajar (lock wedges).
- For storage > 1 month: close the door, but place bags of silica gel inside.
- 🔌 Power: if the refrigerator is not in use, it is better to unplug the plug from the socket to avoid damage from power surges.
For models with display (for example, Indesit EWD 9140) before a long period of inactivity, reset the settings: hold down the buttons Temp and Super Cool for 10 seconds. This will prevent the discharge of capacitors and malfunctions of the electronic device. block.
How to properly turn on the Indesit refrigerator after shutdown
Equally important start correctly refrigerator after inactivity. Here are the key rules:
- Wait 10-15 minutes after connecting the plug to the network. This is necessary to stabilize the refrigerant pressure in the system.
- Set the average temperature:
- For the refrigerator compartment:
+4°C.- For the freezer compartment:
-18°C.In models with
Eco Mode(for example, Indesit ITF 118), enable this mode to save energy. - Do not load food immediately. Let the refrigerator run empty for 1–2 hours so that the temperature stabilizes.
- Check the operation of the compressor: 30 minutes after turning it on, it should turn off (the cycle lasts ~10–15 minutes). If the compressor runs without stopping, there may be a freon leak.
In refrigerators with Multi Air Flow system (for example, Indesit EWD 7140) a message may appear after switching on Hi or Lo on the display. This means that the temperature in the chambers is outside the normal range. Wait 2-3 hours - the error will disappear on its own.
⚠️ Attention: If after turning on the refrigerator Indesit makes loud clicks or does not start, do not try to turn it on again. This may indicate a faulty start relay or compressor. Turn off the power and call a technician.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when turning off refrigerators Indesit. Here are the most common:
- ❌ Pulling the plug while the compressor is running → risk of water hammer and valve breakage. Correct: wait for the compressor to turn off (it should “rest” 5-10 minutes between cycles).
- ❌ Closing the door immediately after defrosting → leads to the formation of condensation and mold. Correct: wipe all surfaces dry and leave the door open for 15-20 minutes.
- ❌ Use of sharp objects to speed up defrosting → damage to the evaporator or tubes. Correct: use a plastic scraper or wooden spatula.
- ❌ Storing the refrigerator in a damp room → corrosion of metal parts. Correct: ensure dryness and ventilation.
Pay special attention to models with electronic control. For example, if the device is disconnected incorrectly, the calibration of the sensors may be lost. Signs of a problem: After turning on, the refrigerator does not cool, although the compressor is running. The solution is to reset the settings (see the instructions for your model). Indesit EWD 8140 If disconnected incorrectly, the calibration of the sensors may be lost. Signs of a problem: After turning on, the refrigerator does not cool, although the compressor is running. The solution is to reset the settings (see the instructions for your model).
Specifics for different Indesit series
Design features depend on the series of the refrigerator. Here are the key differences:
| Series | Disconnection features | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| BIA (mechanical control) | Temperature regulator in position "0" = disabled | Before turning on, turn the control to minimum cooling, then set the desired temperature |
| EWD (No Frost, electronic control) | Button Power on the display. When held for 5 seconds - complete shutdown |
After turning on, wait for the sound signal (ready indication) |
| ITF (two-chamber, inverter compressor) | Button On/Off hidden behind the top door freezer |
When disconnected for >1 week, remove the plug to discharge the capacitors |
| TS (narrow models) | Mechanical regulator, but the plug is grounded - remove carefully! | When defrosting, use a tray to collect water (included) |
In refrigerators of the Indesit ITR series (with a freshness zone Fresh Box), after switching on, additional adjustment of the humidity in the compartment may be required. To do this:
- Press the button
Fresh. - Select the humidity level (
Low,Medium,High) using the buttons+/–. - Confirm the selection with the button
OK.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to turn off the Indesit refrigerator at night to save energy?
No, this is not advisable. Modern refrigerators Indesit consume little energy in standby mode (about 0.5–1 kW/day). Frequent switching on/off reduces the life of the compressor. If you want to save money, turn on the mode Eco or Holiday (if available).
What to do if after turning off the refrigerator does not turn on?
Check:
- Connecting to the outlet (try another device in this socket).
- Fuse on the plug (some models have it).
- Presence of voltage in the network (the circuit breaker in the panel may have tripped).
If there is power, but the refrigerator does not respond, there may be a malfunction of the control board or thermostat. Call a specialist.
How long can you store food in a switched off refrigerator?
It depends on the room temperature:
- At +20°C: meat and milk - up to 2 hours, vegetables/fruits - up to 6 hours.
- At +10°C: meat - up to 4 hours, semi-finished products - up to 8 hours.
- In the freezer (if not opened): food will last up to 24 hours.
Use cooler bags or ice to extend the period.
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator Indesit with No Frost?
Technically, no, since the system No Frost prevents the formation of ice. However, once every 1–2 years it is recommended hygienic cleaning:
- Turn off the refrigerator.
- Wash the shelves and walls with a soda solution.
- Dry the chambers (you can use a fan).
This will remove possible odors and bacteria.
Can the Indesit refrigerator be transported lying down?
Only in a vertical position! If you have to transport lying down, follow the rules:
- Place on side wall (not on the back or front!).
- Secure the compressor (use original fasteners or foam rubber).
- After transportation, do not turn on the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (to stabilize the oil in the compressor).
Ignoring these rules leads to breakdown of the compressor (the warranty does not cover such a case!).