Modern models of refrigerators Indesit are equipped with a No Frost system or a weeping evaporator, which makes operation as convenient as possible. However, even with automatic moisture removal, water or dirt often accumulates in the lower part of the unit. To collect this liquid and dirt, the design provides a special plastic tray located above the compressor. Many owners encounter difficulties when it comes time for general cleaning and do not understand how to safely remove this element.
Incorrect dismantling actions can lead to broken fasteners or damage to the compressor tubes. It is important to understand that depending on the model Indesit —whether it is a two-chamber refrigerator or a single-chamber model—the design of the rear wall may differ. In some cases, access to the tray requires moving the unit away from the wall, and in others, removing the protective panel. This article will help you understand the nuances of the design of your device.
We will look at a detailed algorithm of actions that will allow you to quickly and without damage remove the tray for subsequent washing. You'll learn what tools you might need, how to determine the type of fastener in your model, and what to do if a plastic piece gets stuck. Compliance with the correct sequence of actions is the key to maintaining warranty obligations and long service life of the equipment.
Preparation of the workplace and safety measures
Before starting any manipulations with the back wall of the refrigerator Indesit it is necessary to ensure safe working conditions. Access to the compressor compartment is often limited by the tight fit of the unit to the wall or furniture. You will need to move the refrigerator away, leaving a gap of at least 50-70 centimeters for comfortable access to the bottom of the case. Do not attempt to carry out work in the dark or with insufficient lighting, as this increases the risk of damage to the wiring.
A critical step is to disconnect the device from the electrical outlet. Compressor and the elements adjacent to it are live when the cord is plugged into the outlet. Even if you only plan to wash the plastic tray, accidentally touching electrical contacts or damaging wire insulation with detergent is unacceptable. After unplugging, it is recommended to wait 10-15 minutes for the capacitors to discharge and the temperature of the heating elements to decrease.
⚠️ Attention: Never tilt a running refrigerator or try to remove parts while the device is plugged in. This may result in a short circuit or electric shock.
You may only need a minimal set of tools to get the job done. In most cases, your hands are enough, but sometimes you need a flat-head screwdriver or a plastic spatula to pry the latches. Prepare a container in advance to drain the water from the pan, as stagnant liquid may have an unpleasant odor and contain bacteria. It would also be a good idea to prepare a soft rag for wiping the internal surfaces.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
Determining the type of construction of your Indesit
Refrigerators Indesit are produced in various modifications, and the method mounting of the pallet directly depends on the series of the device. In older models and some budget series, the plastic water tray may simply lie on top of the compressor, not attached to anything. In this case, the question of “how to pull it out” is solved in an elementary way - just lift it with your hands. However, in more modern models with a system No Frost or Full No Frost the design is more complicated.
Often the tray is covered with a decorative or protective panel, which is secured with latches or screws. In such models, the tray can be built into the general drainage system and have clamps that prevent it from moving when the compressor vibrates. You can determine the type of design by looking at the technical data sheet of the device or visually inspecting the back wall. If you only see a metal radiator grille and a black compressor, most likely the sump is open.
There is also an intermediate option where the sump is held in place by plastic guides. In this case, you need to not just lift it, but carefully pull it along the guides. Incorrectly applying upward force can break the thin plastic tabs. Therefore, before starting dismantling, carefully inspect the perimeter of the tray for the presence of fixing elements.
Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the tray
The process of removing the tray in refrigerators Indesit requires consistency. First make sure you get to the bottom of the back wall. If the tray is open and lying loose, grab it by the front edge (closest to you) and lift it up slightly. The movement should be smooth, without jerking. If water has accumulated inside, try to hold the tray horizontally to avoid spilling the contents on the floor or electronic components.
If the tray is secured with latches, you need to proceed differently. Locate the attachment points - usually these are ridges on the sides or back. Gently press the latches or pry them with a flat object wrapped in cloth to avoid scratching the plastic. After unlocking the fasteners, pull the tray towards you. If it doesn't work, don't use excessive force—you may not have released all the latches. In some models refrigerator you must first remove the metal cover of the compressor.
If the tray is built deep and access is difficult, you may need to remove the entire back panel. To do this, unscrew the fastening screws around the perimeter of the panel. After removing the panel, you will have full access to the compressor compartment. In this situation, the tray is usually removed in an upward or sideways motion, depending on the direction of the guides. Be careful with the cooling system pipes - they can be fragile.
What to do if the pan cannot be removed?
If the pan cannot be removed, check whether the drainage hose is in the way. Sometimes the hose can become kinked or improperly laid, creating a mechanical obstruction. Also check to see if the tray is frozen to metal parts due to condensation. In this case, let the refrigerator stand defrosted longer than usual.
Cleaning and disinfecting the removed element
After you managed to remove the tray from Indesit, you need to thoroughly clean it. Stagnant water in the tray is an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria and mold, which becomes a source of unpleasant odors throughout the kitchen. Wash the part with warm water and a mild detergent. It is not recommended to use abrasive powders or hard brushes, as they can leave micro-scratches in which dirt will accumulate even faster.
For disinfection, you can use a weak solution of vinegar or a special product for cleaning refrigerators. Rinse the tray thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining chemicals. Pay special attention to corners and joints where mucus often forms. If limescale has formed on the bottom, soak the part in a citric acid solution for 20-30 minutes before the main wash.
⚠️ Attention: Avoid using boiling water to wash the plastic tray. A sharp temperature change can deform thin plastic, and the part will no longer fit tightly to the body, which will lead to leaks.
After washing, be sure to wipe the tray dry with a clean cloth. It is not recommended to leave it wet, since when reinstalled, moisture can cause corrosion of the metal parts of the compressor. While the tray is drying, wipe the area where it is installed inside the refrigerator. Remove dust from the radiator and compressor using a dry cloth or soft brush. Cleanliness in the compressor compartment improves heat transfer and extends the service life of the unit.
Installing the pan and checking operation
Returning a clean pan to its place requires care. Make sure the area around the compressor is dry and clean. Insert the tray into the guides or install it in its original place, following the reverse procedure described during dismantling. If there were latches, wait for a characteristic click confirming the fixation. Check that the pallet lies flat, without distortion, and does not directly touch moving parts or hot surfaces, unless this is provided for by the design.
After installing all the removed panels and covers, you can connect the refrigerator Indesit to the electrical network. Plug the device into a power outlet and start it up. During the first hours of operation, keep a close eye on the rear wall. Make sure that the water from the drainage hole actually flows into the pan and does not drip past it onto the floor. Correct installation ensures that the moisture removal system will function properly.
If you notice that the pan is crooked or water flows out, the procedure will have to be repeated. There may be wires or hoses in the way that need to be straightened out carefully. Also check if the pan does not block air access to the compressor, as this can cause the engine to overheat.
Typical problems and ways to solve them
Refrigerator owners Indesit may encounter various situations when servicing the pan. Below is a table that helps diagnose the main problems and methods for eliminating them.
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The tray is cracked | The plastic has become brittle from time or temperature changes | Replacing the part with an original one or using food-grade epoxy |
| Water drips past | The angle of inclination is off or the hose has moved | Correct the position of the pan and check the hose connection |
| Strong odor | Bacterial proliferation in stagnant water | Regular washing and disinfection, checking drainage |
| The tray is heating up | Contact with a hot compressor (normal for some models) | Make sure that the plastic does not deform from the heat |
One of the common problems is cracking of the plastic. Over time, the material loses its elasticity. If you find a crack, do not rush to buy a new pallet. For a temporary solution, you can use food-grade epoxy resin or a special plastic glue that is resistant to low temperatures and moisture. However, if the crack is through and large, it is better to order a new spare part according to the catalog number of your model Indesit.
Another situation is that the water does not have time to evaporate and overflows. This may indicate a malfunction of the evaporator heating element (in No Frost models), which is responsible for heating the pan and accelerating evaporation. If the heating element burns out, water will accumulate. Checking this element requires a multimeter and electrician skills, so in this case it is better to contact a service center.
Frequently asked questions and answers (FAQ)
Can the tray be washed in the dishwasher?
Technically this is possible if the plastic is heat-resistant. However, manufacturers Indesit often use plastic, which can become deformed at high washing temperatures (usually above 60-70°C). It is recommended to wash it manually with warm water to ensure that the geometry of the part is preserved.
Why is there rusty water in the pan?
The rusty tint to the water is given by dust containing iron oxides, which settles on the radiator and compressor and is then washed away by condensation. The cause may also be corrosion of metal elements inside the unit itself if the integrity of the coatings is damaged. Regular cleaning of the back wall solves this problem.
Do you need to lubricate the tray guides?
No, you do not need to lubricate the guides. The water flowing into the pan itself acts as a lubricant during movement. The use of oils or fats can cause more dust and dirt to adhere to the sticky surface, forming a difficult-to-remove mass.
What to do if the Indesit pan cannot be removed at all?
If you are sure that all the latches are open, but the pan is firmly in place, it may have become stuck due to long-term use or dried dirt. Try gently rocking it from side to side. As a last resort, you can slightly heat the joints with a hairdryer (not a construction hair dryer, but a regular one for hair) at a minimum temperature to soften the plastic, but act very carefully.
How often should you wash the tray in the refrigerator?
The optimal frequency is once every six months with scheduled defrosting. If you have pets that shed all year round, or you live in an area with dusty air, you should check and clean the drip tray every 3-4 months, as hair and dust quickly clog the system.