Purchasing new household appliances always causes excitement, especially when it comes to large devices that ensure the safety of food. Refrigerators Indesit have proven themselves to be reliable units accessible to a wide range of consumers. However, in order for the equipment to serve the period stated by the manufacturer without breakdowns, it is extremely important to comply with all the nuances of its initial start-up. Errors at this stage can lead to compressor failure or loss of system integrity.
The installation and activation process requires careful attention to detail, starting from the moment the device is delivered to the apartment. Many users rush to immediately connect the device to the network, which is strictly prohibited by technical regulations. Proper preparation takes time, but guarantees stable operation of the cooling system in the future. In this article, we will go into detail about each step that needs to be completed before using your new refrigerator for the first time.
The importance of the settling period after transportation
The most critical point that is often forgotten is the time it takes for the refrigerant and oil to stabilize in the system. During transportation, even careful transportation, active movement of liquids occurs within the circuit. Oil from the compressor can get into the heat exchangers, which, if started immediately, will lead to water hammer or blockage of the capillary tube.
The waiting time directly depends on how exactly the unit was transported. If the refrigerator was transported strictly in an upright position, the minimum rest time is 2–3 hours. If the device was transported lying down or at an angle of more than 40 degrees, the waiting period increases to 12–24 hours. This is necessary so that the oil flows back into the compressor crankcase.
In addition, if the delivery was carried out in winter at subzero temperatures, you should not be in a double hurry to turn it on. A sudden start of a cold unit in a warm room can cause moisture condensation on electronic components and damage to wire insulation.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to speed up the process of warming up the compressor with household heaters. Local overheating can deform the seals and damage the varnish coating of the motor windings.
What happens inside when transported on its side?
When the refrigerator is tilted or laid on its side, oil from the compressor flows into the cooling circuit. If you turn on the unit immediately, the compressor will run dry, which will lead to it jamming or rupture of the tubes due to high pressure.
Visual inspection and preparation of the installation site
Before unpacking, make sure that the selected location meets the operating requirements. The refrigerator Indesit should be placed on a flat, hard surface away from direct sunlight and heating devices. The distance to walls and furniture should be at least 5–10 cm to ensure free air circulation around the condenser.
After installing the unit in a permanent location, conduct a thorough visual inspection. Check the integrity of the case, the absence of dents, scratches and chips of the enamel. Pay special attention to doors and handles - they should open smoothly, without distortion. Internal shelves and drawers should also not be cracked.
Remove all packaging material, including protective film, cardboard inserts and tape. Inside the chamber there are often fixing elements that prevent the shelves from loosening during transportation. They must be removed so as not to damage the plastic during operation.
- 📏 Check the horizontal installation using a building level - misalignment can cause spontaneous opening of the doors.
- 🔌 Make sure that the outlet is grounded and matches the load (usually up to 2 kW).
- 🧊 Inspect the door seals for the presence of creases - they must fit tightly around the entire perimeter.
Setting the position and adjusting the supports
A stable position of the refrigerator is the key to quiet operation and proper sealing of the chambers. The legs of the unit Indesit equipped with adjusting screws that allow you to compensate for uneven floors. If the refrigerator wobbles, vibration during compressor operation will increase, which will lead to increased noise.
For adjustment, use the key included in the kit or regular pliers. Rotate the front supports until the body tilts slightly backwards. This will create conditions for automatic closing of the doors under their own weight if they are not fully open.
Do not forget that when fully loaded with food, the weight of the refrigerator will increase and the supports may sag a little. Therefore, it is recommended to carry out the final adjustment after you fill the chambers with products.
Primary washing and hygienic treatment
A new refrigerator, despite its original packaging, requires mandatory sanitary processing before loading products. During the production and storage process, dust, microparticles of plastic or factory grease may have settled on the internal surfaces.
For washing, use warm water with the addition of a mild detergent or baking soda solution. It is strictly forbidden to use abrasive powders, aggressive solvents or chlorine-containing substances, as they can damage the plastic housing and rubber seals.
After wet cleaning, thoroughly wipe all surfaces with a dry soft cloth. Leave the doors open for 1-2 hours to dry completely and eliminate the specific smell of new plastic. Only after this can you begin connecting the power supply.
⚠️ Attention: Avoid getting water on electrical components, the light bulb and the rear radiator grille. Moisture in these areas can cause a short circuit when turned on for the first time.
Connecting to the power supply and first start-up
When the preparation stage is completed and the settling time has expired, you can move on to the most crucial moment - connecting to the network. Make sure the plug is firmly seated in the outlet. Refrigerators Indesit do not have a switch on the case, so applying voltage immediately starts the cooling process.
After connecting to the network, you may hear a quiet hum or gurgle - this is normal, the refrigerant begins to circulate through the system. Modern models may not have an indication right away, so you should focus on the sound of the compressor and the appearance of cold in the chambers.
The first cooling cycle can last longer than usual, up to 2-3 hours, since the system needs to cool the entire internal volume and walls of the chambers from room temperature to the specified parameters. At this time, it is not recommended to open the doors unless absolutely necessary.
☑️ Check before turning on
Setting temperature modes
After the refrigerator has been running for several hours and reaches the operating mode, you need to set the optimal temperature. In the refrigerator compartment, it is recommended to set the value between +3°C and +5°C. In the freezer, the optimal mode is -18°C for long-term storage.
Control can be carried out by a mechanical regulator (thermostat) or an electronic panel. If you have a model with mechanical control, turn the knob to set the value in the middle of the scale, and then adjust it depending on the degree of cooling of the products.
For electronic models, use the buttons on the display. Press the appropriate keys to change the readings. Remember that changing settings does not take effect instantly; the system takes time to stabilize the new mode.
| Mode | Temperature | Recommended products | Shelf life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooling | +3...+5°C | Dairy products, ready meals | 2-5 days |
| Frozen | -18°C | Meat, fish, semi-finished products | up to 12 month |
| Super freezing | -24°C | Fresh food for quick freezing | 24 hours |
| Zero zone | 0...+1°C | Fresh meat, fish, herbs | up to 7 days |
Operation control and typical sounds
On the first day of operation, carefully monitor behavior of the unit. Periodic switching on and off of the compressor is considered acceptable. Modern inverter models can operate virtually silently and continuously, maintaining the temperature.
You may hear the sounds of refrigerant flowing, a quiet hum or clicking of the thermostat. This indicates normal operation of the system. Only a loud knock, clanging or continuous operation of the compressor without stopping during the first hours should alert you.
Also check the heating of the side walls or grilles at the back. The condenser should be warm or even hot during operation - this is part of the heat transfer process. If the walls remain cold while the compressor is running, there may be a freon leak.
⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator runs non-stop for more than 6-8 hours and does not turn off, and does not get cold inside, immediately unplug it and contact a service center. Operation in this mode is dangerous.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long after switching on can you load food?
It is recommended to completely load the refrigerator with food after it has been empty for 5-6 hours and will reach the set temperature. However, small portions can be placed after 2 hours of operation.
Why does the Indesit refrigerator make a lot of noise when first started?
A new compressor may operate louder due to the need to initially pump the system and grind in parts. If the noise is not accompanied by vibration of the case and does not subside after a day, it is worth checking the evenness of the installation.
Is it possible to place an Indesit refrigerator on a balcony?
Most models Indesit are intended for use indoors at temperatures from +10°C to +32°C. Installation on an unheated balcony can lead to oil thickening and compressor breakdown in winter or overheating in summer.
What to do if the door does not close tightly?
Check whether anything is interfering with the seal (packaging, food). Make sure the refrigerator is level. If the seal is deformed upon delivery, try gently warming it with a hair dryer or straightening it with your fingers.
Do you need to defrost the Indesit refrigerator?
Models with the system No Frost do not require manual defrosting. If you have a drip system (crying evaporator), the refrigerator compartment needs to be defrosted 1-2 times a year, and the freezer compartment - when plaque forms more than 5 mm thick.