Buying a new refrigerator is always a joyful event, but it is often accompanied by anxiety: what if we do something wrong the first time we start it? Owners of equipment Hotpoint Ariston are especially attentive to details, because this brand is famous for its reliability and sophisticated electronics. Improper preparation for operation can lead to serious damage to the compressor or loss of system tightness.
Many users make the fatal mistake of plugging the device into the network immediately after delivery. This is absolutely impossible to do. The refrigerator must settle so that the oil that gets into the tubes during shaking flows back into the compressor crankcase. In this article, we will look in detail at how to start Hotpoint Ariston refrigerator correctly so that it serves you for many years without failures and costly repairs.
The initial startup process consists of several critical steps: from unpacking to setting precise temperature conditions. Modern models with the system No Frost require a special approach to setup, in contrast to classic drip systems. Ignoring the manufacturer's recommendations may void the warranty.
Preparation for first use and settling
The first thing to do after delivering the unit to the kitchen is to give it time to acclimatize. If the refrigerator was transported in a horizontal position or simply tilted strongly, compressor oil could spread throughout the cooling system. It takes time for the liquid to return to the reservoir. Usually the instructions recommend waiting from 2 to 4 hours, but if there was a winter delivery, it is better to increase this period to a day.
While the equipment is settling, thoroughly clean the internal chambers. New materials, plastics and seals may have a specific factory smell. Wipe all surfaces with a soft cloth soaked in a weak soda solution or a special household appliance cleaner. Do not use abrasive powders or aggressive chemicals that can damage the coating.
⚠️ Attention: Never use boiling water or hot water to wash the internal chambers - a sudden temperature change can cause deformation of the plastic elements and cracks in the evaporator.
It is also important to check the integrity of the transportation fastenings. Some models Hotpoint Ariston have special shelf or drawer latches that must be removed before use. Make sure that all gaskets on the doors are clean and free of creases, as the tightness depends on this.
- 📦 Remove all packaging materials, tape and films from the inside and outside.
- 🕰️ Pause for 3-4 hours (or more if there was winter transportation) before turning on network.
- 🧼 Sanitize the chambers with a baking soda solution.
- 🔌 Make sure that the outlet is grounded and meets the power requirements.
☑️ Ready to start
Choice of installation location and ventilation
Effective operation Hotpoint Ariston refrigerator directly depends on the conditions of its placement. The heat exchanger, located on the back wall or on the sides (depending on the model), must freely release heat to the environment. If the device stands in a niche without gaps, the compressor will work hard, trying to maintain the set temperature.
The operating instructions clearly regulate the minimum distances to walls and furniture. For most models, you need to leave at least 5-10 cm at the back and 2-3 cm at the sides. The upper part also needs free space for air circulation, especially if the refrigerator is built-in or installed under the countertop.
It is not recommended to place the equipment in close proximity to heating appliances, stoves or in direct sunlight. An increased external temperature will cause electronics to turn on the compressor more often, which will lead to increased energy consumption and noise. The floor under the device must be level and strong.
⚠️ Attention: Installing the refrigerator on a soft carpet or shag carpet is prohibited, as this will block air access to the bottom of the case and may cause overheating of the electronic components.
To level the position, use adjustable support legs. The correct horizontal position is important not only for stability, but also for the correct closing of doors. If the door opens on its own or, conversely, does not fit completely, check the angle of the housing.
- 📏 Maintain a gap of at least 5 cm between the back wall and the wall of the room.
- ☀️ Avoid direct sunlight on the device body.
- ⚖️ Adjust legs so that the doors close tightly and independently.
- 🌡️ Do not place the refrigerator next to heat sources (radiators, ovens).
Initial connection and activation
After the device has settled and been installed in place, you can proceed to the electrical connection. Use only a grounded outlet. The use of various extension cords, tees or low-quality surge protectors is not recommended, since the starting currents of the compressor can be high.
When you plug it into the network, you may hear a characteristic click or hum - this is normal. Modern models Hotpoint Ariston equipped with inverter or linear compressors that start smoothly. The indicators on the display (if equipped) will light up and the initial cooling process will begin.
During the first hours of operation, do not load the chambers with food. An empty refrigerator takes 6 to 12 hours to reach operating temperature. At this time, the system tests the sensors and fills all circuits with refrigerant. Loading with warm products immediately after switching on will create a critical load on the system.
| Stage | Action | Waiting time |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | Delivery to site | — |
| Settlement | Oil acclimatization | 3-4 hours (minimum) |
| Cooling | Exit to mode (empty) | 6-12 hours |
| Loading | Full load with products | After stabilization |
If after turning on you hear a loud knock, vibration or smell a burning smell, immediately unplug the device. This may indicate a manufacturing defect or shipping damage. In this case, you need to call a technician for diagnostics.
- 🔌 Connect the device directly to the outlet without adapters.
- ⏳ Let the refrigerator run empty for at least 6 hours.
- 👂 Listen to the operation of the compressor: it should hum smoothly, without knocking.
- ❄️ Do not open the doors often during the first hours of operation.
Setting temperature modes
Modern refrigerators Hotpoint Ariston are equipped with electronic controls that allow you to accurately set parameters for each zone. The standard temperature in the main chamber should be +4°C... +5°C. This is the optimal mode for storing most products, preventing the growth of bacteria.
It is recommended to set the freezer to -18°C. It is at this temperature that products can be stored for up to a year without losing their properties. Many models have a function Fast Freeze (Quick freezing), which is useful to activate before loading a large amount of fresh food.
For models with a freshness zone (Zero Degree), the settings may differ. This compartment maintains a temperature of around 0°C... +2°C, which is ideal for meat, fish and dairy products that you plan to cook in the coming days. Do not confuse this zone with a freezer.
⚠️ Attention: Temperature adjustment is carried out gradually. Do not try to suddenly change the settings from maximum to minimum values - this may cause an error in the operation of the sensors.
Control is most often carried out through the touch panel or rotary encoder. In models with a display, you need to press the setup button (Set or image of a thermometer), select a zone and change the value using the + or -buttons. After selecting, confirm the action, otherwise the settings will be reset after a few seconds.
- 🌡️ Optimal temperature in the refrigerator compartment: +4°C.
- ❄️ Standard for the freezer: -18°C.
- 🥩 The freshness zone is designed for short-term storage of meat and fish.
- 🔄 Turn on the quick freezing function 2-3 hours before loading.
What is the Eco Mode function?
The energy saving mode automatically operates the compressor and defrost system to minimize electricity consumption. In this mode, the cooling process may be a little slower, but this does not affect the safety of products with a standard load.
Common startup errors
Even following the instructions, users sometimes make mistakes that affect the durability of the equipment. One of the most common is installing the refrigerator close to the wall. This leads to the fact that hot air is not removed, and the compressor runs almost non-stop.
Another common problem is loading with warm products immediately after switching on. Many people forget that the refrigerator must first cool its internal volume. An attempt to freeze hot soup or just purchased meat in a chamber that has not yet cooled down can “kill” the compressor in one cycle.
The need to check the level is also often ignored. If the refrigerator is positioned crookedly, condensation may not enter the evaporator, but flow out, forming puddles on the floor. In addition, skewed doors fit worse, which leads to ice freezing even in systems No Frost.
| Error | Consequence | How to fix |
|---|---|---|
| Start up immediately after delivery | Wear of the compressor, noise | Wait 3-4 hours |
| No gaps | Overheating, high energy consumption | Move away from the wall |
| Load warm | Food spoilage, icing | Cool food to room temperature |
| Incorrect level | Leaks, loose closure | Tighten legs |
You should also not forget about the cleanliness of the capacitor. If dust and animal hair have accumulated behind the device, heat transfer is disrupted. Vacuum the back grill regularly (once every six months) to ensure free air circulation.
- 🚫 Do not place the refrigerator in a corner without access to air.
- 🍲 Cool hot food before putting it in the refrigerator.
- 🧹 Clean the back regularly dust grille.
- ⚖️ Check the horizontal installation during each general cleaning.
Diagnostics of operation after startup
After the refrigerator has worked for a day, it is necessary to carry out initial diagnostics. Check whether the main chamber is cooled evenly. In models with multi-thread cooling cold air should be distributed over all levels. Touch the walls - they should not be covered with a thick layer of ice (unless this is a freezer).
Pay attention to the noise level. New compressors are quieter than old ones, but the complete absence of sound is also unnatural. You should hear a steady hum and occasional gurgling of the refrigerant in the pipes. Creaks, clanging or intermittent hum require a service call.
Check the operation of the system No Frost. 24 hours after start-up, there should be no frost or drops of water on the products and walls (except for the defrosting period, if the model is combined). If you notice ice, the defrost heating element or sensor may be faulty.
⚠️ Attention: If you notice that the side walls of the refrigerator are very hot (up to 40-50°C), do not be alarmed. In modern models, pipelines are built into the sidewalls to remove heat; this is a normal operating characteristic and not a sign of failure.
An important indicator is electricity consumption. If you can, keep track of your meter readings. A sharp excess of standards may indicate problems with tightness or the thermostat.
- 👂 Assess the noise level: it should be monotonous and quiet.
- ❄️ Check that there is no excess ice in the refrigerator compartment.
- 🌡️ Make sure that the food has cooled evenly throughout the entire volume.
- 💡 The indicators on the panel should not blink or light up red (except in alarm mode).
Why does the Hotpoint Ariston refrigerator hum loudly in the first hours?
In the first day of operation, the compressor may operate in increased mode, trying to cool the entire volume cameras to the specified values. This causes increased noise. Also, the new compressor must “get used to it”. If after 2-3 days the volume does not decrease, check whether the case is touching the walls or furniture.
Is it possible to plug in the refrigerator via an extension cord?
Manufacturers categorically do not recommend using extension cords, especially cheap ones. The starting current of the compressor at the moment of startup is 3-5 times higher than the rated current. Poor contact in an extension cord or insufficient wire gauge can lead to heating, sparking and even fire. Use only a stationary socket.
What to do if the temperature indicator does not light up after startup?
In some models Hotpoint Ariston the display lights up only when the door is opened or after pressing the activation button. If the screen does not work at all, check whether the door is closed tightly (power saving mode). If this does not help, the network protection may have worked or there is a problem with the control board.
Do you need to defrost a new refrigerator before first use?
No, new refrigerators, especially systems No Frostdo not require defrosting before first use. They are supplied dry. The only thing you need to do is to thoroughly wash the internal surfaces from factory dust and preservative lubricants, if they have been preserved.