When choosing new household appliances or diagnosing malfunctions of old ones, consumers often wonder about the “heart” of the device. Compressor is the key unit responsible for circulating the refrigerant and maintaining the set temperature in the chambers. In the case of the products of the Turkish brand Beko, the situation has its own nuances, since the company uses a wide range of technological solutions from different manufacturers.
Understanding which engine is installed in your model helps not only to predict the noise level and energy consumption, but also to plan the budget for possible repairs. Modern units can differ significantly in operating principles, dimensions and maintenance requirements. In this article we will analyze in detail what types of engines are found in the Beko lines, how they differ and what you should pay attention to when purchasing.
It is worth noting that the brand Beko does not produce compressors independently, but purchases them from the world's leading suppliers. This means that two externally identical refrigerators, produced at different times or in different factories, may have completely different mechanisms. That is why it is important to be able to distinguish them by external features and technical characteristics.
Main types of compressors in Beko technology
In most modern refrigerators Beko you can find two main types of compressors: traditional piston and more modern inverter ones. Piston models operate on the principle of reciprocating motion, starting at full power when the temperature rises and turning off when the specified parameters are reached. This is a time-tested technology that is distinguished by its maintainability.
Inverter motors, on the contrary, operate constantly, but with varying rotation speeds. This allows you to avoid sudden voltage surges at start-up and maintain the temperature with a minimum error. Inverter technology In Beko refrigerators, it is often labeled as ProSmart Inverter and is considered more energy efficient and quiet.
The difference between these types is critical for the user. If the piston mechanism makes characteristic clicks when turning on and off, then the inverter mechanism operates with a smooth, barely noticeable hum. The choice between them often depends on priorities: maximum energy savings or simplicity and low cost of potential repairs.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to determine the type of compressor only by the sound of the new refrigerator in the first hours after turning it on. The system can carry out self-diagnosis or operate in an enhanced cooling mode, which temporarily changes the acoustic profile.
Component manufacturers and markings
By analyzing the internal structure of refrigerators Beko, you can find compressors from several large supplier factories. The most common devices found are units from brands Secop (formerly Danfoss), Embraco, LG and Chinese manufacturers, such as Jiaxipera or GMCC. Each of them has its own design and reliability features.
You can determine the manufacturer by looking at the nameplate (sticker) on the engine housing. It usually indicates the model number, type of refrigerant and the amount of oil pumped. For example, models starting with NL or SCoften belong to the Secopfamily, which are famous for their durability. Units from LG most often are inverter and have a characteristic “pot” shape.
It is important to understand that the presence of a compressor of a certain brand does not guarantee its quality 100%, since the assembly plant Beko can order different modifications depending on the series of the refrigerator. Budget lines are often equipped with simpler solutions, while premium models are equipped with advanced developments.
- 🏭 Secop (Danfoss): German technologies, high reliability, are often found in old and medium-sized series.
- ⚡ LG Electronics: The main suppliers of inverter systems for premium Beko models.
- 🇨🇳 Jiaxipera / GMCC: Mass manufacturers, providing a low cost of the final product.
- 🇧🇷 Embraco: Known for their quiet operation and compact size.
How to read the markings on the nameplate?
On the sticker, look for the LRA field (locked rotor current) - the higher it is, the more powerful the start. The type of refrigerant is also important: R600a (isobutane) requires special care during repairs due to its flammability, unlike R134a.
Inverter technologies ProSmart Inverter
The line of compressors ProSmart Inverterwhich is actively promoted deserves special attention brand Beko. These motors are designed to minimize power consumption and reduce noise levels. Unlike classic motors, they are not strictly tied to on/off cycles, which reduces mechanical wear of rubbing parts.
The principle of operation is based on the conversion of alternating current to direct current, which allows you to smoothly regulate the speed of rotation of the shaft. This ensures a more stable temperature regime in the chambers, which is especially important for storing products that are sensitive to changes, such as meat or dairy products. Inverter compressor is able to operate at low speeds for a long time, maintaining cold without wasting energy.
However, this technology also has a downside. The electronics that control the inverter are extremely sensitive to voltage fluctuations in the network. Electricity surges can damage the control board, the repair of which will cost more than replacing a conventional starting relay in a classic motor.
Comparison of characteristics: noise and energy efficiency
When the question arises about which compressor is better, consumers most often compare the level of noise generated and electricity consumption. Traditional piston engines create a sound pressure of up to 40-42 dB when starting, which is comparable to a quiet conversation. Inverter models in operating mode can be almost silent (about 30-35 dB), but during sudden cooling after opening the door, their hum can intensify.
In terms of energy consumption, the difference is also noticeable. Refrigerators with inverter systems of class A++ or A+++ consume 20-30% less electricity per year compared to class A or B counterparts equipped with conventional motors. This is due to the absence of peak currents during startup and operation at low speeds.
Below is a comparison table demonstrating the differences in key parameters for typical representatives of both types of engines used in Beko equipment.
| Parameter | Piston compressor | Inverter compressor |
|---|---|---|
| Operating principle | Cyclic (On/Off) | Smooth speed control |
| Noise level | Medium (clicks are heard) | Low (even hum) |
| Energy consumption | High (starting currents) | Low (savings up to 30%) |
| Operating life | About 10 years | Up to 20 years or more |
| Replacement cost | Low | High |
As can be seen from the table, the overpayment for an inverter model upon purchase often pays off by reducing electricity bills, but only if the equipment operates stable for a long time.
Typical faults and diagnostics
Despite their high reliability, compressors in refrigerators Beko may fail. Common problems include jamming of the piston group, breakage of the electric motor winding, or failure of the starting relay. In inverter models, the electronic control board or rotor position sensors most often suffer.
The first sign of a malfunction is often a change in the nature of the operation. If the refrigerator begins to hum louder than usual, or there are metallic knocks or body vibrations, this is a signal of mechanical wear. You should also be alerted by the absence of a characteristic startup sound (clicking and humming) when plugged into the network - this may indicate an electrical problem.
Diagnostics should begin with a visual inspection and checking the voltage in the network. If the compressor is hot but does not start, the thermal protection relay may have tripped. In such cases, it is necessary to allow the equipment to cool for several hours before turning it on again.
☑️ Primary diagnostics of the compressor
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to open the sealed compressor circuit or try to lubricate it yourself without special equipment. This will lead to an instant release of freon and irreversible damage to the unit.
Maintainability and replacement cost
The issue of maintainability directly depends on the type of engine installed. Classic piston compressors in refrigerators Beko are considered conditionally repairable: in some cases, craftsmen can replace the start relay or thermal fuse, bringing the device back to life. However, replacing the “pot” itself (motor-compressor) is usually not economically feasible for older models due to the high cost of work and refrigerant.
With inverter systems the situation is more complicated. They are practically impossible to repair at the component level in service centers. If the electronics or windings break down, the entire assembly is replaced. The cost of an original inverter compressor for Beko can be a significant part of the price of a new refrigerator, which makes the replacement comparable to the purchase of new equipment.
When choosing a spare part, it is important to consider not only geometric dimensions, but also power, type of refrigerant and oil volume. Installing an engine that is not suitable for its specifications will result in inefficient operation of the system or rapid failure of the new component. It is recommended to use only original catalog numbers or proven analogues.
- 🔧 Replacing a relay: A simple and cheap procedure that often solves the problem of non-starting.
- 💸 Cost of work: Replacing a compressor with freon charging can cost from 50% to 80% of the price of a new budget one refrigerator.
- ⏳ Warranty: Service centers usually provide a warranty of 6 to 12 months for a replaced compressor.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to replace a conventional compressor in Beko with an inverter one?
Theoretically this is possible, but technically it is extremely difficult and expensive. It will be necessary to replace the control board, resolder the tubes, change the mounting system and reconfigure the electronics. In most cases, such an upgrade does not make economic sense.
Why does the new Beko refrigerator hum loudly?
On the first day after transportation and switching on, the compressor may work in increased mode, creating increased noise. Also, the sound may depend on the levelness of the installation. If the noise does not subside after 24 hours and is accompanied by vibration, you should call a specialist.
How many years does the compressor last in Beko refrigerators?
The average service life of piston models is 10-12 years. Inverter compressors, under favorable operating conditions and stable network voltage, can operate for 15-20 years or more without major repairs.
How to find out the exact model of the compressor without opening it?
The exact model can only be found out by the service sticker inside the refrigeration chamber or on the technical documentation. Sometimes the information is duplicated on the nameplate on the back, but more often the type of refrigerant and the total volume are indicated there, rather than a specific brand of motor.