Owners of household appliances are often faced with a situation where the refrigerator stops freezing, and the reason for this may be a refrigerant leak. Biryusa refrigerators, popular due to their reliability and availability, like any other equipment, require periodic maintenance. Knowing exactly what type of refrigerant is used in your model is a critical first step before calling a technician or doing it yourself.
Modern models and older units of this brand can operate on different types of gases, which directly affects the cost and complexity of repairs. Incorrectly selected gas or improper filling technology can lead to compressor failure or even an explosive situation. In this article we will analyze in detail the technical nuances so that you understand what is happening with your device.
Types of refrigerants used in Biryusa models
The manufacturer Biryusa has been producing refrigeration equipment for many years, and during this time the standards of environmental friendliness and efficiency have changed. Early models were often equipped with compressors running on freon R134a. This is a colorless, odorless gas that replaced more aggressive analogues. It is non-toxic, but requires high pressure in the system for effective operation.
More modern lines, especially those positioned as energy efficient, have switched to using isobutane (R600a). This refrigerant has excellent refrigeration properties and operates at lower pressure, which makes the compressor quieter. However, it has one critical feature that should not be forgotten for a second.
⚠️ Attention: Freon R600a is a flammable gas. Any work to find leaks or solder the system in refrigerators with this type of refrigerant should be carried out only in a well-ventilated area and in compliance with the strictest fire safety measures.
There are several ways to determine which gas is pumped into your unit. The most reliable way is to look at the technical sticker, which is usually located inside the refrigerator compartment or on the back wall of the case. The type of refrigerant and its exact mass in grams are indicated there.
Sometimes the sticker may be damaged or worn out. In this case, you can focus on the year of manufacture: models produced before 2010-2012 most often use R134a, and newer ones use R600a. However, this is not a hard and fast rule, and verification with passport data is required.
Technical characteristics and differences of freons
Understanding the difference between gases is necessary for the correct selection of equipment for refueling. R134a requires the use of mineral or alkylbenzene oils, while R600a is compatible only with synthetic oils. Mixing these types of oils or using the wrong refrigerant will result in acid deposits and rapid compressor wear.
The pressure in the system also varies significantly. For R134a, the operating pressure on the discharge side can reach 8-10 bar, while for isobutane it is significantly lower. This affects the choice of a pressure gauge station: the instrument scales must correspond to the type of gas.
Let's consider the main differences in the table for clarity:
| Parameter | R134a (Freon 134a) | R600a (Isobutane) |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical formula | CH2FCF3 | C4H10 |
| Boiling point | -26.3 °C | -11.5 °C |
| Flammability | Not flammable | Highly flammable |
| System pressure | High | Low |
It is important to note that Replacing one type of freon with another in domestic conditions is strictly prohibited. This requires a complete flushing of the system, replacement of the compressor, filter-drier and reconfiguration of the thermostat, which is not economically feasible.
Signs of a leak and the need for refilling
The refrigerant circulates in in a closed circuit and in a working refrigerator should not be consumed. If you notice that Biryusa has stopped freezing, but the compressor runs continuously or turns on too often, depressurization has most likely occurred. Leakage freon is not just a loss of cold, it is a risk for the engine.
One of the indirect signs is swelling of the back wall inside the freezer or refrigerator compartment. This may indicate that the evaporator is leaking due to corrosion or mechanical damage. Also pay attention to the temperature of the condenser (grid at the back) - if it is cold or warm only at the entrance to the compressor, there is little gas in the system.
Sometimes a leak is accompanied by the appearance oily stains under the refrigerator or at the pipe connection. Freon itself is colorless and odorless (except for a characteristic chemical tint at high concentrations), but it carries with it oil, which leaves traces.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to look for a leak with an open flame (lighter). In addition to the risk of fire (especially with R600a), you can damage the thin evaporator tubes, making repairs even more expensive.
Refilling process: equipment and preparation
To restore the refrigerator to working order Biryusa you will need specialized tools. You will need vacuum pumpa pressure gauge station, scales (if filling is carried out by weight) and a soldering kit. You cannot simply “add gas” through the valve, as in a car, in domestic refrigerators - the system does not have service ports.
The first step is always to find and eliminate the leak. Adding new gas without fixing the hole in the circuit is a waste of time and money. After soldering the damaged area, the system must be purged with nitrogen to remove moisture and combustion products.
☑️ Preparation for vacuuming
Evacuation is a critical step. Vacuum pump removes air and water vapor from the system. The moisture inside the circuit freezes in the capillary tube, forming an ice plug that blocks the circulation of freon. The evacuation time should be at least 30-40 minutes.
Filling technology by weights and pressure
There are two main methods of filling: by mass (grams) and by pressure (boiling pressure). For refrigerators Biryusa the most accurate and recommended by the manufacturer is the filling method by scale. The amount of gas is indicated on the same technical sticker.
If you use the scale method, the freon cylinder is placed on electronic scales. After evacuation, the valve opens and gas is released into the system until the desired value is reached on the scales. This method eliminates underfilling or overfilling, which is especially important for R600a.
Refilling by pressure requires more experience. The pressure is controlled while the compressor is idling. For R134a it is usually about 0.8-1.2 bar, for R600a - 0.4-0.6 bar (depending on the ambient temperature). However, this method is less accurate, since it depends on the temperature in the room.
What will happen if you overfill freon?
If there is an excess of refrigerant in the system, the condensation pressure will increase sharply. The compressor will work with overload, the refrigerator will freeze poorly, and a “fur coat” or frost may appear on the evaporator even in the refrigerator compartment. In the worst case, liquid freon will enter the compressor and cause water hammer.
After refueling, it is necessary to solder the filling tube and check the operation of the unit for several hours. The temperature on the shelves should stabilize within 4-6 hours.
Common mistakes during self-repair
The most common mistake is ignoring the replacement filter drier. This small element is responsible for cleaning freon from moisture and debris. When the system depressurizes, it becomes saturated with moisture and stops working. If it is not replaced, the new portion of freon will quickly become contaminated and the capillary tube will become clogged.
The second mistake is using the wrong oil or its excess. When soldering, many craftsmen forget that excess oil could have entered the system, or, conversely, they add new oil without calculating the volume. Excess oil reduces heat transfer and increases pressure, which leads to breakdown.
The third mistake is poor vacuuming. Many people think that 10 minutes of pump operation is enough. This is wrong. Moisture is the main enemy of a refrigeration system. It reacts with freon and oil, forming an acid that corrodes the compressor windings from the inside.
⚠️ Attention: Technical regulations and the availability of certain types of refrigerants may change. Always check the current requirements for recycling and purchasing freon in specialized stores in your region.
When is the best time to call a specialist
Despite its apparent simplicity, refrigerator repair Biryusa is associated with risks. If you don't have experience with a blowtorch, pressure gauges and vacuum pumps, it's best not to take risks. The cost of equipment for one-time refilling often exceeds the cost of calling a specialist.
The master has not only the tool, but also knowledge about the specific “diseases” of different Biryusa models. He will be able to quickly determine where the problem lies: in the thermostat, in the compressor or in a leak. In addition, professionals provide a guarantee for their work.
If you decide to act on your own, strictly follow the instructions and safety precautions. Remember that the correct choice of freon and high-quality installation are the key to the long life of your refrigerator.
Is it possible to fill the Biryusa refrigerator with freon from a car air conditioner?
No, it is not possible. Car air conditioners run on R134a freon (often), but have a completely different design, pressure and, most importantly, type of oil. Oils for car air conditioners (POE/PAG) are not compatible with mineral oils of old refrigerators or synthetics of new ones. Mixing will lead to the formation of porridge and breakdown.
How many grams of freon are needed for the Biryusa refrigerator?
The exact amount depends on the specific model and is indicated on the factory sticker. Typically, Biryusa two-chamber refrigerators require from 70 to 140 grams of refrigerant. Refilling “by eye” is unacceptable.
Why does the refrigerator freeze only in the freezer after refueling?
This may indicate a clogged capillary tube (often due to moisture or a dirty filter), a malfunction of the thermostat, or an insufficient amount of freon. It is also possible that an ice plug may form if the system is poorly evacuated.
Is it dangerous to breathe freon vapors from the refrigerator?
In small quantities that can be released during repairs, freon R134a and R600a are relatively safe, but they displace oxygen. In high concentrations they cause suffocation. R600a is additionally explosive. You need to work in a ventilated area.