Refrigerators Gorenje are deservedly popular due to their stylish design and functionality, however, like any complex equipment, they require periodic maintenance. The heart of any refrigeration unit is compressor, the serviceability of which directly determines the device’s ability to maintain the set temperature. Owners of Combustion equipment are often faced with the need to understand which unit is installed in their model and what to do if it fails.
Modern models of the Slovenian brand are equipped with both classic piston engines and more modern inverter systems, which requires different approaches to diagnosis and repair. Understanding the operating principle of this unit will help you notice the first signs of a malfunction in time and avoid damage to a large stock of products. In this article we will analyze in detail the design of compressors used in Combustion refrigerators and the algorithm of actions in case of their breakdown.
It is important to immediately note that replacing the main engine of a refrigerator is a technically complex procedure that requires not only metalworking skills, but also special tools. However, knowledge of the theoretical basis will allow you to correctly select a spare part and correctly estimate the cost of work if you decide to turn to professionals. Let's look at what types of units are most often found in these refrigerators.
Types of compressors in Gorenje technology
Engineers Gorenje in different model ranges use two main types of compressors, each of which has its own design features. The classic solution for budget and mid-range models remains piston compressor with a starting relay. Such units operate cyclically: they turn on at full power when the temperature rises and turn off when the specified parameters are reached.
In more expensive series, such as Gorenje NRC or NRKinverter motors are often installed. Their main advantage is the smooth change in shaft speed, which allows significant energy savings and reduced noise levels. Inverter models operate almost continuously, only slightly changing the power, which eliminates sudden surges in voltage in the network.
⚠️ Attention: An attempt to replace an inverter compressor with a regular piston compressor (or vice versa) without re-soldering the entire electrical circuit and replacing the control unit will lead to instant failure of the equipment.
Determine the type you have installed the unit can be identified by the markings on the body or by the nature of the work. If the refrigerator hums smoothly and almost silently, most likely it is there inverter. If you hear characteristic clicks when starting and stopping, as well as vibration of the case, this is a sign of the operation of a classic piston motor.
The main signs of a compressor malfunction
Diagnostics of the condition The “heart” of a refrigerator begins with careful observation of its behavior. The first and most obvious sign of problems is a change in temperature: the food in the chamber begins to deteriorate, and ice may appear on the walls or, conversely, condensation may disappear. This indicates that refrigerant circulation the refrigerant circulation is broken.
The second important indicator is the sound of the operation. A working unit emits a smooth low-frequency hum. If you hear loud knocking, clanging, grinding or whistling noises, this indicates mechanical wear on internal parts such as the piston group or valves. In some cases, the motor may hum but not start, which often indicates problems with the start relay or a jammed shaft.
It is also worth paying attention to the temperature of the compressor housing itself. It should be warm or hot, but if it gets too hot to touch, that's a red flag. Overheating can be caused by a freon leak, a clogged capillary tube, or an interturn short circuit in the motor windings.
Table of common faults
To systematize the problems that owners of Combustion refrigerators face, it is convenient to use a summary table. It will help compare external symptoms with probable internal causes of failure.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Necessary actions |
|---|---|---|
| The refrigerator does not freeze, the motor is silent | Malfunction of the thermostat or start relay | Measuring the resistance of the thermostat, checking the relay |
| Loud knocking when starting, then silence | Compressor jamming or broken winding | Check windings with a multimeter, attempt to start |
| The motor runs continuously without turning off | Freon leakage or wear of the door seal | Search for leaks, refuel, replace the seal |
| Strong vibration and rattling | Destruction of shock-absorbing springs inside | Replacement of the compressor (cannot be repaired) |
| Error on the display | Failure of electronics or sensors | Error reset, code diagnostics malfunctions |
Analysis of this table allows you to weed out simple problems that can be solved yourself from complex technical malfunctions. For example, if the engine does not start, but a clicking sound is heard, the problem may not be in the engine itself, but in start-protective relay. This is a cheap part, the replacement of which often revives the refrigerator.
However, if the diagnostics indicate internal mechanical damage or electrical breakdown of the windings, repair at home becomes impossible. In such cases, a complete replacement of the unit followed evacuation of the system and refilling with refrigerant is required.
☑️ Primary diagnostics before calling a technician
How to choose an analogue for replacement
If you are faced with the need to replace the compressor in the refrigerator Gorenje, you will be faced with the question of choosing a new part. The original may be expensive or temporarily unavailable, so the question of installing an analogue often arises. The main rule when selecting is compliance with the technical characteristics, and not just the manufacturer’s brand.
First of all, you need to pay attention to engine power (measured in BTU or kcal/h) and the type of refrigerant used (R600a or R134a). The use of a compressor designed for a different type of freon is strictly prohibited, as this will lead to rapid failure of the oil and the mechanism itself. It is also important to take into account the overall dimensions and location of the pipes.
The most common compressors found in Combustion refrigerators are the following manufacturers:
- 🇦🇹 Secop (formerly Danfoss) - are considered the standard of reliability and are often installed as original components.
- 🇮🇹 Aspera (Embraco) - popular and affordable analogues with good energy efficiency indicators.
- 🇨🇳 Linde or Jiaxipera - budget options that, if installed correctly, last quite a long time.
- 🇧🇷 Embraco - high-quality Brazilian units, often found in older models.
When purchasing, be sure to check the diameter of the tubes (usually 6 mm or 8 mm) and the height of the mounting studs. If the studs are too short, you will not be able to properly press the engine to the frame, which will lead to increased vibration. If they are too long, there will be problems with installing the casing.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing a compressor
The process of replacing a compressor in a refrigerator Combustion is labor-intensive and requires specialized equipment: a pipe cutter, a burner, a vacuum pump and a pressure gauge station. If you do not have these tools, the following steps are for informational purposes only.
The first step is always to turn off the power to the device and move it away from the wall to provide access to the rear panel. You must remove the metal casing at the bottom to gain access to the motor. Before starting work on unsoldering the tubes, you should make sure that there is no excess pressure left in the system.
The following is the sequence of actions:
- 🔧 Dismantling the old unit: Cut or saw through the copper tubes (suction and discharge), and also disconnect the electrical wires. Remove the old compressor from the shock absorbers.
- 🔥 Preparing the new motor: Plug the pipes of the new compressor, remove the transport plug just before soldering. Install the new part in place, securing the bolts.
- 🔌 Soldering connections: Solder the copper tubes to the pipes of the new compressor using silver solder. At the same time, install a new filter drier, since the old one cannot be used.
- 💨 Evacuation: Connect the vacuum pump to the system and pump out air and moisture for 15-20 minutes. This is a critical step for removing moisture.
- ❄️ Refrigerant charging: Introduce a strictly defined amount of freon (indicated on the sticker on the back of the refrigerator) through the filling fitting.
After completion of work, you must check test the system for leaks using a soap solution and run the refrigerator in test mode. If within an hour no frost appears in unintended places and the motor runs smoothly, the installation can be considered successful.
⚠️ Attention: All work with refrigerant and open flame must be carried out in a well-ventilated area. Freon is heavier than air and, if leaked, can displace oxygen and also form toxic compounds upon contact with fire.
Cost of repairs and feasibility
When deciding on repairs, it is important to take into account the economic component. Replacing a compressor is one of the most expensive procedures in refrigerator maintenance. The cost consists of the price of the unit itself, the cost of consumables (freon, solder, filter) and the wages of the technician.
On average, replacing a compressor in a service center can cost 40-60% of the cost of a new refrigerator of the same class. If your device is more than 10-12 years old, it makes sense to think about buying new equipment, since after replacing the motor, failures of other components may follow: the evaporator, condenser or electronics. However, if the refrigerator is relatively new or belongs to a premium built-in series, repairs are economically justified. In such cases, replacing the “heart” of the unit extends its life by another 7-10 years, which is cheaper than buying an equivalent new model.
However, if the refrigerator Gorenje relatively new or belongs to the premium built-in series, repairs are economically justified. In such cases, replacing the “heart” of the unit extends its life by another 7-10 years, which is cheaper than buying an equivalent new model.
Is it possible to replace the compressor yourself without experience?
Theoretically, it is possible if you have the skills to solder copper pipes and access to equipment. However, in practice, 90% of self-replacements end in calling the technician again for a rework, since beginners often make mistakes when vacuuming or soldering, which leads to moisture getting into the system.
Why does a new compressor get hotter than the old one?
Modern engines often have a more compact body with the same power, so their surface heats up more. In addition, if the system is poorly evacuated or the amount of freon is selected incorrectly, the temperature can be critically high. Normally, the upper part of the cylinder can be very hot.
How long should the refrigerator cool down before turning it on after transportation?
If the refrigerator was transported in a horizontal position, it needs to stand vertically for at least 4-6 hours (preferably a day) before turning it on for the first time. This is necessary so that the oil flows from the tubes back into the compressor, otherwise a water hammer is possible.
Warranty for a replaced compressor in service?
Official service centers usually provide a guarantee of 1 to 2 years for work performed and installed spare parts. Private craftsmen may offer a guarantee of 6 months. Be sure to request a completed, stamped warranty card.