Owners of refrigeration equipment are often faced with a situation when the equipment stops freezing, and the heart of the unit becomes the first suspect. The question of which compressor installed in the refrigerator Indesit No Frostbecomes critically important when planning repairs or purchasing spare parts. Modern models of this brand are usually equipped with reliable piston units, but their characteristics can vary significantly depending on the year of manufacture and chamber volume.
Understanding the type of engine installed is necessary not only to order the correct part, but also to assess the feasibility of restoring the device. In some cases, the cost of a new motor and labor to install it can be a significant portion of the price of a new refrigerator. That is why competent diagnostics and knowledge of technical nuances allow you to make an informed decision.
In this article we will analyze in detail the design features of the compressors used in the line No Frost, consider the signs of their malfunction and provide a step-by-step algorithm for replacement. You will learn how to distinguish an original part from an analogue and what tools will be required for the work.
⚠️ Attention: All work related to electrical components and refrigerant requires compliance with safety regulations. If you are not confident in your skills in working with electrical wiring, it is better to contact a professional technician.
Main types of compressors in Indesit technology
Refrigerators Indesit with system No Frost traditionally equipped with piston compressors reciprocating action. This is a classic solution that has proven itself to be highly reliable and maintainable. Unlike inverter models, which are less common and more expensive, such motors operate on the principle of turning on and off when a given temperature is reached.
The main supplier of motors for the Italian brand for many years was the company Aspera (previously known as Embraco Europe). These units are characterized by their compact size and low energy consumption. In older models, one could find compressors from Secop (former Danfoss), which were also famous for their durability, but now their production for household appliances is declining.
It is important to understand that power compressors are selected by engineers strictly according to the evaporator volume and dimensions refrigeration chamber. Installing a more powerful or, conversely, weaker engine will lead to incorrect operation of the system, overheating or insufficient cooling of products.
- 🔹 Piston units are the most common type, where the refrigerant is compressed by a moving piston.
- 🔹 Single-phase motors - require starting relay for starting, are typical for most household models.
- 🔹 Sealed housing - the motor and compressor part are sealed in a single steel casing, which reduces the noise level.
How to determine the model and characteristics of the engine
To find out exactly which compressor is in your refrigerator Indesit, it is not enough just to look at the model of the refrigerator. Manufacturers can use different components within the same series. The surest way is to visually inspect the technical sticker located directly on the motor housing.
Key parameters are usually stamped on the metal nameplate: engine model, type of refrigerant (most often R600a or R134a), supply voltage and cooling capacity. For example, marking Aspera T 60 H indicates a specific series intended for medium-temperature use. The diameter of the tubes is also important - it can be 1/4, 3/8 or 5/16 inches.
If the sticker has worn off or is inaccessible due to contamination, you can focus on the appearance and dimensions. Compressors for isobutane (R600a) often have a slightly smaller housing volume and differ in the shape of the starting block. However, relying only on visual similarity is risky, since the mounting locations of the mounting legs may differ.
Below is a table with common models of compressors found in refrigerators Indesit No Frost various years of manufacture:
| Compressor model | Refrigerant type | Cooling capacity (W) | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aspera T 60 H | R134a | 105 | Single chamber and two-chamber |
| Aspera NJ 9220 | R134a | 230 | Powerful two-chamber models |
| Secop NL 10 FT | R600a | 95 | Compact refrigerators |
| Aspera HMK 80 CL | R600a | 140 | Medium two-chamber models |
Signs of a compressor malfunction
Determine what compressor out of order, based on a number of characteristic signs. The most obvious symptom is the lack of cold in the cells when the lighting is on. However, before sinning on the motor, it is worth ruling out other causes, such as a freon leak or a broken thermostat.
Often problems are signaled by the nature of the sound. If, when you try to start, you hear a loud click, followed by a hum that lasts a few seconds, and then another click and silence, this indicates a faulty start relay or a jammed piston group. The engine tries to start, but cannot turn over.
Another alarm signal is excessive heating of the compressor housing. If the metal casing is hot to such an extent that it is impossible to touch it, this may indicate an interturn short circuit of the windings or operation in overload mode due to contamination of the capacitor.
- 🔸 The refrigerator hums, but does not freeze, and the rear grille remains cold.
- 🔸 The motor runs continuously, without turning off, and consumes a lot of electricity.
- 🔸 The appearance of a burning smell or melting of wire insulation in the connection area.
⚠️ Attention: If you smell a burning smell or see sparking, immediately disconnect the refrigerator from the network. Further operation may lead to a fire.
Preparation for replacing the compressor
Replacing a compressor in a refrigerator Indesit No Frost is a complex technical process that requires specialized equipment. You will need not only a new motor, but also tools for working with copper tubes: a pipe cutter, rolling, torch and a pressure gauge station for evacuation and refilling with freon.
The first step is always dismantling the old unit. It is necessary to carefully disconnect the electrical wires, first remembering the connection diagram. Then, using a pipe cutter or side cutters, the copper tubes are cut at a distance of 10-15 cm from the compressor housing. This will allow you to maintain the length of the standard lines.
After removing the old compressor, it is necessary to clean the engine compartment of dust and dirt. Particular attention should be paid to the condition of the capacitor grid. If it is clogged with dust, the new compressor will also work with overload, which will shorten its service life.
☑️ Preparing to replace the compressor
This the element removes moisture and contaminants from the system. If you leave the old filter, moisture may freeze in the capillary tube, causing a new breakdown in a short time.
Step-by-step instructions for installing a new motor
Installing a new compressor begins with preparing the mounting studs. If the old motor was mounted on bolts, they need to be unscrewed. The new unit is installed on rubber shock absorbers that dampen vibration. It is important not to overtighten the mounting bolts so as not to damage the rubber bushings.
The next step is soldering the copper tubes. The suction and discharge tubes must be connected to the corresponding lines of the refrigerator. Before soldering, a cap is placed on the filter tube to prevent moisture from getting inside. Soldering is carried out using solder and flux, the melting temperature of which allows you to connect copper without burning the walls.
After connecting all the tubes, the system is sealed tightly. Now it is critical to vacuum. Using a vacuum pump, air and remaining moisture are removed from the circuit. The process should last at least 15-20 minutes until a deep vacuum is achieved. Only after this can you charge with refrigerant.
Secrets of high-quality soldering
Use only high-quality solder with a silver content of at least 5-15%. This will ensure a strong connection that is resistant to vibration and temperature changes. Cheap tin solder may leak after a year of operation.
⚠️ Attention: Filling the refrigerator with refrigerant must be done strictly according to the weight indicated on the factory sticker. Excess or lack of gas will lead to incorrect operation of the system.
Testing and first start
After filling with freon, it is necessary to check the system for leaks. To do this, you can use a soap solution and apply it to the soldering areas. The absence of bubbles indicates high-quality work. Then the refrigerator is connected to the network and the current consumption is monitored using current clamps.
The normal current must correspond to the passport data of the new compressor. If the current is significantly higher, there may be air left in the system or the capillary tube may be clogged. If the current is too low, there may be a lack of refrigerant.
The first operating cycle should last several hours. At this time, it is not recommended to load the refrigerator with food. You need to make sure that the temperature in the freezer drops to -18°C, and in the refrigerator compartment stabilizes around +4..+5°C.
- ✅ Check the tightness of the connections with a soap solution.
- ✅ Monitor the current consumption in operating mode.
- ✅ Assessing the uniformity of evaporator cooling.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to replace an R134a compressor with an R600a in an Indesit refrigerator?
No, such a replacement is strictly prohibited. These refrigerants have different chemical properties, operating pressures and require different types of compressor oil. Using the wrong refrigerant will result in an explosion or failure of the system.
Why does a new compressor get hotter than the old one?
Modern energy-efficient compressors often operate at higher case temperatures, as they transfer heat better to the environment. If the temperature does not exceed 80-90°C and the refrigerator freezes, this is normal.
How much does it cost to replace a compressor at a service center?
The cost consists of the price of the unit itself, the filter drier, the refrigerant and the work of the technician. On average, the price varies from 5,000 to 9,000 rubles depending on the region and model of the refrigerator.
Is it necessary to flush the system after the compressor burns out?
Yes, if the compressor burns out and throws oil with combustion products into the system, a thorough purging of the circuit with nitrogen is required and, possibly, installation of an additional filter on the suction to protect new motor.