If your refrigerator Stinol stops freezing or, conversely, turns food into ice blocks, most likely the thermostat has failed. This small device is responsible for maintaining the set temperature by turning the compressor on and off. The wrong choice of spare parts will lead to the appliance working incorrectly or not starting at all.
In this article we will look in detail at how to determine the (model) of your thermostat, how they differ and which one is needed for your version of the Stinol refrigerator. We will consider popular modifications, such as Stinol-101, Stinol-102 and Stinol-103, as well as two-chamber models with No Frost. Understanding the operating principle will help you avoid mistakes when purchasing.
Replacing a thermostat is a procedure that is accessible even to a beginner, if you act carefully. However, it is important not to just buy the first part you come across, but to choose an analogue with identical characteristics. The length of the capillary tube, the number of contacts and the direction of switching are critical parameters that cannot be ignored.
The role and principle of operation of the thermostat
The thermostat, or thermostat, is the “brain” of the cooling system in old and budget models of refrigerators. It reads the temperature in the evaporator or chamber and closes or opens the electrical circuit of the compressor. Stinol refrigerators most often use mechanical devices that operate on the principle of expansion of gas or liquid in a sensitive element.
When the temperature inside the chamber rises above the one you set on the handle, the gas in the capillary tube expands, the pressure rises, and the membrane closes the contacts. The compressor starts. As soon as the desired cold temperature is reached, the process goes in the opposite direction: the pressure drops and the circuit opens. Failure of this unit leads either to constant operation of the motor (and freezing), or to its complete downtime (and defrosting of food).
In models with two compressors, such as Stinol-104, two separate thermostats are used: one for the refrigerator compartment, the other for the freezer. In single-compressor models, the thermostat controls the operating cycle of a single motor, and shutdown occurs either by a timer or when the temperature in the freezer is reached.
⚠️ Attention: Before any work on replacing the thermostat, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Working with live electrical components is deadly.
Main types of thermostats for Stinol
Manufacturers of Stinol refrigerators over the years have used thermostats from various suppliers, mainly Italian companies Ranco i German K-59 (or their analogues). The main difference lies in the design of the bellows tube and the number of contacts. For single-chamber models and refrigerators with manual defrosting of the freezer, simple two-contact devices are often used.
For models with a system No Frost or drip defrosting of the refrigerator compartment, thermostats with three contacts can be used. The third contact is responsible for starting the fan motor or compressor operation indicator. If you mix up a two-pin and a three-pin thermostat, the refrigerator may work, but the blower fan will not function or the light will not light up.
The length of the capillary tube is also critically important. It varies from 0.5 to 2.5 meters. If the tube is too short, you will not be able to place it correctly in the designated area and the sensor will not read the temperature correctly. If it is too long, it may bend, which will lead to depressurization and failure of the new part.
- 🔹 Ranco K-59 is the most common analogue for Stinol two-chamber refrigerators, often marked L13-145 or L13-102.
- 🔹 TAM-133 is a budget analogue, often found in older or simplified modifications.
- 🔹 K-50 —used in single-chamber refrigerators or chest freezers, differs in fastening design.
- 🔹 Original Stinol —may have their own markings, but inside they almost always have the same Ranco or Danfoss.
How to determine markings and compatibility
To understand which thermostat you need, the easiest way is to look at an old device taken out of the refrigerator. Each thermostat has a model code stamped on it. For example, for the popular Stinol-101 thermostats marked TAM-133 or K-59 L1133were often suitable. However, you cannot rely only on the model of the refrigerator, since the equipment may have changed over the years.
Pay attention to the location of the contacts. There may be two or three pins on a terminal block. If you had a three-prong thermostat and buy a two-prong one, you will have to re-wire or put up with a non-functional indicator/fan. Visually compare the length of the rod and the shape of the body: they should allow the part to be installed in its original location without interference.
An important parameter is the on and off temperature. The freezer compartment requires lower thresholds than the refrigerator compartment. Installing a thermostat that is not suitable for the range will cause the food in the freezer to begin to melt, or everything in the refrigerator will freeze.
| Refrigerator model | Thermostat type | Tube length (approximately) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stinol-101 | TAM-133 / K-59 | 1.3 - 1.6 m | Single compressor, 2 contacts |
| Stinol-102 | K-59 L13-102 | 1.6 - 1.8 m | Double chamber, 3 contacts |
| Stinol-103 | K-59 L13-145 | 1.6 - 1.8 m | Increased volume, 3 contacts |
| Stinol-104 | K-50 (frost) / K-59 (cold) | Different | Two compressors, different thermostats |
⚠️ Attention: Technical characteristics and compatibility may vary vary depending on the year of manufacture. Always check the markings on your old part with the seller's catalog data.
Can a universal thermostat be used?
Universal thermostats exist, but they require precise adjustment of the temperature range. For a Stinol refrigerator, it is better to use a specialized analogue (for example, K-59), since the factory settings of station wagons often do not coincide with those required for the freezer, which will lead to spoilage of food.
Instructions for replacing the thermostat
The replacement process begins with dismantling the old device. In Stinol refrigerators, the thermostat is usually located inside the refrigerator compartment, under the plastic panel where the temperature control knob is located, or at the top of the chamber. First you need to remove the handle (often it is simply pulled together by force or unscrewed with a screw under it).
Next the decorative panel is removed. Below it you will see the thermostat itself, inserted into the metal evaporator tube or mounted on the wall. Carefully disconnect the wires. Remember or take a photo the order of connecting the wires to the terminals so as not to mix them up during assembly. Then carefully pull the sensitive capillary tube out of its seat.
Install the new thermostat in the reverse order. Insert the tube to the same depth as the old one. Secure the case, connect the wires according to the diagram. After assembly, do not rush to turn on the refrigerator immediately: let the system stand for 10-15 minutes so that the refrigerant calms down and the contacts fall into place.
☑️ Checklist for replacing the thermostat
Diagnostics: check and testing
Before buying a new part, you should make sure that the problem is in the thermostat. Symptoms may be similar to a faulty compressor or start relay. If the refrigerator is silent and not humming, but the light is on, this is a good sign that the circuit is not closed due to the thermostat.
The easiest way to check is the “jumper method”. Unplug the refrigerator, get to the thermostat terminals and connect the two main wires (usually they do not go to the light bulb and fan) together with a piece of wire. If the compressor starts working after being connected to the network, it means that the motor and relay are working, and the thermostat requires replacement.
You can also use a multimeter in dial mode. On a cold thermostat (if you take it out of the freezer and cool it), the contacts can be open, but when heated in your hand, they can close. However, this method is not always accurate, since the response range may be outside room temperature.
Common mistakes when choosing and installation
One of the main mistakes is ignoring the length of the capillary tube. Some craftsmen simply “twist” the excess length into a ring. This is strictly forbidden: the bending radius must be at least 30 mm, otherwise the tube will break, freon will escape, and the thermostat will stop responding to temperature. It is better to immediately order a part with the appropriate length.
Another mistake is incorrect installation of the tube in the evaporator socket. It should fit snugly against the wall, but not be pinched too tightly. If the tube hangs in the air of the chamber, the refrigerator will “think” that it is warm there and work non-stop, freezing like a “fur coat.”
You should also not forget about the tightness. The place where the tube exits the chamber must be thoroughly foamed. If you leave a hole, warm air will constantly flow to the sensor, distorting the readings, and moisture will lead to corrosion and freezing of the channel.
⚠️ Attention: The capillary tube of the thermostat is filled with gas under pressure. Do not heat it with open fire or pierce it. This can lead to an explosion or fire.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to replace the K-59 thermostat with a TAM-133?
Yes, this is often possible, since they are functional analogues. The main thing is that the length of the capillary tube, the location of the contacts and the mounting dimensions match. However, K-59 is considered more reliable and accurate.
Why does the Stinol refrigerator not turn off after replacement?
There may be several reasons: the temperature range of the thermostat is incorrectly selected, the capillary tube is not fully inserted into the evaporator, the tightness of the channel is broken, or the problem lies not in the thermostat, but in a leak freon.
Where is the thermostat in Stinol-101?
In model 101, the thermostat is usually located inside the refrigerator compartment in the upper right corner, hidden under a plastic cover, next to the light bulb.
How much does the thermostat cost for Stinol?
The price depends on the manufacturer and type. Budget analogues (TAM) are cheaper, original or more accurate ones (Ranco, Danfoss) are more expensive. On average, the price varies within an affordable range for self-repair.
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before replacing?
Yes, definitely. Replacing the thermostat requires access to internal components and working with electricity. Complete defrosting (minimum 24 hours) will ensure safety and dryness during work.