The situation when the refrigerator Ariston stops maintaining the set temperature or starts working continuously, without turning off, often indicates an exit The thermostat is faulty. This small but critical element is responsible for controlling the operation of the compressor, closing and opening the electrical circuit depending on the temperature inside the chambers. Understanding where the thermostat is located in an Ariston refrigerator is the first and most important step for self-diagnosis or preparation for repair.
Owners of household appliances often encounter difficulties in finding this unit, as manufacturers strive to make the design as ergonomic as possible, hiding technical elements behind decorative panels. In models Ariston the location of the regulator may differ significantly depending on the year of manufacture and series of the refrigerator. Some models are equipped with electronic control, where the physical thermostat is replaced by sensors, but in classic mechanical versions this element plays a major role.
Before proceeding with disassembly, it is necessary to clearly understand that any intervention in the electrical circuit requires compliance with safety rules. Disconnecting the device from the network is not just a formality, but a mandatory condition that prevents electric shock and short circuit. Next, we will analyze in detail the search algorithm, types of thermostats and the nuances of replacing them for various modifications of equipment.
Main symptoms of a thermostat malfunction
Diagnostics begins long before opening the case, since the behavior of the refrigerator speaks volumes about the nature of the failure. If you notice that compressor it works almost non-stop, and the products in the main chamber begin to freeze, this is a sure sign of sticking contacts in the closed position. In such a situation, the cold is constantly pumped in and the system does not receive a signal to stop.
The opposite situation, when the refrigerator does not turn on at all or turns on for a very short time, also indicates problems with the thermostat. In this case, the contacts may oxidize or burn out, breaking the motor power supply circuit. Temperature conditions the chamber rises, the food spoils, and an unpleasant odor may appear inside.
- ❄️ The compressor operates continuously, without turning off even at night.
- 🌡️ The temperature in the chambers does not correspond to the set values.
- 🔌 The refrigerator does not respond to turning the regulator knob.
- 💡 The light inside is on, but the motor is silent (if the starting relay is working).
It is important to distinguish failure of the thermostat due to freon leakage or compressor malfunction. If, when defrosting and then turning on, the refrigerator gets cold, but then stops freezing and no longer starts, it is most likely not the thermostat. However, if after defrosting and forcibly closing the contacts it works again, but does not turn off itself, then thermostat requires replacement.
⚠️ Attention: If you hear the relay clicking, but the compressor does not start, the problem may be in the start-up relay or the compressor itself. motor, not the temperature controller. Do not rush to change working parts.
Design features of Ariston thermostats
In refrigerators brand Ariston, especially in models of previous years of production, mechanical thermostats were predominantly used. The principle of their operation is based on a change in the volume of gas or liquid inside a bellows tube, which responds to temperature fluctuations. This tube, often called a capillary, is attached to the evaporator or inserted into a chamber, transmitting readings to the sensitive element of the device.
Electronic models, typical of more modern lines, use thermistors - semiconductor elements whose resistance varies depending on temperature. Such sensors are usually located inside the air flow and transmit data to electronic module controls. Visually, they are distinguished by the absence of a long corrugated tube and the presence of an electrical connector.
Mechanical regulators made by Ariston technology are often marked with the letters TAM, K, or similar codes from manufacturers like Danfoss or Ranco. The body of the device is usually made of plastic and equipped with a shaft for an adjustment knob, which is brought out or hidden under the control panel.
Where the thermostat is located: search in different models
Finding the installation location thermostat in the Ariston refrigerator directly depends on how the control system is implemented in a particular model. In most classic two-compartment top-freezer refrigerators, the regulator is located inside the refrigerator compartment. Usually it is hidden behind a plastic casing, which also contains a lighting lamp.
To get to the unit, you need to open the refrigerator door and pay attention to the upper right wall. This is where the temperature control unit is most often mounted. In some modifications, the regulator handle is placed on the outer panel of the door or is located in the upper part of the body from the outside, which simplifies access, but complicates the diagnosis of the internal mechanism.
In models with the No Frost system or in refrigerators where the freezer is located at the bottom, the diagram may differ. Here the thermostat (or sensor) can be hidden behind the back wall of the chamber or located in the engine compartment area if we are talking about a defrost sensor, which also affects the temperature regime. However, the main compressor operation regulator in mechanics is almost always located in the positive temperature zone.
| Model type | Location of the regulator | Access | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic (Top Mount) | Inside the refrigerator compartment, top right | Removing the lamp shade | The handle is often combined with the light switch |
| With an external panel | Upper end of the body | Outside, without opening | Mechanism inside, handle outside |
| No Frost / Side-by-Side | Behind the control panel or inside | Disassembling the panel | Often electronic control |
| Single-chamber | Inside the chamber, near the ceiling | Removing the casing | Simple mechanical design |
If a visual inspection inside the chamber does not produce results, and the adjustment knob is located outside, then the thermostat mechanism itself will be located in the technical space behind the back wall or at the top of the housing, where the capillary tube leads. To access it, you will most likely need to remove the top cover of the refrigerator.
Instructions for dismantling and replacing the part
The replacement process thermostat requires accuracy and a minimum set of tools: a screwdriver (Phillips and flat), pliers and, possibly, a multimeter for checking. The first step should always be to completely disconnect the refrigerator Ariston from the power supply. Do not ignore this rule, even if you only plan to remove the casing.
After ensuring safety, we proceed to disassembly. If the thermostat is located inside the chamber under the lampshade, carefully pry off the plastic casing with a screwdriver. It can be held on with latches or screws. Remove the temperature control knob by pulling it towards you or unscrewing the locking screw, if equipped. Disconnect the wires from the contacts of the old regulator, having previously noted their location.
- 🔧 Unplug the refrigerator from the outlet and defrost the chamber (if required).
- 🔍 Remove the decorative cover or shade hiding the thermostat.
- 🧊 Carefully remove sensitive capillary tube from the evaporator.
- 🔌 Disconnect the wires and install the new regulator in the reverse order.
Pay special attention to the capillary tube. It is very thin and easily damaged. When removing the old thermostat, proceed slowly to avoid breaking the tube or damaging the evaporator. The new item must have the same markings or be a compatible replacement. Installation is carried out in the reverse order of removal: first the tube is inserted, then the body is fixed, the wires are connected and the handle is put on.
☑️ Check after replacement
Configuring and testing operation
After installing the new one temperature regulator and assembling all structural elements, it is necessary to carry out the initial launch. Plug in the refrigerator and set the control knob to the middle position. Usually this is a "3" or "4" mark on the scale. In the first hours of operation, the device can work in enhanced mode, gaining cold.
Control the operation of the compressor: it should turn on and off periodically. The cyclical operation depends on the load of the chambers and the ambient temperature, but normally the refrigerator should not hum constantly. If the motor runs non-stop for more than 2-3 hours, perhaps the new thermostat requires adjustment or was installed incorrectly.
For precise adjustments, you can use an external thermometer by placing it in a glass of water in the center of the refrigerator compartment. After a few hours of operation, check the readings. The optimal temperature for storing food is from +2 to +6 degrees Celsius. If the values deviate significantly, you can (adjust) the position of the handle or check the tightness of the capillary.
⚠️ Attention: Do not set the regulator to maximum cold immediately after replacement. A sharp temperature change and prolonged operation of the compressor without load can lead to premature wear (premature wear) of the new seal or motor.
Common mistakes during self-repair
Independent repair of equipment Ariston is often associated with risks, especially if the technician has no experience. One of the most common mistakes is purchasing an incompatible part. Thermostats differ in the length of the capillary tube, the on/off temperature and the type of contacts. Installing an unsuitable element will lead to incorrect operation: the refrigerator will either underfreeze or overfreeze the food.
Another common mistake is damage to the capillary tube during installation. If you accidentally bend or puncture the thin tube, gas will escape and the thermostat will stop responding to temperature. It is impossible to restore it at home; a complete replacement will be required. It is also dangerous to not fully tighten the mounting screws, which can lead to vibration and eventual breakage (ultimate destruction) of the contacts.
Some users try to “reanimate” the old thermostat by tapping it or heating it. This is a temporary measure that can lead to a short circuit or fire. Electrical contacts The inside of the device burns out when worn, and their restoration does not guarantee safe operation.
Is it possible to use a universal thermostat for Ariston?
The use of universal analogues is possible, but requires careful selection of parameters. It is necessary that the temperature response range coincides with the original. The length of the capillary tube is also important: if it is too long, it can be carefully rolled into a coil inside the housing, but not bent. If it is short, it may not reach the control zone, which will make the adjustment incorrect.
Why does the refrigerator not turn off after replacing the thermostat?
This may indicate several problems: incorrect installation of the capillary tube (it does not fit tightly to the evaporator), a malfunction of the new thermostat itself (defect), or the problem is not in the regulator at all, but in freon leak or compressor malfunction. It is also worth checking whether the adjustment knob is jammed.
How to understand that the thermostat is lying?
If you set the average value, and the food freezes or, conversely, spoils, then the calibration is broken. This can only be checked using an external thermometer. If the difference between the knob reading and the actual temperature is large, the thermostat requires replacement, since tightening the calibration screw (if there is one) is a task for professionals.
Is it dangerous to change the thermostat yourself?
The main danger is electric shock if safety rules are not followed and the risk of damaging other components of the refrigerator during careless disassembly. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to consult a specialist. However, replacing a mechanical thermostat is considered one of the simplest operations in repairing household appliances.