The situation when The Biryusa refrigerator does not cool in the main compartment, but the freezer continues to work properly, is one of the most common complaints from the owners of this equipment. This behavior of the unit often takes you by surprise, because at first glance it seems that if the freezer is freezing, then both the compressor and the refrigerant are in order. However, in reality, this is a classic symptom of a freon circulation disorder or a malfunction in the temperature control system, which requires immediate intervention.
Owners of models Biryusa 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 14 and more modern series with No Frost may encounter this defect at any time during operation. The problem may lie either in banal icing of the evaporator or in serious refrigerant leak from the circuit. Ignoring the first signs of a malfunction, such as mild cold or the appearance of ice only at the back wall, often leads to spoilage of products and more expensive repairs.
In this article We will analyze in detail the mechanics of the operation of two-chamber systems, explain why heat does not stop flowing into the upper chamber, and draw up a step-by-step action plan. You will find out which components are checked first and when a call to the technician becomes inevitable. A critical sign of a complete loss of freon is an absolutely warm or hot condenser (grid at the back) when the compressor is running. Understanding these processes will help you save time and money by correctly diagnosing the breakdown.
Principle of operation two-chamber cooling system
To understand why The Biryusa refrigerator does not freeze in the upper compartment, you need to briefly brush up on the physics of the process. In classic models with a drip defrosting system, the cold is produced in the freezer chamber where the evaporator is located. A fan (in No Frost models) or natural convection (in older models) must transfer this cold to the refrigeration compartment through special channels.
If the compressor runs continuously, hums, but there is no cold in the main chamber, this means that the refrigerant either does not reach the evaporator in the required volume, or does not circulate through the system at all. In normal mode thermostat turns off the motor-compressor when the set temperature is reached. If the cycle is not interrupted and the temperature does not drop, there is an obvious malfunction.
It is important to distinguish between the types of systems. Models with one compressor and two chambers use one cooling circuit. A leak in any place leads to a drop in pressure throughout the entire system. In more complex units, a system may be used Full No Frostwhere clogging of the air channels becomes the main reason for the lack of cold from above.
Freon leakage: the most common culprit of the problem
The most likely reason why The Biryusa refrigerator does not freeze well in the upper chamber when the freezer is running is refrigerant leak. Freon circulates in a closed circuit under pressure. If a microcrack forms in the tubes sealed inside the housing or in the capacitor, the gas begins to escape. The pressure drops, and it is not enough to drive the cold through the entire circuit to the upper chamber.
Leakage symptoms develop gradually. At first, you may notice that the compressor is running longer than usual, trying to compensate for the lack of cold. Then the freezer stops freezing new food, although the old ice still holds. In the final stage the compressor hums non-stop, but it’s warm inside. Leaks often occur at soldering points or due to corrosion of tubes hidden in thermal insulation.
It is almost impossible to find the leak on your own without special equipment, such as a leak detector or a soap solution, which must be applied to all connections. In addition, you can’t just add freon - you first need to find and fix the hole, otherwise the gas will come out again.
⚠️ Attention: If you hear hissing when the refrigerator is operating or smell a specific chemical smell, immediately unplug the device and ensure the room is ventilated. Although modern refrigerants are often safe, it is better not to take risks.
Clogged capillary tube and compressor operation
The second most common cause Biryusa refrigerator does not maintain temperatureis a clogged capillary tube. This is a thin copper pipeline in which a sharp drop in refrigerant pressure occurs and its evaporation. Over time, oil oxidation products, moisture or small debris can accumulate inside the system, which clogs the narrow passage.
When clogged, the compressor tries to push freon, creating excess pressure in front of the plug, but circulation is disrupted. As a result, the evaporator in the freezer may cool slightly, but the cold simply does not reach the refrigerator compartment. A characteristic sign is that the compressor operates jerkily or gets very hot, trying to overcome the resistance.
It is difficult to diagnose a blockage at home. Often it is disguised as other faults. The refrigerator master determines this by the temperature of the tubes at the outlet of the compressor and by the nature of the motor operation. To remove the blockage, you need to purge the system with nitrogen under high pressure and replace the filter drier.
Faults in the thermostat and sensors
Electronics and mechanics of temperature control also play a key role. If thermostat out of order, it may not send a signal to turn on the compressor, even if it is warm in the chamber. Older Biryusa models use a mechanical thermostat with a bellows tube that is attached to the evaporator. If the tube comes loose or bursts, the sensor “does not feel” the temperature.
In modern models with electronic control, temperature sensors (NTC thermistors) are responsible for this. Their resistance changes depending on heat. If the sensor in the refrigerator compartment “lies” and shows that it is -5°C, although in fact it is +15°C, the control board will not turn on the compressor. You can check them with a multimeter by comparing the readings with the resistance table.
It is also worth mentioning the air duct damper in No Frost systems. If the mechanism is stuck in the closed position, cold air from the freezer simply does not enter the upper compartment. This often happens after defrosting if water got into the damper mechanism and froze.
How to check the thermostat without instruments?
Remove the terminals from the thermostat and connect them directly (close the circuit). If the refrigerator turns on and starts to freeze, the problem is in the thermostat. If not, look for the reason in the compressor or start-up relay.
Problems with defrosting in No Frost systems
Owners of models Biryusa-Snezhinka or newer versions with the system No Frost often face the problem of complete icing of the evaporator. If Defrost heating elementthe defrost timer or sensor is faulty, ice builds up on the radiator, blocking the fan. The air stops circulating, and the cold does not enter the refrigerator compartment.
Visually this is manifested by the fact that air does not blow from the ventilation holes, although the fan may hum, trying to drive air through the ice traffic jam The freezer can work in this case, since the evaporator is located there, but the efficiency drops sharply. After some time, the ice may also block the freezer.
The solution is often to completely defrost the refrigerator within 24 hours. If, after switching on, the problem returns after 1-2 weeks, it means that one of the elements of the defrosting system is faulty: the heating element has burned out, the timer is stuck, or the sensor has failed.
Diagnostics and step-by-step testing with your own hands
Before calling a technician, you can carry out an initial diagnosis. This will help you more accurately describe the problem to a specialist and, possibly, eliminate simple mistakes. Start by checking the door's seal. If the seal is worn out or the door is warped, warm air constantly flows inside, and the refrigerator does not have time to cool products.
Check the operation of the compressor. Place your hand on the side or rear grille (condenser). It should be warm or hot. If the grille is cold and the motor is humming, this is almost guaranteed to be a freon leak or a blockage. If the grill is hot, but the refrigerator is not freezing, there may be a problem with the air circulation or the thermostat.
Inspect the inside of the freezer. Is the layer of frost even? If there is a “fur coat” in one corner and a clean corner in the other, this is a sign of a leak or blockage. If there is no frost at all, but the motor is running, there is also a leak.
Table of main faults
For convenience, we will systematize the knowledge gained. Below is a table to help match symptoms with possible causes. Remember that an accurate diagnosis can only be made by a specialist with equipment.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Difficulty of repair | Necessary actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| The compressor is silent, there are no lights no | No power, socket burnt out, broken wire | Low | Check the voltage in the network, plug, cord |
| Humming, not cooling, grille is cold | Freon leak or capillary blockage | High | Call a technician, search for leaks, refill |
| Humming, slightly freezing, a lot of ice | Malfunction of the defrost system (No Frost) | Average | Replacement of heating element, timer or sensor |
| Works without stopping, there is cold | Thermostat or sensor is faulty | Average | Replacing the thermostat |
⚠️ Attention: Never try to open a sealed circuit yourself or change the compressor without skills in working with refrigeration equipment. This is life-threatening and can permanently damage the equipment.
When you need to call a professional technician
If after defrosting and checking the electrical system the Biryusa refrigerator still does not cool, it’s time to call service. Professional repairs require evacuation of the system, filling with the exact amount of freon (the brand of freon is indicated on the tag, usually R134a or R600a) and the use of oil of a certain viscosity.
It is especially critical to contact specialists when working with R600a gas (isobutane), which is used in many modern Biryusa models. This gas is explosive when concentrated in air. Unprofessional soldering or refilling can lead to ignition.
The technician will also be able to troubleshoot the compressor. Sometimes the engine hums, but does not develop the required pressure due to exhaustion of the valves. In this case, only replacing the unit will help. Replacing a compressor on your own is extremely difficult due to the need to solder tubes and refill.
Prevention and care of the refrigerator
To avoid situations where the refrigerator stops freezing, it is important to follow the operating rules. Defrost the unit regularly (if it is not No Frost), even if there is no visible ice. Excess moisture in the system is the enemy of the compressor and capillaries.
Keep the condenser at the back clean. Dust and pet hair create a “thermal insulation” layer, causing the compressor to overheat and wear out. Cleaning the grates with a vacuum cleaner every six months will extend the life of the motor.
Do not place hot foods in the chamber. This causes a sharp jump in temperature and humidity, which leads to the formation of ice plugs in the channels and increased load on the thermostat. Allow the food to cool to room temperature before loading.
The myth about placing the refrigerator
People often ask whether it is possible to place the refrigerator next to the radiator. Answer: not advisable. Heating the side wall reduces cooling efficiency and increases power consumption. If it is impossible to avoid, install a thermal insulating partition.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why does the Biryusa refrigerator hum, but does not freeze after defrosting?
If after a long defrosting (less than 8-10 hours) you turned on the refrigerator and it It hums, but does not freeze, perhaps moisture has entered the system or capillary. The starting capacitor could also burn out during startup. Let it work for 3-4 hours. If there is no cold, you need diagnostics by a technician.
Is it possible to operate a refrigerator if it does not cool in the upper chamber?
For a short time - yes, if the freezer is working. However, the compressor will work continuously, trying to gain temperature, which will lead to rapid wear and overheating. It is better to turn off the device before repair.
How much does it cost to refill a Biryusa refrigerator with freon?
The price depends on the region and type of refrigerant. Typically, the cost consists of a visit, diagnostics, materials (freon, oil) and labor. The technician will tell you the exact amount after inspection, as it may be necessary to replace the filter or fix a leak.
What to do if there is water in the refrigerator compartment, but there is no cold?
This is a sign that the food is defrosting. Urgently check if the freezer is working. If it’s also warm there, turn off the refrigerator, take out the food and call a professional. Most likely, there was a freon leak.