Combustion mode in the refrigerator: how to turn it on correctly and not break it equipment

Have you noticed that the refrigerator has become worse at freezing, and a thick layer of ice has appeared on the back wall - despite the system No Frost? Perhaps it's time to start combustion mode (aka burn-in, defrosting or forced defrosting mode). This function is available in most modern models Samsung, LG, Indesit i Atlant, but not all users know how to use it correctly.

The combustion mode is not a regular defrost, but a special algorithm for the operation of the compressor and heating element, which removes ice even in hard-to-reach places of the evaporator without damaging the system. It is launched no more than 1-2 times a year, but if you miss the moment, the refrigerator will begin to consume more electricity, and food will spoil faster. This article contains detailed instructions on how to turn on the combustion mode on different models, what errors may occur and how to avoid them.

What is the combustion mode in the refrigerator and why is it needed

Combustion mode (or burn-in mode) is hardware function, which activates heating of the evaporator to high temperatures (usually +60...+80°C) to completely remove ice. Unlike manual defrosting, there is no need to disconnect the refrigerator from the mains or remove food: the system itself controls the process and then returns to normal operation.

The main reasons for starting the combustion mode:

• 🔹 A thick layer of ice on the evaporator (more than 5 mm) - interferes with air circulation and increases the load on compressor.
• 🔹 The refrigerator does not freeze well, the thermostat is set to maximum.
• 🔹 An unpleasant odor due to the accumulation of condensate in the drainage system.
• 🔹 After a long power outage (for example, at the dacha in winter).

Important: combustion mode does not replace regular cleaning of the refrigerator! It only removes ice, but does not clear spills or mold from shelves. Also, it cannot be used as a method of “prevention” - frequent startup reduces the life of the heating element.

Which refrigerators have a combustion mode

The function burn-in is built into most models with the system No Frost (or Frost Free), but not all of them are available to the user. Here is a list of brands and series where the combustion mode can be turned on manually:

If your model is not in the table, this does not mean that there is no combustion mode - perhaps it starts automatically (for example, in refrigerators Bosch and Liebherr) or is hidden in the service menu. To check, look at the instructions for the device (section Special Modes or Defrost).

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with drip system (without No Frost) there is no combustion mode! common brands. If your brand is not in the list, try the button combination from step 4.

Step-by-step instructions: how to turn on the combustion mode

The activation process depends on the refrigerator model. Below are universal methods for the most common brands. If your brand is not in the list, try the button combination from step 4.

1. Refrigerators Samsung (RB, RT, RS series)

For models with a display:

1. Press and hold button Freezer (freezer) for 8–10 seconds.
2. The display will show dF or FORCED DEFROST —this means that the mode is activated.
3. After 30–60 minutes the refrigerator will automatically will return to normal mode.

For models without a display:

1. Unplug the refrigerator for 1 minute.
2. Turn it back on and immediately press the combination:
[Fridge] + [Freezer] + [Power Cool] (hold 5 seconds).
3. The "dF" indicator will light up - the combustion mode is started.

2. Refrigerators LG with the system Smart Inverter

Instructions for models GA-B489, GB-B459 and similar:

• 🔘 Press and hold the button Freezer (freezer compartment) for 10-12 seconds.
• 🔘 A flashing message will appear on the display dF or OFF —this is normal.
• 🔘 After 1-2 hours, the refrigerator will exit the mode and beep.

3. Refrigerators Indesit i Ariston

For models with electronic control (series C, D, BAA):

1. Press the button Super Cool for 5 seconds.
2. Use the buttons +/– select the item in the menu Special Functions.
3. Find the option Defrost or Burn-In and confirm the choice.

4. Universal method (for most refrigerators)

If the previous methods did not work, try this combination:

1. Unplug the refrigerator for 30 seconds.
2. Turn it back on and press within 5 seconds:
[Power Cool] + [Fridge] + [Freezer] (hold for 8-10 seconds).
3. If the code "dF","Fd" or "FORCED" appears on the display, the mode is activated.

Make sure that the refrigerator is connected to the network|Check that the door is tightly closed|Remove perishable products (if the temperature rises above +10°C)|Prepare a towel to collect condensate-->

How long does the combustion mode last and how to understand that it has ended

The operating time of the mode depends on the model and the degree of icing of the evaporator. On average, the process takes:

• 🕒 30–60 minutes — for. refrigerators Samsung and LG.
• 🕒 1.5–2 hours — for Indesit, Atlant and older models.
• 🕒 Up to 4 hours —if ice has accumulated in drainage system.

How to understand that the mode has ended:

• 🔄 Refrigerator itself will restart (hear the relay click).
• 📟 The message dF/FORCED will disappear on the display and the normal temperature will appear.
• 🔊 Some models beep sound signal (one long beep).
• ❄️ 10-15 minutes after completion, the compressor will begin to freeze in normal mode.

⚠️ Attention: If the combustion mode operates for more than 4 hours and the ice does not melt, this is a sign malfunctions of the defrosting heating elementimmediately unplug the refrigerator and call. masters!

Common mistakes when turning on the combustion mode

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that can lead to damage to the refrigerator. Here are the most common ones:

1. Interrupting the mode manually
   

   If you disconnect the refrigerator from the mains while it is burning, the heating element may overheat and the control system may go astray. As a result, you will have to reset the settings or change the board.

2. Starting the mode with the door open
   

   This leads to freezing of the evaporator due to the entry of warm air. In some models (Samsung RB37*) this may cause an error E-22 (problem with the defrost sensor).

3. Ignoring sound signals
   

   If the refrigerator beeps during combustion, this does not always mean the end of the process. For example, in models LG short beeps signal that overheating of the heating element you need to urgently turn off the equipment.

4. Frequent start of the mode
   

   Combustion mode - this emergency measureand not a monthly procedure. With frequent use, the heating element wears out, and the rubber seals lose their elasticity.

If, after turning on the combustion mode, the refrigerator began to work louder or a burning smell appeared, this is a sign turn-to-turn short circuit in the heating element. Immediately turn off the equipment and do not turn it on until repairs!

What to do if the combustion mode does not start?

If after all the manipulations the display does not show the inscription "dF" or "FORCED", check:

1. Power: the refrigerator must be connected directly to the outlet (without extension cords).

2. Sensor temperature: in some models (Indesit C18) the mode is blocked if the freezer is below -18°C.

3. Service menu: try activating the mode through the engineering menu (the combination of buttons depends on the model).

4. Failure of the board: if nothing helps, the resistor or contacts on the control board may have burned out. In this case, repair is needed.

Combustion mode vs. regular defrosting: which is better

Many users doubt whether it is worth using the combustion mode or whether it is easier to defrost the refrigerator manually. Let's compare both methods:

Conclusion: combustion mode preferable for refrigerators with No Frost, since it carefully removes ice without the risk of damaging the system. Manual defrosting is relevant for drip models or if burn-in for some reason it does not work.

What to do after the combustion mode ends

When the refrigerator automatically returns to normal mode, follow a few simple steps to avoid problems in the future:

1. Check the temperature
   

   Make sure that +4…+5°Cis set in the main chamber, and –18°Cin the freezer. If the values are different, the thermostat settings may be off.

2. Remove condensation
   

   Wipe with a dry cloth the walls of the chambers and the drainage hole (usually located on the back wall of the main chamber). This will prevent the formation of mold.

3. Check the seal
   

   The door rubber may have become deformed due to high temperature. If it does not fit well, lubricate it with silicone grease or replace it.

4. Start it. test cycle
   

   Put the thermometer in the freezer for 2 hours. If the temperature does not drop to –16°C or below, it means that the combustion mode did not cope with the ice - a repeat procedure or repair is needed.

If after the combustion mode the refrigerator became turn on more often or make noise, this may be a temporary phenomenon (the compressor works harder to restore the temperature). Let the equipment work for 12-24 hours - if the problem does not disappear, contact the service.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the combustion mode

Is it possible to turn on the combustion mode in a refrigerator with a drip system?

No! In drip refrigerators (without No Frostthere is no defrosting heating element, so forced heating can damage the evaporator. It is suitable for such models. only manual defrosting.

Why doesn’t the refrigerator freeze after the combustion mode?

Probable reasons:

• 🔌 Failure of the control board - flashing or replacement is required.
• ❄️ Freezing of the drain tube —you need to clean it with wire.
• ⚡ The temperature sensor has failed —the refrigerator “thinks” it has already reached the desired temperature.

If the problem does not disappear after rebooting, call master.

How often can you use the combustion mode?

The optimal frequency is 1 time every 6-12 months. It is not recommended to turn on the mode more often, since:

• 🔥 The defrosting heating element has a limited resource (usually 5–7 years).
• 🔌 Frequent heating can lead to drying out of the seal.
• ⚡ The load on the compressor increases after the mode ends.

Is it possible start the combustion mode if the refrigerator is disconnected from the network?

No, the mode only works when the power is connected. If the refrigerator was turned off (for example, during a move), first let it stand 2-3 hours to stabilize the pressure in the system, and then activate burn-in.

Why does the refrigerator make loud noises during combustion?

This is normal! During the combustion mode:

• 🔊 Crackling - this is ice bursting from heating.
• 💨 Fan noise - it works at maximum speed to circulate hot water. air.
• 🔥 Crackling —the heating element heats up (especially noticeable in models LG).

If sounds are accompanied by burning smell or smoke - immediately turn off the refrigerator!