Refrigerators Liebherr are known for their reliability and wide functionality, but sometimes situations arise when you need to temporarily or permanently turn off the freezer. This may be due to energy savings, seasonal use (for example, in the country), or the need to free up space for renovation or remodeling of the kitchen. However, improper shutdown can lead to compressor breakdown, condensation formation, or even equipment damage.
In this article we will look at all possible ways to deactivate the freezer - from simply turning the dial to software shutdown in electronically controlled models. We will pay special attention to the nuances for refrigerators with system NoFrost, SmartFrost and hybrid cooling modes. You will also find out which models Liebherr support complete shutdown of the freezer compartment, and in which this may lead to malfunction of the main compartment.
Before you begin manipulations, check: do you really need to turn off the freezer completely? In most cases, it is enough to switch it to economy mode (for example, SuperFrost turn it off and set the temperature to +10°C), which will save up to 30% of energy without risk to equipment.
1. When is it necessary to turn off the freezer?
Complete deactivation of the freezer is not always justified. Let's consider typical scenarios in which this is really necessary:
- 🔌 Long absence (for example, you are leaving your dacha for the winter, and the refrigerator remains working only to maintain a positive temperature in the main compartment).
- 💰 Saving energy during high tariffs (the freezer consumes up to 40% of total energy consumption refrigerator).
- 🛠️ Repair or replacement of parts (for example, if there is a freon leak in the freezing circuit).
- 🏡 Redevelopment kitchenwhen the freezer compartment interferes with the installation of new furniture.
- 🧊 Refusal of freezing (if you do not use the freezer on principle and want to extend the life of the compressor).
Important: if your model Liebherr is equipped one compressor for both compartments (for example, series CN or CP), complete shutdown of the freezer can lead to automatic shutdown of the refrigerator compartment after 12–24 hours. This is due to a protective mechanism that prevents the motor from overheating. In such cases, it is better to use "Vacation" mode (Holiday Mode), if provided.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Liebherr with a system BioFresh turning off the freezer may disrupt the microclimate in the freshness zone. Before deactivation, transfer all products from BioFresh-compartment to the main compartment or consume them within 2 days.
2. Methods for turning off the freezer depending on the type of control
The method for deactivating the freezer depends on Type of control system your refrigerator Liebherr. All models can be divided into three categories:
| Type of control | Series of models | Disconnection method | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical | CN, CP, CTN | Turning the knob to "0" or "Off" | Defrosting may be required before shutting down |
| Electronic (display) | SBS, CBN, CBP | Through the menu Settings → Freezer → Off |
Some models require button confirmation OK |
| Touch (SmartDevice) | IKB, IKP, SIDE-by-SIDE | Touching the freezer icon or voice command | Supports remote shutdown via the application Liebherr SmartDevice |
Next we will look at it in detail every method. If you are not sure about the type of control of your model, look at panel inside the refrigerator: mechanical controls look like rotary knobs (usually white or gray), electronic ones - like a display with buttons, touch controls - a smooth panel without protruding elements.
2.1. Mechanical control (CN, CP, CTN series)
In refrigerators with mechanical control, the freezer is turned off by smoothly turning the temperature regulator counterclockwise until it stops. Usually there is a mark Off or 0on the scale. The process looks like this:
- Open the freezer door.
- Find the temperature regulator (located on the top or side panel inside the compartment).
- Turn the knob until it clicks to position
Off. - Close the door and wait until the compressor stops (usually takes 5–10 minutes).
In models with with one compressor (for example, Liebherr CN 4313) after turning off the freezer, the refrigerator compartment will continue to work, but the temperature in it may increase by 1–2°C. This is normal, since the compressor now cools only one compartment.
⚠️ Attention: If, after turning off the freezer, the refrigerator compartment stops freezing, check whether the overheating protection has tripped. In this case, turn the freezer back on for 1 hour, then turn it off again.
2.2. Electronic control (SBS, CBN, CBP series)
Refrigerators with an electronic display (for example Liebherr SBSes 7256) allow you to turn off the freezer through the settings menu. Instructions:
- Press the button
Menu(orSettings) on the control panel. - Use the arrows to select the section
Freezer(orFreezer camera). - Find the item
PowerorOn/Offand confirm the selection with the buttonOK. - A confirmation request will appear on the screen - select
Off.
In some models (for example, Liebherr CBPes 4866) after When the freezer is turned off, the indicator Alarm will light up on the display - this is normal, since the system signals a non-standard mode. To clear the signal, press and hold the button Alarm Off for 3 seconds.
☑️ Preparing to turn off the freezer
2.3. Touch control and SmartDevice (IKB, IKP, SIDE-by-SIDE series)
In premium models Liebherr (for example, IKP 3560 or SIDE-by-SIDE SBSes 8663) the freezer can be turned off in two ways:
- 📱 Via the touch panel: touch the freezer icon (usually a snowflake 🏔️) and hold for 2 seconds until the menu appears. Select
Turn off. - 📲 Through the application Liebherr SmartDevice:
- Open the application and connect to the refrigerator.
- Go to the section
Management→Freezer. - Activate the slider
Disable.
The advantage of touch models is opportunity remote control. For example, if you forgot to turn off the freezer before leaving, you can do this via your smartphone. However, please note that in Off the freezer mode not only does not cool, but also does not maintain tightness (the door may open slightly due to lack of vacuum).
3. Disabling the freezer in models with NoFrost and SmartFrost
Refrigerators Liebherr with systems NoFrost (full"NoFrost") and SmartFrost (partial "NoFrost") require a special approach when turning off the freezer. The main difference is the presence fan and automatic defrostingthat can continue to work even after cooling is deactivated.
In models with NoFrost (for example, Liebherr SBS 7212) when turned off freezers:
- The fan continues to rotate for 10-15 minutes to evenly distribute the temperature.
- The evaporator heater may turn on briefly to dry the system.
- The display will show a message
Defrost—this is not an error, but normal process.
In refrigerators with SmartFrost (for example, Liebherr CBP 4866) after turning off the freezer, it is recommended to manually start defrosting, even if there is no ice. To do this:
Press and hold the "SuperFrost" button for 5 seconds,
until the "Defrost" indicator flashes.
⚠️ Attention: In models with SmartFrost for a long time (more than 2 weeks) leaving the freezer off may cause the drainage hole to become clogged. Before turning it back on, check its cleanliness and, if necessary, clean it with a cotton swab.
What should you do if, after turning off the freezer, the refrigerator becomes louder?
This is normal: the compressor now cools only one compartment and can work with a higher load. However, if the noise is accompanied by vibration, check the compressor mounting - the bolts may be loose.
4. Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Incorrectly turning off the freezer can lead to serious damage. Here are the most common errors and their consequences:
- ❄️ Shutdown without defrosting → formation of condensation and rust on metal parts.
- 🔌 Unplugging the plug from the socket → settings failure and error
E1(reboot required). - 🚪 Leaving the freezer door open → warm air entering the refrigerator compartment and spoiling food.
- ⏱️ Frequent switching on/off (more than once a day) → overloading the compressor and reducing it service life.
To avoid problems, follow a simple algorithm:
- 12 hours before turning off, switch the freezer to mode
SuperFrostfor 1 hour, then return to normal temperature. This will help stabilize the system. - Before turning off, make sure that there is no ice in the freezer (if there is, defrost).
- After turning off, close the freezer door and secure it with tape (if the model is not equipped with a magnetic seal).
If after turning off freezer, the refrigeration compartment began to work unstable (the temperature fluctuates, the compressor does not turn off), check:
- Is the mode
PartyModeorCoolPlus(they increase the load on the compressor). - Is the drainage hole in the refrigerator not clogged? chamber (can cause icing of the evaporator).
- Is the refrigerator close to the wall (at least 5 cm is needed for ventilation).
5. How to restart a freezer after being unplugged
Restarting a freezer after a long period of inactivity requires caution, especially if the refrigerator was unplugged. Follow these instructions:
- If the freezer has been unplugged for more than 2 weeks, before turning it on, wipe the internal surfaces with a weak solution of vinegar (1 tablespoon per 1 liter of water) to remove possible mold.
- Make sure the drainage hole is clean (blow it out with a straw or a special brush).
- Turn on the freezer in normal mode (for mechanical models - turn the knob to
Mid, for electronic ones - select a temperature of −18°C). - Do not load food for 2-3 hours so that the system stabilizes.
In models with NoFrost after turning on the freezer, automatic defrosting may work (the display will show Defrost). Don't interrupt this process! It takes 15–30 minutes and is necessary for the fan to work correctly.
If after turning on the freezer does not cool:
- Check if the indicator is on
Alarm(may indicate an open door or high temperature). - Make sure that the refrigerator is connected to the network and the socket is working.
- Listen to whether the compressor is working (slight humming). If not, there may be a freon leak.
⚠️ Attention: If the freezer has been turned off for more than 1 month, before turning it on for the first time, let the refrigerator stand at room temperature for 4-6 hours. This is necessary to equalize the pressure in the system.
6. Alternatives to completely turning off the freezer
In most cases, instead of completely turning off the freezer, you can use economy modeswhich will save energy without risking equipment. Let's consider the main options:
- ❄️ Vacation mode (
Holiday Mode): maintains a temperature of +12...+15°C in both compartments, consuming a minimum of energy. Suitable for long absences. - 🌡️ Increasing temperature: set the freezer to −8°C instead of −18°C. This will reduce energy consumption by 20–25%.
- ⏱️ Operation timer: in some models (for example Liebherr IKP) you can program the freezer to turn off at night (from 23:00 to 6:00).
- 🔄 CoolPlus mode: optimizes the operation of the compressor depending on the room temperature (relevant for cottages without heating).
If your goal is save energy, compare consumption in different modes:
| Mode | Temperature in freezer | Energy consumption (from nominal) | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full shutdown | Room | 0% (but risk for the refrigerator compartment) | Repair, moving |
| Holiday Mode | +12…+15°C | 10–15% | Long absence |
| Temperature −8°C | −8°C | 50–60% | Storage of semi-finished products |
| Timer (night shutdown) | −18°C during the day, +10°C at night | 70% | Saving during peak hours |
For models with SmartDevice you can set automatic mode switching on a schedule. For example, on weekdays the freezer runs on. −18°C, and on weekends - by −12°C. This is convenient if you use the freezer irregularly.
7. Liebherr models in which the freezer cannot be turned off
Not all refrigerators Liebherr support the deactivation of the freezer. In some models, the freezer is integrated into the overall cooling system, and its deactivation will lead to a complete stop of the refrigeratorThese models include:
- 🔴 Series CU (single-compressor, for example Liebherr CU 3311).
- 🔴 Series CT with technology DuoCooling (freezer and refrigerator have a common circuit).
- 🔴 Models with linear compressor (for example, Liebherr L 5411), where turning off one compartment upsets the balance of the system.
To check whether you can turn off the freezer in your model:
- Find operating instructions (usually there is a section "Special Functions" or "Disabling compartments").
- Look at the control panel: if there is a separate regulator or button for the freezer, disabling is possible.
- Check the presence of the mode
Holiday Mode—if there is one, complete shutdown of the freezer is not provided.
If your model does not support turning off the freezer, but you need to save energy, use external timer (socket), which will turn off the refrigerator for several hours a day. However, this method is only suitable for short-term use (no more than 1-2 days in a row), as it is frequent. switching on/off reduces the service life of the compressor.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about turning off the freezer in Liebherr
Is it possible to turn off the freezer in a Liebherr refrigerator with one compressor?
In most single-compressor models (for example, series CN or CP) the freezer can be turned off, but the refrigerator compartment will work intermittently or turn off after 12-24 hours. For long-term shutdown, use the mode Holiday Modeif it is provided.
What should you do if, after turning off the freezer, the refrigerator begins to operate loudly?
This is normal: the compressor now cools only one compartment and works with a higher load. However, if the noise is accompanied by vibration or knocking, check the fastening of the compressor and the installation level of the refrigerator (it should be level, without distortions).
How to turn off the freezer in Liebherr SBSes 7256?
In this model with electronic control, press Menu → Freezer → Power → Off. After switching off, an indicator Alarm may appear on the display - it can be reset by pressing and holding the button Alarm Off for 3 seconds.
Is it possible to turn off the freezer in Liebherr while on vacation?
Yes, but it is better to use mode Holiday Modewhich maintains a temperature of +12...+15°C in both compartments. Complete shutdown of the freezer for a period of more than 3 days can lead to automatic shutdown of the refrigerator compartment in single-compressor models.
What will happen if you leave the freezer turned off for a month?
If it is idle for a long time (more than 4 weeks), the door seal may dry out, the drainage hole may become clogged or mold on interior surfaces. Before turning it back on, wipe the chamber with a vinegar solution and check the drainage.