Owners of modern household appliances are often faced with the need to temporarily turn off the unit. This may be necessary for defrosting, long travel, cleaning or moving. The question of how to turn off a two-chamber Samsung refrigerator does not always have an obvious answer, especially in models with touch controls and the No Frost system.
Unlike old mechanical models, where it was enough to simply unplug the cord from the outlet, modern digital systems require compliance with a certain algorithm of actions. Improper shutdown may cause electronics to malfunction or cause unpleasant odors in the future. In this article we will look at all the nuances of putting equipment into rest mode.
The difference between the Off mode and a complete shutdown
The first thing the user needs to understand is the difference between a software shutdown and a physical shutdown. When you use the control panel to activate the function Off modeyou essentially stop the compressor and fans, but leave the electronics energized. This is necessary so that the system can monitor the status of the sensors and not generate an error the next time it is turned on.
Physical shutdown involves removing the plug from the network or turning off the toggle switch, if it is provided for in the design. This method is used for long-term downtime of equipment or for repair work. In models Samsung RB30 or Samsung RL34 electronics may consume a minimal amount of energy even when turned off, if the circuit is not completely broken.
It is important to note that with a soft shutdown, the light in the camera may continue to light when the door is opened, since voltage is supplied directly to the lamp. A complete blackout ensures that no element of the system will function.
⚠️ Attention: If you plan to leave the refrigerator turned off for more than two weeks, be sure to leave the doors slightly open. This will prevent the formation of mold and the appearance of a musty smell inside the chambers.
Instructions for shutting down through the control panel
Most modern dual-chamber models are equipped with a digital display. The procedure for disabling the cooling function on them is standardized, but may have slight variations depending on the series. Usually you need to find a button designated as Cooling Off or simply Off.
To activate the mode, you need to hold down the corresponding key for 3 seconds. An indicator should appear on the screen indicating that cooling has stopped. In some models, such as Samsung Side-by-Side, the combination may be different, for example, pressing two buttons at the same time.
If the icon is lit on the display Cooling Off, this means that the compressor will not start, even if the temperature inside the chambers rises above the set norm. The system will ignore the readings of the temperature sensors until you manually remove the lock.
☑️ Software shutdown algorithm
It is worth considering that control interfaces can be updated by manufacturers. If the described actions do not lead to results, it makes sense to check the current version of the user manual for your specific modification, since the location of the sensor zones may change.
Physical disconnection from the power supply
If your goal is complete blackout, for example, for washing or repairs, you need to act carefully. First, make sure you turn off the appliance through the control panel, if possible. A sudden loss of power to a running compressor can negatively affect the start relay.
Access to the outlet is often difficult, since refrigerators are installed close to the wall. In such cases, it is safer to use a surge protector with an off button, if it is provided for in your connection diagram. Do not pull the cord by the wire, hold only the plastic head of the plug.
After removing the plug from the network, it is recommended to wait 5-10 minutes before turning it on again. This time is necessary to equalize the pressure in the refrigerant system and cool the motor windings. An instant restart can lead to an overload and tripping of the protection.
Features of defrosting two-chamber models
Many users are interested in whether it is necessary to turn off the Samsung refrigerator with the system No Frost to defrost. Technically, in these models moisture is removed automatically, and the formation of an ice coat on the evaporator is impossible. However, sometimes a general cleaning is required or the condensate drainage system fails.
If you notice ice freezing in the refrigerator compartment, this may indicate a clogged drainage hole. In this case, turning off the power is the only way to safely remove the ice blockage. Do not use sharp objects or a hair dryer to speed up the process, this may damage the plastic box or tubes.
The natural defrosting process takes from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the amount of ice and the temperature in the room. You can speed it up by placing containers with warm water, but not boiling water, inside the chambers.
| System type | Does it need to be turned off | Defrosting frequency | Thawing time |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Frost (Full) | Only for cleaning | 1-2 times a year | 2-3 hours |
| Low Frost (Low) | When ice freezes | As needed | 4-6 hours |
| Drip | Required | Once every 3-6 months | 6-10 hours |
| Combined | In case of failures | once a year | 4-5 hours |
Why can’t you pick ice with a knife?
Use of sharp objects to chipping ice is strictly prohibited. Thin walls of the evaporator or cooling panels are easy to penetrate. Even a microscopic hole will lead to the release of refrigerant, and repairs will become economically unfeasible.
What to do with food before turning it off
When planning to turn off the refrigerator, you need to take care of the safety of the food in advance. If you use the mode Cooling Off for a short time (for example, 30 minutes for cleaning), the food can be left inside with the door tightly closed. Temperatures will rise slowly.
For an extended shutdown, all perishable goods must be removed. Meat, fish and dairy products are best eaten the day before or frozen if you have a separate freezer that will not turn off. Vegetables and fruits should be stored in a cool place.
Do not leave food packages inside that could leak or emit a strong odor. Even when turned off, leftover food can become a source of bacteria. It is better to remove the shelves and drawers and wash them separately.
- 🥩 Place perishable foods in the cold or consume them.
- 🥛 Pour liquids into sealed containers or put them away.
- 🥦 Remove vegetables from the vegetable compartments for ventilation.
Typical mistakes when turning off equipment
One of the most common mistakes is trying to turn on the refrigerator immediately after it has been turned off. As mentioned earlier, the compressor needs time to redistribute the refrigerant throughout the system. Ignoring this rule often leads to water hammer and motor breakdown.
Another mistake is leaving the doors closed and turned off. Mold develops quickly inside a confined space, which is then very difficult to remove. The rubber seal may also become deformed or stick if the chambers are closed for a long time.
⚠️ Attention: Never turn on the refrigerator if you have just moved it and it was in a horizontal position. The oil should flow into the compressor crankcase, this takes from 4 to 24 hours.
Some users try to turn off the equipment by simply turning off the light in the room or unplugging the cord while the compressor is running. The electronics perceives this as a power surge, which can lead to failures in the control module.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long should it stand refrigerator before turning it on again?
The optimal waiting time is from 10 to 15 minutes if the equipment was standing upright. If you have transported or tilted it, it is better to wait 2-4 hours for the oil in the compressor to stabilize.
Is it possible to turn off a Samsung refrigerator at night to save money?
It is strictly not recommended. Constant cycles of on and off, as well as defrosting food, will lead to increased energy consumption for re-cooling and wear on the compressor. Modern models already consume little energy.
The Cooling Off indicator is on, but the refrigerator is freezing. What to do?
This may indicate a malfunction of the temperature sensor or control unit. Try turning off the power completely for 15 minutes (resetting the error), and then turning it on again. If the problem persists, diagnostics are required.
Do you need to remove the shelves when turning off?
For a short-term shutdown - no. For long-term storage or defrosting - yes, it is better to remove the glass shelves to avoid the formation of condensation between the glass and the plastic, as well as for ease of cleaning.