When choosing a new refrigerator or diagnosing a breakdown of an old Beko brand unit, the first thing that attracts attention is the heart of the device - the compressor. Turkish brand actively uses various types of engines in its models, from classic to modern inverter systems. Understanding which motor is installed in your model allows you not only to more accurately assess energy consumption, but also to predict possible malfunctions in the future.
Many users mistakenly believe that all Beko refrigerators are equipped with the same components, but this is not the case. Depending on the series, year of manufacture and price segment, the manufacturer can install Secop compressor, Aspera or its own developments under the brand Beko. It is important to understand these nuances so as not to overpay for repairs or not to buy equipment with redundant but unnecessary functions.
In this article we will analyze in detail the design features of the motors used in Beko refrigeration equipment and help you make a choice or diagnosis.
Types of compressors in Beko technology
The modern market for household appliances dictates its own rules, and manufacturers, including Beko, are forced to adapt. At the moment, in refrigerators of this brand you can find two main types of compressors: piston and inverter. Piston models they work on the principle “turned on - cooled - turned off”. This is a time-tested technology, which is distinguished by its simplicity of design and affordable cost of spare parts.
On the other hand, models with inverter driveare increasingly appearing in the Beko catalogue. Such engines do not stop completely, but only reduce speed to maintain the set temperature. This ensures quieter operation and less wear on mechanical parts. However, despite the marketing advantages, each type has its own hidden features, which are rarely talked about in stores.
⚠️ Attention: When buying a used Beko refrigerator, be sure to listen to the operation of the motor. A dull hum with periodic clicks may indicate the nearing end-of-life condition of the piston compressor, even if outwardly it looks serviceable.
It is also worth noting that the type of compressor directly affects the energy consumption class of the device. Inverter systems allow Beko refrigerators to achieve A++ and A+++, while older piston models often belong to the A or A+class. If saving electricity in the long term is important to you, this parameter becomes critical.
Inverter motors: advantages and nuances
Inverter compressors in Beko refrigerators deserve special attention, since they are the ones provide the manufacturer declared Low Noise (low noise level). The principle of their operation is based on changing the engine speed, which allows you to smoothly regulate the cooling power. Unlike jerks when starting a conventional motor, the inverter operates in a gentle mode.
However, this technology also has a downside. The control electronics inverterare sensitive to power surges in the network. If your home often experiences power outages, it is recommended to take care of a high-quality stabilizer. Otherwise, repairing the control board may be more expensive than replacing a conventional starting relay.
The main advantages of inverter systems using Beko technology:
- 🔇 Minimum noise: no loud clicks when turning on and off.
- 💰 Energy saving: electricity consumption is reduced by up to 30% compared to the classic.
- 🌡️ Stable temperature: products are stored in ideal conditions without changes.
- 🛠️ Long service life: no constant cycles start/stop reduces friction of parts.
Despite their high reliability, inverter compressors are more difficult to diagnose. To check their performance, special equipment is often required, which is only available in service centers. In this case, independently ringing the windings with a multimeter will not be enough to fully assess the condition.
Classic piston compressors
Most budget and mid-budget Beko models are still equipped with traditional piston compressors. These units are produced by well-known world leaders such as Secop (formerly Danfoss), Aspera (Embraco) or Tecumseh. Their design remains unchanged for decades: motor-compressor, start relay and thermostat.
The main advantage of such systems is maintainability. If the starting relay or capacitor fails, replacing these elements is inexpensive and can be done even at home if you have basic skills. You can find spare parts for a piston compressor for Beko in almost any radio parts store.
Comparison of characteristics of piston and inverter systems:
| Characteristics | Piston compressor | Inverter compressor |
|---|---|---|
| Noise level | Medium/High | Low |
| Energy consumption | Standard | Economical |
| Repair cost | Low | High |
| Network sensitivity | Low | High |
| Service life | 7-10 years | 10-15 years |
It is important to understand that “classics” too is being improved. Modern piston motors in Beko refrigerators have become quieter and more efficient than their predecessors thanks to an improved shock absorption system and new refrigerants. However, the principle of cyclic operation (turning on at full power and completely turning off) retains its disadvantages in the form of temperature fluctuations inside the chambers.
Why does a piston compressor hum loudly?
The hum of a piston compressor is often caused by resonance of the tubes or wear of the internal bearings. Also, the sound may be amplified if the refrigerator is not installed level and the vibration is transmitted to the body or floor.
How to find out the model and manufacturer of the compressor
If you are planning a replacement or just want to know what exactly is inside your Beko refrigerator, you do not have to be an engineer. All necessary information is usually available on stickers. Technical data sheet devices or a sticker on the inside wall of the refrigerator contains the serial number and model. However, to find out the manufacturer of the motor itself, you need to look further.
The compressor is located in the lower rear part of the unit. To access it, you will need to remove the rear metal cover (crankcase), which is secured with bolts or latches. There is always a nameplate with technical information on the black metal compressor tank. It is there that you will find the brand name (for example, Secop, Aspera, Beko) and model.
What to look for during inspection:
- 🏷️ Compressor model: allows you to find analogues for replacement.
- ⚡ Power and voltage: critical for selecting a starter relay.
- ❄️ Refrigerant type: R600a (isobutane) or R134a, which affects the charging technology.
- 📅 Production date: helps estimate the remaining resource.
Sometimes refrigerator manufacturers, including Beko, may use compressors from different brands in the same refrigerator model depending on the delivery batch. Therefore, you should not rely only on reviews on the Internet about a specific refrigerator model - it is better to look under the lid of your specific instance once.
⚠️ Attention: Before removing the back cover and any manipulations with the compressor, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply! Working with electrical appliances under voltage is dangerous to life.
Fault symptoms and diagnostics
Sooner or later, any mechanism wears out. Understanding how faulty compressorbehaves will help you call a technician in time and save your food. The most obvious sign of trouble is the absence of cold when the lights and fan are running (if there is one). However, the engine may hum but not start, or turn on for a few seconds and immediately turn off.
Frequent symptoms of problems with the compressor:
- 🔊 Extraordinary sounds: knocking, clanging, metallic grinding or too loud humming.
- 🔥 Overheating: the compressor is hot to the touch (it’s normal if it is warm, but not hot).
- ⏱️ Short cycles: the refrigerator turns on and off every 1-2 minutes.
- 💡 Light burnout: when the engine starts, the lights in the room flash or go out.
☑️ Primary diagnostics of the compressor
One of the common problems is the failure of the starting relay. In this case, the compressor may hum, trying to start, but the rotor will not turn. After a few seconds, the thermal protection is triggered and a characteristic shutdown click is heard. Replacing the relay is an inexpensive procedure and often solves the problem without replacing the motor itself.
If the compressor is silent and does not make any sounds, the problem may be a broken winding or lack of power. Checking the integrity of the windings is carried out with a multimeter in resistance measurement mode. Normal resistance values for different windings (starting and operating) must be in a certain range specified in the technical documentation.
Replacing a compressor: is it worth doing it yourself?
Replacing a compressor in a Beko refrigerator is a complex technical process that requires not only plumbing, but also refrigeration skills. It's not just a matter of unscrewing the old motor and bolting on a new one. The system is sealed and filled with refrigerant, which must be properly evacuated (pumped out) and refilled.
The replacement process includes:
- Draining the old freon and oil.
- Removing the old compressor (often requires soldering of copper tubes).
- Installation of a new motor and filter-drier.
- Evacuation of the system to remove moisture and air.
- Refilling with the exact amount of refrigerant (weight in grams).
Important: Independent replacement of the compressor without vacuum pump and pressure gauge station is almost guaranteed to lead to rapid breakdown of the new unit due to moisture or air entering the circuit. In addition, modern refrigerants (R600a) are explosive when in contact with air in a certain concentration.
The cost of replacement consists of the price of the compressor itself, the filter drier, the refrigerant and the work of the technician. In the case of inverter models, the price can be significantly higher due to the cost of the unit itself and the complexity of diagnostics. Sometimes it makes more economic sense to consider buying a new refrigerator if the old one has lasted more than 10 years.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Which compressor is better for a Beko refrigerator: inverter or conventional?
Inverter compressor is better in terms of energy efficiency, noise level and stability temperature. However, it is more expensive to purchase and repair. A conventional piston compressor is cheaper and easier to maintain, which makes it a good choice for regions with unstable power supply.
Is it possible to replace a conventional Beko compressor with an inverter one?
Theoretically it is possible, but technically extremely difficult and economically impractical. It will be necessary to replace the entire control system (board), resolder the pipelines and reconfigure the electronics. It’s easier and more reliable to buy a refrigerator that was originally designed for an inverter.
How many years does the compressor last in a Beko refrigerator?
The average service life of a piston compressor is 7-10 years. Inverter models can work for 10-15 years or more. The actual resource depends on operating conditions: room temperature, network voltage and frequency of door opening.
Is the Beko compressor humming - is this normal?
A slight hum or vibration during operation is normal, as the motor compresses the gas. However, if the sound becomes similar to knocking, metal clanging or rumble, this is a sign of mechanical destruction of internal components. In this case, diagnostics are necessary.
Where are compressors for Beko refrigerators manufactured?
Beko does not produce compressors independently under its own brand for all lines. They purchase them from leading global manufacturers such as Secop (Germany/Serbia), Aspera (Italy/Brazil) and others. The place of production of a particular motor depends on the batch and the assembly plant of the refrigerator.