Don refrigerators: whose compressors are used in modern models?

Brand refrigerators Don are among the most popular on the Russian market due to their affordable price and adaptation to local operating conditions. However, when choosing a model, many buyers wonder: whose compressors are in these refrigerators how reliable are they? Not only the noise level of the compressor depends on the manufacturer of the compressor, but also the durability of the equipment, energy consumption, as well as the ability to withstand voltage fluctuations in the network.

In this article we will analyze in detail which brands of compressors are installed in refrigerators Don different series (from budget to premium), compare their technical characteristics and give recommendations for choice. We will pay special attention to the models 2023–2026 model years, since they have undergone changes in configuration. You will also learn how to independently determine the type of compressor in your refrigerator and what to look for when purchasing.

Who produces compressors for Don refrigerators?

Plant Don (full name - Don Refrigeration Equipment Plant LLC) does not produce compressors independently, but purchases them from world leaders in this field. Depending on the model and year of manufacture, units of the following brands can be installed in refrigerators:

• 🔧 Secop (formerly Danfoss) —Danish compressors, known for their high reliability and adaptation to Russian conditions. Used in most models of the mid-range and premium segment.
• 🔧 Embraco (Nidec) - Brazilian compressors, popular due to their low noise level and energy efficiency. More often found in budget and compact models.
• 🔧 Acc (Mitsubishi) - Japanese compressors, less often used in Don, but characterized by a long service life (up to 15-20 years).
• 🔧 Own developments - in the latest models (from 2023) the plant began testing compressors are made in Russia, but their share does not yet exceed 5–10% of the total volume.

It is important to understand that the manufacturer can change suppliers depending on the availability of components. For example, in 2022–2023, due to sanctions, some models switched from Don switched from Secop to Embraco, and in 2026 they returned to Danish units again. Therefore, even within the same series (for example Don 106 or Don 140) compressors may differ.

How to determine which compressor is in your “Don” refrigerator?

Find out the compressor manufacturer can be done in several ways:

1. According to the marking on the compressor itself. Unplug the refrigerator, remove the back panel (or bottom cover if the compressor is located below) and find a metal plate with inscriptions. Usually it is indicated there:
   • 📌 SECOP, DANFOSS or NL (for Secop)
   • 📌 EMBRACO, NIDEC or EG (for Embraco)
   • 📌 ACC or MITSUBISHI (for Japanese compressors)

By the serial number of the refrigerator. The sticker with the number is usually located on the inner wall of the chamber or on the back of the housing. The first numbers/letters may indicate the series and, accordingly, the type of compressor. For example, models with the index ML are often equipped with Secop, and with KShD — Embraco.

According to the documentation. The type of compressor is sometimes indicated in the refrigerator passport (section “Technical Specifications”). If the documentation is lost, check on the website Don According to the model.

If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better not to disassemble the refrigerator yourself - risk of damage to the cooling circuit high. In this case, contact a service center or use online services to identify components (for example, 2GIS or Yandex.Services with the “Refrigerator Diagnostics” filter).

Comparison of compressors: Secop vs Embraco vs Acc

To understand which compressor is better, compare them according to key parameters: noise, energy consumption, resistance to power surges and durability services. The data in the table is relevant for models Don 2023–2026:

Conclusions from the table:

• 🔊 Acc —the quietest and most durable, but expensive to repair.
• ⚡ Secop —optimal for regions with unstable voltage (for example, rural areas).
• 💰 Embraco —a budget option with low energy consumption but a shorter resource.

Which Don models with which compressors will be produced in 2026?

In 2026, the plant Don updates its line of refrigerators, and the distribution of compressors is as follows:

• 🏆 Premium series:
  • Don 140ML, Don 160ML - compressors Secop NL12 or Acc CM120.
  • Don 185 (Side-by-Side) - only Secop NL15.
• 💵 Middle segment:
  • Don 106, Don 121 — Secop NL10 or Embraco EG120.
  • Don 128 — Embraco EG100 (from 2023).
• 🪙 Budget models:
  • Don 85, Don 90 - only Embraco EG80.
  • Don 101 — Secop NL8 (in versions with No Frost).

Please note: in models with No Frost system (for example, Don 106NF) compressors are always installed Secop, as they better cope with the increased load from the fans. While drip refrigerators (for example, Don 121K) can have both Secopand Embraco.

Why are there only Secop in Side-by-Side models?

Secop NL15 compressors are optimized for working with large volumes (300+ liters) and two cooling circuits, which is critical for Side-by-Side refrigerators. Embraco and Acc do not offer similar solutions for such dimensions.

Problems and typical malfunctions of compressors in Don refrigerators

Despite their reliability, compressors in refrigerators Don may fail. Let's consider the most common problems depending on the type of unit:

• 🔥 Secop (Danfoss):
  • Overheating during long-term operation (more than 12 hours without stopping).
  • Oil leakage through the oil seal (typical for models older than 10 years).
  • Humming when startup due to wear of the starting relay.
• ⚡ Embraco:
  • Sensitivity to low voltage (less than 180 V) - may not start.
  • Increased vibration due to imbalance of the piston group.
  • Seizing when moisture gets into the winding.
• ❄️ Acc (Mitsubishi):
  • Rarely, but the winding may break due to a manufacturing defect (warranty case).
  • High noise when operating in cold weather (if the refrigerator is in an unheated room).

Signs of a compressor malfunction:

• 🔊 The refrigerator does not cool, but there is light inside lights up.
• 🔥 The compressor housing is too hot (more than 70°C).
• ⚡ The compressor turns on for 1-2 seconds and immediately turns off.
• 💡 An error appears on the display E1, E2 or F5 (error codes for Don).

Check the voltage in the outlet (should be 220–230 V)|

Inspect the starting relay for melting|

Listen to the compressor - a humming sound without clicks indicates jamming|

Check the temperature of the condenser (should be warm, but not hot)-->

If you find at least one of these signs, do not delay diagnostics. Long-term operation of a faulty compressor can lead to freon leakage and more expensive repairs.

⚠️ Attention: In models Don with compressors Embraco it is strictly forbidden to use starting devices from other brands (for example, from Secop). This will lead to overheating of the winding and damage to the unit. Always buy original relays!

How to extend the life of the compressor in the Don refrigerator? data-i="193">The service life of the compressor directly depends on operating conditions. By following simple rules, you can avoid premature wear:

The service life of the compressor directly depends on operating conditions. By following simple rules, you can avoid premature wear:

1. Stable voltage. Use voltage stabilizer (recommended models: Resanta ASN-1000 or Calm IS350). data-i="198">which are sensitive to voltage sags. Embraco, which are sensitive to voltage sags.
2. Correct installation. The refrigerator must be placed on a flat surface, with a gap of at least 5 cm from the wall to ventilate the compressor. Otherwise, the unit will overheat.
3. Regular defrosting. Even in models with No Frost it is recommended to defrost the refrigerator 1-2 times a year so that avoid overloading the compressor.
4. Temperature control. Do not set the thermostat to maximum (-24°C and lower) - this increases the load on the compressor. Optimal mode: +4°C in the refrigerator compartment and -18°C in the freezer.
5. Cleanliness of the condenser. Once every six months, clean the rear grill of the refrigerator from dust and cobwebs using a vacuum cleaner or soft brush.

If your refrigerator Don is equipped with a compressor Secop, you can additionally install protective relay RTK-Xwhich prevents the unit from starting during critical power surges. For Embraco a relay DZR-01.

⚠️ Attention: Never turn on the refrigerator immediately after transportation in a horizontal position! The compressor needs at least 4-6 hours for the oil to drain into the crankcase. Otherwise, water hammer and failure of the unit are possible.

Cost of replacing the compressor in the Don refrigerator

The price of replacing a compressor depends on the type of unit, model of the refrigerator and region. Below are the average prices for 2026 (including work and refilling with freon):

Additional costs may arise if required:

• 🔧 Replacement of the starting relay - +1,500–2,500 rub.
• 🔧 Refilling with freon (in case of leakage) — +2,000–3,500 rub.
• 🔧 Cleaning the capillary tube — +3,000–5,000 rub.

Is it worth repairing a refrigerator or buying a new one? It is economically feasible to repairif:

• 💡 The refrigerator is less than 7 years.
• 💡 The cost of repairs does not exceed 30-40% of the price of a new refrigerator.
• 💡 The body and seals are in good condition.

⚠️ Attention: Prices for spare parts and labor may vary depending on the service center. Check current prices on the websites of official partners. Don or by calling the hotline.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about compressors in Don refrigerators

❓ Is it possible to replace Embraco with Secop in a refrigerator “Don”?

Theoretically, yes, but the starting relay will need to be replaced, and in some models, the mountings will need to be modified. However, this not recommendedis:

• 🔧 The balancing may be disrupted. system.
• ⚡ The warranty on the refrigerator will be lost.
• 💡 Secop consumes more energy, which will increase electricity bills.

It is better to install an original compressor or an analogue from the same manufacturer.

❓ Which compressor quieter: Secop or Embraco?

In terms of noise level, the leader is Acc (Mitsubishi) (35-40 dB), followed by Embraco (38-42 dB), and Secop the noisiest (40-45 dB). However, the difference is 3-5. dB is almost invisible to the ear. A more important factor is vibrationwhich is usually lower due to better shock absorption. Secop usually lower due to better shock absorption.

❓ Why does the new Don refrigerator make a loud noise?

In the first 1-2 weeks of operation, the compressor may make more noise than usual due to:

• 🔊 Grinding in parts (normal process).
• 💨 Filling with freon (if the refrigerator was transported lying down).
• 🏠 Incorrect installation (check is the compressor touching the wall or furniture).

If the humming does not go away for more than a month, contact service - there may be a factory defect.

❓ What compressors are installed in Don refrigerators with No Frost?

In models with No Frost (for example, Don 106NF, Don 140NF) are used:

• 🔧 Secop NL12 —in 80% of cases.
• 🔧 Embraco EG120 —in budget versions.

Acc in systems No Frost are not used due to high cost.

❓ Where to buy an original compressor for the Don refrigerator?

Official suppliers of spare parts:

• 🛒 Website of the Don plant (section “Spare parts”)
• 🛒 Accredited service centers Don (list on the manufacturer’s website).
• 🛒 Online stores: 220-volt.ru, holod-ok.ru, zapchasti-dlya-holodilnikov.ru.

Beware of fakes! The original compressor must have:

• 🏷️ Holographic sticker with the logo Don.
• 📄 Warranty card (even for spare part).