During the operation of refrigeration equipment of the brand Indesit owners are often faced with the need to deep clean the internal space. This is especially true for the area at the bottom of the refrigerator compartment, where moisture, crumbs and food residues accumulate. Many users do not know how to properly dismantle this part and try to use force, which leads to breakage of the plastic fasteners.
Removing the tray is not just a matter of aesthetics, but also an important hygienic procedure. Mold and an unpleasant odor often form in the space under the plastic panel, which cannot be eliminated with a regular rag. Understanding the design of your model will help avoid damage to evaporator or the condensate drainage system.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for various series of refrigerators Indesit, including models with the system No Frost and drip defrosting. You'll learn what tools you'll need, how to release hidden latches, and what to do if the plastic is stuck to the base. Compliance with the sequence of steps guarantees the integrity of the unit.
Preparation for dismantling and necessary tools
Before you begin active actions, you need to prepare the workplace and free access to the lower part of the refrigeration chamber. Safety and the cleanliness of the process directly depends on the preliminary preparation. You should not ignore this stage, as haste often leads to damage to fragile elements.
You will need a minimum set of tools, which can be found in every home. The main requirement for tools is the absence of sharp edges that can scratch the plastic or, worse, damage the tubes cooling circuit. The use of knives or screwdrivers with sharp edges is strictly not recommended.
- 🔧 A plastic spatula or an old bank card to release the latches without damaging them.
- 🧽 Dry rags or paper towels for removal moisture.
- 🔦 Flashlight for better visual control of the fastening area.
- 🧤 Thin rubber gloves to protect your hands from dirt and cold.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Although removing the tray does not require access to electrical components, working inside the chamber with the unit on may result in a short circuit if wiring or sensors are accidentally damaged.
It is also important to release the bottom shelf and remove any drawers if they are blocking access to the mounting area. In some models Indesit the tray is part of the shelf structure, and its dismantling is possible only after removing the glass base. Carefully inspect the internal structure of your model.
☑️ Preparation for removing the tray
Features of the design of pallets in different Indesit models
The design of the lower part of the refrigerator compartment of the Italian brand Indesit may vary significantly depending on the year of manufacture and series of the device. Understanding these differences is critical, as removal methods for old and new models are radically different.
In older models with a drip defrosting system, the drip tray is often a separate plastic container that is simply inserted into a niche. It does not have rigid fastenings and is held in place due to its tight fit and weight. However, in modern series with a system No Frost the situation is more complicated: here the pan can be integrated into the general air duct system or secured with hidden latches.
Particular attention should be paid to models with the so-called “hidden” water drainage system. In them, the plastic panel can perform a decorative function, covering fan or the heating element. An attempt to remove such a panel without understanding the fixation mechanism can lead to breakage of the plastic ears.
Below is a table that helps identify the type of fastening depending on visual signs:
| Model type | Location fastenings | Presence of latches | Difficulty of removal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic (Drop)** | Absent | No | Low |
| No Frost (standard) | On the sides or back | Yes (2-4 pcs.) | Medium |
| Push&Go Series | Hidden latches | Yes (require effort) | High |
| Integrated models | Under the decorative frame | Yes | High |
If you know what type your unit is, look for the markings on the inner wall or in the technical data sheet. Often the series is indicated on a sticker located inside the refrigerator compartment on the side wall.
Algorithm for removing the tray in refrigerators with a drip system
For owners of classic models Indesit with a “crying” back wall, the dismantling process is usually the simplest. Here the tray is often made in the form of a removable plastic box, the task of which is to collect the draining condensate and direct it into the drainage hole.
First of all, you need to completely empty the lower part of the chamber. Remove all food, cans and containers. If the glass shelf located above the tray has restrictive edges, it is also better to remove them so that they do not interfere with visibility and access.
Grip the front edge of the tray with both hands. In most cases it is not rigidly fixed. Try lifting the front part up slightly and then pulling it towards you. The movement should be smooth, without jerking. If the pan is tight, it may be frozen or contaminated with grease deposits.
In some modifications, the tray can be divided into two parts: an upper decorative panel and a lower water container. In this case, first remove the top cover, which can be held on by light latches on the sides. After its removal, access to the container itself opens, which can be removed by moving upwards and towards you.
⚠️ Attention: Be careful with the contents of the tray. Water that accumulates there may be dirty and have an unpleasant odor. Tilt the container carefully so as not to spill the liquid on the floor or clothes.
Removing the panel in models with the No Frost system
In refrigerators Indesitequipped with the system No Frost, the design of the lower part of the chamber is more complex. Here, a plastic panel often covers the cold air circulation channels and can be secured with latches. Incorrect removal of such a panel may disrupt the tightness of the air flow.
First, carefully inspect the perimeter of the plastic panel. Look for small recesses or holes that may be hiding fasteners. Often the latches are located in the lower corners of the panel or hidden under decorative plugs. Use a flashlight to illuminate hard-to-reach areas.
Take a plastic spatula or credit card. Carefully insert it into the gap between the panel and the wall of the refrigerator. Do not try to use metal objects - there is a high risk of damaging insulating layer or piercing the plastic. Smoothly move the tool along the edge to release the latches.
- 🔍 Inspect the bottom of the panel for screws (rare, but happens in industrial series).
- 👐 Press on the center of the panel or pull on special tabs, if provided design.
- 🌀 If the panel is supported by air channels, snap them off sequentially, starting from one corner.
Once all the latches are released, the panel should easily separate from the base. If you feel resistance, stop and check to see if you forgot to release any of the latch. The use of force here is unacceptable, since plastic becomes very fragile in the cold and can burst.
What to do if the latch breaks?
If during the removal process you heard a crunch and realized that the plastic eye had broken off, do not panic. For a temporary solution, you can use waterproof glue or sealant, but it is better to order a new panel using the catalog number. Operation with a broken retainer will impair air circulation.
Cleaning and maintenance of the removed element
After successful dismantling of the pallet, the stage of cleaning it begins. This is an ideal moment for sanitization, since it is impossible to clean this area properly in the usual way. Dirt, mold and bacteria living in the drainage channels must be eliminated.
Wash the removed plastic element with warm water and a mild detergent. Do not use abrasive powders or hard brushes, which may cause scratches. Bacteria will subsequently accumulate in the scratches, and it will be even more difficult to wash them.
Pay special attention to the drainage hole if the pallet is structurally connected to it. Make sure it is not clogged with mucus or food debris. To clean, you can use a soft brush or a cotton swab dipped in a disinfectant solution.
After washing, thoroughly wipe the element dry. A damp pan that is reinstalled may cause ice build-up or an unpleasant odor. Allow the plastic to dry completely at room temperature before installation.
Installing the tray back and checking operation
The final stage is installing it clean and dry pallet in place. The installation process is the reverse of dismantling, but requires careful positioning. An incorrectly installed tray can disrupt the operation of the condensate drainage system.
Insert the tray into the niche, observing the direction indicated by the structural protrusions. If the model has latches, wait for the characteristic click that confirms the fixation. Make sure that the panel lies flat, without distortions or gaps.
After installation, close the refrigerator door and turn on the appliance. Let it run for 15-20 minutes to allow the temperature to stabilize. During the first hour of operation, listen to the sounds: whether there is any extraneous humming or gurgling that was not there before.
Check whether the tray does not protrude beyond the dimensions of the chamber and does not interfere with the closing of the door. A tight fit of the door seal is a critical factor for the energy efficiency of the refrigerator. Indesit.
What should you do if the tray wobbles after installation?
If you notice play, check whether the guides are seated correctly. There may be some residue left on the chamber walls that is preventing a tight fit. Wipe the fastening areas with an alcohol wipe. If the play remains, but the functionality is not impaired, this may be a design feature of your model.
Can the tray be washed in a dishwasher?
Technically, plastic can withstand dishwasher temperatures, but we do not recommend doing this. Aggressive detergents and high temperatures can deform thin walls or change the color of the plastic. It is better to use a hand wash with mild detergents.
How often should you remove and wash the tray?
The recommended frequency is once every 3-4 months. However, if you notice the appearance of an unpleasant odor or visible dirt earlier, the procedure should be carried out immediately. Regular hygiene extends the service life of refrigeration equipment.
Why can the tray freeze to the wall?
This happens if the tightness of the door seal is broken or the defrost heating element is faulty (in No Frost models). Moisture gets on the plastic and freezes. If the pallet is frozen, do not tear it off by force - defrost the chamber completely within 10-12 hours.
Where can I find the part number to replace the pallet?
The catalog number is usually stamped on the inside of the pallet itself or is indicated in the service book. You can also find the part number on the manufacturer’s official website, knowing the exact model of your refrigerator Indesit.