When diagnosing malfunctions of household appliances or when it is necessary to replace a failed unit, owners often come across markings ACC. This manufacturer is one of the world's largest suppliers of cooling components, and its products are found in a huge number of household appliances. Understanding whose compressor is installed in your refrigerator is critical for the correct selection of spare parts.
However, the presence of a logo or abbreviation on the case does not always mean that the unit itself was manufactured by this particular company, since many brands use contract manufacturing. In this article we will analyze in detail the history of the brand, a list of refrigerators where these components are most often found, and ways to distinguish the original from the analogue. Accurate identification will allow you to avoid mistakes when ordering expensive equipment.
Brand history and affiliation with the Electrolux corporation
The company Aspera Compressors Company, known by the abbreviation ACC, was founded in Italy and has long been an independent player in the compressor equipment market. In 2005, a significant event occurred: the rights to production and the ACC trademark were acquired by a Swedish corporation Electrolux. From that moment on, technologies and production lines were integrated into the structure of the giant household appliances.
This merger made it possible to establish mass production of reliable piston and inverter units for the holding's own needs. Now components under the ACC brand are installed in refrigerators produced under various brands owned by the concern. This vertical integration ensures quality control and unification of spare parts.
It is important to understand that after the takeover, the geography of production expanded beyond Italy. Factories producing products under this brand are located in Europe, China and other countries. Therefore, when looking for a replacement, it is important to pay attention not only to the brand, but also to the specific model and country of origin indicated on the nameplate.
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a replacement compressor, be sure to check the starting torque and type of refrigerant, since outwardly identical models may have different electrical characteristics.
List of brands of refrigerators with ACC compressors
Since ACC is a division Electrolux, it is logical to assume that first of all these units are installed on the equipment of this holding. However, the component market is more complex, and purchases may be made from third-party manufacturers or, conversely, ACC components may be sold to other assemblers. However, there is a clear list of brands where the probability of encountering this unit is maximum.
Equipment owners Zanussi, AEG and Electrolux face ACC compressors most often. These brands have used a single component platform for most of their refrigerator lines launched in the last 15 years. There is also a high probability of finding this unit in refrigerators of the brand Hansa and some models Bekoassembled in European factories.
It is worth noting that Chinese assemblers also actively use these components. In refrigerators Indesit and Ariston (owned by Whirlpool, but having common supply chains in different periods) you can also find units labeled ACC. This makes this type of compressor one of the most common in the segment of budget and mid-price household appliances.
- 🏷️ Electrolux - the main consumer of the components of its own division.
- 🏷️ Zanussi - mass installation in No Frost and drip-type models.
- 🏷️ AEG - premium lines are often equipped with quiet versions of compressors ACC.
- 🏷️ Hansa and Beko —found in models assembled in Europe.
The presence of a compressor of a certain brand does not guarantee that the entire refrigerator is assembled in the same country. The globalization of production has led to the fact that an Italian compressor can be installed in a housing assembled in Russia or Poland. Therefore, when making repairs, focus on the technical parameters assembly, and not just on the refrigerator logo.
Technical features and types of units used
ACC compressors are famous for their design simplicity and reliability. Most household refrigerators use piston models with a crank mechanism. They work on the principle of compressing refrigerant gas and feeding it under pressure into the condenser. This scheme has been worked out for decades and is considered the standard for the budget segment.
However, modern requirements for energy efficiency have led to the emergence of inverter modifications. Unlike classic models that operate in a “start-stop” mode, inverter ACC compressors are able to smoothly regulate the speed of rotation of the motor shaft. This allows you to maintain the set temperature with minimal fluctuations and significantly reduces the noise level.
An important parameter is the type used refrigerant. Older models ran on R134a freon, which is gradually being replaced by the more environmentally friendly R600a (isobutane). ACC compressors running on R600a often have a smaller cylinder volume and require the use of explosion-proof components in the electrical circuit. It is impossible to confuse them when replacing them, since their oils and tolerances are different.
⚠️ Attention: Replacing a compressor operating on R600a requires compliance with strict fire safety rules due to the flammability of the refrigerant.
Also worth mentioning o start-up protection relay. In ACC units it is often integrated or has a specific mounting form. If the compressor itself fails, the relay often also requires replacement, since it could have suffered from overloads or a short circuit in the motor windings.
How to decipher the markings and find the model
To correctly select an analogue or original spare part, you must be able to read the markings, applied to the metal body of the device. Usually it is located on a sticker or stamped directly on the metal next to the pipes. Ignoring this data may lead to the purchase of unsuitable equipment.
The main model code usually consists of an alphanumeric combination, for example NL9F or HMK80. The first letters indicate the series and size, and the numbers often indicate cylinder volume or cooling capacity. Also, the nameplate must indicate the supply voltage (220-240V) and the network frequency (50 Hz).
Particular attention should be paid to the parameter LBP (Low Back Pressure) or HBP (High Back Pressure). For domestic refrigerators, only low pressure compressors (LBP) are used. Installing an HBP unit, intended for air conditioners or display cases, in a domestic refrigerator will lead to rapid failure of the system.
Where to look for the full correspondence table?
Full cross-codes and correspondence tables of ACC models with analogues from other manufacturers (Danfoss, Secop) can be found in official spare parts catalogs or specialized directories of service centers. You need to search using the full model code indicated on the nameplate.
Comparative table of characteristics of popular models
To better navigate the variety of products, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the comparative characteristics of common series of ACC compressors. These parameters will help you understand which unit is installed in your refrigerator and what you can expect when replacing it.
| Series / Model | Refrigerant type | Cooling capacity (W) | Start type |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACC NT (for example, NT2174) | R134a | ~140-160 | RSIR (Start winding) |
| ACC NL (for example, NL9F) | R600a | ~100-120 | RSIR / RSCR |
| ACC HMK (for example, HMK80) | R600a | ~80-90 | RSIR |
| ACC EM (Inverter) | R600a | Variable | Inverter (VSD) |
As can be seen from the table, the transition to refrigerant R600a allowed to reduce the size and power of units while maintaining efficiency. Inverter models of the series EM represent the pinnacle of the brand's technological development, ensuring minimal energy consumption.
When selecting an analogue, it is important to take into account not only the cooling capacity, but also the overall dimensions, as well as the location of the pipes. Sometimes physical installation is only possible if the exact dimensions of the mounting holes are observed.
Fault diagnosis and signs of wear
ACC compressors are considered sufficient reliable, but they do not last forever. Most often, owners are faced with a situation where the refrigerator stops freezing, but the unit itself may hum or, conversely, remain silent. Understanding the symptoms will help determine whether the unit requires replacement or system repair.
One of the first signs of problems is the overheating case. If the compressor burns when you touch it with your hand (temperature above 90 degrees), this may indicate an interturn short circuit or problems with the cooling system of the motor itself. In normal operation, it should be hot, but not red-hot.
The second important symptom is the nature of the sound. A working unit operates with a smooth, monotonous hum. The appearance of a metallic knock, clanging or a sharp change in the tone of the sound indicates mechanical destruction of the internal elements: connecting rods, piston group or bearings. In this case repair usually impractical, a complete replacement is required.
☑️ Compressor diagnostics
It is also worth paying attention to the cyclical nature of the work. If the refrigerator turns on for a few seconds, clicks and turns off (the thermal protection relay is triggered), this often indicates a jammed mechanism or a faulty starting winding. Continue operation in this mode It is strictly forbiddenas this may lead to a wiring fire.
Replacing a compressor: nuances and recommendations
The process of replacing an ACC compressor, like any other, is a complex technical procedure that requires special equipment. This requires a vacuum pump, a pressure gauge station, a burner and a supply of refrigerant. Independent replacement without experience and tools is practically impossible and dangerous.
The first step is always vacuum systems. After soldering a new compressor, it is necessary to remove air and moisture from the circuit. Residual moisture in the system is the main enemy of the refrigerator, leading to the formation of ice plugs and acid compounds that destroy the motor from the inside.
When installing, it is important to select and seal correctly filter drier. Its replacement is mandatory for any opening of the circuit. You should also use solder containing silver to ensure tightness and strength of connections, especially taking into account the vibrations that occur during operation of the piston mechanism.
⚠️ Attention: After replacing the compressor and filling with freon, you must wait several hours before turning it on so that the oil flows into the crankcase, otherwise it may water hammer.
The final stage is checking the tightness and monitoring the pressure. Only a qualified technician with the help of leak detector can guarantee that the system will not poison gas in the coming years. Saving on specialist services often leads to repeated expensive repairs.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to replace the ACC compressor with an analogue from another manufacturer, for example, Danfoss?
Yes, replacement is possible, but requires careful selection. It is necessary that the new compressor matches the cooling capacity, overall dimensions, type of refrigerant and starting torque. The start relay and filter drier often need to be replaced.
Why does a refrigerator with an ACC compressor get very hot on the side?
The side walls of modern refrigerators often act as a condenser. If the ACC compressor works intensively (for example, when loading warm products or in a hot room), heat transfer through the walls increases. This is a normal process if the temperature does not exceed 50-60 degrees.
Where is the ACC compressor for my refrigerator manufactured?
Production can be located in Italy, China, Austria or Slovakia. The exact country of origin of a particular instance can be found out by deciphering the factory code on the sticker of the unit or by contacting the official dealer with the batch number.
How long does an ACC compressor last on average?
The average service life of an ACC piston compressor is from 10 to 15 years, subject to operating conditions. Inverter models can work longer due to the absence of constant starting loads, but they are more sensitive to voltage drops in the network.