The situation when suddenly the compressor stops working Indesit is in the refrigerator always takes you by surprise, threatening food spoilage and loss of usual comfort. You open the door, and it’s already warm inside, the food begins to spoil, and there is silence inside or, conversely, you can hear a humming sound, but there is no cold. These are classic signs that motor-compressor does not start or works intermittently, requiring immediate intervention.
Owners often panic, believing that the unit has completely failed and requires expensive repairs. replacement, but this is not always the case. Fault diagnosis can identify simple problems with the electrical circuit or thermostat, which can be resolved quickly and inexpensively. Understanding the principles of operation of the system No Frost or drip defrosting will help you more accurately determine the source of the problem.
In this article we will analyze in detail the main reasons for stopping the engine, methods of self-checking and cases when you cannot do without calling a technician. It is important to act consistently and follow safety precautions, since working with electric current and refrigerant requires caution and certain knowledge.
Main signs of a motor-compressor malfunction
Before proceeding with disassembling the unit, it is necessary to clearly identify symptoms. Indesit refrigerator can behave differently: from complete silence to characteristic clicks. If you notice that the unit is humming, but no cold is produced, this may indicate a jammed piston group or problems with the starting mechanism.
One of the most alarming signals is the situation when compressor starts for a few seconds, makes a dull thud or click, and then starts again turns off. This indicates that the thermal protection relay is triggered due to overcurrent. Overheating of the windings of the motor in this case occurs very quickly, which can lead to final failure of the unit.
⚠️ Attention: If you smell a burning smell or see sparking in the area where the wires connect to the compressor, immediately unplug the refrigerator. Further attempts to start may result in a short circuit or fire.
It is also worth paying attention to the temperature of the engine housing itself. If it works, but remains cold, or, conversely, heats up to the point where it is impossible to touch it, this is a clear sign operation disturbances. In the first case, the current does not flow to the windings, in the second, the motor runs “idle” or with an overload.
Checking the electrical circuit and start relay
The most common reason why the compressor does not start refrigerator Indesit, is the failure of the starting relay. This small element is responsible for supplying an impulse to the starting winding of the engine at the moment of start. If the relay is “stuck” or burnt out, the motor simply will not receive the necessary push to start rotating the rotor.
To check, you need to dismantle the plastic casing at the back of the unit and remove the relay box from the compressor contacts. Gently shake the relay next to your ear: if a ringing or knocking sound is heard inside, it means that the core is broken or has fallen out, and the part is required immediate replacement. Visually inspect the contacts for carbon deposits or melting.
☑️ Diagnostics of the start relay
In addition to the relay, problems may lie in the wiring. Often, owners forget to check the integrity of the power cable and plug. Oxidation of contacts at the junction of the wires with the compressor terminals can also prevent normal current flow. Use a multimeter to “test” the circuit: the resistance between the contacts must correspond to the passport data, and there should be no breaks.
If after replacing the relay the situation has not changed, it is worth checking the thermostat. In some models Indesit it opens the compressor power circuit when the desired temperature is reached. If it is faulty and “thinks” that it is already cold in the chamber, the motor simply will not turn on. Close the thermostat contacts directly (for a short time to check) - if it starts, the reason has been found.
Problems with the thermostat and temperature sensors
Electronics of refrigerators Indesit with a control system No Frost relies heavily on sensors. If the main temperature sensor (thermostat) is sending incorrect data to the control module, the compressor may not be commanded to start. This often happens after long-term use, when the sensitive element “gets tired” or oxidizes.
In models with electronic control, you should pay attention to the display. If error codes are lit or indicators are flashing, this is a direct hint from the self-diagnosis system. Sensor malfunction defrost or evaporator can also block the operation of the compressor to prevent the system from freezing or running dry.
⚠️ Attention: If When replacing a thermostat, it is important to install a part with a similar marking. Installing an unsuitable sensor will lead to the refrigerator not operating correctly: either it will work without stopping or will not turn on at all.
Sometimes the problem lies not in the sensor itself, but in the wire going to it. Over time, the vibration of the compressor grinds the insulation or breaks the core. Carefully inspect the wiring harnesses going from the control unit to the evaporator and compressor. Open circuit in this place it is equivalent to a breakdown of the sensor itself.
How to check the thermostat with a multimeter?
To check the mechanical thermostat, remove it and immerse the sensing tube in cold water with ice. Ring the contacts: in the cold the circuit should open (resistance is infinity), and in the heat it should close (resistance is close to zero). If the circuit does not change, the thermostat is faulty.
Freon leak and engine running "idling"
One of the insidious reasons why the compressor does not coolis a banal refrigerant leak. Freon can escape through microcracks in the circuit, often in sealed areas or due to corrosion of the tubes. In this case, the motor works, hums, but does not produce cold, since there is nothing to circulate in the system.
It is difficult to diagnose a leak visually, but you can pay attention to the following signs: swelling of the rear wall inside the refrigeration chamber, lack of heating of the condenser grille at the back (it should be warm or hot) and continuous operation compressor without shutdowns. Loss of tightness is a serious problem that requires professional intervention.
If you try to simply add freon without finding and fixing the leak, the effect will be temporary. The gas will leave again, and the compressor, running idle, may overheat. Modern refrigeration units are sensitive to the composition of the mixture, so refilling must be done by a technician using the correct type of refrigerant (R600a or R134a).
It is important to understand that operating the compressor at low pressure in the system (due to leakage) leads to its increased cooling. The engine may become covered with frost or even an ice crust, which is categorically unacceptable for its normal operation and leads to water hammer.
Table: Comparison of symptoms and probable causes
To simplify diagnosis, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the summary a table that will help compare the behavior of your Indesit possible malfunctions. This will save time when calling a technician or searching for a spare part.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Difficulty of repair | Required tools |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clicks, but does not start | Faulty starting relay | Low | Screwdriver, multimeter |
| Humming, but not cold | Freon leak / Clogged | High | Vacuum pump, freon |
| Silent, light is on | Thermostat is faulty | Medium | Multimeter, pliers |
| Buzzes and turns off | Compressor jammed | High (replacement) | Set of keys, burner |
As can be seen from the table, some problems, such as replacement start relay, can be solved independently even by a beginner. Others, associated with a sealed circuit and refrigerant, require specialized equipment and skills.
Compressor jamming: mechanical failure
The most unpleasant scenario is mechanical jamming of the piston group inside motor-compressor. This can happen due to exhaustion, lack of oil, moisture getting into the system, or prolonged downtime of the equipment. In this case, the motor shaft cannot turn, and the current in the windings increases to critical values.
Sometimes craftsmen try to “unwedge” the unit by applying increased voltage for a short time. This method is risky and helps only in 30% of cases, temporarily extending the life of the node. If Indesit refrigerator stopped working precisely for this reason, the most reasonable solution would be to completely replace the compressor with a new one.
When replacing, it is important to choose a compressor with a similar cooling capacity and type of refrigerant. Installing a more powerful or less powerful unit will lead to incorrect operation of the system: either freezing products or insufficient cooling. It is also necessary to replace the filter-drier.
⚠️ Attention: When replacing the compressor, you cannot simply bite off the copper tubes. It is necessary to use a pipe cutter so as not to create chips inside the system, which will instantly clog the capillary tube.
When you need to call a professional technician
Despite the desire to save money, there are situations when independent repair refrigerator is impractical and dangerous. If diagnostics show a freon leak, a clogged capillary system, or the need to replace the motor itself, it is better to contact an authorized service center.
Professionals have equipment for vacuuming the system, which is critical for removing moisture and air. Residual moisture in the system will turn into an ice plug, and the repair will have to be redone. In addition, the craftsmen provide a guarantee for their work and the installed spare parts spare parts.
It is also worth calling a specialist if you are not confident in your abilities when working with electricity. Connection errors can lead to burnout of the electronic control module, the cost of which is significantly higher than the cost of repairing the compressor group. Take care of your equipment and nerves.
In conclusion, regular maintenance, cleaning the condenser grid from dust and timely defrosting (if the model is not No Frost) will significantly extend the life of your Indesit. Watch for extraneous noises and the first signs of unstable operation to eliminate the problem at an early stage.
Why is the compressor hot, but the refrigerator does not freeze?
This is a classic sign of a freon leak or a blockage in the system. The compressor tries to pump refrigerant, but due to lack of pressure or blocked circulation, heat is not removed. Diagnostics of the circuit by a specialist is required.
Is it possible to replace an Indesit compressor with an analogue from another brand?
Yes, it is possible if the mounting dimensions, type of refrigerant (R600a or R134a), power and voltage are the same. However, it is better to look for original spare parts or proven analogues (for example, Danfoss, Secop) to avoid performance problems.
How much does it cost to replace a compressor in an Indesit refrigerator?
The cost consists of the price of a new unit, the cost of the work of a technician, materials (freon, filter, solder) and travel. On average, replacement costs 40-60% of the cost of a new refrigerator, so sometimes it is more advisable to buy new equipment.
How to extend the life of the compressor?
Do not place the refrigerator close to the wall (a gap is needed for ventilation), regularly wash the condenser grille at the back to remove dust, do not load hot foods into the chamber and ensure that the seals are in good condition doors.