You opened the refrigerator Indesit, and the food in the upper chamber is warm, although the freezer is working as usual? This problem is more common than it seems. In 80% of cases, it is associated with a malfunction of the cooling system or electronics, but sometimes trivial operating errors are to blame. In this article we will examine all possible reasonswhy the refrigerator Indesit stopped freezing the upper chamber, but the freezer continues to function. You will learn how to independently diagnose a breakdown, when you can do without a technician, and in which cases professional repairs are required.
It is important to understand: if the freezer works, but the refrigerator does not, this indicates problems with refrigerant circulation or temperature control. In two-compressor models Indesit (for example, Indesit BIAA 13 or Indesit DF 5200), the malfunction may be associated with a separate cooling circuit. In single-compressor units, blockages, leaks or malfunctions are more often to blame. Next, we will analyze each scenario in detail. thermostat And fan. Next, we will analyze each scenario in detail.
Before starting repairs, check the obvious points: whether the power is turned off, whether the network, whether the refrigerator is located close to the wall (this disrupts heat exchange). If everything is in order, read on.
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1. A clogged capillary tube is the most common cause
In 60% of cases when the refrigerator compartment Indesit does not cool, but the freezer works, clogged capillary pipelineis to blame. This thin copper tube is responsible for supplying refrigerant (freon) to the evaporator of the refrigerator compartment. Over time, particles of oil, moisture, or freon decomposition products accumulate in it, forming a plug. As a result, the refrigerant does not enter the upper chamber, and it stops freezing.
How does this manifest itself:
- 🔹 The freezer operates normally, and the refrigerator compartment is warm.
- 🔹 The compressor works without stopping or turns on too often.
- 🔹 There is no frost on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment (in models with a “crying” evaporator).
What to do? It is impossible to clean the capillary tube on your own —special equipment (vacuum pump, pressure gauges) and experience are required. If you suspect a blockage, contact a professional. The average cost of repairs is from 3,500 to 6,000 rubles (depending on the model and region).
⚠️ Attention! Do not try to clean the tube with improvised means (wire, compressed air). This can lead to damage to the circuit and leakage of freon, after which repairs will cost 2-3 times more.
How does a technician diagnose a clogged capillary tube?
A specialist connects pressure gauges to the service ports of the refrigerator and checks the pressure in the system. If the pressure leaving the condenser is high, but the pressure entering the evaporator of the refrigeration chamber is low (or absent), this confirms a blockage. Next, the technician can try to purge the tube with nitrogen or replace it with a new one if cleaning is impossible.
2. Freon leak - why the Indesit refrigerator does not freeze on top
If there is a leak in the cooling system refrigerant leak, the compressor continues to work, but the cooling efficiency drops. In two-compressor models Indesit (for example, Indesit ITF 118), the leak can only affect the refrigeration chamber circuit, so the freezer remains cold. In single-compressor refrigerators, a leak usually leads to a complete cooling failure, but sometimes there is only enough freon for the freezer.
Signs of a leak:
- 🔧 The compressor runs continuously or turns off for a short time.
- 🔧 Oil stains are visible on the back wall of the refrigerator (freon leaves along with the oil).
- 🔧 The refrigerator compartment does not cool, and the freezer works, but weaker than usual.
How to fix it? A freon leak is a critical malfunction that requires immediate repair. The technician must:
- Find the location of the leak (most often these are soldered joints or aluminum evaporator tubes).
- Repair the damage (solder, replace a section of the tube).
- Fill the system with new refrigerant (usually
R-600aorR-134a, depending on the model).
| Indesit model | Refrigerant type | Average cost of refilling |
|---|---|---|
| Indesit BIAA 13 | R-600a |
4 000 — 5 500 ₽ |
| Indesit DF 5200 | R-134a |
4 500 — 6 000 ₽ |
| Indesit ITF 118 | R-600a |
3 800 — 5 000 ₽ |
| Indesit C 132 G | R-134a |
4 200 — 5 800 ₽ |
⚠️ Attention! Refrigerant R-600a (isobutane) is explosive! Do not try to refuel the refrigerator yourself - this may cause a fire. Work must be carried out in a well-ventilated area using professional equipment.
3. Malfunction of the temperature regulator (thermostat) of the refrigerator compartment
If in your refrigerator Indesit the freezer works, but the upper chamber does not, the problem may lie in the thermostat (thermostat). This sensor is responsible for turning the compressor on/off depending on the temperature. If the thermostat is broken, the compressor either does not receive a command to cool the refrigeration chamber or does not work correctly.
How to check the thermostat:
- Disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply.
- Remove the protective casing from the thermostat (usually it is located inside the refrigerator compartment, under the top shelf).
- Ring the contacts with a tester in resistance testing mode. At room temperature, the resistance should be close to zero (the contacts are closed).
- Place the sensor in cold water - the resistance should increase sharply (the contacts will open).
If the thermostat does not respond to temperature changes, it must be replaced. The cost of a new thermostat for Indesit is from 800 to 2,500 rubles, depending on the model. Replacement takes 20–30 minutes and does not require special skills.
Disconnect the refrigerator from the network|Remove the top shelf and protective cover|Disconnect the wires from the thermostat (take a photo of the connection diagram!)|Install a new thermostat and connect the wires|Fix the sensor and assemble the refrigerator-->
4. Failure of the fan or No Frost system
In refrigerators Indesit with a system No Frost (for example, Indesit ITF 118 or Indesit BIAA 13) the fan is responsible for the circulation of cold air. If it fails, the cold stops flowing into the refrigerator compartment, although the freezer continues to work. Reasons for fan failure:
- 🌀 Freezing of the blades (due to a malfunction of the defrost heater).
- 🌀 Wear of bearings or motor.
- 🌀 Ingress of foreign objects (pieces of ice, packaging).
How to diagnose:
- Unplug the refrigerator and defrost it for 12-24 hours.
- After defrosting, turn on the refrigerator and listen: if the fan does not make noise, it is not working.
- Check whether the blades rotate manually. If not, the fan is jammed.
Solution:
- If the fan is frozen, defrost the refrigerator and check the operation of the defrost heater.
- If the fan is burned out, replace it (the cost of the part is 1,500–3,000 rubles).
5. Problems with electronics: control board or sensors
Modern refrigerators Indesit equipped with electronic control boards that control the operation of compressors, fans and sensors. If the board fails, it may stop sending signals to cool the refrigerator compartment, while the freezer will continue to work (especially in two-compressor models).
Signs of electronics failure:
- 📱 The refrigerator turns on and immediately turns off.
- 📱 On the display errors flash (for example,
F01,F04—see the instructions for the model). - 📱 The compressor does not respond to temperature changes.
What to do:
- Check the error code on the display (if any) and check with instructions.
- Turn off the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes, then turn it on again. Sometimes this resets board failures.
- If the problem persists, contact service. Repairing the board costs 3,000–8,000 rubles, replacement - up to 15,000 rubles.
⚠️ Attention! Do not try to repair the control board yourself if you do not have experience working with electronics. Incorrect connection can lead to a short circuit and complete failure of the refrigerator.
6. A clogged drain hole is an indirect cause.
If the drain hole in the refrigerator compartment is clogged, water does not flow into the pan, but accumulates at the bottom. This can lead to freezing of the evaporator and disruption of heat transfer. As a result, the refrigerator compartment stops cooling, although the freezer is working normally.
How to clean the drain:
- Turn off the refrigerator and remove all food.
- Locate the drain hole (usually in the back of the chamber, under the evaporator).
- Clean it with a cotton swab or soft wire.
- Rinse the hole with warm water and soap.
If the blockage is severe, you can use a syringe with water to flush. After cleaning, the refrigerator should restore normal operation within 6–12 hours.
7. Incorrect operation - when the user is to blame
Sometimes the refrigerator compartment Indesit does not freeze not because of a breakdown, but because of operating errors. Check:
- 🔌 Cooling mode: the "Vacation" or "Eco" mode may have been accidentally turned on, in which the refrigerator compartment is turned off.
- 🔌 Overload products: if the chamber is filled to capacity, air circulation is disrupted.
- 🔌 Room temperature: if the room is hotter than +30°C, the refrigerator may not cope (especially single-compressor models).
- 🔌 Door closure tightness: check the seal - if it is damaged, warm air gets inside.
How to fix:
- Make sure the refrigerator is level (check the level).
- Do not put hot foods in the chamber.
- Check whether the hoses or wires are pinched at the back refrigerator.
Yes, but it didn’t help|Yes, and the problem disappeared|No, I haven’t tried it yet|I don’t know how to defrost it correctly-->
What to do if nothing helps?
If you have tried all the methods, but the refrigerator compartment Indesit still doesn't work freezes, and the freezer is working, there are two options left:
- Call a technician for deep diagnostics. There may be a problem with the compressor, a freon leak in a hard-to-reach place, or a malfunction of the switching valve (in two-compressor models).
- Contact a service center Indesitif the refrigerator is under warranty. Faults associated with manufacturing defects (for example, a defect in the evaporator) will be eliminated free of charge.
Average cost of repairing refrigerators Indesit for such faults:
| Type of breakdown | Repair cost (₽) |
|---|---|
| Replacing the thermostat | 1 500 — 3 000 |
| Repairing leaks + refilling freon | 4 000 — 8 000 |
| Replacing the No Frost fan | 2 000 — 4 500 |
| Repairing/replacing the control board | 3 000 — 15 000 |
| Cleaning the capillary tube | 3 500 — 6 000 |
If the refrigerator is over 10 years old, consider buying a new one. Repairs can cost 50–70% of the cost of a new model, and the risk of repeated breakdowns is high.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Indesit refrigerators
Is it possible to refill the refrigerator with freon yourself?
No. To refill, you need a vacuum pump, a manifold and experience working with refrigerants. Incorrect charging may result in an explosion (if used R-600a) or damage to the compressor. Contact a specialist.
Why does the Indesit refrigerator not freeze the upper chamber, and the freezer only works after defrosting?
Most likely, the problem is the evaporator or fan freezing (in models with No Frost). During defrosting, the ice melts and the system temporarily begins to work normally. But if the cause (faulty defrost heater or sensor) is not eliminated, the problem will return in 1-2 weeks.
How can you tell whether an Indesit refrigerator is single-compressor or two-compressor?
Look at the back wall of the refrigerator: if there is one compressor (a black “barrel” with tubes) - it’s a single-compressor model. If two - two-compressor. You can also check the model in the instructions or on the website Indesit.
How long should the compressor normally work?
Normally, the compressor runs for 10–20 minutes, then turns off for 20–30 minutes. If it works without stopping or turns on every 5 minutes, this is a sign of a malfunction (clogging, leakage, thermostat failure).
Can an Indesit refrigerator not freeze due to a power surge?
Yes. Power surges often damage the control board or compressor. If there were power outages before the breakdown, check the fuses on the board and use a tester to measure the resistance of the compressor windings. If there is a break or short circuit, a replacement will be required.