Have you opened the refrigerator Hotpoint-Aristonand there is room temperature, although the freezer is working as usual? This is a common malfunction that can occur both in older models ARST 109 or HBM 1181, and in new lines with the system No Frost. The reasons lie in the disruption of refrigerant circulation, failure of the fan or electronic components.
In this article we will look 7 key reasons forwhy the refrigerator compartment stopped cooling, but the freezer continues to function. You will learn how to diagnose the problem yourself (including checking thermostat, evaporator i clogging of the capillary tube), when you can get by with minor repairs, and when you need to call a technician. We will also provide step-by-step instructions for troubleshooting without the risk of damaging equipment.
⚠️ Important: If your refrigerator Hotpoint-Ariston with a system Total No Frost (for example, model HFF 5201 or H9 X), do not try to defrost it forcibly - this may damage the electronic unit. In such cases, first check the operation blowing fan (see section 4).
1. Capillary tube clogged: why the refrigerant does not flow into the refrigerator compartment
The capillary tube is a thin copper channel through which freon moves from the condenser to the evaporator. In refrigerators Hotpoint-Ariston (especially models HBM 1201, HBF 1801), blockage occurs due to:
- 🔹 Oxidation of oil in the compressor - over time it forms thick deposits that clog the tube.
- 🔹 Moisture ingress into the system - if not refilling freon or depressurizing the circuit.
- 🔹 Mechanical particles —for example, after unqualified repairs.
How does the blockage manifest itself? The compressor works without stopping (or with short pauses), but the refrigerator compartment does not cool, and the freezer freezing food. The problem can be diagnosed by two signs:
- The condenser (grid on the back wall) it is only hot at the bottom - this means that the freon does not circulate completely.
- When you tap the capillary tube (carefully!) you can hear characteristic "gurgling" sound this is accumulated refrigerant.
⚠️ Attention: If you do not have experience working with refrigeration equipment, do not try to clean the capillary tube yourself. This requires special equipment (vacuum pump, pressure gauges) and soldering skills. Incorrect actions can lead to depressurization of the system and leakage of freonwhich will make repairs 2-3 times more expensive.
What will happen if you ignore the blockage?
If the blockage in the capillary tube is not removed, the refrigerator compressor will wear out, which will lead to its overheating and failure. On average, the service life of a compressor under such a load is reduced from 10–12 years to 2–3 years. In addition, due to increased pressure in the circuit, the condenser or evaporator may burst, which will require a complete replacement of the refrigeration unit.
2. Malfunction of the temperature regulator (thermostat) of the fridge compartment
The thermostat is the “brain” of the fridge compartment, which controls the temperature and sends signals to the compressor. In models Hotpoint-Ariston (for example, ARST 129, HBM 1602) it often fails due to:
- 🔌 Power surges —even if the refrigerator is connected through a stabilizer, the thermostat chips can burn out.
- ❄️ Frosting of contacts —in case of improper defrosting or high humidity.
- 🕒 Natural wear —average service life of the thermostat is 5–7 years.
How to check the thermostat?
- Unplug the refrigerator and remove all the food.
- Remove the plastic cover inside the refrigerator compartment (usually it is secured with latches or screws).
- Find the thermostat - it looks like a small box with a sensor tube. Models Hotpoint-Ariston most often use a thermostat K59-L1955 or Danfoss 077B6300.
- Ring the contacts with a multimeter in resistance testing mode. At room temperature, the resistance should be 0 Ohm (contacts closed). If it shows "1" (break), the thermostat is faulty.
🔧 How to temporarily restore operation? If the thermostat is mechanical (with a rotary control), you can try:
- 🔧 Tap on the thermostat body - sometimes this helps to “unstick” the contacts.
- 🔧 Turn the temperature control knob to the extreme position and back - this can reset the jammed mechanism.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Hotpoint-Ariston with electronic control (for example, H9 X or HFF 5201) the thermostat is integrated into the control board. Self-replacement requires flashing the module - without this, the refrigerator will not turn on. In such cases, it is better to contact the service.
Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains|Remove the protective cover inside the chamber|Find the thermostat (box with tube)|Ring the contacts with a multimeter (should be 0 Ohm)|Try mechanical cleaning of the contacts (if the thermostat is mechanical)-->
3. Freon leak: how to detect and what to do
Freon (refrigerant) is the “blood” of the refrigerator. If it leaks, the refrigerator compartment stops cooling, and the freezer can still operate for some time due to the remaining refrigerant. In models Hotpoint-Ariston leakage most often occurs in three places:
- Freezer evaporator - due to corrosion of aluminum tubes (typical for older models ARST 109).
- Copper connections compressor - due to vibration or poor-quality soldering.
- Capillary tube —if it was damaged when moving the refrigerator.
Signs of a freon leak:
- 🔍 The compressor is running without stopping, but the refrigerator compartment does not cool.
- 🔍 Condenser (grid at the back) room temperature (normally should heat up).
- 🔍 An oily puddle appears on the floor under the refrigerator How to find a place leaks? (freon is mixed with oil from the compressor).
🔧 How to find the leak location? At home you can use a soap solution:
- Prepare a thick soap solution (dishwashing liquid is suitable).
- Apply it with a brush to suspicious areas (pipe connections, evaporator).
- If there is a leak, they will appear bubbles.
⚠️ Attention: If you find a freon leak, do not turn on the refrigerator this can lead to air entering the system and oxidation of the oil. Also, freon is toxic - work in a ventilated area. To eliminate the leak you will need:
- 🔧 Solder the damaged area (if it is a copper tube).
- 🔧 Replace the evaporator (if the leak is in aluminum tubes).
- 🔧 Recharge the system with freon (only using a special equipment!).
4. Failure of the blower fan (for models with No Frost)
In refrigerators Hotpoint-Ariston with a system No Frost (for example, HFF 5201, H9 X, HBM 1801) the fan is responsible for circulating cold air. If it breaks, the refrigerator compartment stops cooling, and the freezer continues to work - because the refrigerant enters it directly.
Causes of fan failure:
- 🍂 Icing of the blades - if the refrigerator has not been defrosted for a long time.
- 🔌 Motor burnout —due to power surges or wear.
- 🐭 Ingress of foreign objects (pieces of food, ice).
How to check the fan?
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Remove the back panel in the freezer (usually it is secured with 2-4 screws).
- Find the fan - it looks like a small turbine with blades.
- Try turning the blades by hand. If they do not rotate or a grinding noise is heard, the fan is jammed.
- Connect the refrigerator to the network and listen - if the fan does not make noise (normally there should be a uniform hum), it means it is not working.
🔧 How to fix the problem?
- 🔧 If the fan frozen — defrost the refrigerator for 12–24 hours, then check the operation.
- 🔧 If the blades jammed - carefully clean them of ice and debris.
- 🔧 If the motor burnt —the fan will need to be replaced. For models Hotpoint-Ariston original spare parts are suitable C00288300 or C00288301.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with Full No Frost (for example, Hotpoint-Ariston H9 X) the fan runs constantly. If it stops, it can lead to overheating of the compressor and failure of the electronic unit within 1-2 days. Do not delay repairs!
5. Clogged drainage system: why the refrigerator “cries”
The drainage system is responsible for removing condensate from the refrigerator compartment. If it becomes clogged, water accumulates at the bottom and then freezes, blocking air circulation. As a result, the temperature in the chamber increases, and the freezer continues to operate.
Signs of clogged drainage:
- 💧 Water accumulates at the bottom of the refrigerator compartment Water.
- ☃️ On the back wall ice or snow coat is formed.
- 🌡️ The temperature in the chamber rises to 10–15°C.
🔧 How to clean the drainage?
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Find the drainage hole - it is located on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment (at the bottom).
- Take a flexible wire or a special brush (you can use a pipe cleaner).
- Carefully clean the hole, moving the wire down until you feel that it has come out into the drainage pan (it is located at the back of the refrigerator above the compressor).
- Rinse the drainage with warm water using a syringe or syringe.
⚠️ Attention: If after cleaning the water continues to accumulate, check drain pan under the refrigerator. It may have cracked or become dislodged, causing condensation to not drain properly. In models Hotpoint-Ariston the pan is attached to the compressor and sometimes breaks when moving equipment.
6. Malfunction of the electronic control unit
In modern models Hotpoint-Ariston (for example, HFF 5201, H9 X, HBM 1801) the electronic unit is responsible for the distribution of cold. If it fails, the refrigerator compartment may stop cooling, and the freezer may stop working normally.
Causes of failure of the electronic unit:
- ⚡ Power surges - even if the refrigerator is connected through a surge protector.
- 💧 Moisture ingress - if the defrosting or leaks.
- 🕒 Natural wear —the average service life of the board is 7–10 years.
Signs of malfunction:
- 🔄 The refrigerator spontaneously turns on/off.
- 📛 errors (for example,
E1,E2,F05). - 🌡️ Temperature in the refrigerator) camera does not correspond to the installed one (for example, it shows +5°C, but actually +15°C).
🔧 What can be done?
- 🔧 Reset settings - unplug the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes, then turn it on again. Sometimes this helps with software failures. software.
- 🔧 Check the contacts — remove the back cover and inspect the board for oxidation or burnt tracks.
- 🔧 Replace the block —if the board is burned, you will need to install a new one For models Hotpoint-Ariston blocks fit EBM 3800 or EBM 3900 (depending on the series).
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with electronic control (for example, Hotpoint-Ariston H9 X) board replacement requires reflashing for a specific model. Without this, the refrigerator may not turn on or work incorrectly. It is better to entrust the repair to a certified technician.
7. Problems with the door seal: why the refrigerator does not keep cold
If the door seal (elastic band) has lost elasticity or is damaged, warm air enters the refrigerator compartment, and the temperature inside rises. The freezer continues to operate, since it is isolated by a separate door.
How to check the seal?
- 🔍 Visual inspection - look for cracks, tears or deformation.
- 📏 Test with a sheet of paper - close the door by inserting a sheet between the seal and the body. If the sheet is easily pulled out, the seal is leaky.
- 💡 Checking with a flashlight - in a dark room Shine a flashlight inside the closed refrigerator. If light is visible from the outside, the seal is letting air through.
🔧 How to restore the seal?
- 🔧 Cleaning - wash the seal with warm water and soap, then dry. Sometimes dirt and grease interfere with the seal. fit.
- 🔧 Heating — if the elastic is deformed, heat it with a hair dryer (temperature 50–60°C) and shape it with your hands.
- 🔧 Replacement — if the seal is cracked or lost elasticity, buy a new one. For Hotpoint-Ariston original seals are suitable 48103806600 or 48103806700 (depending on the model).
⚠️ Attention: If the seal is damaged in only one place (for example, the corner is torn), do not rush to change it. You can temporarily “patch” the damage using silicone sealant (food grade!) or special glue for rubber. This will extend the service life of the seal by 1-2 years.
| Cause of malfunction | Symptoms | Cost of repair (independently/in the service) | Difficulty of elimination |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clogged capillary tube | The compressor works without stopping, the condenser is hot only at the bottom | 3 000–8 000 ₽ / 5 000–12 000 ₽ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (equipment required) |
| Thermostat malfunction | The refrigerator does not turn on or works chaotically | 500–1 500 ₽ / 1 500–3 000 ₽ | ⭐⭐ (easy replacement) |
| Freon leak | The compressor is hot, the condenser is cold, there are oily spots on the floor | 2 000–6 000 ₽ / 4 000–10 000 ₽ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (requires soldering and refill) |
| Fan failure (No Frost) | The refrigerator compartment does not cool, the freezer is working, there is no fan noise | 800–2 000 ₽ / 2 000–4 000 ₽ | ⭐⭐⭐ (you need to disassemble the freezer) |
| Clog drainage | Water at the bottom of the chamber, ice on the back wall | 0 ₽ (cleaning yourself) / 500–1,500 ₽ | ⭐ (simple) |
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about refrigerators Hotpoint-Ariston
🔹 Why does the Hotpoint-Ariston refrigerator hum but not get cold?
If the compressor is humming, but the refrigerator compartment is not cooling, the most likely reasons are:
- Freon leak —the compressor is running idle.
- Clogged capillary tube —freon does not circulate.
- Failure of the start relay —the compressor cannot start at full power.
First check whether the condenser is hot (grid at the back). If it is cold, it is a freon leak. If it is only hot at the bottom, there is a blockage. If the compressor turns off after 1-2 seconds, the relay is faulty.
🔹 Is it possible to defrost a Hotpoint-Ariston No Frost refrigerator forcibly?
❌ No! In models with No Frost (for example, HFF 5201, H9 X) forced defrosting (for example, hairdryer or hot water) can:
- Damage evaporator (it is made of thin aluminum).
- Damage fan due to water ingress.
- Break electronic unit due to condensation.
🔧 Correct defrosting: Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains and leave doors open for 12–24 hours. Do not use sharp objects to remove ice!
🔹 What freon is used in Hotpoint-Ariston refrigerators?
Most models Hotpoint-Ariston (manufactured after 2010) are used refrigerant R134a or R600a (isobutane). You can distinguish them by the sticker on the compressor:
- R134a — older models (for example, ARST 109, HBM 1201).
- R600a — modern models (for example, HFF 5201, H9 X). It is more environmentally friendly, but flammable - do not allow leaks!
⚠️ Attention: Freon R600a is not compatible with all types of oil. When refueling, use only mineral oil (for example, Emkarate RL32H or Reniso TR32).
🔹 How much does the repair cost? Hotpoint-Ariston refrigerator, if the refrigerator compartment does not work?
The cost of repair depends on the cause of the malfunction. Average prices in service centers (for 2026):
| Type of repair | Cost (₽) |
|---|---|
| Replacement thermostat | 1 500–3 000 |
| Cleaning the capillary tube + charging with freon | 5 000–12 000 |
| Replacing the No Frost fan | 2 000–4 000 |
| Eliminating freon leaks + charging | 4 000–10 000 |
| Replacing the electronic unit | 6 000–15 000 |
💡 Tip: If the refrigerator is more than 10 years old, and repairs cost more than 50% of the price of a new one, it is more advisable to consider buying new equipment. This is especially true for models with an outdated cooling system (for example, Hotpoint-Ariston ARST 109).
🔹 How to extend the life of a Hotpoint-Ariston refrigerator?
To avoid breakdowns, keep an eye on for:
- 🔌 Voltage stability —use a surge protector or stabilizer.
- ❄️ Regular defrosting —even for No Frost (once every 6–12 months).
- 🧼 Cleanliness of the seal — wash it with soapy water every 2-3 months.
- 🌡️ Temperature conditions —do not place the refrigerator next to the stove or radiator.
- 🔧 The condition of the ventilation grilles — dust on the condenser increases the load on the compressor.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Hotpoint-Ariston with electronic controls (for example, H9 X) it is not recommended to turn off the power for a long time (more than 24 hours). This may reset the board settings and will be required. its flashing.